West Hollywood News
NAACP Honors Influential Figures
By Jennifer Alcaraz
Nov 14, 2012 - 7:26:44 PM

WEST HOLLYWOOD—The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People hosted the 22nd annual NAACP Theater Awards on November 5. The annual awards show took place at the notable Director’s Guild of America. The purpose of the gala was to honor achievements by African-Americans in the film and/or television arena.

Alia Jones Photo from 123people.com

Even though the ceremony focused on the film and television industry, a variety of African-American theater personalities were present at the venue. Amongst them was Alia Jones one of this year’s honorees from Front Row Productions which is responsible for bringing various productions to Broadway and the West End from London, England.

Some of the presenters included Samuel L. Jackson and Blair Underwood.   James Pickens Jr. and Nicole Ari Parker took on the role of sharing with the audience the work they have completed within the African-American community, and other areas.  The ceremony was not limited only to recognizing the talent of African-American figures working in the entertainment business. There was a performance by Warner Bros. recording artist Leela James and Shoshana Bean from the play “Wicked.” 

Television networks BET (Black Entertainment Television) and TV One have been working to bring African- American entertainment to the general media. There are now an increasing number of black actors that have made their presence and work in the industry. Writer, director, actor and producer Tyler Perry’s company Tyler Perry Studios has provided opportunities for already established individuals as well as new talent.