RIFFS ON RACE AND WAR Honors Malcolm X Tonight, May 19

Celebrating the day of his birth at the place of his tragic death, Riffs on Race and War, a one-woman show with live music, honors the legacy of Malcolm X on his 87th birthday. Riffs… examines universally resounding realities such as social inequality and the need for unity across humanity.

The show takes place at the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center, 3940 Broadway, New York, NY 10032, tonight, May 19, 2012 at 7:30PM.  Early bird ticket sales are $15 before May 14th and $20 after.  All proceeds to benefit the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center.

Karen D. Taylor was compelled to write the play, because, she says, "America has never talked openly about what its relationship to race actually is, but had no trouble jumping to the 'post-racial' mythology so popular post Obama, but we have gotten a wake-up call in the form of Trayvon Martin's death." Taking up the mantle, passed on by leaders like Malcolm X, who very candidly discussed this country's social history, the play also offers a look at the importance of personal responsibility.

"Riffs on Race and War" will be presented by the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center (formerly the Audubon Ballroom, which is where Malcolm was gunned down). Conceptualized, written, and performed by Ms. Taylor, "Riffs…" presents original songs and the music of diverse artists that include Curtis Mayfield, Jimi Hendrix, Marvin Gaye, and jazz trumpeter-composer, Donald Byrd. The outstanding instrumentalists of "Riffs on Race and War" are Marcus Persiani, pianist; Kelvyn Bell, guitarist; Lonnie Plaxico, bassist; and Jeff Haynes, percussionist.

Immediately following the performance, there will be birthday cake for all.

"Riffs on Race and War" is made possible in part with public funds from the Manhattan Community Arts Fund, supported by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and administered by Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. The commissioning and development of "Riffs on Race and War" has been provided through the Harlem Stage Fund for New Work, which has received support from the Jerome Foundation.

For tickets, visit https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/243035.

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