A Moving Birthday Celebration for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr at the Strathmore, featuring actor “Gregg Riley” and excellent local talent (photos)

The Music Center at Strathmore was host to a moving celebration in honor of the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 16, 2012. The highlight of the program was Dr. King himself, in the guise of Mr. Gregg Riley, a talented actor and a dead ringer for the noted civil rights leader. Riley, who began his oration offstage in a familiar baritone, had many in the packed house of nearly 2000 people convinced they were listening to a recording of Dr. King’s voice. When Riley, as King, did walk onstage, the audience at first seemed stunned into silence as if seeing a ghost, only to rise up to the strength of Dr. Kings powerful words, and end with a standing ovation for Riley’s riveting performance.

The event was presented by Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Committee.
View our photos of the full event, including an awards ceremony and musical tribute from local talent by clicking on the photo icons below.