Theatre at Dock Street

CHARLESTON, SC • MOJAFESTIVAL.COM

MOJASEPT. 26 - OCT. 6, 2019A Celebration of African-American and Caribbean ArtsARTS FESTIVAL

“Africa: Year of Return” Copyright 2019 Synthia SAINT JAMES

CHOIR BOYOCTOBER 2-5

Produced by PURE TheatreDirected by Sharon Graci

MISS DESSASEPTEMBER 26-29

Produced by Art Forms and Theatre Concepts, Inc.Directed by Arthur Gilliard

QUIANA PARLER& FRIENDSFRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 • 9PMVenue: Memminger AuditoriumAddress: 56 Beaufain StreetAdmission: $25 general admission

MEMMINGER AUDITORIUMVenue: Memminger Auditorium]Address: 56 Beaufain StreetAdmission: $25 general admission

$25Address: 56 Beaufain StreetAdmission: $25 general admission

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City of CharlestonSouth Carolina

Dear MOJA Festival Guests:

Welcome to the 2011 MOJA Arts Festival, Charleston’s annual celebration of African-American and Caribbean Arts and Culture, produced by the City of Charleston Office ofCultural Affairs.

This year’s festival highlights include: An Evening of Jazz Under the Stars with Najee atPorter-Gaud School Stadium (pg. 10); City Gallery at Waterfront Park exhibition “SpecialMoments: Works From the Collection of Dr. Harold Rhodes, III” (pg. 27); A ClassicalEncounter with Eleganza at the City Gallery at Waterfront Park followed by a champagnereception (pg. 11); Mt. Zion Spiritual Singers’ soul stirring Camp Meeting (pg. 11); anenchanting evening of dance by PHILADANCO at the Gaillard Auditorium (pg. 7); GwenButler’s jazz cruise on the Charleston Harbor aboard the Spirit of Charleston (pg. 18); andAfrican writer Jacqueline Maduneme’s lecture about her compelling autobiography, Ada’sDaughter (pg. 8). New this year, is a unique partnership between the Preservation Society ofCharleston and the MOJA Festival that offers three concerts in historic downtown churchescalled “Architecture in Concert” (pg. 10). These are just a few of the outstanding programsin this year’s MOJA Festival.

Each year the MOJA Festival is produced by the City’s Office of Cultural Affairs in collabora-tion with the MOJA Planning Committee, chaired this year by Edna Edwards Williams withElease Amos-Goodwin serving as the Planning Committee Liaison to the OCA. MOJA’sAdvisory Committee assists with advocacy for the festival and is chaired by the HonorableJames E. Clyburn. Special thanks go to Charleston City Council for their on-going support ofthe MOJA Festival and also to the individual donors, foundations, government agencies andcorporations who provide funding, grants and in-kind donations to help us make MOJAaccessible to everyone in the community.

And finally, Bravo to the members of our hard-working Office of Cultural Affairs team alongwith all of the City departments that help make it happen: Parks, Recreation, Legal, Finance,Budget, Police, Traffic & Transportation, Information Technology, Human Resources, PublicServices, Public Information, Special Facilities and the Mayor’s Office.

We invite you to bring your family and friends to attend this year’s MOJA Festival which con-nects everyone in a joyous atmosphere celebrating the arts. Enjoy!

Sincerely,

Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Ellen Dressler Moryl, DirectorCity of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs

2011MOJA Program Book_2004 MOJA Program Book 9/12/11 9:54 PM Page 2

Welcome to the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival, Charleston’s annual celebration of African-American and Caribbean arts and culture! Proudly produced by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs with the year-round assistance of the all-vol-unteer MOJA Arts Festival Planning Committee, MOJA remains true to its founding mission to build bridges of understanding and respect for the beauty of artistic and cultural expression among people from all parts of our community.

Each year, MOJA brings together an impressive calendar of festive performances, exhibitions, and events that enrich and enliven our community, offering locals and visitors alike the opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and artistic vitality of the South Carolina Lowcountry. This year, we are particularly pleased that the Festival coincides with the 104th Annual Meeting and Conference of Association for the Study of African American Life and History. ASALH’s mission is to promote, research, preserve, interpret, and disseminate information about Black life, history and culture to the global community. Naturally, we feel the important work of ASALH’s members sits perfectly alongside the amazing music and concert programs, professional theatre productions, and stunning visual arts exhibitions that have been presented by the MOJA Arts Festival throughout its history.

The success of MOJA is a direct result of tireless work behind the scenes by a dedicated network of community partners and passionate volunteers. We extend our thanks and appreciation to the members of the MOJA Arts Festival Planning Committee, chaired by Terri Prince-Gaillard. We also recognize the resolute sup-port of Charleston City Council, and the contributions of individuals, foundations, government agencies and corporations who together help keep MOJA accessible to all, while encouraging our artists to pursue and realize their creative ambitions. And of course, we salute the audience members and community participants who make this such a special event every autumn.

A round of applause, as well, to the Office of Cultural Affairs staff and to the vari-ous City departments that make MOJA possible: Parks, Recreation, Legal, Finance, Budget, Police, Traffic & Transportation, Information Technology, Human Resources, Public Services, Public Information, Special Facilities, and the Mayor’s Office.

We look forward to joining you, your family and friends at this year’s MOJA Arts Fes-tival, as we once again come together to celebrate the arts here in Charleston. Enjoy!

MAYOR JOHN J. TECKLENBURG City of Charleston

DEAR MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL GUESTS:

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DESIGNING TOMORROW, TODAY.

The future belongs to those who dream big. And dreams can come from anywhere. Boeing is proud to sponsor the MOJA Arts Festival and its celebration of diversity and creativity.

