While Black History Month celebrations are being held all across the nation, few rival the thematic diversity of Making History at the Manna, which continues at the Manna From Heaven Dinner House, 3510 W. Hamilton Road, throughout February. A monthlong array of events, it blends comedy, theater and spoken-word performances plus community forums.
This is the second year for "Making History." Its organizer, the Rev. Samuel Kirk, says it stemmed from a desire to counter and contrast the prevailing images and narratives he sees about the city's black residents and communities.
"There are many wonderful things, progressive people and events happening in North Nashville, but that's seldom what you see being highlighted," Kirk says. "We saw the opportunity to present varied quality programming that could attract and be enjoyed by entire families while also accenting the importance of this month."
The Manna is already becoming a hot spot for gatherings and cultural happenings. Its mandate is to provide a haven where North Nashville residents can enjoy entertainment or discuss vital issues. At the same time, programs like Making History at the Manna are open to everyone, offering the chance to dispel some widely held — if seldom publicly acknowledged — myths about whether particular neighborhoods are truly welcoming to all.
The entertainment portion spotlights strong theatrical segments. Barry Scott, founder of the American Negro Playwright Theater, will direct Rosa: A One Woman Show, performed by Latrisha Talley Feb. 12. Scott also directs DJ Eason's spoken-word show I Am Calling Feb. 23. Darryl Vanleer's one-man performance Mandela: Let Freedom Reign is slated for Feb. 26, while Sista Style Productions founder Mary McCallum presents a morning program for youth titled Boo's Black History Blues Feb. 13. Shareese Jackson stars in Fannie Lou Hamer Feb. 29.
But the series also emphasizes collective action and empowerment through community forums. Upcoming discussions include "Access Point" Feb. 11, "Grown & Saved" Feb. 14, "The Bordeaux Coalition" Feb. 15, and "Men Talk" Feb. 16, with Damon King and Connie Dennell leading a night of community prayer and hymn singing Feb. 17.
Some events are hosted by Youth About Business, a program Kirk has worked with for more than two decades as founder and executive director. He established it because he wanted to encourage leadership, motivation and a drive to excel among young people.
"I started this program 23 years ago because I wanted some viable alternatives for underserved youth," says. The nonprofit entity, whose mantra is "demystifying the world of business" for high school students, has grown to encompass more than 700 alumni and participants from over 20 states. Each summer a business camp introduces students to the high-finance world through a weeklong merger and acquisition simulation. Later the students visit Wall Street to see financial markets in operation.
"I've seen firsthand what can happen when people really take an interest in youth," Kirk says. "That's what Youth About Business has always sought to do — engage and inspire youth to take charge of their lives and in turn do what they can to improve their community.
"That's the same philosophy behind this series. We're spotlighting a lot of the talent in this city that often goes unnoticed, and helping show the good things that are going on in this area."
A schedule of events and ticket prices is available at . A monthly pass is also available for all paid activities for $50. For more information, call 615-299-8097 or purchase tickets online at the link above.
Email arts@nashvillescene.com
