Last Minute Black History Month Arts Events

Black History month is almost over. Along with museum exhibits, school programs and parades, the performing arts offer a way to learn about and experience African American culture in a rich way. Several shows, concerts and film festivals are running before the month’s end. Here is a short list of some the events worth checking out.

• Third Annual Black History Month Film Festival - February 23, 2013-February 24, 2013.This weekend movie showcase plays works by filmmakers that tell stories through an African American lens.
• South Africa’s Soweto Gospel Choir - February 25, 2013. This troupe sung tributes for Desmond Tutu’s 75th birthday and for Nelson Mandela’s 90th. Their blend of traditional and contemporary sounds plus rhythmic dance moves provide an insight into the evolution of African American modern dance and music.
• Jacob Lawrence Storytime The Children’s Museum of Atlanta - now through February 26, 2013. Join your Imaginators for a reading of author Jacob Lawrence in the City which brings to life a bustling city, complete with builders rat-a-tatting and children playing in the streets.
• UniverSoul Circus - now through through March 3, 2013. Get several performances in one in this highly energetic big top show that incorporates jazz, hip hop, R&B, pop and latin music throughout as well as a cast of international performers.
• Fela February 28 - March 3, 2013. Afrobeat artist and political activist Fela Kuti had a big influence on African American artists. That’s why his story should be told and seen. This musical accomplishes both and returns to Atlanta for a brief run and stars Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child.