About

LONG CENTER PRESENTS

THE SOUNDS OF (BLACK) MUSIC

Saturday, November 11 at 7:00 p.m. | Hartman Concert Lawn

The Sound of {Black} Music is a dynamic and groundbreaking production that reimagines one of America’s most beloved musical classics through an Afrofuturistic lens. The electrifying score, featuring elements of jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of black music and its impact on American popular culture. The show stars a spirited band of leading BIPOC performers, including celebrated vocalists Brianna Thomas and Chareene Wade, and musical director Vuyo Sotashe. Co-directed by Shariffa Ali and Kamilah Long, this production reclaims the legacy of black music and its central role in shaping American culture.

Originally created for the Fisher Center @ Bard’s BLACK ROOTS SUMMER in 2021, this groundbreaking production was subsequently listed among the Best New Theater of 2021 by The New York Times. The uplifting spirit of Black Roots music is masterfully curated by Michael Mwenso and Jono Gasparro in association with Electric Root and ripples through every aspect of this show.

Conceived as a central production within a platform to create a creative healing space for a troupe of predominantly BIPOC artists, the community engagement behind this follows the same intention as previous tours like “HARLEM 100” and “WE SHALL OVERCOME.” In addition to their riveting performances, Mwenso & Gasparro will provide their nuanced anti-racism education and workshops, bringing healing and awareness to each community. The cast will also provide masterclasses and other music-related residencies for students and communities of all ages. With beautiful voices, dazzling arrangements, and a powerful message of unity and resilience, The Sound of {Black} Music is a must-see production that celebrates the power and beauty of black music in all its forms.

BUY TICKETS

(Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, August 4 at 10am)

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • EVENT LOCATION: This event is taking place OUTSIDE on the Pavilion, H-E-B Terrace, and Lawn at the Long Center located at 701 W. Riverside Drive in Austin, TX 78704.
  • All patrons, regardless of age, require a ticket to attend the performance.
  • Prohibited items include but are not limited to: Outside food or drinks, weapons of any kind including pocket knives, Professional cameras (cameras with detachable lenses), Video cameras, illegal or illicit items of any kind, tents, vending of any kind and soliciting of any kind.
  • Animals and pets are not permitted except for properly identified service animals.

Questions? Email our 3M Box Office or hit us up on social media at any time. You can also call the 3M Box Office at (512) 474-LONG (5664) or TTY (800) 735-2989 and get your questions answered right away.

Event Details

Ticket Information

  • Cost: $45.00

Presenter Details

  • Name: Long Center
  • For Austinites of every background, the Long Center is the community gathering place that offers the most diverse programming and stunning views of the city, so that together, everyone can experience remarkable live arts and entertainment.

Venue Details

  • Address: 701 W Riverside Drive
  • City: Austin
  • State: TX
  • Zip: 78704