As a member of the African American Choral Ensemble, it has been an interesting time preparing for the “Potpourri for the Arts” concert this semester. The choral ensemble is just one of the three ensembles within the African American Arts Institute here on campus. There is also the African American Dance Company as well as the IU Soul Revue. Every year there is an annual Potpourri of the Arts that brings together all of the ensembles for a performative black arts experience. The event is the epitome of what it means to be a part of the institute because it showcases African American culture, history and identity in a powerful way through the arts.
This year will mark the 25thanniversary of the Potpourri and the theme for this event is Connected. We want to take the time to acknowledge this milestone through song and dance. This year we are acknowledging our connection to the past and the people who came before us, our connection to the present, and our connection to the future with many more celebrations to come. The Potpourri also highlights our connection to each other as ensembles as part of the same institution. Since this is my first Potpourri of the Arts experience it is very cool to see first-hand how there is such a sense of community among the groups because it truly is inclusive and it is like being a part of a family.
Preparing for this event has been very exciting because we all have been working hard for a special performance that includes all three ensembles. Being able to showcase our talents separately and then come together as one, is how we show our bond but also the necessity of these art forms coming together for one production.
