Black Cultural Center presents concert by The Hallelujah Singers
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. —Purdue's Black Cultural Center will present a concert by The Hallelujah Singers as part of a semester-long study of the culture of Gullah, a group of Black Americans from South Carolina and the Georgia Sea Islands.
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"Gullah is not just a part of the history of blacks, but a part of American history, and The Hallelujah Singers tell the story through music and narration," said BCC director Renee Thomas. "This concert will serve as an introduction to the melodies and storytelling unique to the area where we will be fortunate enough to visit this semester on our research tour."
Organized by Marlena Smalls in 1990, The Hallelujah Singers represent the heritage of the Gullah culture, whose language and traditions have been linked to West African heritage. The group has been designated a "Local Legacy of South Carolina" by the Library of Congress as part of the library's bicentennial celebration, and has also been honored with other awards.
The Hallelujah Singers appeared in the movie "Forrest Gump" and have made several television appearances, including on TNN's "Crook and Chase Show," NBC's "The Today Show" and on ABC's "Good Morning America."
Since 1969, Purdue's Black Cultural Center has helped the university community explore the black experience in America. The BCC is nationally recognized as one of the best centers of its kind. Its new building, dedicated in 1999, houses a library, art gallery and cultural programs that provide educational resources for the entire community. For more information about the center's services and programs, call (765) 494-3092 or go online.
Writer: Maggie Morris, (765) 494-2432, maggiemorris@purdue.edu
Source: Renee Thomas, (765) 494-3092, rathomas@purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu
Note to Journalists: Members of the group will be available for interviews. Contact Courtney Young, (803) 414-0444, to schedule.
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