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TERRI PRINCE-GAILLARD, CHAIR MOJA Arts Festival Planning Committee

DEAR MOJA SUPPORTERS:

MOJA ARTS FESTIVALA CELEBRATION OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN

AND CARIBBEAN ARTS

Welcome to the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival! We are so glad you are here with us in Charleston, South Carolina celebrating African-American and Caribbean heritage, arts, and culture. The Lowcountry has a special place in the history and heritage of African-American and Caribbean people, and this year’s festival highlights incredible artists and artistry while also addressing topics that are relevant to the community and the world at large.

MOJA is founded on tradition and we are proud to be a part of the fabric of culture here in Charleston each autumn. From our Opening Parade through the heart of downtown to the rhythm and groove of one last turn on the dancefloor as the sun sets in beautiful Hampton Park at the MOJA Finale, we want you to join us and celebrate the arts and culture that make this city great!

We want to extend heartfelt thanks to every supporter, ticket buyer, volunteer, and sponsor for making this festival a stunning success year after year. The MOJA Arts Festival is planned in partnership with an all-volunteer committee that works year round and we thank all of the committee members and coordinators. We also want to thank the small but dedicated staff at the Office of Cultural Affairs: Harrison Chapman, Mindy Manziano, Basil Punsalan, Anne Quattlebaum, Katrina Staaf, Ray Swagerty, Hannah Wathen, and Rachel Workman, and the City’s Director of Cultural Affairs, Scott Watson.

We also extend our gratitude to Graphic Designer, Marcus Amaker, Charleston’s first poet laureate who is also the driving force behind the Free Verse Poetry Festival.

We also salute all of the artists and participants who will make this year’s MOJA a triumph! We thank the members of City Council and the Honorable Mayor John J. Tecklenburg for their continued support and commitment to the mission of MOJA. It is because of this incredible local dedication and support that MOJA continues to make an impact in our community, while highlighting the very best of Afri-can-American and Caribbean arts and culture in Charleston every year.

We hope you enjoy the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival, and we look forward to greeting you at events this year and in the years to come.

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2019 FRIENDS OF THE MOJA ARTS FESTIVALElease Amos-GoodwinMs. S. Joharri AndikaMs. Catherine Braxton In Memory of Willis and Rebecca JohnsonThe Honorable & Mrs. Floyd BreelandMr. & Mrs. Carl CampbellOsei T. ChandlerMr. & Mrs. Eduardo CurryJohn Thompson DashArundell A. DonovanAundria Gontt Douglas In Memory of Gloria Gontt WilfordWarachal E. FaisonBernard and Conchita FieldingMark J. and Thuane B. FieldingJoseph R. & Marcia Frasier In Memory of Gloria BellRoberta M. FrasierIsaac Gaillard, Jr.Terri Prince-GaillardReginald & Kesha GrahamReverends Wayne & Yvonne GreggMr. & Mrs. Ronald HilliardMary Joseph Insurance Agency, Inc. Rev. and Mrs. Jerry (Dorothy) HarrisonJ. D. HaynesRomaine & Arthur HeywardFranklin & Theresa HilliardVirginia Freeman HowardCouncilman Curtis B. Inabinett, Jr.Wilbur and Felicia Johnson In Memory of Dr. Myrtle GlascoeMelvin L. & Vertelle A. KenionLatta Family Dentistry In Honor of Rene GarrettMs. Nadine T. Leach In Honor of Gloria J. MyersMichael A. Master

Charles E. McKenzieAdrienne Smalls Middleton In Memory of Everett Levon Smalls*Rev. Randolph MillerEllen Dressler Moryl In Honor of Richard MorylEllen Dressler Moryl In Honor of Marie WiltshireYvonne T. OrrCarolyn Wright-PorcherBev Prince-MuhammadJohn Purvis & Saundra Purvis Angel R. QuinteroEdmund S. RobinsonHerb & Adam RosnerMr. & Mrs. Charles SeabrookMr. & Mrs. Alonzo W. SmithMr. & Mrs. Craig H. SmithPatterson Smith In Memory of Molly GreeneCynthia McCottry Smith In Memory of Dr. Turner McCottryDelvin and Tomeka SparrowErica S. TaylorAlishia Ward Sam Washington In Memory of Mrs. Diann M. WashingtonKaren WedamMagdalene L. WellsJ.S. and Carrie WhipperLucille WhipperKelvin B. WilliamsEdna Edwards WilliamsBarbara S. WilsonBrenda Lauderback & Dr. Boyd WrightZeb’s Quality Cleaning, Inc. In Memory of Zebedee Elberhart

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CITY OF CHARLESTONSOUTH CAROLINAJohn J. Tecklenburg, Mayor

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERSF. Gary White, Jr.District 1Kevin ShealyDistrict 2James Lewis, Jr.District 3Robert M. MitchellDistrict 4Marvin D. WagnerDistrict 5William Dudley GregorieDistrict 6Perry Keith WaringDistrict 7Michael S. SeekingsDistrict 8A. Peter Shahid, Jr.District 9Harry GriffinDistrict 10William A. Moody, Jr.District 11Carol JacksonDistrict 12

OFFICE OF CULTURAL AFFAIRSScott Watson DirectorHarrison ChapmanFarmers Market ManagerMindy ManzianoTicket Office Manager & Events ProducerBasil PunsalanOutreach & Event CoordinatorAnne QuattlebaumCity Gallery CoordinatorKatrina StaafCultural Projects CoordinatorRay SwagertyProduction ManagerHannah WathenTicketing & Promotions CoordinatorRachel D. WorkmanFinance Manager

