---

News Release

Last modified: Thursday, October 16, 2008

“Looking Back -- Pressing Forward” is theme for Potpourri of Arts in the African American Tradition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 16, 2008

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Indiana University's African American Arts Institute presents the 15th annual "A Potpourri of Arts in the African American Tradition" concert on Nov. 8 (Saturday) at 8 p.m. at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, 114 E. Kirkwood Ave.

Exemplifying keen, vigorous expression, eloquence and class, the African American Dance Company will present a fusion of dance styles and forms that explore the human condition of people of the African Diaspora.

Inspirational and spiritually uplifting, the African American Choral Ensemble preserves the legacy of African American choral music through transformative interpretations of this unique American art form. The choral ensemble features a broad repertoire including spirituals, folk forms, traditional and contemporary gospel music, and formally composed works by African American composers.

Consistent with this year's theme, the choral ensemble will perform spirituals by living composers, including IU Distinguished Professor of Music David Baker, Raymond Wise and ACE director Keith McCutchen.

Through intense grooves, strong rhythms and cohesive instrumentation, the IU Soul Revue exhibits the timeless sounds of R&B, soul, funk and contemporary urban black popular music. The electric performances of the Soul Revue are delivered by its commanding male and female vocal ensembles, a powerful horn line and outstanding rhythm section. The ensemble this year will spotlight artists such as Earth Wind and Fire, Chaka Kahn, and Kool and the Gang.

"A Potpourri of the Arts" was created to bring together a diverse range of African American performance styles. The institute is marking its 34th year of commitment to celebrate and foster arts in the African American tradition and is continuing to contribute to the cultural diversity of IU. It is directed by Charles E. Sykes.

Tickets will cost $15 for adults and $5 for students (limit two per IU ID) and children 12 and under. They are available at the Sunrise Box Office/ Downtown Visitors Center, also at 114 E. Kirkwood Ave.

---

---