African Roots

Continuing its long, community-connected tradition of presenting some of the very best programming reflecting African cultures, Penn Presents features three very special concerts, featuring hot, highly acclaimed, young artists of phenomenal talent and extraordinary audience appeal. No matter what your age or experience may be with African music and ethnic traditions, these shows will to open new worlds to you and leave you smiling.

One of the most uplifting and inspirational shows you'll ever see; Spirit of Uganda empowers some of Africa's most vulnerable children by allowing them to share their rich and beautiful culture, while simultaneously raising awareness of the impact of AIDS in their war-torn country. Under the artistic direction of Peter Kasule, Spirit of Uganda is colorful, song-filled celebration of the human soul. This joyous event is a showcase for the talents of a remarkable group of children whose optimism, patriotism, and irrepressible energy have helped them to triumph over incredible odds and serve as an inspiration to us all. 

Enjoy a Dinner/Lecture on Thursday, April 3 at 5:30pm. buy tickets

Angélique Kidjo
Sunday, April 6 at 7pm
$45 • $40 • $35 • $30

Following in the footsteps of internationally famous artists such as Miriam Makeba and Youssou N'Dour, Angélique Kidjo is the latest star to have emerged from the hotbed of musical talent in West Africa. Growing up with eight siblings in a highly creative environment, Angélique was exposed to a wide variety of cultures and musical traditions early on. Her musical influences include the Afropop, Caribbean zouk, Congolese rumba, Jazz, Gospel, and Latin styles; as well as childhood idols Bella Bellow, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, and Carlos Santana. She has collaborated with the likes of Dave Matthews, Branford Marsalis, Robbie Nevil, and Cassandra Wilson. This four-time Grammy nominated singer-songwriter is poised to take the world music scene by storm! 

A Tribute To Andy Palacio Featuring The Garifuna Collective And Umalali
Friday, May 2 at 8pm
$40 • $35 • $30 • $25

Soul-stirring melodies and vibrant grooves from the Garifuna community of Central America unite with the musical legacies of Africa and the Caribbean to create a powerful saga of exile, longing, hope and celebration. Garifuna celebrates indigenous Arawak and Carib sounds plus West African influences imported during the dark years of the slave trade. Blended Native, African and Latin exhalations create softly pretty, simply constructed, yet indelible melodies while percolating hypnotic rhythms.