The South Carolina State University Concert Choir is heading to Charleston for a special performance at the Spoleto Festival. Led by Dr. Johnnie J. Felder, this talented choir includes standout soloists like Brianna Lloyd and Jayden Wright, among others.
During their show, the choir will present excerpts from an upcoming documentary titled “When Porgy Came Home,” directed by Lauren Waring Douglas. They will also feature performances by Dr. Felder, Grammy-winning trumpeter Charlton Singleton, and members from the original 1970 cast of Porgy and Bess, including Anthony Burke.
Dr. Lynn Kompass, a music professor from the University of South Carolina, will provide accompaniment for the evening.
The concert is set for June 2 at 7 p.m. at the Charleston Gaillard Auditorium. Tickets are free and can be obtained through the Spoleto Festival USA website or by calling the box office.
This event showcases not only local talent but also the rich history of Porgy and Bess, a production that has shaped American music and culture. The performance will celebrate this legacy while pushing forward with new artistic expressions. Local audiences have been showing excitement on social media, discussing their hopes for the event and sharing memories of past performances.
In recent studies, community engagement in the arts has been shown to enhance cultural appreciation and boost local economies. Performance events like this one can play a vital role in revitalizing interest in cultural heritage while fostering a sense of community.
For more details on the festival, check the Spoleto Festival USA website.
