TORONTO, January 26, 2009 -- The Evolution of Gospel Music, conceived and directed by powerhouse Karen Burke with Corey Butler, celebrates Black history through live music, drama and dance showcasing five eras of gospel. Prepare to be moved and energized by the power and spirit of gospel music February 6 at York University’s Tribute Communities Recital Hall, with a reprise February 7 at Scarborough’s Global Kingdom Ministries.

 

The Evolution of Gospel brings together members of the dynamic young York U Gospel Choir and the Juno Award-winning Toronto Mass Choir. Burke, a professor of music at York University and the founding director of both choirs, will lead the vocal components of the evening. Music director Butler, who accompanies both choirs, leads the professional rhythm section. Burke has assembled a top-notch team of powerful soloists for her front- line singers, including Marlene O'Neill, Amoy Levy and Peter Moncrieffe, all leading lights of Toronto’s gospel scene.

 

The Evolution of Gospel Music relives the tale of a people thrust into a new land and stripped of everything but their music. This spectacular multimedia production charts a triumphant legacy that spans the early days of Negro spirituals, through the turmoil of the 60s, to the influence of gospel in contemporary urban music. A voyage through the golden age of gospel, the show celebrates the music of Thomas Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland and other iconic artists of the age.

 

Special guest artist Aadin Church (The Lion King, Miss Saigon) leads the journey as a character called ‘The Traveler’ in scripted scenes that he wrote to give historical context to the great music. This context is further enhanced by the choreography of Jasmyn Fyffe, performed by her ASM Dance troupe (As the Spirit Moves) throughout the show. The drama and dance will be complemented by photo and video projections.

 

“I find that many gospel fans are very knowledgeable about what’s going on in the current scene, without a clue about the gospel greats whose shoulders today’s singers are standing on,” said Burke. “With this concert, I want to share this intoxicating history and showcase the great talent in this city and at York. ‘Wow’ is the reaction we expect!”

 

Leading up to The Evolution of Gospel, the performers were invited to sing a couple of songs from the show at the Ontario Black Historical Society’s kick-off brunch January 25, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Black History Month being observed in Toronto.

What:  The Evolution of Gospel Music

When: Fri. Feb 6 at 7:30pm

Where: Tribute Communities Recital Hall, Accolade East Building, York University, 4700 Keele St.  [Map]
Admission: $20 | $10 for students & seniors
Box Office:  416-736-5888 or www.yorku.ca/perform

When: Fri. Feb 7 at 7:30pm

Where: Global Kingdom Ministries, 1250 Markham Rd., Scarborough.
Admission: $20 | $10 for students & seniors
Box Office:  www.tmc.ca

Information:  905-794-1139

 

Media contact:
Amy Stewart, Communications, Faculty of Fine Arts, York U
416-650-8469   |   amy.stewart@yorku.ca