Though spearheaded by IZORA Productions, the event is actually the collective effort of several civic groups and features both emerging and established Twin Cities artists. Youth from local schools and community programs will do the elders proud with impressive cameo stage appearances, and the work of young visual artists will be on display. The event will also feature an indoor mini-marketplace, which will offer quality wares by local vendors.
In addition to fostering cultural education, pride, and unity, BlackArtsFusion serves yet another purpose. Ten percent of event proceeds will benefit TruArtSpeaks, a developing non-profit organization founded by Latisha "Tish" Jones with the sole purpose of creating positive social change within the community and using the arts and education as a means to do so.
BlackArtsFusion features new choreography by three core performers of IZORA Productions:
Why should we celebrate African American culture and history in the spring? Why not? "As a staunch supporter of Black History Month and Kwanzaa, it feels good to gather in honor of our heritage in addition to these occasions," says Karla Nweje, Artistic Director of IZORA Productions. "Doing so reminds us -- and others -- that American culture as we know it would not exist without African American culture. Black history is thus rich, vital American history that can and must be acknowledged year round."
The Capri Theater is located at 2027 West Broadway off the corner of Oliver Avenue North. Tickets are now on sale at the reception desk of the theater's lobby every Saturday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. They can also be purchased as early as one hour before show times. For all additional ticket information, please e-mail tickets@realartistry.com with BlackArtsFusion in the subject line or call 1-888-202-5962 and follow the menu options for performance info. You can also visit the website of IZORA Productions, www.realartistry.com.
About IZORA Productions
IZORA Productions is a Twin Cities-based multi-disciplinary performance group. In addition to producing quality work for the public, the organization seeks to strengthen alliances among artists and to connect artists with the community at large. Another IZORA objective is the increased knowledge and appreciation of African American culture and history through the arts. A third goal is to provide support for the youth population in their artistic and educational pursuits. Many IZORA group members and affiliates have strong backgrounds as arts and/or academic educators.
At-A-Glance Event Info:
Friday, May 11th and Saturday, May 12th, 2007 @ 8 pm
$8 (General Admission)
Historic Capri Theater
2027 West Broadway Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55411
African mini-mart open 1 hour before each performance (7-8 pm) and during intermission.
