Smokey, Denzel set for Apollo honors

HARLEM, N.Y., May 12 (UPI) -- Singer Smokey Robinson and actor Denzel Washington are to be honored at the Apollo Theater's fourth annual Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Harlem, N.Y.

Robinson is to be inducted into the Apollo Legends Hall of Fame at the June 2 event, while Washington and his wife Pauletta are to receive the Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis Arts and Humanitarian Award, the Apollo Theater Foundation announced Monday.

Washington recently worked with Dee in the Harlem-set film "American Gangster."

Earth Wind & Fire, India.Arie and Nnenna Freelon are scheduled to perform at the Apollo event, while comedienne and actress Wanda Sykes will act as host.

Jonelle Procope, the foundation's president and Chief Executive Officer, said in a statement: "As the Apollo prepares to enter into its 75th Anniversary next year, we continue to champion the mission of honoring the history of our much revered theater as well as securing its future. This is more than a venue. The Apollo is an experience and this year's spring benefit, in particular, completely embodies that sentiment. This is the one event where everyone from the business community to the entertainment world to the Harlem community -- can come and celebrate and help preserve their Apollo Theater."