Paintings, Poetry, Puccini, and Pasta" offers a different combination of culture with a flavor all its own

Special event with a taste of visual art, poetry, food, and classical music performed by African Americans, will take place on the eve of the Congressional Black Caucus and offer early arrivers and metro residents a taste of the arts in a distinctive new way.

(PRWEB) August 18, 2004 -- Never pour new wine into old wineskins -- isnt that the saying? Well thats what the organizers of the 2nd Annual "Paintings, Poetry, Puccini, and Pasta", reception wanted to avoid, when they combined the excitement of visual art, the power of spoken word, the passion of classical music, and a delicious bite of pasta into one event. In order to experience this tasty new cultural treat, you would have to go to Mayorga, 8040 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland, on Tuesday, Sept. 7th, 2004 from 7pm to 10pm.

Sponsored by C.A.A.P.A., Inc. (Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts, Inc.) a non profit company dedicated to the cultural outreach, talent development, educational enhancement, scholarship opportunities, competitions, and audience awareness of classical music and the performing arts of and for the African American community, the event features artists, poets, and African American classical musicians performing works by the Italian composer, Puccini.

Traditionally held on the eve of the Congressional Black Caucus to attract early CBC attendees who may enjoy a casual evening before the politics begins, the informal reception showcases visual artist Frank Frazier of Dallas, Texas, most noted for his work in mixed media and Washington, DC sisterhood of poets Collective Voices (Sistah Joy, Lady Di, and Billye OKera). Among the classically trained musicians, the event will also highlight the talents of Washington Opera soprano Pamela Simonson, and Three Mo Tenors Musical Director, Victor Simonson, with special musical guest-of-honor New York City Opera soprano Kishna Davis, who recently completed Italian and Russian tours.

This years event is being dedicated to the legacy of Dr. Nathan Carter, a tremendous proponent of African Americans in classical music and Director of Morgan State University Choir in Baltimore. Carter recently died due to a lengthy illness. Representatives from Morgan will also be on hand at the reception.

Co-sponsored by Comcast, the National Council of Negro Women Prince George's Council, Jordan Kitts Piano, and others, the free-to-the public event will have paintings, art, and other items for purchase. Portions of the proceeds will benefit the arts. Contact 301-203-0929 for details.

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