April 20, 2009

Jahari Dance Troupe to perform spring review at Loeb Playhouse

The performance, choreographed by Kevin Iega Jeff, will begin at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. Tickets are $7 for the general public and $5 for students and can be purchased at the Loeb Box Office in Stewart Center. The Kenyetta Dance Co. of Indianapolis will be special guest performers.

The revue, titled "The Haunting … Reflections from Hurricane Katrina," is a collection of dances reflecting the struggles of hurricane survivors who were affected by the storm. The show, through various styles of dance and music, will share New Orleans history and the experience of the storm, as well as the rejoicing that followed surviving it, organizers said.

"The exciting thing is to see the students take ownership of the process and contribute choreography of their own," said Bill Caise, assistant director of the cultural center. "The audience will have the opportunity to see the works of Patrice Patton and Kendra Rodgers, both Purdue students and members of Jahari with majors in Spanish and computer technology respectively. The quality of these students' pieces speaks to the passion they have for the topic and the leadership of Kevin Iega Jeff that helps them find their voice."

Established at Purdue in 1969, the Black Cultural Center is nationally recognized and acknowledged by the Association of Black Cultural Centers as one of the best centers of its kind. The center helps the community gain a greater understanding of African-American heritage and supports and enhances cultural diversity on the campus and community.

Writer: Clyde Hughes, 765-494-2073, jchughes@purdue.edu

Source: Renee A. Thomas, 765-494-3091, rathomas@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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