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 CBC arrivers and metro residents a taste of the arts in a distinctive new way with a special musical tribute dedicated to hurricane victims.

(PRWEB) September 10, 2005 -- Never pour new wine into old wineskins -- isnt that the saying? Well thats what the organizers of the 3rd Annual "Paintings, Poetry, Puccini, and Pasta", reception wanted to do, 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 Cafe, 8040 Georgia Ave. Silver Spring, Maryland on Tuesday, Sept. 20th, 2005 from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This years event will also include a musical tribute and special collection to benefit the hurricane victims.

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 featured guest Washington, DC tenor Issachah Savage. Noted author and poet Kwame Alexander is the Master of Ceremonies.

Due to the circumstances of recent devastating events along the Gulf Coast, a portion of this years proceeds will go towards relief efforts of the Hurricane Katrina victims. Sponsors include COMCAST, National Council of Negro Women Prince Georges Chapter, and the Washington Informer. The free-to-the public event will have paintings, art, and other items for purchase. Portions of the proceeds will also benefit the arts. Contact 301-203-0929 for details.

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