James D. Beeks, of the Broadway Ragtime ensemble, continues to step out of Coalhouse Walker Jr.'s shadow for a solo cabaret act, "Journey to the Past," Dec. 13 and 28 at the Duplex Cabaret Theatre in New York City. The show opened Dec. 7.

Beeks' autobiographical storytelling will draw on Broadway, pop and jazz material, supported by four musicians and joined each night by "special guests" from Broadway shows. The musical director is Billy Stein. Stafford Arima, resident associate director of Broadway's Ragtime, is director.

At 9 PM Dec. 13 a Footloose singer joins Beeks; 10:30 PM Dec. 28 B.J. Crosby of Smokey Joe's Cafe will visit. Guest artists are subject to change.

Beeks, who was raised in Jacksonville, FL, has also appeared on Broadway in Smokey Joe's Cafe.

Tickets are $15 with a two-drink minimum. The Duplex is at 61 Christopher Street at Seventh Avenue in Greenwich Village. Call (212) 255-5438. -- By Kenneth Jones