The University of Georgia's AACE Joins IAAS in Celebration of BTE's 50th Anniversary at UGA

ATHENS, Ga. - April 18, 2026 - PRLog -- Posted Courtesy of Wright Enterprises Community Spotlight San Francisco ~ Dallas ~~~

The African American Choral Ensemble (AACE) at the University of Georgia Hugh Hodgson School of Music is joining in a historic, multi-generational celebration of the Black Theatrical Ensemble (BTE) 50th Anniversary, highlighted by a powerful Spring Concert synergistically happening during the BTE Reunion Celebration Week, April 20–26, 2026.

This milestone moment underscores the deep artistic and cultural connections between UGA's premier Black performance organizations—demonstrating how music, theater, and storytelling have long worked in tandem to sustain Black creative expression on campus. Founded in 1976 by graduate student Larry Calhoun, BTE was envisioned as a creative and cultural home where Black students could find voice, purpose, and artistic freedom—principles that continue to guide the organization today.

Spring Concert Highlights Interwoven Legacy

As part of the celebration, AACE's Spring Concert will give a nod to the BTE 50th Anniversary Celebration—bringing together voices past and present while honoring the shared lineage between AACE (formerly Pamoja Singers) and BTE. The concert reflects the enduring role of Black musical traditions in shaping theatrical performance and student identity at UGA.

"AACE and BTE represent the collaboration of Black artistic expression at the University of Georgia for five decades," said Gregory Broughton, Associate Professor of Music at the University of Georgia Hugh Hodgson School of Music and Director of the African American Choral Ensemble (AACE). "We are pleased to join with UGA's Institute for African American Studies (IAAS) in collaborative recognition during this milestone moment. It reflects not only a rich history, but a continued commitment to excellence, cultural preservation, and student empowerment as we give 'a tip of the hat 'to BTE at the concert."

Current members of AACE will also participate in activities connected to BTE's anniversary programming as the week of celebration culminates with a musical, symbolizing the interwoven artistic experiences that continue to define UGA's Black arts community.

ACCE Spring Concert Information (https://music.uga.edu/events/content/2025/african-america...)

Friday, April 24 2026, 7:30 - 9:30pm

Hodgson Concert Hall at the UGA Performing Arts Center

Free Performance-No Tickets Required

"My Name Is Toil" by Adolphus Hailstork performed by UGA's AACE is a popular selection:
https://youtu.be/KOUQbL5-PWw?si=gGm_a116ZQ72j6_M



For Complete News Release with details of "Sister Act" Showcase and links such as:
(Copy & Paste)
Tickets to the 4/26 Anniversary Reception $50 Adult Alumni & Supporters
https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/VGDYPLQ52NTGY

$15 Commemorative Mug
https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/SAJL85QWWFUDL (https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/SAJL85QWWFUDLhttps:/www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/SAJL85QWWFUDL)

BTE 50th Anniversary Merchandise
https://shantis-shop-2.myshopify.com/

Copy & Paste for complete news release: https://tinyurl.com/AACE-IAAS-BTE50YearsatUGA