History and culture have always interested King. In fact, that is how TBAAL came to be. Back in the summer of 1977, King was given a treasure trove of documents, letters, photos and memorabilia which were found in a trash dumpster on the streets of New York City. The materials were the discards of a defunct African American organization (BAAL) which had roots going back to the 19th Century. King was shocked that the items had been discarded and knew they had historic value. As a student, he had been aware of BAAL and had always hoped to become a member. At once, he made it his mission to bring the seeds of the organization back to life. After contacting some of the leading members from that incarnation and receiving their blessing, he decided to carry on with their work by creating a new organization. This time, he wanted to also include formation of an academy that would directly involve young and aspiring artists and scholars. With $250 of his own money at his kitchen table he began. Little did he know it would become his life's work and that despite the many struggles, he’d still be enjoying it 42 years later. King has always worked hard, and in his own distinguished career, has worked nationally and internationally. He has conceived, created, directed and produced more than 300 highly acclaimed plays, musical tributes, concerts and other cultural events. The work is generally aimed at uplifting the African American community as well as enlightening diverse audiences. Projects and accomplishments include a Special Tribute to comedian/activist Dick Gregory at The Kennedy Center hosted by Bill Cosby featuring Cicely Tyson, Steve Wonder and Isaac Hayes; Symphony with the Divas featuring Dionne Warwick, Tramaine Hawkins, Ruby Dee, and Esther Rolle; creator and producer for “I Remember: The March on Washington 30 Year Performing and Visual Arts Anniversary Salute, 1963-1993” featuring Della Reese, Dan Rather, Carole Simpson, Louis Gossett, Jr., Halle Berry, Jennifer Holiday, Eartha Kitt, and Patti Austin; director of “Addis by Night” Ethiopia (Africa); produced the National Civil War Gala at Washington's Lincoln Theatre Center for the Performing Arts in 2000; creator and producer for Dallas Arts Gala and creator and producer for TBAAL's 30th Anniversary Season Opening Gala featuring Oleta Adams, Kim Fields, Regina Belle and Peabo Bryson. Currently, King is working on his first feature film "Blues Bar," which he hopes to star American Idol Fantasia Barrino, based on his successful stage play which originally starred Phyllis Hyman, Billy Preston and Roger E. Mosley, Jr. Cause Magazine
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