KEENE, N.H.-The Colonial Theatre, in partnership with Keene State College, welcomes the Grammy-winning vocal ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock on Sunday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m. This performance is part of the group's 50th Anniversary Celebration Tour.
Founded in Washington, D.C., in 1973, Sweet Honey in the Rock has performed globally for five decades with the aim of furthering empowerment, education, and social consciousness. Known for their harmonies, the ensemble has been a voice for civil rights, women's issues, spirituality, and justice.
"Sweet Honey in the Rock is more than music-it's a force for change, compassion, and community," Keith Marks, executive director of The Colonial Theatre and Showroom, said in a news release. "To celebrate their 50th anniversary on our stage is a tremendous honor, and we're thrilled to co-present this historic evening with Keene State College."
The group's current lineup includes vocalists Carol Maillard, Louise Robinson, Aisha Kahlil, Nitanju Bolade Casel, Rochelle Rice, bassist Romeir Mendez, and American Sign Language interpreter Barbara Hunt. Together, they "continue the ensemble's commitment to inclusivity and artistry that transcends generations and genres," event promoters said in news release.
Over their history, Sweet Honey in the Rock has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and the Kennedy Center and has lent their voices to milestone cultural events, including the Ms. Foundation's 50th Anniversary, Fire Drill Fridays, and Harry Belafonte's 95th Birthday Celebration.
"Their Juneteenth 2020 livestream from Washington, D.C.'s Lincoln Theatre reached more than 150,000 viewers worldwide," promoters said, "setting a standard for virtual performance during the pandemic."
With projects like their original theatrical work When Day Comes, Sweet Honey in the Rock "continues to captivate audiences and inspire change with music that is as relevant today as it was in 1973," promoters said.
Sweet Honey in the Rock - 50th Anniversary Celebration Tour, comes to the Colonial Theatre, 95 Main St., Keene on Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $40–$60 and are available at thecolonial.org or 603-352-2033.
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