American Artists Project Presents “Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote” with 300 Performers Uniting to Inspire Non-Partisan Civic Participation

by Deborah Hamilton-Lynne on September 7, 2024 in Entertainment,
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For one day only, Sept. 14, 2024, two concerts at the AISD Performing Arts Center in Austin will feature performers from Texas and across the nation to showcase the transformative power of the arts.

Largest Artistic Collaboration in Six Years

Mela Sarajane Dailey, founder and producer. Courtesy photo.

American Artists Project founder, Mela Sarajane Dailey, dreams big and on Sept. 14, 300 performers will deliver an exciting and unique event the likes of which hasn’t been seen since the triumphant Bernstein Mass in 2018. Seeing the divisiveness around the upcoming election growing and knowing the transformative power of the arts, Dailey envisioned a non-partisan event that would bring the community together. 

Actor Ethan Hawke lends his voice to the production. Courtesy photo.

As her vision grew so, too, did the scope of the project which now includes performers from Texas and across the nation. “I wanted to bring together a diverse group of artists performing together and elevating each other – using the arts to empower and remind people that each voice matters”, said Dailey.

Two Star-Studded Concerts for One Day Only

Grammy nominated, Broadway star Frenchie Davis. Courtesy photo.

This exciting event will use the power of dance, theater and music to inspire people to use their voice and their vote in shaping their community, support the arts and build a future where everyone has a voice. Dailey spoke to her vision for the event, “We’re incredibly proud to unite some of the most talented artists from Texas and across the nation for this powerful event. By blending the transformative power of the arts with the crucial act of civic participation, our goal is to ignite a renewed sense of purpose and urgency in our community. Every voice and every vote has the potential to shape our future, and we’re here to ensure that message resonates louder than ever.”

The two concerts feature artists that represent AAP’s five main programs: FreeSoul, Greg-Easley Bryant Young Artists, Sing Joy, Somos and Variations.

From 1-2 p.m. the first concert kicks off the day with brass bands and drumlines set to inspire a patriotic spirit. Broadway star and Grammy winner Frenchie Davis will perform select pieces from the one woman play, “Barbara Jordan: One Voice” then bring her stunning voice to stage with Christopher Spivey and Company gospel choir with band backed music. Ben Jones and Crystal Paull will bring their rich, soulful music to life on stage. Following more than ten songs, acts and dance performances, the exciting, collaborative finale will feature special guests. 

The Rollettes, a professional wheelchair dance group. Courtesy photo.

The second concert at 3 p.m. brings more powerful performances featuring dance, the SOCO Women’s Chorus, trailblazing dance group the Rollettes, an inspiring set from Columbian Funk group Superfónicos, Chorus Austin and a grand finale ensemble-medley which will inspire and empower the audience to come together and make a positive change.

Colombian super funk group Superfónicos. Courtesy photo.

Passing The Torch

Rounding out featured performers will be 55 Austin-area high school and college student singers and dancers from the Select Ensemble, as well as members of the Austin Liberal Arts and Science Academy (LASA), Marching Band and Drumline and band members from Austin High, Navarro Early College High, and the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders. Dailey believes that a huge part of AAP’s mission is to promote and mentor student artists, “It’s truly inspiring to witness the range of talent coming together for this event, from seasoned professionals to emerging student performers, thanks in part to a grant from the City of Austin. The involvement of young artists, in particular, fills us with hope for the future. Their enthusiasm and fresh perspectives are a testament to the enduring power of the arts and the importance of passing the torch to the next generation.”

Tickets and Information

More information about American Artists Project can be found on their website.

Tickets can be purchased online.

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Cover photo courtesy American Artists Project.

Deborah Hamilton-Lynne is a freelance writer based in Austin and Galveston. The former editor of Austin Woman Magazine, she has called Texas home for more than 30 years and loves to write about interesting people, inspiring events and enriching travel.