ADJUNCT STAFFMarcus AmakerGraphic DesignerRebecca GosnellLogistics Coordinator

MOJA PLANNING COMMITTEETerri Prince-GaillardChairJoseph Frasier, Jr. Vice-ChairEdna Edwards Williams Secretary

Elease Amos-GoodwinS. Johari AndikaCheryl BrownCarl CampbellKarole Turner CampbellCheo ChandlerCarlie P. DensonDr. Warachal FaisonM. Jeffrey FieldingThuane B. FieldingJoseph R. Frasier Jr.Brittany GaillardIsaac GaillardFrances Rene GarrettReginald C. GrahamJonathan GreenFranklin HilliardTheresa HilliardGreg JenkinsTona N. JonesVertelle Amos KenionArianne King-ComerJazzy V. Clay KingVeronica McDanielRev. Randolph MillerEllen MorylEarline NelsonYvonne T. OrrToni ParnellClifton R. Polite, Jr.Carolyn Wright PorcherBev Prince-MuhammadJohn S. PurvisSaundra W. PurvisAngel R. QuinteroEdmund S. RobinsonRobert SandersAnnabell SeabrookCherry SeabrookAgatha ShannonCynthia McCottry SmithErica P. TaylorAlishia WardKelvin B. Williams

MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL is produced by The City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs in cooperation with the MOJA Planning Committee.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Bluecross Blueshield of SCThe Boeing CompanyC&A Unlimited, Inc. – McDonaldsCharleston CountyCity of CharlestonDominion Energy The Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation

South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the ArtsSouth Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & TourismSouth State Bank

The MOJA Arts Festival, A Celebration of African-American and Caribbean Arts, is a project of the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs. This multi-disciplinary festival celebrates the rich heritage of African-American and Caribbean people and their contributions to the Western and world cultures. Moja, a Swahili word meaning “One,” is the appropriate name for this annual celebration of harmony amongst peo-ple. The MOJA Arts Festival is produced and directed by the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs in cooperation with the all-volunteer MOJA Arts Festival Planning Committee. The MOJA Arts Festival is funded in part by grants from the City of Charleston, County of Charleston and the South Carolina Arts Commission, which receives support from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. In addition, we are grateful to the following agencies and corporations for their major grants and sponsorships in support of the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival.

BE A FRIEND OF MOJADid you know that nearly half of MOJA’s events are admission-free and Festival ticket prices are scaled to make MOJA accessible to everyone? Your financial contribution to the MOJA Arts Festival will allow us to continue this model in 2020 and beyond. Suggested giving levels for the Friends of MOJA are $50 for individuals, $100 for companies, but a gift of any amount will be put to good use and greatly appreciated. Visit mojafestival.com or call (843) 724-7305 for more information. Thank you for your support!

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HOW TO BUY TICKETSPlease read the admission information listed for each festival event carefully as some events only offer ticket sales at the door, some are sold through other organizations, and the rest can be purchased through the Official MOJA Arts Festival Box Office (Note: Ticket prices include a $1 handling fee. Additional convenience fees may apply).

Phone In (Up to 2 hours before performance): (866) 811-4111 to speak with a live ticket salesperson, available Mon.-Fri. from 9am-9pm; Sat. & Sun. 10am-6pm. Payments accepted: Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, and Discov-er®; additional convenience fees apply.

Order Online (Up to 2 hours before performance): 24 hours a day/7 days a week at www.mojafestival.com. Payments accepted: Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, and Discover®; additional convenience fees apply.

In Person: At the Office of Cultural Affairs, 75 Calhoun Street, Suite 3800. Monday-Friday; 9:00am-5:00pm. Payments accepted: Cash, Check, Visa®, Mas-terCard®, American Express®, and Discover®.

At the Event (Beginning 1 hour before the performance): At the festival venues, if tickets remain. Payments accepted: Cash, Check, Visa®, MasterCard®, and Discover®.

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION

This is an abbreviated list of available parking garages that are convenient to festival venues. Visit mojafestival.com for a map of parking garages.

PARKING

*Aquarium Garage, 24 Calhoun St. Charleston Place Hotel Garage, 85 Hasell St. *Charleston Visitor’s Center Garage, 63 Mary St. *Cumberland & Concord Garage – 4 Cumberland St. *East Bay Garage, 25 Prioleau St. *Francis Marion Hotel, 387 King St. Gaillard Garage, 32 Alexander St. Majestic Garage, 211 King St. St. Philip St. Garage, 75 St. Philip St. *Queen Street Garage, 93 Queen St. *Wentworth Garage, 81 Wentworth St.

* These parking garages have public restrooms available.

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MOJAARTS FESTIVAL

A CELEBRATION OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN ARTS

S E P T E M B E R 2 6 - O C T O B E R 6 , 2 0 1 9

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – OPENING DAY PARADETime: 6:00pmVenue: Parade begins at Marion Square, King and CalhounAdmission: FREECoordinator: Kelvin WilliamsJoin youth ensembles, community groups, and entertainers as we welcome the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival. Come and see the joyful celebration with energetic per-formances, colorful costumes, and marching bands! The parade begins at Marion Square and heads down King Street, turning onto Market Street, and ending at the US Custom House at East Bay and Market Streets.

HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL OPENING RECEPTIONTime: 5:30pmVenue: City GalleryAddress: 34 Prioleau StreetAdmission: FREEJoin us at City Gallery and meet the artists and leadership of the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival. Light hospitality and refreshments will be on offer.

