Black History Being Honored

At Art Center

BRIDGEPORT — Black Rock Art Center (BRAC) has announced a full schedule of cultural programs in honor of Black History Month, which will include music, films and an exhibition celebrating the contributions of African-American artists including the jazz legends Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Thelonius Monk. All events are free; donations will be accepted.

The schedule continues as follows:

On Sunday, February 18, at 3 pm, the films Thelonious Monk, Straight No Chaser and The World According To John Coltrane will be shown. These feature music performances, studio sessions, the musicians on tour, and behind-the-scenes interviews. Introduction will be by Carl Horton, a member of International Performing Arts, Inc’s board of directors.

On Sunday, February 25, at 3 pm, The Miles Davis Story will be shown.

The first authorized documentary on the life of  the jazz legend, the film captures many elements of Davis’ life and career, from his upbringing in a segregated East St. Louis to his death in 1991. It includes exclusive interviews and rare footage of performances with jazz greats Dizzy Gillespie, Gil Evans, Charles Parker, John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, and others.  Introduction by Wayne Winston, NAACP board member.

At each event, Rainy Faye Bookstore will offer books for sale that are written by and/or are about African-American artists.

With the exception of the art exhibit/joint opening with Villa, all events will be held at the arts center, 2838 Fairfield Avenue.  Parking is free. For more information call 203-367-7917 or visit BlackRockArtCenter.com.