For Immediate Release: January 1, 1998
Further information: Tom McNaught (617) 514-1662
As part of its special programming for children, and in celebration of Black History Month, the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum will present “Celebrate! Black History and Culture at the John F. Kennedy Library” — a week-long series of performances focusing on African and African-American history and culture by some of New England’s most noted storytellers, singers, musicians, and dancers.
The daily performances will be held at the Kennedy Library and Museum during school vacation week February 16 through February 21. The hour-long performances each begin at 10:30 am and are free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please call (617) 929-4523 for further information.
Monday, February 16, 1998:
“African-American Music of the Carolina Sea Islands.”
Janice Allen specializes in a blend of traditional African-American folk and gospel music. With a range of African and African-American percussion instruments joined with her trademark acappella vocals, Janice Allen takes her audiences on a rhythmic journey from the African continent to the Carolina Sea Islands.
Tuesday, February 17, 1998:
“A Woman Ain’t I.”
In her one-woman show, storyteller and actress Kathryn Woods portrays Sojourner Truth, who was born a slave in upstate New York and who became a powerful speaker against slavery and for the rights of women. Woods uses Sojourner’s own words and the spiritual music she may have sung to recreate this inspiring woman.
Wednesday, February 18, 1998:
“Journey into Jazz.”
Semenya McCord and a trio of exceptional musicians invite children to experience the African-American musical experience, with particular emphasis on spirituals, blues, and songs of the swing and bebop eras.
Thursday, February 19, 1998:
“Art of Black Dance and Music in Concert.”
This performance group presents a host of experiences from the dance and cultural traditions of the African Diaspora, the Caribbean, and the Americas.
Friday, February 20, 1998:
“Cornell ‘Sugarfoot’ Coley in Performance.”
Dancer and drummer Cornell “Sugar foot” Colby takes audiences of all ages on a Black dance journey through North, South, and Central America, exploring Africa’s diversity from the time before slavery, from Senegal to Ghana, Nigeria and the Congo, inviting the audience to respond with their own movements.
Saturday, February 21, 1998:
“Creation Myths From Africa.”
The Enchanted Circle Theater presents a theatrical performance of two wonderful myths which world cultures have created to explain the many wonders of our planet. The First Morning is an East African tale about how light came to be on earth. The Evening Gift, from the Ashanti people of West Africa, is the story of how the moon came to be in the sky.
“Celebrate! Black History and Culture at the John F. Kennedy Library” is part of the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum’s special programming this year to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the historical events surrounding the nation’s struggle for civil rights and to celebrate the courage, vision and leadership of the men and women who participated in such historic events as the demonstrations in Birmingham, the integration of the University of Alabama, the drafting of the Civil Rights Act, and the March on Washington.
The John F. Kennedy Library and Museum will waive all admission fees on Monday, February 16 in celebration of President’s Day.
One of Boston's most popular tourist attractions, the Museum offers visitors an opportunity to step back into the recreated world of the early 1960s and experience first hand the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy. In 25 dramatic exhibits, including three theaters and period settings, visitors are inspired by the stirring eloquence of John F. Kennedy and by the grace of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. From I.M. Pei's magnificent architectural achievement, guests enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Boston Harborand the city's skyline.
The John F. Kennedy Library and Museum is a presidential library administered by the National Archives and Records Administration and supported, in part, by the Kennedy Library Foundation, a non-profit organization. The Kennedy Library and the Kennedy Library Foundation seek to promote, through educational and community programs, a greater appreciation and understanding of American politics, history, and culture, the process of governing and the importance of public service.