Greetings!,

Art Sanctuary's 10th anniversary coincides with the most historic presidential race in our lives, and the most troubling financial crisis in recent memory.Art Sanctuary's commission of "A Shepherd Among Us" by Grammy-nominated composer Hannibal Lokumbe, speaks to these times.  Written in honor of the Church of the Advocate's Fr. Paul Washington, this work for mass choir celebrates Fr. Paul's justice ministry and the spirit of activism that brought black power into the sanctuary and supported the ordination of women to the Anglican priesthood.

The Gala Premiere of "A Shepherd Among Us", will be a dazzling black-tie optional event, Friday, November 14, starting at 6:30pm at Girard College.  The evening will honor Philadelphia's own hip hop phenomenon, The Roots, and features in performance a stunning ensemble of talent: Hannibal on trumpet with his own New York-based quintet, internationally acclaimed bass-baritone Kevin Deas, and the choirs:  Bright Hope Baptist Church's Celestial Choir, the Clayton White Singers,  the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, The Chancel Choir, all led by conductor and master keyboardist J. Donald Dumpson.

Following this unique and inspiring concert, gala attendees will walk from the Girard College Sanctuary to Founders Hall where they will enjoy four themed rooms with an array of food by Catering by Design, drinks, live entertainment featuring MOSU led by jazz guitarist Monnette Sudler, salsa dancers, spoken word, and more! 

NOTE: Please check out The Philadelphia Tribune's article on Hannibal Lokumbe.

Join us for this exciting event:

$500-$300 (VIP seating and gala reception)

$150 (General seating and gala reception)

$50 (Concert only)

Purchase your tickets now!

Special Group Offer:Purchase a minimum of 10 General Seating and Gala tickets ($150 ea.) and receive a copy of "A Shepherd Among Us" music score autographed by the composer Hannibal Lokumbe (Offer expires: November 7, 2008).

For more information: 215.232.4485 or www.artsanctuary.org