Actor From Woody Allen Film to Appear in Fort Lee

Nick “Apollo” Forte, the musician and actor who played Lou Canova in Woody Allen's 1984 film, Broadway Danny Rose, is taking the stage Saturday as part of the Movies and Music Under the Stars series at the .

Tom Meyers, executive director of the Fort Lee Film Commission, said he thought the audience would enjoy the timeless motion picture, which is shot in Northern New Jersey and New York City, even more if two of the film’s stars appeared live.  

They have often worked with the legendary Joe Franklin and reached out to him, as well as Forte. Both agreed to join the program.

Jersey comedian Michael T. Wright will interview Franklin and Forte on the community center’s outdoor stage from 8:30 to 9:15 p.m. after the live music, with Forte performing some of the film’s score.  A screening of the film will follow. The program will move to the second floor of the center in the event of rain.

“I believe this program will be one of our best and free of charge,” Meyers said.  “In these difficult economic times, our summer music/film programs are more important than ever.”

Forte, who began his career more than five decades ago at a talent show in Waterbury, Conn. and knew immediately that show biz was his calling said, “It’s quite a thing to have a tribute to the movie.”

The pianist likes to sing uplifting songs, including show tunes, and he encourages togetherness music. He says there is definitely room for all the classics.

“I believe I am here for a reason, and I am doing these songs to make a lot of people happy,” Forte said.

He penned “Agita” and "Keep Italian in Your Heart (Robins Song)” for Broadway Danny Rose and was a frequent guest on The Tonight Show, Regis, Good Morning America and countless other television and radio shows. Forte has also performed at some of the largest casinos and cruise ships in the world.

Woody Allen gave him an opportunity to do a movie, and Forte said the director knew the person he had in mind for the role. When they wrapped filming, the executive producer, Jack Rollins, called him over and said, “It was a great day when you found Woody Allen, but it was a better day when Woody Allen found you.”

On working with Allen, Forte said, “He was a gentleman, and he recognized my talent, especially when I gave him the songs, and he said, ‘he can act.’”

Movies and Music Under the Stars, featuring special guest appearances by Forte, Franklin and Wright and a live musical performance by LaFuerza Positiva, is Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Fort Lee Community Center at 1355 Inwood Terrace.