Cast of "Ain't too Proud" performing at DPAC with cast members taking time out to learn the city's history of civil rights

The Unforgettable music of the "Temptations" brings back a flood of memories for several generations of fans. The life and times of this iconic "Motown" group are chronicled in the hit Broadway show, "Ain't to Proud," now on stage at DPAC.

A meeting of two generations born decades apart, but with common bonds. The stars travel the country in the stage show, "Ain't Too Proud," playing the roles of the original "Temptations."

Their greatest hits include "Ain't too Proud to Beg" and "Just My Imagination."

The cast was invited to a special exhibit at Durham's Carolina Theater led by a Durham civil rights committee who came of age in the Civil Rights era.

There were protests over segregation policies, not just in schools, but also inside venues like th historic theater where committee members met with the "Ain't to Proud" cast.

"That's the ticket window over there," said one committee member, referring to segregated windows.

By the early 60s, "A ticket gave black theater goers seats, but only at the top level, out of sight from white patrons.

Walter Jackson recounted, "There were outside steps, 97 steps, sort of like a fire escape that we climbed outside."

Alice Sharp, another member of the committee, said, "The other patrons never knew about this level- because they never had to come up here,"

Jalen Harris, who plays the role of "The Temptations" Eddie Hendricks, was glad he came for this educational experience. He said, "Learning the black history in Durham, learning about

Black Wall Street and just this incredible theater is just really all-encompassing."

The only original living member of "The Temptations" is Otis Williams, portrayed by Michael Andreas in the stage production.
Andreas explained, "The story is told through Otis's memory. I think the music has such a powerful way of just transporting us to a different time to a different place."

For Harrell Holmes, junior, who portrays Otis Williams, the Carolina Theater is that "different place" with a rich history.

Holmes said, "It's incredible to be here during Black History Month, to be surrounded with all of this black history, and to be telling the story of these iconic legends who lived on this earth and whose music is still relevant."

Ain't Too Proud is now on stage at DPAC until Sunday. For more information and tickets, check out DPACNC.com.