A special revival of God’s Trombones by James Weldon Johnson’s as part of his Tribute to Black Preachers will be presented on Friday & Saturday, October 24 & 25, 2008 @ 7:30PM at Broadway Advent Church (2504 Broadway @ West 93rd Street) There is a suggested donation of $25.00 per person.
In 1927 at the height of the Harlem Renaissance James Weldon Johnson published a slim book of poetry entitled God’s Trombones to pay tribute to the Black preachers that he remembered from his childhood. The preachers with their broad range of vocal tones and colorful language reminded him of trombones.
This is a timeless old-time revival that weaves passionate biblical themes with moving gospel music and the lyrical qualities of the preacher’s message. These exhortations of repentance and forgiveness, hope and comfort emanating from the preachers stirred congregants to focus and strive to improve themselves and their communities.
Mr. Johnson begins with a fervent prayer,”Listen, Lord” and follows with seven spirited sermons.
The seven sermons captured in verse are entitled:
“The Creation”
“The Prodigal Son”
“Go Down Death”
“Noah Built the Ark”
“The Crucifixion”
“Let My People Go”
“Judgment Day”
James Pettis, the producer, artistically engages his audience with the powerful presentations of the preachers, dance, sound effects and the dynamic Virginia Community Choir. This off Broadway revival production will delight all ages. Make this a family affair.
The Director James Pettis as a youngster studied piano under Dr. Undine Moore. At the Eastman School of Music during the summers, he refined his technique. He is a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music. He is the recipient of many awards in piano competition. He has toured extensively in the U.S.A., Canada and in Europe. Additionally, he has performed in many venues, most notably, the cruise ship Queen Elizabeth II and on TV’s soap opera, “The Guiding Light.”
In 1984, Mr. Pettis directed the Broadway version of God’s Trombones in New York City.
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