Historic Music Hall Reopens; Community Celebrates

The Manhattan Casino opened in 1925. During segregation, it played a pivotal role offering entertainment and culture to African Americans, which was denied to them at other venues.

Not only was the casino perceived as a place to socialize, but it also left a definitive footprint in St. Pete’s history.

Some local African American artists got a boost from the Manhattan Casino as they were able to play shows and start a career. The casino was also a sanctuary for traveling African American musicians.

Ray Charles, Nat King Cole and James Brown all played at the Manhattan Casino, back in its prime.

This weekend’s three day celebration hosts an all-star lineup for casino enthusiasts.

• Friday night’s talent included Ernie Calhoun and Larry Davis.

• Saturday’s schedule has offered an open house during the day and a concert by the TAABU Band in the evening hours. Other than the open house and festival on Saturday, all shows are ticketed events.
• Sunday, the casino will host a gospel ensemble and a hefty brunch.

There are still tickets available for Saturday night's concert ($40) and Sunday's gospel ensemble ($25). Proceeds from the weekend celebration will benefit the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African-American Museum and The Royal Theater Boys and Girls Clubs.

High-Stepping Performance

Saturday’s open house was a hit for guests who were anxious to see the improvements on the cultural landmark; not to mention the youth infused entertainment.

Some of the acts included Lakewood High School’s marching band and the Kahli-Kahli Dance Troop.

BK Jackson was on hand to deliver a soulful sax performance. Jackson is a native to the bay area and has earned a respectable position in the jazz world. He opened for B.B. King back in 2008 and now plays shows of his own while attending Florida A&M University.

Affiliates for the Manhattan Casino say it’s important to incorporate local youths in the grand reopening. There is a mission to bridge the gap between the legends from the past to the stars of the future.

“I think it’s important because we help them understand where they come from,” said LX Harris, who helped organize the festivities. Harris is an event planner who has worked on projects as big as the Apollo and as vital as the Boys and Girls Club.

Food vendors and local businesses also showed up to support the casino’s grand reopening. Mayor Bill Foster spoke to a crowd of families and music lovers to welcome them to the new and improved Manhattan Casino.