Belafonte in SPAC Opening

by Marilyn Nason, The Post-Star, June 30, 1967

If the success of the fabulous Harry Belafonte and Miriam Nakeba opening the second session of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center last night is any indicator, the season is off to a fantastic start. Nearly 10,000 people provided one of the most enthusiastic ever at SPAC, and with just cause. Mr. Belafonte is everything ever written about him, ranging his material from Calypso, Jewish and Americana tunes to some excellent footwork (including even a bit of ballet) and an absolute Mitch Miller-type sing-a-long.

For the latter, the handsome young performer took one of his best known songs, “Matilda”,” and divided the audience by sections including the lawnseaters, and really brought the packed house when he divided the women in the audience to over and under 40 years of age.

Miss Nakeba is a truly compelling performer in her own right, and the troupe is completed by an interesting young singer, Ester Marrow, some 12 singers and a six-man orchestra.

The Belafonte group will give a repeat performance tonight at 8:30.

On the social side, the cool night brought out a good portion of fur jackets and stoles and a handful of evening gowns and tuxedos.

Summer Saratogians, making the first performance of SPAC as true devotees, included Admiral and Mrs. Gene Markey, and Mr. and Mrs. C. V. Whitney and daughters, Heather and Cornelia. A host of local and area residents were also noted in the mammoth crowd.