Black History in Story and Song "Liberty and Justice for All"
January 4, 2008
On February 8 and 9, 2008, at 7:30 p.m., Jerome Bridges, a nationally acclaimed African-American historical actor and interpreter will appear at Blackwell Auditorium at Randolph-Macon College in Ashland to tell first person stories from the pre-Civil War time of slavery and the Civil Rights era of the l950’s and 60’s. Accompanying Mr. Bridges with spirituals and gospel songs from these historic periods will be the George Crawford Memorial Choir from the Providence Park Baptist Church and a Community Chorus including over fifty voices from local church choirs. The Traveling Jubilee Gospel Singers will provide spirited gospels prior to each part of the performance. Both performances are presented free of charge to the public. . Mr. Bridges has appeared in numerous historical films, including the critically acclaimed “Cold Mountain,” and the History Channel’s “Sherman’s March.” He was chosen to perform in May of 2007 as part of Jamestown’s 400th Commemoration during Queen Elizabeth’s visit and was recently awarded the 2007 Volunteer Interpreter of the Year by the National Association for Interpretation at their annual conference. With more than 30 years of historical interpretation experience to his credit, Bridges deeply believes that how we approach and shape the future depends upon our grasp and understanding of the past. He is presented through Arnett and Associates, a premier speakers and talent agency in Richmond.
Sponsored by the Hanover AARP Chapter and the Hanover Arts and Activities Center (HAAC), Friday and Saturday evening promise to be memorable nights of gripping stories and inspiring music that will appeal to all families in the Hanover County community and the Richmond Metropolitan area. Major support of this event has been provided by Dominion and Randolph-Macon College.
“We can learn our history from reading books or even watching these events depicted in a movie or on TV,” says Ragan Phillips, chairperson of HAAC’s Outreach Committee. “But there is nothing like having a master story teller lean forward toward you to say ‘let me tell you a story.’ We believe Black History in Story and Song is a unique cultural and educational experience that everyone can share.”
For further information please contact Ragan Phillips at 804 798-9721 or Buddy Kelly at 804 798-8782.
CLICK HERE for more details, including a biography of Mr. Jerome Bridges.