World Cafe Live and Opera Philadelphia teamed up in 2023 to present STRUT! A Harlem Renaissance Cabaret. This project was developed as part of Opera Philadelphia’s Sounds of America: Price and Bonds initiative, which amplifies and centers the work of Florence Price, Margaret Bonds, and other Black artists, creatives, and scholars.
Event Description:
Philadelphia-based artist Cookie Diorio takes the audience on a musical journey that celebrates creatives from the Harlem Renaissance and their impact on the cultural landscape today. Music highlighted as part of the event includes works performed by Bessie Smith, Ethel Waters, and Billie Holiday, as well as several unpublished works by Margaret Bonds and Florence Price newly arranged for voice and band.
This 90-minute cabaret takes place at The Lounge at World Cafe Live at 8:30pm on Friday, June 9th. Cookie Diorio was joined by dancers Danielle Currica & Mel Cotton, and poets Jaylene Clark Owens & Dain Saint.