Feb. 15, 2010
Contact:
Elizabeth Klipp, 404-413-1356
University Relations
Darlene Hamilton, 404-730-7315
National Black Arts Festival
ATLANTA - In celebration of Black History Month, Georgia State University is hosting a tribute to acclaimed vocalist Nina Simone at 7 p.m. on Feb. 23 in the main lobby of the Rialto Center for the Arts.
Themed "My name is Nina Simone: Reflections of an artist and activist," the event will include poetry, reflections of Simone's life, music and dance. It is free and open to the public.
The event is presented by Georgia State University's Office of the Dean of Students/Intercultural Relations and Office of African American Student Services and Programs, with additional support provided by the National Black Arts Festival (NBAF).
Simone, who died in 2003, is remembered for her talents as a pianist, singer, arranger and composer. Her first recorded tracks included, "Plain Gold Ring," "Don't Smoke in Bed" and "Little Girl Blue." She gained momentum in 1959 with her recording of "I Loves You, Porgy," from the opera "Porgy and Bess." It was the hit that jumpstarted her recording career. Her next album was "The Amazing Nina Simone," and it netted increased critical acclaim.
Simone performed at Carnegie Hall and the Newport Jazz Festival, among other venues around the world. She also became an integral part of the civil rights movement and her voice spoke to a generation of black Americans.
Simone's legacy will live on during the GSU tribute on Feb. 23.
Tracy Pierre, a dancer, published poet, actress, model and playwright, will be the featured artist for the evening. She is a member of the Black Pearls, a female performance troupe based in Atlanta, and will perform a dance tribute in honor of Simone. Poetry will be provided by Georgia State's Conscious Collective and a jazz instrumental tribute provided by GSU student Brittany Moody.
A reception will immediately follow the main program.
Georgia State's Office of the Dean of Students/Intercultural Relations provides programs, activities and services that encourage the members of the GSU community to maximize its diverse environment.
GSU's Office of African American Student Services and Programs serves as the liaison among the Division of Student Services and academic departments on topics relating to African American students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
NBAF is one of the premier national and international celebrations of the art, music and culture of people of African descent.
For more information, visit www2.gsu.edu/interculturalrelations or www.nbaf.org