Amateur Night Educates

The Harvard-Radcliffe Black Student Association (BSA) last Saturday night hosted Amateur Night at The Agassiz as part of its celebration of Black History month. Television actress Jasmine Guy emceed the student-organized talent show.

The show, which played at Radcliffe's Agassiz Theater, sold out its one-night performance. BSA members estimate 350 people attended the organization's fundraiser.

"The purpose of it was to salute Amateur Night at The Apollo as part of Black History month. Our purpose was not to make money," said BSA President Erica E. Marsh '91.

Amateur Night was a tradition at the Harlem nightclub, the Apollo, and was at its height during and shortly after the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s. It was a weekly talent show that featured Black artists, jazz and dance.

"[The show] was definitely educational," said BSA member Judith M. Williams '91. "Amateur Night is definitely a part of Black culture."

Neither Williams nor Marsh could say yesterday how much money the show made, but both said they thought the show was successful.

Williams said the BSA will most likely sponsor another show next February. She said the student association had already begun organizing for it.