THEATRE – WHEN I FIRST REMEMBERProduced by Lady in White Production CompanyTime: 7:00pmVenue: Old Bethel United Methodist ChurchAddress: 222 Calhoun Street

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Admission: $21Queen Atterberry of Lady in White Production Company and an ensemble of talent-ed performers blend music, dance, and dialogue to tell the story of the inception of Gullah-Geechee culture. When I First Remember takes the audience on a journey with the characters, who are African slaves, traveling to the Lowcountry on a slave ship. Come and be transported with these performers and witness how they sur-vived, adjusted, and adapted to their new world, creating a new culture and identity that is recognized today as the Gullah-Geechee culture.

THEATRE – MISS DESSAProduced by Art Forms & Theatre ConceptsTime: 8:00pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $35 Adult, Senior/Student $30“Miss Dessa” is delightful comedy telling of the Warnette family, and the challeng-es associated with shared inherited property. In “Miss Dessa”, one of the relatives schemes to outwit the relative wielding the power. This powerful and excited come-dy has lots of twists and turns that will have you chuckling out loud.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27VISUAL ARTS – ARTIST TALK WITH SYNTHIA SAINT JAMESTime: 1:00pmVenue: City GalleryAddress: 34 Prioleau StreetAdmission: FREEJoin 2019 MOJA Poster Artist Synthia SAINT JAMES as she discusses her work in the exhibition, “HBCUs: Creating Power through Education.”

HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – REGGAE BLOCK DANCETime: 6:00pmVenue: Brittlebank ParkAddress: Lockwood Boulevard & Fishburne StreetAdmission: FREECoordinator: Cheo ChandlerJoin us for one of MOJA’s favorite traditions. Dance the night away with your friends and neighbors with great music featuring Mighty Joshua, with the Zion 5, and Keith Porter, the founding member of the Itals. Bring your folding chairs and blankets to set up a picnic or enjoy fare from a variety of ethnic and international food vendors. Please note: coolers are not permitted.

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THEATRE – THE GULLAH LADYProduced by Lady in White Production CompanyTime: 7:00pmVenue: Old Bethel Methodist ChurchAddress: 222 Calhoun StreetAdmission: $21Extending the Old Bethel Series, The Gullah Lady will be performed in this historic church by Sharon Cooper Murray as she shares stories and songs in the Gul-lah-Geechee language.

THEATRE – REAL WOMAN BLUESTime: 7:00pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon Street Arts CenterAdmission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior/StudentBased on a book of poetry, this choreo-drama production of Real Woman Blues ex-plores issues that have plagued women through the centuries. Matters such as love, family, broken relationships, men, friendships, domestic violence, self-esteem and self-worth. This play takes you on a sisterhood journey of being a woman and all the ups and downs that come with life. Written and directed by Samelia Adams.

THEATRE – MISS DESSAProduced by Art Forms & Theatre ConceptsTime: 8:00pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $35 Adult, Senior/Student $30“Miss Dessa” is delightful comedy telling of the Warnette family, and the challeng-es associated with shared inherited property. In “Miss Dessa”, one of the relatives schemes to outwit the relative wielding the power. This powerful and excited come-dy has lots of twists and turns that will have you chuckling out loud.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28RECREATION – ONE DAY JUNIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENTTime: 10:00am-2:30pmVenue: Charleston Tennis CenterAddress: 19 Farmfield Avenue, West AshleyAdmission: FREECoordinators: Carl Campbell and Peggy BohneThis one-day tournament showcases youth from the Inner City Youth “Courting Kids” Tennis Program and other area programs. Trophies and refreshments will be available for participants. For more information, call Peggy Bohne at the Charleston Tennis Center at (843) 766-7401.

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HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – HERITAGE DAYTime: 10:30am – 3:00pmLocation: Olde Towne Creek ParkAddress: 1400 Old Towne Road, West AshleyAdmission: FREEDiscover a great new park space, Olde Towne Creek Park in West Ashley, as MOJA presents a full day of activities celebrating African-American and Caribbean culture and heritage in the Lowcountry. Community cultural ambassadors will be on hand with a range of offerings and the mainstage will feature a talented lineup of local performers. Activities for children, youth performances, story-telling and workshops are all on offer at what promises to be a delightful day.

THEATRE – MISS DESSAProduced by Art Forms and Theatre ConceptsTime: 4:00pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $35 Adult, Senior/Student $30“Miss Dessa” is delightful comedy telling of the Warnette family, and the challeng-es associated with shared inherited property. In “Miss Dessa”, one of the relatives schemes to outwit the relative wielding the power. This powerful and excited come-dy has lots of twists and turns that will have you chuckling out loud.

THEATRE – REAL WOMAN BLUESTime: 7:00pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon Street Arts CenterAdmission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior/StudentBased on a book of poetry, this choreo-drama production of Real Woman Blues ex-plores issues that have plagued women through the centuries. Matters such as love, family, broken relationships, men, friendships, domestic violence, self-esteem and self-worth. This play takes you on a sisterhood journey of being a woman and all the ups and downs that come with life. Written and directed by Samelia Adams.

MUSIC – WOMEN AND WONDER: A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE WONDERTime: 8:00pm, doors at 7:00pmVenue: Charleston Music HallAddress: 37 John StreetAdmission: $19, purchase tickets at CharlestonMusicHall.comThe Music Hall’s most successful local concert series to date, the “Women & Series” is a fun way to celebrate some of the artists we all love while also celebrating and encourages our local musicians. This program pays tribute to the musical genius of Stevie Wonder. The Singers: Zandrina Dunning, Christian Smalls, Exavia Baxter, Alva Anderson, Hazel Ketchum, Lindsay Holler. The Band: Ron Wiltrout, Drums;

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Corey Stephens, Bass; Stephen Washington, Keys; Greg Loney, Guitar; Chris Williams, Saxophone.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29MUSIC – GOSPEL SERIESTime: 4:00pmVenue: Trinity United Methodist ChurchAddress: 273 Meeting StreetAdmission: $11Coordinator: Reverend Randolph MillerThe program will feature music made famous by artists such as Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland, Shirley Caesar and Andre Crouch.  The sanctuary of Trinity United Methodist Church will never be the same as Ashley Hale, Mario Dessausure, Elder Javetta Campbell and Reverend Randolph Miller wow the audience with their musical talents.  Come be a part of this wonderful hand clapping, foot stomping experience.

