RADFORD – The internationally acclaimed African Children’s Choir, which has performed for presidents, on American Idol and in venues around the world, will be performing a free community concert in Radford this Friday.
The public is welcome to attend the concert this Friday, February 5, at Grove United Methodist Church. The show will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free. A free-will offering will be collected “to support the Choir’s education, care, and relief programs in Africa,” according to information released about the show.
The African Children’s Choir has been in existence for more than 25 years and have sang for millions of people around the world. Entertainment is not their primary mission however. Through their efforts, the choir members work to “raise awareness of the plight of Africa’s most vulnerable, but also show the beauty, dignity and potential of each African child,” according to a statement from the Choir.
The Choir currently cares for more than 7,000 children in Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Sudan, Nigeria and Ghana, with a focus on education.
“All of the Choir children have come from extreme poverty; many have lost at least one parent,” reads the statement. “Yet in spite of their circumstances the children radiate hope. They know that because of the African Children’s Choir their lives will change. The Choir is committed to helping these children physically, spiritually, emotionally and academically, giving each child an opportunity to reach their potential. Former Choir members are now doctors, teachers, journalists, engineers and so much more.”
“The children in the Choir represent millions of children in Africa.” says Choir Founder Ray Barnett. “They are bright, articulate and motivated. We believe they can make a difference.”
With performances on American Idol, Good Morning America and Ellen, the Coir has been able to showcase its talents – and its message of hope – to billions of people. The Choir has also performed at Nashville4Africa, Live 8 in London, Nelson Mandela’s 46664 concert and in special concerts for President George W. Bush, Kofi Annan and members of the United Nations.
For more information on the African Children’s Choir, visit www.africanchildrenschoir.com, or call toll-free: 1-877-532-8651. For more information about Friday’s concert at Grove United Methodist Church, call the church at 639-2807.