Juneteenth
Program
Juneteenth
Program
Juneteenth: The Journey to Freedom will commence with a special tribute to the late State Representative, “Mr. Juneteenth”, Al Edwards and Congress Woman Sheila Jackson Lee for their key roles in making Juneteenth a federal holiday.
Then, melodies and hymns will echo throughout the Miller Outdoor Theatre as more than 250 local performers illustrate the story of African Americans from 1865 and the journey to freedom in five memorable and education acts. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience the event in the covered seating area, or watch from the picturesque hillside overlooking the theater.
The evening will be emceed by KTRK anchor Melanie Lawson and narrated by actor Werner Richmond.
Act 1:
The Taking – From Africa to Slavery
Act 1:
The Taking – From Africa to Slavery
The Taking – From Africa to Slavery will illustrate the inception of slavery, from being in their homeland in Africa to being brought to America.
Performances by:
African Dancers and Drummers performed by Kouman Ke’le’
“The Journey to Freedom” performed by Treva Jones, Chad Stevenson and V. Michael McKay
Act 2:
Civil War Era – The Journey Begins
Act 2:
Civil War Era – The Journey Begins
The Civil War Era – The Journey Begins focuses on the Emancipation Proclamation and educates audiences on how slaves in Texas and other states would be free nearly two years later after the proclamation was signed when troops arrived in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865.
Performances by:
“Go Down Moses” performed by Juneteenth Dancers
“Wade In The Water” performed by the Juneteenth Band, Choir and Dancers
“Swing Low” performed by Endurance
“Stand Up” performed by Nakitta Clegg Foxx
Act 3:
The Journey Through Civil Rights
Although they were free, African Americans were not considered equal. The Journey Through Civil Rights will highlight the Civil Rights era and African American activists that fought for their rights and equality.
Performances by:
“I’m Black and Proud” performed by the Juneteenth Steppers
“Respect” performed by Mary Griffin
“What’s Going On” performed by Kirk Richmond
“People Get Ready” performed by Spud Howard
“Change Gon’ Come” performed by Brian Courtney Wilson
“Precious Lord” / “We Shall Overcome” performed by Kathy Taylor
“Someday We Will All Be Free” performed by Gene Moore
“Higher Ground” performed by Vincent Powell
Act 4:
The Journey Through Social Justice
The Journey Through Social Justice will take a look at social justice movements such as Black Lives Matter, that stemmed from frustration of injustices yet were filled with strong aspirations and commitment for change.
Performances by:
“I Just Want To Live” performed by Christian Spears
“Glory” performed by George Powell and J. Xavier
“Golden” performed by Liz Vaugh
“Rise Up” performed by Gene Moore and Nakitta Clegg Foxx
Act 5:
The Journey Continues
Reflecting on the journey, The Journey Continues celebrates how far African Americans have come and the continuous fight for equality.
With a special rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”