MUSIC – REAL WOMAN BLUES Time: 4:00pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon Street Arts CenterAdmission: $30 Adult, $25 Senior/StudentBased on a book of poetry, this chorea-drama production of Real Woman Blues ex-plores issues that have plagued women through the centuries. Matters such as love, family, broken relationships, men, friendships, domestic violence, self-esteem and self-worth. This play takes you on a sisterhood journey of being a woman and all the ups and downs that come with life. Written and directed by Samelia Adams.

THEATRE – MISS DESSAProduced by Art Forms and Theatre ConceptsTime: 6:00 pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $35 Adult, Senior/Student $30“Miss Dessa” is delightful comedy telling of the Warnette family, and the challeng-es associated with shared inherited property. In “Miss Dessa”, one of the relatives schemes to outwit the relative wielding the power. This powerful and excited come-dy has lots of twists and turns that will have you chuckling out loud.

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30LITERARY – WRITERS WORKSHOPCoordinator: Bev Prince-MuhammadA five-day writers’ workshop for pre-selected middle school students running Mon-day, September 30 to Friday, October 4, facilitated by Karole Turner Campbell. KTC is an artist who uses her artistic passion to share her interpretations of life. Visual artist, performing artist, play-wright/director and poet, she uses every art form to create stories (both verbal and nonverbal) that display and examine aspects of humanity.

LITERARY – STORYTELLING AND POETRYTime: 6:00 pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: FREECoordinator: Warachal E. Faison, MD and Tribal RainePresenting Regina Duggins. Visit www.mojafestival.com for details; hosted by Charleston Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

MUSIC – COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON GOSPEL CHOIRTime: 7:00pmVenue: Mt. Zion AME ChurchAddress: 5 Glebe StreetAdmission: AT DOOR ONLY $15 General Admission | FREE for CofC Students with Valid IDThis year the College of Charleston Gospel Choir will be featuring a vast repertoire of contemporary gospel music from the 1990’s. From artists like Kirk Franklin, Donald Lawrence, Ricky Dillard, to choirs like the Mississippi Mass Choir, West Angeles C.O.G.I.C Mass Choir and many more; you will experience an eclectic variation of contemporary gospel music.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – COLUMBIA MARIONETTE THEATRE PRESENTS “THE WORLD OF ANANSI THE SPIDER“Time: 9:30 amVenue: Charleston County Public LibraryAddress: 68 Calhoun StreetAdmission: FREEFeatures several folk tales narrated by the storyteller, Anansi, a classic character featured in African Tales which descended to other cultures such as Jamaican and Gullah.

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LITERARY – “TONI MORRISON: THE PIECES I AM” FILM SCREENINGTime: 7:00 pmVenue: Charleston Music HallAddress: 37 John StreetAdmission: $8, purchase tickets at CharlestonMusicHall.comAfter a stint as an editor early in her career, American writer Toni Morrison under-stood the publishing industry better than the ordinary writer—but she refused to be defined by the establishment. Morrison was one of the few who wrote for an African American audience, and she understood the way language could operate as an oppressive or uplifting force—she refused to let her words be marginalized. Mor-rison is effortlessly graceful, insightful, and candid, making this intimate, compre-hensive portrait of her life and works an exploration of what it means to be a writer whose stories are so deeply intertwined with often-unrealized national truths.

THEATRE – LAST RITESProduced by PURE TheatreTime: 7:30 pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: $33It’s the second day of the Detroit riots, in the summer of 1967. In the epicenter of the riot, three people take refuge from the chaos in a gas station. As the violence mounts outside, tensions rise inside as the three consider the harsh nature of loss and the inevitable combustibility of their differences. “Last Rites” considers both the sparks that ignited the violence and the embers that still burn amid the ashes today.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – RHYTHMS AND INSTRUMENTS FROM THE AFRICAN DIASPORA- AN EDU-CONCERTTime: 9:30 amVenue: Charleston County LibraryAddress: 68 Calhoun StreetAdmission: FREEWorld traveler, musician, and cultural educator Daniel Scruggs, creator of Rhythm Moves, leads participants on an interactive journey with instruments and rhythms of the African diaspora from ancient times in Africa to Hip-Hop music of today.  This immersive learning experience will highlight traditional and contemporary rhythms and instrumentation from Africa, South America, North America and the Caribbean.  The show is rich with audience participation and attendees will come away with new perspectives on geography, history, culture, nature, language, and the value of peace. 

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HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – HISTORIC SITE DEDICATIONTime: 10:00amVenue: DeReef Praise HouseAddress: Morris Street, at DeReef CourtAdmission: FREEJoin the MOJA Arts Festival Planning Committee representatives, elected officials, and neighborhood leaders as this year’s MOJA Historic Site is officially designated. For a complete list of MOJA Historic Sites, please visit www.mojafestival.com.

HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – SWAHILI WORKSHOPTime: 4:00pmVenue: West Ashley LibraryAddress: 45 Windermere Blvd, West AshleyAdmission: FREEThe workshop is designed for children and adults alike, and will allow participants to feel comfortable while learning why Swahili is so important to the Lowcountry, discovering Swahili words they use daily while speaking English, speaking to each other in Swahili, and creating art for Swahili phrases. Swahili is presented as writers of Swahili grammar present it-one of the twelve great languages of the world.

