Edgecombe Performance Series to Feature Michael Jackson Tribute Show

Series begins Sept. 21

The Edgecombe Performance Series kicks off Saturday, Sept. 21 in the Keihin Auditorium on the Tarboro campus of Edgecombe Community College, and a monumental show is already garnering some attention.

“We are excited to serve the community through the 18th season, and we will be bringing a variety of shows,” says Dr. Doneva Chavis, cultural arts director for ECC. “The highlight is ‘Who’s Bad Michael Jackson Tribute Artist.’ Last year’s, ‘Elvis is in the Building’ was almost a sell-out, so you may want to purchase your tickets soon.”

“Who’s Bad” was founded in 2003 as a tribute to Michael Jackson’s musical legacy. Now, as an umbrella organization, Who’s Bad Music boasts a stable of high-energy tribute shows.

The season kicks off with a fan-favorite. “Somewhere Between” returns for a third year on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. Tracy Farmer, W.C. Allen, Dennis Winstead, Brad Batchelor and Scott Hartness will bring their unique bluegrass sound to the Keihin Auditorium. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students.

Chavis says an all-day event on Friday, Nov. 8 will feature the dance, music, art and history of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe as a part of Native American Heritage Month. This free event is open to the public.

Other performances for the 18th season include “Frosty” on Friday, Nov. 15 at 5:45p.m. A young orphan named Billy discovers magic in a stolen hat. When he places the hat on a snowman’s head, the snowman comes to life! But, can Frosty the Snowman help Billy find his real family in time for Christmas? There will be a special performance for Edgecombe County Public Schools at 10:45 a.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students.

“North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops” is an all-time traditional favorite for the Tarboro area, offering the climax for the holiday season. The event will be held Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students.

On Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m., attendees can enjoy the spirit-filled and powerful influence of gospel music with “Black History through Gospel Music and Theater.” Understand the evolution of African American culture and music and music in America, while noting the contributions of African Americans and historical milestones. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students.

New York Theatre Ballet will perform signature works by master choreographers for the public on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. Admission is free to the public, but tickets are still required.

“Who’s Bad” will take place Saturday, April 19 at 7 p.m. Season ticket holders will be able to meet the artist. Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for students.

Enjoy the Tarboro Choral Society and Orchestra on Friday, May 2 and Sunday, May 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are required, but admission is free for this event.

Tickets for the Edgecombe Performance Series are available at the ECC Box Office on the Tarboro campus, by contacting tickets@edgecome.edu, or online at etix.com (keyword: edgecombe). Season ticket holders can enjoy a reception in the Cummins Conference Room located next to the Keihin Auditorium for the following: “Somewhere Between,” “North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops,” New York Theatre Ballet and “Who’s Bad: Michael Jackson Tribute Artist.” Prices for season tickets are $90 for adults and $80 for students.

For more information about the Edgecombe Performance Series, please contact Dr. Doneva Chavis at 252-618-6618 or chavisd@edgecombe.edu.