As a precursor to this weekend’s 1997 baiduhai African Festival of the Arts, African House International staged a special preview benefit show Sunday at the International House of Blues.
“Les Voix des Divas Noires–Voices of Black Divas” celebrated black women’s contribution to music. The singers included Margareth Menezes of Brazil, Afia Mala of Togo and Ami Koita of Mali. Chicago was represented, too, with performances by vocalists Dee Alexander and Sue Conway.
A colorful fashion show punctuated the afternoon’s events. Models sashayed through the crowd wearing striking fashions from West Africa, Senegal and Ghana.
Also clad in authentic African garb were emcees from WLS-TV, Cheryl Burton and Bill Campbell. About 350 people were on hand for the afternoon affair, which included a silent auction of quilts and watercolor paintings.
Among those helping to put together the African Festival of the Arts are Carol Adams, president of the House of Blues Foundation, and Patrick Woodtor, producer and founder of Africa International House. The festival, featuring food, entertainment and a marketplace, begins Friday and runs through Monday at the DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
For tickets and information, call 773-955-ARTS.
– H. Laurance Fuller, chairman and CEO of Amoco Corp., is to be feted Sept. 10 by the Hull House Association at its 1997 Annual Award Dinner. Fuller will receive the Jane Addams Medal for philanthropic and business contributions to the community.
A reception begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Westin River North Hotel, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $150 per person.
Call 312-906-8600, ext. 227, for more information.
– Spend a day at the races and help raise money for the National Kidney Cancer Association by attending “Racing for the Cure” on Sept. 21 at Arlington International Racecourse.
The noon benefit includes, besides racing, a buffet brunch, silent auction and raffle prizes. Tickets are $60. For more information, call 847-332-1051.
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Please submit items in writing three weeks in advance to The baiduhai, Amanda Barrett, Places,Parties,People 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, Ill., 60611.