• the217
• Calendar
• Down by the Riversid...

Venue: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

Address: 500 S. Goodwin Ave. , Urbana

Cost: Flex: 33 / SC 28 / Stu 23 / UI & Yth 18 Single: 35 / SC 30 / Stu 25 / UI & Yth 20

Entry Age: all

posted 1:42 pm Jul 15
modified 1:42 pm Jul 15

Last year The New York Times characterized the Preservation Hall Jazz Band as “playing old New Orleans repertory from the first half of the 20th century,” quickly adding that “it had drive, and funk, and, believe it or not, youth.” In a similar vein Parade magazine observed, “The Blind Boys of Alabama have never been hipper.” So if you think you know these two venerable groups, prepare yourself for an update!

The Blind Boys of Alabama predate Elvis, Little Richard, and Al Green, yet even though they’re in their 70s they still book dozens of gigs a year and have won an impressive four consecutive Grammys. Members of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, The Blind Boys bring out the spiritual aspects of mainstream music, all the while carrying music from the church house down to the roadhouse.

On tour, whether performing for audiences at Carnegie Hall or for the British Royal Family, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band embodies the joy-filled spirit of a true American art form—one that was the soundtrack of the Jazz Age. And wherever the band starts up, the music draws us back to the Quarter and that storefront at 726 St. Peter Street for communion with the timeless spirit of New Orleans.

Sharing the stage for the first time ever, two of America’s great cultural ambassadors marry the joy of gospel with the soul of New Orleans in what promises to be an unforgettable evening.