Earlier this week it was announced that Queen Latifah’s Bessie Smith film will debut this spring on HBO. The film which stars Latifah, will take a look into the life and music of the Empress of the Blues. This weekend, in celebration of Black History Month, the Freetown Village singers, led by director Ophelia Washington and acclaimed jazz vocalist Sandy Lomax, will host an event that takes listeners into the era of singers like Smith and many others.
From African folk to Negro spirituals, gospel to blues, and jazz to pop, the Freetown Village Singers will lead a rhythmic journey that is sure to inspire and uplift. America’s music is absolutely replete with the influence of African-Americans, from slave-era spirituals to the forefathers of rock and roll.
The event which begins at 5:00 p.m. at the Madame Walker Theater Center on February 28, will feature a buffet-style dinner along with the entertaining musical selections. Freetown Village Founding Director Ophelia Wellington said that she hopes audience members leave with a greater understanding of the significance of Black music. “Many of the songs that are synonymous with struggle, empowerment, human rights and perseverance weave a story that chronicles our history,” she said.
What: Freetown Village Singers Black History Month concert
When: Saturday February 28, 5:00 p.m.
Where: Madame Walker Theatre Center (Ballroom) 617 Indiana Ave.
Cost: $30.00
For information on tickets visit https://freetownvillagesingers.eventbrite.com, or call 317-631-1870
For more on Freetown Village visit www.freetownvillage.org