Queen Esther Marrow performs in Aretha Franklin Tribute at Downing-Gross [Press Release]
Newport News native, gospel legend, and friend of Aretha, Queen Esther Marrow, will perform in a tribute to the late 'Queen of Soul' on September 7th.
In light of the recent passing of the American icon Aretha Franklin, Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center will be hosting a tribute concert. Respect: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin will honor the late ‘Queen of Soul’ with a variety of performances including: live painting with local artist Gerome Meminger, a choreographed routine from Dreams in Motion Dance Studio, and vocal performances from local singers Demitra Nikki, Minister Traci Georges, Rea Jones-Cuffee and many more. There will also be a very special guest performance from Newport News Icon, artist and friend of Aretha, Queen Esther Marrow.
Although this is a free event, space is limited and tickets will be scanned. Tickets no longer guarantee entry after 8:15 PM on September 7th, 2018. After this time, remaining seats will be made available on a "first come, first serve" basis, regardless of whether or not a ticket was reserved. For more information, please contact Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center via email at downing-gross@nnva.gov or call 757-247-8950.
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About Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is a multi-purpose cultural space in the Southeast community of Newport News, VA. Originally built as the Walter Reed School, the historic building has been restored and open to the public since October 2008. The building is owned and operated by the City of Newport News Parks, Recreation, and Tourism department.
The center houses several event spaces and large/small gathering rooms available for event rental. The core of the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is the Ella Fitzgerald Theater, a 276-seat venue named for the "First Lade of Song." Other event spaces in the building include the Anderson Johnson Gallery, the Newport News Community Gallery, the L. Marian Poe Meeting Room, the Banquet Room, and the Charles C. Allen Executive Board Room.