In this special evening, critically acclaimed Grammy-winning instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello, along with her band and guests, shares her resonant, ever-evolving exploration of American novelist, playwright, essayist, poet, and activist, James Baldwin. Inspired by the way Baldwin empowered others through the written word, Ndegeocello uses music as her vehicle to engage others in the challenge and promise of Baldwin’s powerful body of work.
Throughout her career, Ndegeocello has eschewed genre for originality, celebrity for longevity, and musical trends for musical truths. Fans have come to expect the unexpected from Ndegeocello, and faithfully followed her on sojourns into soul, spoken word, R&B, jazz, hip-hop, and rock, all bound by a lyrical, spiritual search for love, justice, respect, resolution, and happiness.
Please note this performance contains explicit language.
This event is part of Strathmore’s Windows series of performances and accompanying programs. Learn more
PRECONCERT EVENT
THE GOSPEL OF MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO
Before the Meshell Ndegeocello performance, join us for a pre-show discussion. Free with your concert ticket, but space is not guaranteed for non-registrants.
LEARN MORE & REGISTERGO DEEPER: JAMES BALDWIN SERIES
August 2
Documentary Screening: The Price of the Ticket
Strathmore launches its James Baldwin series with a screening of James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket, followed by a conversation led by Katea Stitt.
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August 15
Creative Writing Workshop: The Evidence of Things Not Seen
This poetry workshop offers participants an alternative approach to writing, in which visual imagery takes a backseat to touch, taste, sound, smell, movement, and emotion.
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September 7
Dramatic Excerpts: Go the Way Your Blood Beats
Howard University's Department of Theatre Arts students will perform select scenes from James Baldwin's dramatic works: The Amen Corner (1955) and Blues for Mister Charlie (1964).
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September 26
Lecture: James Baldwin at the Crossroads
In 2024, we revisit and reexamine a book in which a writer looks at the powerful images of film and how they shape a nation’s identity and perhaps prevent us from loving the stranger as well as ourselves.
LEARN MORE & REGISTERStrathmore extends its gratitude to AARP for supporting our two-month series of events celebrating the legacy of James Baldwin.
