ATLANTA — (April 11, 2006) – As one of the premier national and international celebrations of the art, music and culture of people of African descent, the National Black Arts Festival is a year-round organization dedicated to bringing together diverse communities. This year, NBAF will partner with new Atlanta fixtures such as Atlantic Station and the Brand Atlanta campaign to expand its offerings.
“This city is booming with growth and it was imperative that we incorporate the NBAF into all of the new change to help us reach new audiences and expand our programs,” said Stephanie Hughley, executive producer of NBAF. “By partnering with Atlantic Station and the Brand Atlanta campaign, we can continue to present rich, thoughtful programming as we have in years past.”
This year’s NBAF International Vendor Marketplace will move to its new home in Atlantic Station. As Atlanta's newest living, shopping and entertainment community, Atlantic Station is a city within the city and offers 30,000 employment opportunities and a mix of affordable, middle-income and upscale housing for 10,000 residents. This 24-hour community buzzes with pedestrian traffic to and from its many world-class restaurants, outdoor cafes, shopping and entertainment areas and expansive parks. The NBAF International Vendor Marketplace will be held July 13-16.
NBAF will also be incorporated into the Brand Atlanta campaign’s print, radio and TV advertising. The Brand Atlanta campaign was established to create a new branding strategy and marketing plan for Atlanta and distinguish the city as a preferred destination for visitors, residents and businesses. The campaign is just beginning to reach out to regional markets as well, driving new visitors to the city each day.
In addition, NBAF is expanding its educational program offerings which provide children, families, educators and the general public with the means to explore and understand the history and culture of the African Diaspora. Target recently announced that it will support the NBAF in 2006 as the sponsor of the Target Reading Initiative, part of the NBAF’s Education and Family Day programs at the Woodruff Arts Center. Also, NBAF will host its Summer Institute July 17-21.
The National Black Arts Festival will return to Atlanta July 14-23, 2006, with music, theater, dance, visual arts, literature, family events, conversations and workshops. Tickets for the 2006 NBAF go on sale today. Visit www.nbaf.org for program information, discounted ticket packages and group sales. Highlight events for the 2006 Festival include:
- Living Legends Celebration: A tribute to Andrew Young by Hannibal Lokumbe; Friday, July 14 at 8 p.m.
- Forces of Nature Dance Company led by Abdel R. Salaam – This company will take takes audiences on a journey through the African Diaspora to explore the many influences these diverse cultures have had on American Dance.
- NEA Jazz Masters Concert featuring Paquito D’Rivera – D’Rivera is a musician and composer of jazz and traditional Cuban music.
- Amajuba: Like Doves We Rise – A theatrical celebration of 10 years of freedom in South Africa, this performance interweaves song, music and prayer. Amajuba provides a truthful, intimate portrayal of growing up in South African and overcoming diversity.
About NBAF
The National Black Arts Festival is one of the premier national and international celebrations of the art, music and culture of people of African descent . The mission of the NBAF is to engage, cultivate and educate diverse audiences about the arts and culture of the African Diaspora and provide opportunities for artistic and creative expression.
Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Commission under the guidance of the Fulton County Arts Council. Additional major support for the National Black Arts Festival is provided by The Coca-Cola Company, The Kendeda Fund, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., UPS Foundation, Georgia-Pacific, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Atlanta Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Target, American Express, DELTA, Wal-Mart, WSB-TV, Channel 2, Georgia Council for the Arts, Georgia Power, Greenbriar Mall, Renaissance Hotel, IMAGES USA, Bank of America and Woodruff Arts Center: Alliance Theatre, Atlanta College of Art, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, High Museum of Art, 14th Street Playhouse.
http://www.nbaf.org/
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Media Contacts:
Kristen Stone/Evita Broughton, Edelman
404-262-3000
Kristen.stone@edelman.com or
Evita.broughton@edelman.com
