SHEER vocal exuberance is set to burst from the New Wolsey stage when the theatre plays host to Sisters, Let's Sing.All-female quintet Black Voices and Linda Tillery's Cultural Heritage Choir are teaming up for a night of powerful singing and emotive song on October 20.

By Jo Macdonald

SHEER vocal exuberance is set to burst from the New Wolsey stage when the theatre plays host to Sisters, Let's Sing.

All-female quintet Black Voices and Linda Tillery's Cultural Heritage Choir are teaming up for a night of powerful singing and emotive song on October 20.

Carol Pemberton, musical director of Black Voices, said: "Sisters, Let's Sing is about ten women on stage and an audience hearing vocal music like they've never heard before, with drumming and dance as well.

"People who have enjoyed vocal music will enjoy what we have to offer. It's a very varied programme covering gospel, reggae, pop and jazz. It's about free expression."

Black Voices are old friends of the New Wolsey having performed there last year and are delighted to be back.

"We had a great time the last time we were in Ipswich," Carol said. "So, by popular demand we're back."

Black Voices are an a cappella group established 16 years ago in Birmingham. They have grown into a collective of nine women from which quintets are chosen to perform.

The group is grounded in the music of an international black community and performs a wide range of music, from the oral traditions of Africa to modern arrangements.

"We don't sing throw-away music," Carol explained. "It has a powerful message that challenges people about how they live. The biggest message is a message of love.

"People go through a range of emotions when they hear it – one minute they'll want to laugh, the next minute cry."

While they are in Ipswich, Black Voices will be holding a singing workshop on October 19.

"It's for people interested in singing, even people who haven't sung before," Carol commented.

"It's a chance to come and learn a brand new repertoire and have a fun day. There'll be a whole mixture of stuff."

She is passionate about singing and the use of the voice and wants others to feel the same.

She added: "I think because the voice is the first instrument, when voices come together in harmonies you can't help but be moved.

"I'm a member of Black Voices so I'm a little bit biased but I don't think there is anything more beautiful than a voice singing."

Linda Tillery's Cultural Heritage Choir are coming from the US to join Black Voices for the performance.

n Sisters, Let's Sing will be at the New Wolsey Theatre on October 20 at 7.45pm. Tickets cost £5.95 to £11.95.

Black Voices will be holding a singing workshop on October 19 from 2pm. There are a maximum of 50 places so early booking is advised. Tickets are £5 for £10 for a family ticket.

For tickets to the show or the workshop visit the theatre box office, in Civic Drive, Ipswich, call 01473 295900 or log on to www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Weblink: www.blackvoices.co.uk