The James R. Leonard Center (JRLC) Stage generates so many fond memories for people who experienced the theatrical productions, concerts, and talent shows which took place there. The great anticipation of the heavy red velvet stage curtains opening to witness creativity that would spark your imagination and awaken your dreams was awe inspiring. The Center Stage represented the heart of the JRLC mission; provide a safe place for youth and young adults to develop and cultivate their dreams.

The crowd favorite of the productions on The Center Stage were talent shows. When reminiscing with Center Alumni, they recall shows featuring people from the community like singers Marlene Edwards and Carl “Red” Miller, the lyrical masterpieces of rappers Nes-T and Dolla Bill, or the dazzling dance routines of duos Keith Cates and Chaka Smith and the Bankston Brothers, Booter and Nakia. Those shows were not only entertaining but inspirational and galvanizing. It brought the community together and helped them believe great things were possible.

The Open Gym Project has partnered with Right Touch Entertainment to help bring The Center Stage magic back to the city of Port Huron. We want young people to have the opportunity to enjoy good entertainment and be inspired to step on the Center Stage of their dreams. Even if it is not entertainment we want them to step to the Center Stage of Technology, Education, Science, Sports, and other fields of interest. No matter what you do everyone dreams of being on the Center Stage. The Center stage represents the place where the best creativity, innovation, and artistry is displayed.

Roy Fleming, CEO of Right Touch Entertainment, started his company to do just that. He opened his studio (which houses a recording studio, photo studio, radio station reaching 30 states, and artist management) to help those struggling to break through in the world of entertainment. Roy stated, “My vision and dream is to help those who do not have the resources to make it happen.”

Roy launched his business in Port Huron with Da Booth Recording Studio in 2002 under the encouragement of The Center Stage Alumni Rock Rob. Rock Rob told him local artist were struggling to get studio time to complete their projects. They needed a studio to go to that would understand and appreciate their vision and help them make it happen. “I just want to be a blessing,” says Mr. Fleming, “I want to help remove some of the barriers I and my artist faced in the beginning.”

Roy has excitedly teamed up with the Open Gym Project to put together The Center Stage Talent Show taking place Friday, August 17^th at 8:30 PM during the NAACP Music Fest and Field Days. Some of his artist will grace the stage to inspire the aspiring artist. The aspiring artist will participate in the contest portion of the show and compete for a Grand Prize including studio time and development of a demo, a photo shoot, and $150 Cash.

If you are a singer, rapper, musician, spoken word artist, etc. who would like to compete in the talent show please call 586-770-0423 or go to the Open Gym Project or Right Touch Records Facebook page and post a message of your interest to participate.