Harlem Song

 Harlem Song at The Apollo on 125th Street, written and directed by George C. Wolfe, mixes a fascinating photographic history of Harlem with narrative (by older long-time residents) and musical numbers, some of which are splashy and some balladic, all derivative. The show is uneven -- another clear example that a writer generally shouldn't direct his own show. The first two numbers are bland; the fun starts about ten minutes in when David St. Louis, dressed in white, comes down the steps, and tap dancers enter and lift our spirits. From there on, it's the very lively, attractive, sixteen-member cast in an engaging show full of good dancing and singing, especially by B.J. Crosby, whose beautiful voice, pacing and range are thrilling. She alone is worth the price of admission. Lighting by Jules Fisher and Peggy Eisenhauer is Broadway caliber, and, of course enhances everything.