Heart and Soul July 2014
CHICAGO (WLS) -- Heart and Soul is an in-depth look into the vibrant energy and central essence that surrounds the African-American culture in Chicago and analyzes what makes it so uniquely dynamic. This episode airs Saturday July 26, 2014 at 6:00 PM CDT.
Allison Semmes
Chicago native Allison Semmes is thrilled to be back home in the windy city doing what she loves most - performing. This Kenwood Academy graduate who went on to study Opera at the University of Illinois can now be seen emulating the iconic Diana Ross on stage at the Oriental Theater in the production "Motown the Musical." For Allison Semmes, being in the Berry Gordy production is a joy and a moment she'll take with her as her career continues to soar.
For more information:
Second City Bob Curry Fellowship
From John Belushi and Gilda Radner... to Tina Fey, Second City has launched the careers of some comedic 'greats'... and while they've long had a program to scout for diverse talent... this year, Second City launched its first -free- fellowship, to get even more actors of color interested in Improv. Bob Curry was Second City's first African-American cast member back in the 60's. This winter, the famous Improv comedy company launched a Fellowship program in Curry's name. 16 Curry 'fellows' were selected to receive 8 weeks of training. On the final night, all of the fellows put on a showcase of some of the best Second City sketches from the last 50 years! Second City will again offer this fellowship program in 2015!
For more information:
Hebru Brantley
His first 'canvasses' may've been concrete walls or train cars.. but Hebru Brantley is now making a big name for himself in the art world, with plenty of professional athletes and some huge names in hip-hop now among his loyal clientele. But for this Bronzeville native, its all just about sharing his art with the world. He currently has 'The Watch' on display on Chicago's Museum Campus, alongside Lake Shore Drive. He also has a solo exhibit entitled, 'Parade Day Rain', on display at the Chicago Cultural Center.
For information:
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Demoiselle 2 Femme
Empowering young ladies in the inner city and suburbs has been the mission of this organization since it started 20 years ago. Founded by Chicago Public School Alum Sherida Morrison, this 501 C-3 foundation has worked with over 3,000 girls since it started. Many of the young girls who have been active in the group attribute their continued growth to the leaders and programs that encourage them to be successful.
For more information:
9415 S. Western Avenue
Chicago, IL 60643
773.779.9371
Carlyle Robinson/Robin Roberts/MDS
Hearing the word cancer elicits fear is most anyone.. for Good Morning America's Robin Roberts, it's a diagnosis she heard not once.. but twice. First it was breast cancer... then, a blood disease known as M-D-S. That little-known disease is one that a Chicago man is battling as we speak.. Carlyle Robinson is preparing to undergo the only known cure for M-D-S... a bone marrow transplant. One of the main challenges for MDS patients is finding the perfect bone marrow 'match'. For African Americans, that is even more difficult, given the fact that African Americans make up only 7% of the registered donor pool.
For information on becoming a registered donor or to receive a home donation kit:
Free Write Jail Arts
In business since 2000, Free Write Jail Arts Program teaches literacy and helps young people in the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center express themselves through creative writing and poetry. Throughout the week, inmates participate in workshops taught by instructors who feel passionately about these young men who are viewed negatively in society.
For more information:
Ryan Keesling
Elgin Smith
Roger Bonair Agard
Gallery Guichard
In business since 2005, this cultural oasis features the work of artists who are a part of a collaboration to bring fine art to the Bronzeville community. This new space, a four thousand square foot facility is illuminated with vibrant works that tell stories of the African Diaspora. throughout the year, Gallery Guichard hosts five to six exhibits a year from artists across the world.
Gallery Guichard
436 East 47th Street
