29 Jan 2024 Free live music, screening event Feb. 8 in advance of ‘GOSPEL’ broadcast premiere

CONWAY — Arkansas PBS, in collaboration with the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, is delighted to announce a special event celebrating gospel music and featuring excerpts from “GOSPEL”, a four-hour docuseries that explores the rich history of Black spirituality through sermon and song from executive producer, host and writer Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. “GOSPEL” will premiere on Arkansas PBS at 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 12 and 13.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. Doors will open early at 5 p.m. for guests to enjoy the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center’s new permanent exhibit. To reserve your free ticket, attendees are asked to RSVP at myarpbs.org/gospelevent. 

Renowned gospel radio programmer and announcer, Billy Saint James, will moderate the event. Attendees can look forward to musical performances, selected clips from “GOSPEL,” and a compelling discussion highlighting the profound history of gospel music in Arkansas including its creation, performance, significance, and more.

Reverend Henry Parker, Jr., Worship Minister at St. John Missionary Baptist Church and Director of Choral Activities at Shorter College, has curated a special music program that celebrates gospel through the years. The program will showcase both traditional and contemporary renditions, promising an evening of soul-stirring melodies.

“Gospel music is a vital part of Arkansas’ rich African American history. The state has produced many artists that have achieved national acclaim, including Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Nakitta Clegg-Foxx, and Grammy Award winner Smokie Norful. We are proud to partner with Arkansas PBS and celebrate gospel music in Arkansas,” said Quantia “Key” M. Fletcher, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center Director.