“JUST AS I AM”
Synopsis

One-woman show performed by Florence LaRue

Length: 75 minutes

Accompaniment: piano, bass, guitar, drums

Florence LaRue, lead vocalist and the only original member of the GRAMMY award-winning 5th Dimension, has far more dimensions, which are featured in her one-woman show, “Just As I am.” The 75- minute production is an infusion of music, and story telling, sprinkled with pearls of wisdom. Through carefully selected songs, the audience follows the life-long search for love by a “poor” African-American girl from a small town, who rose to achieve world-wide success in the early 60’s, but lacked the love she so desperately desired.

In “Just As I Am,” Ms LaRue delves into her roots growing up in Glenside, Pennsylvania ~~~ an African American girl who attended all White schools. While not totally accepted by the White community, she was ridiculed by the Black community for being too “White.!” The production unveils the heart of a seemingly happy celebrity who yearns for family unity and in the process, experiences the disappointment of several divorces and the heartache of separation from the love of her life, ~~~ her only child, a son.

 
The story is told through song and personal narratives which showcase Ms LaRue’s acting prowess and vocal versatility. "Just As I Am" will entertain, educate and inspire the audience. Critics have said it leaves one touched, uplifted and inspired by the love, warmth and extraordinary talent of this gifted woman.

“While the music was uplifting and exciting and delivered with an amazing energy, it was the story interwoven between the songs that was spellbinding. ~~~ Florence LaRue’s show, “Just As I am” is one I would highly recommend to anyone and would encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to see.”
                            Dr. Mary Sias, President of Kentucky state University

“Miss LaRue could have sung for hours and we would have enjoyed it all. She is a talent of talents, ~~~”
                            The Rev. Dale Augustin, Grace in the Desert Church, Las Vegas, Nevada