In an incredibly stirring music experience, the African Children’s Choir in A Journey of Hope highlights the eternal determination and hope of Africa’s children. You won’t want to miss this inspiring performance at the WVU Creative Arts Center on Friday, April 16. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased at the Mountainlair and Creative Arts Center box offices, online at ticketmaster.com and by phone at 304-293-SHOW.

“Inspired by the singing of one small boy, we formed the first African Children’s Choir to show the world that Africa’s most vulnerable children have beauty, dignity and unlimited ability,” says human rights activist and Choir founder Ray Barnett. The Choir’s performances feature contemplative pieces that share powerful stories of survival and determination in an attempt to raise awareness of the plight of the orphaned and abandoned. From the “Lost Boys” of the Sudan to supporting centers for AIDS orphans in South Africa, the Choir’s efforts are helping to support almost 8,000 underprivileged children.

The African Children’s Choir comprises 26 children ages 7 to 11 who have lost one or both parents to disease or poverty. The countries of Rwanda, Ghana, Nigeria, the Sudan, Kenya, Somalia and South Africa are all represented. The children who are chosen as members of the choir receive care and a quality education that builds on the unique international exposure they experience.

The Choir has performed for Kofi Annan at the UN General Assembly Hall, with Bobby McFerrin at the Royal Albert Hall in London, Nelson Mandela’s AIDS awareness concert in South Africa and for former President George W. Bush at the White House. The Choir recently lent their voices to contemporary Christian artist Michael W. Smith’s latest album, A New Hallelujah.

Tickets are still available, and range in price from $22 to $25, depending on seat location. Tickets may be purchased at the Mountainlair and CAC box offices, online at ticketmaster.com or by phone at 304-293-SHOW or 800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including Giant Eagle on Greenbag Rd. and FYE in the Meadowbrook Mall. WVU Students can purchase tickets for $18 at the campus box offices and 304-293-SHOW with a valid Mountaineer card.

The University Art Series is produced by WVU Arts & Entertainment. For more event information, call 304-293-SHOW, or visit us online at events.wvu.edu.

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CONTACT: Ali Daly, Arts and Entertainment
304-293-8222; ali.daly@mail.wvu.edu

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