LITERARY – STORYTELLING AND POETRYTime: 6:00 pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: FREECoordinator: Warachal E. Faison, MD and Tribal RainePresenting Damon Fordham. Visit www.mojafestival.com for details; hosted by Charleston Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

MUSIC – SOUL IN THE GARDEN WITH ZANDRINA DUNNING AND CHRISTIAN SMALLSTime: 6:00pmVenue: The Gibbes MuseumAddress: 134 Meeting StreetAdmission: $20 Members, $25 Non Members, tickets at GibbesMuseum.orgSome of Charleston’s favorite vocalists – Black Diamond (The Black Diamond Band) and Zandrina (The Zandrina Dunning Experience) – are excited to bring you “Soul in the Garden.” The two will join together to bring you an evening of Soul music with a twist under the stars along with a few of their friends. Bring a picnic and a lawn chair and arrive early for this plein-air performance under the setting sun.

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THEATRE – CHOIR BOYProduced by PURE TheatreTime: 7:30pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $31, Pay What You Will at the DoorThe Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, eth-ical black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school’s legendary gospel choir. Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key? Nominated for 4 Tony Awards including Best Play.

MUSIC – JAZZ CRUISE WITH DANTE LEWISTime: 8:00pm, Boarding 7:30pmVenue: Spiritline Harbor CruiseAddress: Harbor Walk Dock at Aquarium WharfAdmission: $25Dante Lewis is a professional saxophonist based in Columbia, South Carolina. He performs a mix of smooth jazz, classic jazz, R&B, Top 40 and old school music, and most recently released an Anita Baker tribute album entitled, A Sweet Love: Tribute to Anita Baker. Dante channels his genuine personality through his music, which creates a contagious positive energy and a fun, energetic flavor for every audience who hears him play.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – THE GULLAH LADY PRESENTS STORIES AND SONGSTime: 9:30 amVenue: Charleston County LibraryAddress: 68 Calhoun StreetAdmission: FREEThis interactive program features Sharon Cooper Murray sharing traditional Gullah stories, songs, and instruments. This fun-filled program incorporates handmade art in the stage design and is designed for all ages to enjoy.

LITERARY – STORYTELLING AND POETRYTime: 6:00 pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: FREECoordinator: Warachal E. Faison, MD and Tribal RainePresenting Carlos Johnson. Visit www.mojafestival.com for details; hosted by Charleston Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

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THEATRE – WHEN I FIRST REMEMBERProduced by Lady in White Production CompanyTime: 7:00pmVenue: Old Bethel United Methodist ChurchAddress: 222 Calhoun StreetAdmission: $21Queen Atterberry of Lady in White Production Company and an ensemble of talent-ed performers blend music, dance, and dialogue to tell the story of the inception of Gullah-Geechee culture. When I First Remember takes the audience on a journey with the characters, who are African slaves, traveling to the Lowcountry on a slave ship. Come and be transported with these performers and witness how they sur-vived, adjusted, and adapted to their new world, creating a new culture and identity that is recognized today as the Gullah-Geechee culture.

THEATRE – CHOIR BOYProduced by PURE TheatreTime: 7:30pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $31The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, eth-ical black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school’s legendary gospel choir. Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key? Nominated for 4 Tony Awards including Best Play.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4LITERARY – 4TH GRADE READOUTVenue: Participating CCSD SchoolsA MOJA tradition, this outreach program invites local fourth graders to participate in a special in-school reading program, with each participating student receiving a copy of the featured title. This year’s selected book is “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” by Vashti Harrison.

THEATRE – THE GULLAH LADYProduced by Lady in White Production CompanyTime: 7:00pmVenue: Old Bethel Methodist ChurchAddress: 222 Calhoun StreetAdmission: $21Extending the Old Bethel Series, The Gullah Lady will be performed in this historic church by Sharon Cooper Murray as she shares stories and songs in the Gul-lah-Geechee language.

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THEATRE – SOUTHERN BOYSProduced by Charleston Black TheatreTime: 7:00pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: $37 Adult, $22 Children (12-18)This is a musical of historical significance about a group of first generation born free African-Americans who yearn for a life beyond the fields. Their families have decided to stay in the Mississippi Delta, but these “Southern Boys” make a pact to migrate North. This play explores the complexities of this era in time through narratives, blues and movement.

THEATRE – CHOIR BOYProduced by PURE TheatreTime: 7:30pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $31The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, ethi-cal black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school’s legendary gospel choir. Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key? Nominated for 4 Tony Awards.

MUSIC – QUIANA PARLER & FRIENDSTime: 9:00pmVenue: Memminger AuditoriumAddress: 56 Beaufain StreetAdmission: $25 general admissionMOJA’s “Friday Night Out” entertainer, Quiana Parler, is no stranger to the festival, but increasingly finds herself on the road across the country and around the world. Long a local favorite, Parler rose to national prominence after her success on the 2003 season of “American Idol,” and from there toured and recorded alongside suc-cessful artists as diverse as Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, Clay Aiken, Miranda Lambert, and David Foster. Currently, as lead vocalist for internationally, critically-acclaimed roots music group, Ranky Tanky, Parler is using her artistry to bring the musical heri-tage of the Lowcountry to some of the world’s most prestigious stages.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5LITERARY – MOJA LITERARY CORNER: BLACK INK BOOK FESTIVAL WITH NIKKI GIOVANNIPresented by Charleston Friends of the LibraryTime: 11:00amVenue: Memminger AuditoriumAddress: 56 Beaufain Street

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Admission: FREEBlack Ink: The Charleston African-American Book Festival is the first and only an-nual celebration of African-American literature in the Charleston area. Now in its fourth year, Black Ink serves as a platform to support local Black writers, creating a space for them to share their work, discuss their craft, and expose readers of all ages to the great variety of African-American authors in the area. Dozens of local and regional authors will be exhibiting and selling their books. Nikki Giovanni, the world-renowned poet, writer, commentator, activist, and educator, will be the afternoon keynote speaker (advance registration required at CharlestonLibrary-Friends.org).

HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – COMMUNITY TRIBUTE LUNCHEONTime: 11:30amVenue: Founders HallAddress: Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Town Road, West AshleyAdmission: $40 (ADVANCE RESERVATION ONLY – Phone (843) 724-7305)Coodinator: Elease Amos-GoodwinThe MOJA Arts Festival is pleased to bestow awards on outstanding community leaders in recognition of their contributions to the region at this annual luncheon. For a full list of 2019 MOJA Community Tribute Luncheon honorees, visit www.mojafestival.com.

THEATRE – CHOIR BOYProduced by PURE TheatreTime: 3:00pmVenue: Dock Street TheatreAddress: 135 Church StreetAdmission: $31The Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys is dedicated to the creation of strong, ethical black men. Pharus wants nothing more than to take his rightful place as leader of the school’s legendary gospel choir. Can he find his way inside the hallowed halls of this institution if he sings in his own key? Nominated for 4 Tony Awards including Best Play.

HEALTH AND RECREATION: CHARLESTON BOXING CLUB AND ANNUAL MOJA CUPTime: 7:00pm; doors at 6:00pmVenue: Arthur Christopher Community CenterAddress: 265 Fishburne StreetAdmission: AT DOOR ONLY; $15 Adults, $5 Students under 18, Free for children under 8Coordinators: Osei Terry Chandler and Al “Hollywood” MeggettA MOJA tradition, the Charleston Boxing Club Annual MOJA Cup highlights some of the region’s top all-star amateur boxers battling it out in their respective weight

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divisions. Participants weigh in between 2pm and 4pm. Tickets for the event are only available at the door. Bouts begin at 7pm.

THEATRE- SOUTHERN BOYSProduced by Charleston Black TheatreTime: 7:30pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: $37 Adult, $22 Children (12-18)This is a musical of historical significance about a group of first generation born free African-Americans who yearn for a life beyond the fields. Their families have decided to stay in the Mississippi Delta, but these “Southern Boys” make a pact to migrate North. This play explores the complexities of this era in time through narratives, blues and movement.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6THEATRE- SOUTHERN BOYSProduced by Charleston Black TheatreTime: 3:00pmVenue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetAdmission: $37 Adult, $22 Children (12-18)This is a musical of historical significance about a group of first generation born free African-Americans who yearn for a life beyond the fields. Their families have decided to stay in the Mississippi Delta, but these “Southern Boys” make a pact to migrate North. This play explores the complexities of this era in time through narratives, blues and movement.

HERITAGE AND COMMUNITY – FINALETime: 4:00pm – 8:00pmVenue: Hampton ParkAddress: 30 Mary Murray BoulevardAdmission: FREEClose out the Festival in style! Everyone in your family will enjoy this free-to-attend celebration of all that the MOJA Arts Festival has to offer. From fascinating vendors and fantastic food choices to a knock-out evening of live music, this party is sure to entertain. Get ready to dance into the night!

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THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL

VISUAL ARTS – MOJA JURIED ART EXHIBITIONOn View during performances September 26 through October 6Venue: Cannon Street Arts CenterAddress: 134 Cannon StreetThe 2019 MOJA Arts Festival Juried Art Exhibition will be held at the Cannon Street Arts Center, with local artist and arts educator Alvin Glen serving as juror. Juror Alvin Glen: A native of Dorchester, South Carolina, Alvin B. Glen began draw-ing at an early age. Graduating from South Carolina State University in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in art education, he went on to become a certified art instructor, band director, and was voted Teacher of the Year. He currently teaches art at Harleyville-Ridgeville Middle School, and has been an art teacher for over 30 years. Alvin’s mixed-media work, most often made with pencil, fabric dye, spray paint, and watercolor, is especially inspired by children and the elderly. He sometimes creates work reminiscent of people and events from his past, church, school and even his stu-dents. Alvin has has exhibited in solo and group art exhibitions extensively, including at the Columbia Museum in Columbia, SC, Black Arts Festival in Atlanta, GA, MOJA Arts Festival in Charleston, SC, Piccolo Spoleto Festival in Charleston, SC, I.P. Stanback Muse-um at S.C. State University in Orangeburg, SC, Spartanburg Arts Center in Spartanburg, SC, and others.

VISUAL ARTS – HBCUS: CREATING POWER THROUGH EDUCATION, BY SYNTHIA SAINT JAMESOn view August 23 through October 6Venue: City GalleryAcclaimed artist Synthia SAINT JAMES—a Trumpet Award, Coretta Scott King Award, and HistoryMaker Award winner, as well as Honorary Doctorate of Saint Augustine’s University, and the creator of the very first United States Postal Service stamp Kwanzaa Commemorative Stamp in 1997—presents her first 12 commissioned Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) paintings created the past eight years (2011-2019). The California-born, self-taught artist draws inspiration from her African American, Na-tive American, Haitian and German Jewish in her brightly colored paintings. In HBCUs: Creating Power Through Education, she celebrates the institutes of higher learning, their historic anniversaries, and their inaugurations of presidents.

