Black History Arts Gala in Hendersonville
In celebration of Black History Month, Jewel Ward graced the stage at the Rise Up! Performing Arts Event in Hendersonville, NC, on February 25, 2023. This event, sponsored by the Black History Collective of Henderson County, unfolded at the Union Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Hendersonville, NC.
The audience enjoyed Jewel’s renditions of "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man" and "Summertime" as part of an ensemble that included poets, dancers, spoken word artists, musicians, and visual artists.
The event was expertly organized by Crystal Cauley and Minister Diane Caldwell, with Tynesha Carden as the Mistress of Ceremony.
The performers graced the stage with a rich tapestry of expressions, including Crystal Cauley and Tony Robles' performance of "Black Love" (with a poem by Christopher D. Sims and Crystal Cauley), Alyeh Cady's enchanting dance to Rihanna's "Diamonds," Phyllis Bailey's moving recital of "Blacker" (a poem by Crystal Cauley), Indian Jackson's heartfelt life testimonial through dance interpretation, and Pam Suber's dance performance to the "Selma" soundtrack coupled with a monologue honoring Langston Hughes' "Mother to Son."
The evening's artistry also featured Wanda Ruiz Padilla's a capella rendition of "Wind Beneath my Wings" as a tribute to Tyre Nichols, and the creative contributions of Jamaria and Jakerrion Kilgore to the Harlem Renaissance-themed art exhibit. Etta Robinson thoughtfully assembled a visual bulletin board showcasing Henderson County's Black History, completing the tribute to this significant month.
