“Soul Harmony” tells the true story of Baltimore Jewish songwriter Deborah Chessler, her mother Irene and five African American men. Lead singer Sonny Til and The Orioles came together in 1948 with Deborah Chessler to create Rhythm and Blues. A new music was born, while challenging obstacles of racism and anti-Semitism. The role of Sonny Til will be played by Sonny's grandson, De’Sean Dooley!
From the birth of this vocal harmony singing group to the Orioles recording of Chessler’s It’s Too Soon To Know, considered by many music critics to be the first Rock ‘n’ Roll record, to Deborah inducting the Orioles into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, “Soul Harmony” is filled with unforgettable moments for music lovers. You may recall their extraordinary song Crying In The Chapel.
Staged in Portland, “Soul Harmony” swept the Portland Area Musical Theater Awards in 2015. “Soul Harmony” now is having its World Premiere at the new Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester, Pennsylvania on June 20.