The internationally recognized African-American a cappella women’s ensemble, Sweet Honey in the Rock®, will bring their Grammy Award-winning performance to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Thursday, Oct. 23.
The group, which is rooted in African American history and culture, entertains its audiences through song and American Sign Language.
Performing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23 in the Morris University Center Meridian Ballroom will be troupe members Carol Maillard, Aisha Kahlil, Louise Robinson, Nitanju Bolade Casel and Shirley Childress Saxton.
The ensemble, celebrating their 40 anniversary, delights audiences with a diverse mixture of blues, ancient lullabies, spirituals, traditional gospel hymns, R&B, rap, reggae, African jazz, along with symphonic and dance theater.
The group’s vision “seeks to preserve and extend the traditions of African American vocal music; to inspire a multidimensional-intergenerational audience, to find and use their individual and collective voice to address the critical issues of our time and to celebrate our common humanity.”
Sweet Honey in the Rock’s values are truth, justice and compassion. The group advocates for these values while also addressing the vital issues of democracy, freedom, racism and economic and social justice.
For tickets and information, visit the SIUE Morris University Center Welcome Desk, artsandissues.com or call (618) 650-5774.
The Arts & Issues series brings artistic excellence to the SIUE campus through an eclectic blend of speakers and performers. For more than 30 years, SIUE’s Arts & Issues series has showcased some of the world’s finest artists. Each season, thought-provoking speakers inspire and entertain people of all ages and backgrounds. Thanks to the underwriting of SIUE, corporations, foundations and individual donors, tickets are often highly discounted.
Arts & Issues is tied to the academic mission of the University and offers unique opportunities for students, faculty, staff, and the community, to engage with performers and speakers through performances, master classes and special sessions.