by Leslie D. Taylor
The Harrison Museum of African American Culture kicked off Henry Street Heritage Festival week in grand style on Sept. 11 with its 6th Annual Sunday Jazz Brunch.
The event is a fundraiser for the museum but also sets the stage for the Henry Street Festival, to be held this year on Saturday, Sept. 17 at Roanoke’s Elmwood Park.
The smooth sounds of the Custom Vibes jazz combo filled the Shenandoah Ballroom of the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, as Jazz Brunch attendees dined on a sumptuous meal.
The significance of the day, the 15th anniversary of Sept. 11, was not lost on attendees and those who planned the event.
During a brief program, Eric Beasley, a member of the Henry Street Heritage Festival Committee, asked for a moment of silence. The Rev. Lance Franklin, who offered a blessing of the food, noted the “unity that was displayed 15 years ago.”
Major sponsors—WDBJ7, P.A. Short Distributing Co., Cox Communications, First Team Auto Mall, City of Roanoke, The SunTrust Foundation, The Roanoke Times and VIBE 100.1/97.7—were recognized for their support, as was Morgan Stanley, for its sponsorship of the Henry Street Heritage Festival. This year is the festival’s 27th.
Harrison Museum Board Chairman Charles Price also recognized the many people who volunteer their time and talent at the museum and in the planning of the brunch and festival. “This could not be done without these folks,” he said.
Then, somewhat tongue in cheek, Price acknowledged one dignitary in attendance, Roanoke Vice Mayor Anita Price, his wife.
Tickets for the festival are $20 for adults in advance and $25 at the gate, and $15 for youth (ages 13-20). Advance tickets may be purchased at Center in the Square. Admission is free for those age 12 and under.
Saturday, gates will open at 10:30 a.m. Activities will kick off at 11 a.m. During the day, the festival will feature children’s activities, gospel music and dance, performances by the Roanoke Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra Jazz Combo, a dessert contest and the Roanoke’s Got Talent competition, presented by the Roanoke Chapter of The Links, Inc. Featured evening entertainment will be musical artists Jon B, Kindred The Family Soul, Will Traxx and BJ the Chicago Kid.
For more information, visit www.harrisonmuseum.com.
