See Detroit celebs at Legacies in Black and White

See Detroit celebs at Legacies in Black and White

What can attendees expect at the Detroit Legacies in Black and White event at the Fox Theatre on Monday?

A whole lot of a whole lot – with a vibe that might resemble a mix of a living-room conversation and a late-night talk show, “hosted by a couple of guys who could never host a late-night talk show,” says Mitch Albom.

The official premise of the event is a shared stage between Albom and legendary Detroit Judge Damon J. Keith – friends who have new books coming out this month. The idea was to celebrate their friendship and other success stories that cross racial lines. In addition to conversations about Detroit, there will be readings from Albom’s “The First Phone Call From Heaven” and from a new biography about Keith, “Crusader For Justice.” Among those reading from the Keith book will be former Detroit Mayor Dennis Archer, Michigan congressman John Conyers and local media personalities Diana Lewis, Devin Scillian, Tom Leyden, Mike Stone, Lee Thomas and Blaine Fowler.

Among a wide variety of local celebs from the sports, entertainment and media worlds, perhaps most anticipated is former Tigers manager Jim Leyland, marking his first major public appearance since he announced his retirement in October. There will be an on-stage conversation about his career, along with a video package of highlights.

Other big names scheduled to attend are Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, comedian Tim Meadows, the Four Tops, NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders, Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard, Tigers great Willie Horton, R&B musician Kem and former Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr.

Kem and the Four Tops will both perform, with additional music provided by local favorites Stewart Francke and Jill Jack, and several choirs.

Event details: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward, Detroit. 800-745-3000. www.olympiaentertainment.com. $40 and $150 ($150 tickets include pre-show VIP reception backstage at 6 p.m. with light refreshments and mingling).

– Detroit Free Press staff