Monday, February 20, 2012

Spirit of Uganda at the Byham

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Today's date: February 20, 2012

Contact:
Veronica Corpuz
(412) 471-6082
corpuz@trustarts.org

Diana Roth
(412) 471-8717
roth@trustarts.org

Electronic artwork is available upon request.



Spirit of Uganda presented by The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust


Sunday, March 18, 2012, 4:00 p.m., Byham Theater, 101 Sixth Street


The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents the critically acclaimed Spirit of Uganda on Sunday, March 18, 2012, at 4:00 p.m. at the Byham Theater. This performance is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents series. “Invigorating the stage with that elusive thing called joy,” (The New York Times) Spirit of Uganda, produced by Empowering African Children, presents riveting programs of music and dance for audiences of all ages. To the melodic tones of standing drums, with dramatic choreography, bright, layered rhythms, and gorgeous call-and-response vocals, a vivacious cast of performers, aged 8-18, bring to life the sounds and movements of East Africa.

“Young, proud, and marvelously spirited musicians and dancers. Whatever these performers do, in whatever different bright attire, they do with discipline, fervor, and joy ... the pounding feet and agile bodies, the drums and vibrant human voices all send a message – one of courage and hope.” – Village Voice.

“An ebullient guide – Artistic Director Peter Kasule ushers us into the patchwork of ancient kingdoms and ethnic groups that constitutes modern Uganda, combining traditional rhythms with new forms into numbers so dynamic they are transformative.” – Newsday. As Master of Ceremonies for Spirit of Uganda performances, Peter Kasule researches, creates, arranges and directs all repertory.

Impassioned ambassadors for Uganda’s 2.4 million orphans, the young performers of Spirit of Uganda exhibit the resilience and promise of Africa’s next generation, as they promote awareness of Uganda’s dual crises of AIDS and civil war, and raise funds to support themselves and others displaced in their homeland. At home and abroad, these artists of the highest caliber are joyous, thriving examples of what is possible when potential is realized. “The artists are not just entertaining audiences, they are reaching out from an unbearable place of loss, drawing from their inner reserves the multifaceted rhythms that bear at the heart of Ugandan culture.” – Chicago Tribune.

Spirit of Uganda is a professional training and touring program produced by Empower African Children, a non-profit organization inspired by success stories from more than 15 years of work with Africa's vulnerable children. Launched in 2006 by child advocate Alexis Hefley, whose work with Ugandan children has earned her international acclaim, Empower African Children's programs provide a fresh new approach that unlocks the potential of this generation through an innovative education. Its holistic approach to education provides tools for success in life, creating confident, skillful, visionary leaders.

Tickets ($25-$35) may be purchased at the Box Office at Theater Square (655 Penn Avenue), online at www.trustarts.org, or by calling (412) 456-6666. To purchase 10 or more tickets at special discounted rates, please call (412) 471-6930.

Posted on behalf of Dreamweaver Marketing Associates.  Joyce Kane is the owner of Cybertary Pittsburgh, a Virtual Administrative support company, providing virtual office support, personal and executive assistance, creative design services and light bookkeeping.  Cybertary works with businesses and busy individuals to help them work 'on' their business rather than 'in' their business.  www.Cybertary.com/Pittsburgh

 

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