The play was a hit and a movie version was the next logical step. Vince and creator Ruben Santiago-Hudson both wanted HBO. The HBO NY team seemed to have no interest.

Borrowing a page from entertainment industry history, like Mickey Rooney’s “Babes in Arms”, Vincent produced a two-night run of the play in Los Angeles at the Hudson Theater on Santa Monica Boulevard. Vince invited producers, network executives, agents, and famous actors. The team from HBO started negotiations. Vince also championed Ruben as the writer for the screenplay. The movie won many awards and earned Vincent an Emmy nomination as producer. Ruben also was awarded the prestigious Humanitas Prize.

“Lackawanna Blues” is a story of survival, hope but mostly love and featured a stunning cast of acclaimed actors including Ruben himself. It is the story of s rare woman Rachel (Nanny) Crosby who took Ruben in after his parents divorce. The historical turbulence of the times of “Lackawanna Blues” are still so very relevant today.