Juneteenth Reflections: Celebrating Heritage Through Performance

Juneteenth Reflections: Celebrating Heritage Through Performance

#BlackMusicMonth #SummerOfSoul

Nashville, TN – This June, as part of a richly diverse Black Music Month and the spirited Summer of Soul, Scarritt Bennett Center is proud to host an extraordinary evening of art and performance. Titled “Juneteenth Reflections: Celebrating Heritage Through Performance,” this event will take place at the Harambee Auditorium on our midtown Nashville campus on Friday, June 29, 2024, at 7:30 PM.

This year’s celebration will feature a special excerpts performance from the new play production “WEUSI,” produced by Dream 7 and Gubasavi Productions. The play, rich in narratives of the African diaspora, promises to be a profound cultural experience, shedding light on themes of identity, resilience, and freedom.

In addition to the theatrical presentation will be a series of musical and speaking performances that reflect the depth and diversity of Black musical heritage. The lineup includes Henry Jones, the esteemed inaugural poet laureate of Hendersonville, TN, who will captivate the audience with his poignant verses. Joining him will be Henry Perry, playing his instrument of choice affectionately known as the “Mississippi Sax,” will bring the haunting sounds of the blues, connecting the historical roots of Juneteenth with the day’s celebration.

Further enriching the evening, Cat Boose, a contemporary R&B vocalist known for her velvety voice, will perform as well as players from the Nashville Chamber Music Society, adding a classical touch to the night’s festivities. Fredrick Weathersby, whose mastery of the trumpet echoes the soulful depths of jazz of which you do not want to miss.

In a special performance, Jefferson and Linda Furtado will enchant with their guitar and vocal renditions of Brazilian music, blending rich cultural expressions with traditional soul.

“Juneteenth Reflections is not just a celebration but a profound reflection on the journey of freedom and the expressive power of Black artistry,” said the event organizer. “We are thrilled to bring together such talented artists to commemorate this significant date.”

Tickets for “Juneteenth Reflections: Celebrating Heritage Through Performance” are available now. We invite everyone to join us for this memorable evening as we honor and celebrate the enduring spirit and cultural contributions of the African American community.