Soul Food Dinner Theater:
The Lady and the Empress

Friday, February 4 th - Ray Auditorium
6:00 PM Dinner
7:00 PM Performance

$20 per Person (Ticket price includes Buffet-Style Meal)

The YMI Cultural Center is proud to present its annual Black History Month fundraising event, a Soul Food Dinner Theater . Produced by Wastelandic Paradise ( www.ladyd.org ) of Charleston, WV , the YMI brings The Lady and the Empress; a blues journey with Lady D as the legendary blues singer Bessie Smith. Based on the life and music of this remarkable and dynamic woman, Lady D gives a stunning theatrical and musical presentation that not only entertains but educates the audience to a time in history that set the stage for some of the most prolific artists of the 20 th century.

This 90-minute blues experience features ten of Bessie Smith's most memorable songs recorded during the 1920's and 30's. Included are still familiar tunes such as "T'ain't Nobody's Business If I Do" and "I Ain't Got Nobody". Along with the musical highlights, the show is underscored by a powerful original script written by Lady D.

Join her as she guides you through the southern tent show and T.O.B.A. circuit. Listen to the exploits of one of the greatest voices in blues history and her struggle to achieve success within the confines of segregation and the hostile climate of racism. Watch and hear the story of a poor girl from Chattanooga, TN who became an Empress.

Soul Food

The term Soul Food originated from the cuisine developed by the African slaves mainly from the American South. A dark period in the history of the United States resulted in a cuisine fashioned from the meager ingredients available to the slave and sharecropper black families. The meat used was usually the least desirable cuts and the vegetables, some bordering on weeds, were all that was available for the black slaves to prepare nutritious meals for their families. From these meager ingredients evolved a cuisine that is simple yet hearty and delicious.

Every ethnic group has what it calls "soul food" - soothing, comfort food that brings back warm memories of family dinners, however, today, the term "soul food" simply means African-American cuisine. The Ritz Family Restaurant will prepare a traditional Soul Food meal complete with fried chicken and fish, a variety of vegetables and sweet potato pies! The YMICC hopes to continue the age-old family tradition emulating Sunday family dinners to encourage fellowship amongst those in attendance for this great musical event!

As an organization, our mission is to celebrate African American culture and diversity in the community . We will continue this mission throughout black history month and challenge the community to educate themselves and their children to learn about the rich history of African Americans and the ties and impact our culture has had in the greater community today. We look forward to seeing you and welcome you to the YMICC as " We celebrate culture!"

Tickets on sale now! Please call (828) 252-4614 for more information