INDIANAPOLIS — In celebration of Juneteenth, a federally designated holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, Indiana Landmarks Black Heritage Preservation Program presents a concert highlighting the history of gospel and blues music and its ties to Black faith, hope and survival.
Gospel performers include Ethel McCane, narrator, and musicians Kelly Jo Nibbs, Pastor William Brown, Damon McCane, Henry Carter, Joyce Carter, and Richard Harvey.
Blues performers include Kyle Long, narrator, and musicians Scrapper & Skelton, Kenny Dodson, Debbie Nelson, and Tad Robinson. Music Box with Lester Johnson and Ezra Bufford serves as the concert’s featured band.
A VIP pre-concert reception will feature food and drink along with an original multi-media theatrical performance by Bloomington’s Resilience Productions. Through Juneteenth: The Legacy of Opal Lee, the audience will meet Opal Lee, the grandmother of Juneteenth, as she invites attendees to reflect on the true meaning of Juneteenth and the importance of living a purposeful life.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Black Heritage Preservation Program.
The concert will take place Sunday, June 16 at 6 p.m. (VIP reception & performance at 4 p.m.) at Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave. The cost is $25 for the general public ($20 for members of Indiana Landmarks) for the concert, or $50 for VIP reception/performance and concert ($40 for members of Indiana Landmarks). Tickets are available online at INLandmarksJuneteenth24.eventbrite.com, or by calling 317-639-4534. Online ticket sales end June 15. Limited tickets will be available at the door.