VISUAL ARTS – WITHOUT REGARD TO SEX, RACE OR COLOR, BY ANDREW FEILEROn view August 23 through October 6Venue: City GalleryPhotographer Andrew Feiler is a fifth generation Georgian who was raised Jewish in Savannah. His experience as a minority in the South influences his work which has won numerous awards and been featured in museums, galleries, magazines, and

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newspapers. Without Regard to Sex, Race, or Color, a photographic study of Morris Brown College. Feiler’s work documents this era and expose the inequity of the fact that while roughly one hundred HBCUs that remain are a mere 3% of colleges in America, they represent more than 10% of African Americans who go to college and more than 25% who earn degrees.

VISUAL ARTS – LINKED, BY COLIN QUASHIEOn view August 23 – December 7Venue: Halsey Institute of Contemporary ArtAddress: College of Charleston | 161 Calhoun StreetFree admission | Find out more at halsey.cofc.edu Colin Quashie creates images that tease out underlying stereotypes. Combining historical relics and artifacts with icons from past and present popular culture, Quashie sharply critiques the way people of color are portrayed in modern visual culture. In his latest series, called Linked, Quashie juxtaposes images of well-known Black figures with other representations of artifacts to comment on stereotypes as they exist today.

VISUAL ARTS – OVER THERE AND HERE IS ME AND ME, BY KATRINA ANDRYOn view August 23 – December 7Venue: Halsey Institute of Contemporary ArtAddress: College of Charleston | 161 Calhoun StreetFree Admission | Find out more at halsey.cofc.edu The work of Katrina Andry probes the power structures of race-based stereotypes. Using printmaking and installation, she creates visceral images that beckon viewers to examine their own preconceived notions of society. For her exhibition at the Halsey Institute, Andry explores the stereotypes that engender gentrification. As Charleston’s neighborhoods are rapidly changing in multifarious ways, this exhibi-tion provides a springboard for community-wide conversations on gentrification.

VISUAL ARTS – THE CHARLESTON CUTA collaboration between barbers and beauticians in Charleston, SC.As part of MOJA Festival 2019, conNECKtedTOO wishes to highlight the integral roles barbers, beauticians, barbershops and beauty shops fill in their communities.Participating barbers and beauticians will execute individual versions of “the Charleston Cuts” on live models on a specific day and time during MOJA. This will not be a competition or a pageant. conNECKtedTOO will incorporate poetry, music and storytelling to affirm the place of the arts as people’s safe keepers and to am-plify the awareness of the events. A professional photographer will take pictures of the barbers and beauticians at work with their models as well as the finished cuts. September 30 kicks off the collaboration at Smitty’s Super Seven Barbershop at 1941 Reynolds Avenue.

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2019 MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL OFFICIAL POSTERABOUT THE ARTIST: The California-born, self-taught artist, Synthia SAINT JAMES, draws inspiration from her African American, Native American, Haitian and German Jewish heritage in her brightly colored paintings. A Trumpet Award, Coretta Scott King Award, and History Maker Award winner, as well as Honorary Doctorate of Saint Au-gustine’s University, and the creator of the very first United States Postal Service stamp Kwanzaa Commemorative Stamp in 1997, SAINT JAMES was invited to serve as the official poster artist for the 2019 MOJA Arts Festival, presenting one of her most recent works, “Africa: Year of Return.”

ABOUT THE GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Marcus Amaker is Charleston, SC’s First Poet Laureate, as appointed by Mayor John Tecklenburg. He is also the Artist-in-Residence of the Gaillard Center. He graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Amaker’s poems have been featured on PBS News-hour, A&E, The Huffington Post, North Dakota Quarterly, several journals and poetry collections. A well-known graphic/web designer and videographer, Amaker produces award-winning work for local nonprofits and organizations. He is also the lead graphic designer for the national music magazine, No Depression. In 2017, He was named one of Charleston’s 50 Most Influential people by Charleston Business Magazine. He is the creater and organizer of the Free Verse poetry festival.

THE OFFICIAL MOJA ARTS FESTIVAL LOGOVisual artist, Robert Washington, the creator of the Official MOJA Arts Festival Logo, passed away in 2016 at the age of 67. Originally from Wal-terboro, SC, Robert Washington was a graduate of Voorhees College in Denmark, SC. Mr. Washington was a self-taught artist in multiple media,

but preferred to work in watercolors. He interpreted his work as “Lowcountry Nostal-gia,” the lifestyles and mannerisms of African-Americans, from St. Simon Island, GA to Sandy Island, SC. Mr. Washington also designed the logo for the Philip Simmons Foundation in Charleston, SC.

HOW TO APPLY TO MOJA 2020Application deadline for artists: January 31, 2020. Each component of the MOJA Arts Festival: A Celebration of African-American and Caribbean Arts is carefully se lected by a committee review process. If you would like to be considered as a per-former/presenter for the 2020 MOJA Arts Festival, please send the completed official MOJA application form (available at mojafestival.com) and a package of information including a cover letter describing your work, what you intend to present at the MOJA Arts Festival, any press related to your work, and work samples. Only those art-ists who submit these materials and the official MOJA application form to the Office of Cultural Affairs no later than January 31, 2020 will be considered.

Theatre at Dock Street

CHARLESTON, SC • MOJAFESTIVAL.COM

MOJASEPT. 26 - OCT. 6, 2019A Celebration of African-American and Caribbean ArtsARTS FESTIVAL

CHOIR BOYOCTOBER 2-5

Produced by PURE TheatreDirected by Sharon Graci

MISS DESSASEPTEMBER 26-29

Produced by Art Forms and Theatre Concepts, Inc.Directed by Arthur Gilliard