The women of legendary vocal group SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK “unite to create a sound so pure, smooth, and homogenous that it does not seem humanly possible.” (Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Founded by Bernice Johnson Reagon in 1973 (with Mie, Carol Maillard and Louise Robinson) at the D.C. Black Repertory Theater Company, Sweet Honey In The Rock, internationally renowned a cappella ensemble, has been a vital and innovative presence in the music culture of Washington, D.C., and in communities of conscience around the world. Their deep commitment to creating music out of the rich textures of African-American traditions makes them a perfect fit for our annual celebration of the trailblazing Brooklyn-born children’s book author Ezra Jack Keats. Keats introduced multiculturalism into mainstream children's literature: he was one of the first children’s book authors to place his stories in an urban setting, and to use characters of color regularly as his protagonists. This edition of our Ezra Jack Keats Family Concert marks the 50th anniversary of Keats’ most famous work, The Snowy Day, and will feature a reading by Sesame Street's Roscoe Orman before the music. 

Special thanks to Astoria Federal Savings Bank.