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Presentation: ABELLA: A Voice for the Voiceless

featuring Parris Lane
Saturday, 2/17/2024
2:00 - 3:30
Koret Auditorium
Main Library

100 Larkin Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
United States

415-557-4400

Image removed.Parris Lane, PBS Emmy-nominated actress/singer shares insights into her latest project, the audiobook ABELLA: A Voice for the Voiceless. This audiobook takes listeners on a captivating journey through the life of Abella, a young enslaved girl with a unique singing voice, as she navigates one of the darkest times in American history. Drawing inspiration from discussions with Quincy Jones and the movie 'Roots,' Lane transformed her vision of a CD of Negro Spirituals into a novel, and later, a music audiobook for her Master's Thesis.

Explore the profound themes of hope, dreams and the healing power of music in Abella's story, as Lane discusses the challenges of writing and producing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover the significance of Juneteenth in the narrative, as Abella, once freed, uses her success to purchase the freedom of other enslaved individuals. Lane also delves into the relevance of Abella's story to contemporary issues such as police brutality, racism, and unequal education.

Learn about the importance of keeping the memories and National Treasure of "Negro Spirituals" alive, as Lane explains why she chose to release Abella via audiobook. Join us on a journey filled with emotions, as Abella's voice resonates, accompanied by God's grace and the prevailing goodness of humanity. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with a compelling story that echoes both historical struggles and contemporary challenges.

 

Parris Lane is a multifaceted artist, recognized as a PBS Emmy Nominated Actress/Singer, songwriter, music producer and published author. With her exceptional four-octave voice, she has captivated audiences worldwide, from Carnegie Hall to international cities like London, Paris and Rome. Parris has recorded with renowned artists, including the group "MARZ" on Capital Records and Nils Lofgren for HBO's The Sopranos. As a songwriter and co-owner of Parold Entertainment Inc., she has built a diverse catalog of original music for various media outlets. Parris has been honored as Best Jazz and Blues Singer and performed extensively, including at the Venetian Hotel/Casino in Las Vegas and the San Francisco Jazz Center. She has showcased her talents for dignitaries and organizations globally, earning accolades for her performances. Parris is also an accomplished voice-over artist, director and producer, with notable works including the animated musical Glorytoys. Additionally, she has contributed significantly as a Teaching Artist for the Smith Center for the Performing Arts Wolftrap Early Learning Program and authored several children's books and music collections. Parris Lane holds degrees from Mills College and Goddard College and currently resides in San Francisco, CA, continuing her artistic endeavors and community involvement.

Connect: 

Parris Lane - Website | Parris Lane - Instagram  | Parris Lane - Facebook

Author Readings & Lectures

Engage with your favorite writers and discover your next read.

More Than a Month: Black Interest

Connect to engaging discussions and performances related to the Black community.

More Than a Month recognizes important events in Black history, honors community and national leaders and fosters steps towards collective change. Programming features authors, poets and craft classes. 

Spotlight

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

For questions about the program or help registering, contact sfplcpp@sfpl.org. All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted. All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL or language interpretation), call (415) 557-4557 or contact accessibility@sfpl.org. Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

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