Wanda's Picks

Wanda's Picks Farewell Show

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 19:30:00 +0000

As BTR concludes, here are some highlights from a career that began in 2008 to 2025. Thanks for all the listens. The shows are available @Wanda's Picks at iTunes https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wandas-picks/id297197493 and via Spreaker at https://www.spreaker.com/tags/wandaspicks. Stay in touch. I am revamping my website, wandaspicks.com However, you can email me there as well as follow my interviews and commentary on YouTube.com/wandaspicks and FB, ISG, X or TW @wandaspicks My blog is wandasabir.blogspot.com Be well! Stay present. God is change. We shape God with our beingness. Stay present. We matter, as in elemental, like the sun and the air and the starlight. Planets don't blink, but people do. Don't travel alone.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

Introduction or Abstract Nancy Ross Gooch was a Black woman whose family—the Gooch-Monroes, owned most of Coloma, specifically the area around Main Street. Coloma, a small city in El Dorado County, is where James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter’s Mill in 1848. If it weren’t for her family’s stewardship of the land, this town might not exist, yet Californians do not know her name. Children in Coloma and residents in the nearby towns of Placerville nor Sacramento know this important history. It is time to change this. September 9, 1860, is California Admission Day. 2025 marks its 175th Anniversary. It is a perfect time to remember the life and legacy of this powerful Black woman who symbolized industry, intelligence, faith and forgiveness, Mrs. Nancy Ross Gooch (Aug. 1811-Sept. 17, 1901). The way people live in the minds and hearts of future generations is by naming institutions after them, by erecting monuments, by continuing their work, by calling their names. In a state the size of a country, California should have more public art honoring its citizens, especially this women, California pioneer and citizen, Nancy Ross Gooch. Join the campaign. #sayhername #nancyrossgooch #californiapioneer If you are interested in the campaign to have a statue erected to honor Nancy Ross Gooch contact the author: Ms. Wanda Sabir walibatinsabir@mymail.ciis.edu or 510-397-9705. To read the proposal: https://wandasabir.blogspot.com/2024/12/nancy-ross-gooch-ca-pioneer-presente.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:00:00 +0000

Damu Sudi Alii began his musical career playing trombone in junior high school, then switched to piano in the United States Air Force. He went on the road in 1969 with a group called "The Mint Juleps" led by trumpeter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist Clarence Pinckney. The group toured the midwest, southwest, and northwest United States. Damu later joined a group in Los Angeles called the "Geechie" Smith Allstars" and played the B-3 organ in this group from 1975-1977. After moving to Oakland around 1979, Damu played in several groups including eight years, 2001 to 2009 with William "Doc" Webster's group, "Jazz Nostalgia" at Les Joulins Jazz Bistro in San Francisco. He was a sideman for many years with "Hanif and the Sound Voyagers." He also had his own group "First Edition," and occasionally performed with the "Carl Garrett Quartet". From 1982 -1984, and again briefly in 2008 and 2010, Damu was pianist for the "Stones of Fire," a reggae gospel choir of Wo'Se Community Church in East Oakland. He was also a music teacher at Ile Omode. Damu released Serenity, Spring 2023, to great acclaim. Damu Sudi Alii Quintet is hosting a tribute concert to two of his favorite musician friends, Kenneth Byrd and Kamau Seitu at Oaktown Jazz Workshop, 3-5 PM PT, 55 Washington Street, Jack London Square, Oakland. Suggested donation is $20.00. There will be special guests that afternoon. It will be a highlight for 2024. Technical difficulties this afternoon, so we were not able to broadcast live. Damu was going to join me. See you Sunday afternoon. Blessings

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Meditation "The Invitation" in Ten Thousand Beloved Communities by Kristen Lynn Zimmerman, forward by adrienne maree brown (2023). We close with the poem: "Random Blessings" for Agu, by Wanda Sabir, performed to Agu's song, "Reaching In." Presentation: 1. Grace Lee Boggs 2. Beloved Community, Zimmerman 3. Ethics of Knowledge Creation and Acquisition, Fernandes Module 5 Theme: Bringing Spiritual Activism into Community Materials: Read select readings from Part 4: Direction of the Youth in Fleshing the Spirit (eds. Facio and Lara)Read Chapter 4: Knowledge in Transforming Feminist Practice (Fernandes)Read Part 2: Community Accountability and Transformative Justice in Feminist Accountability (Russo)Read first half of 10,000 Beloved Communities graphic novel (Zimmerman)Watch Zimmerman interview Watch American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs Assignments: Module 5 discussion post Each module students will review course materials, post 1 substantial reflection on the materials to Canvas, cite the sources of their reflection, and end your post with an engaging question by the Friday before the next class. Students will meaningfully respond to at least 2 questions posed by peers by the Sunday before the next synchronous class meeting. Some questions include but are not limited to, What are important, compelling, or confusing terms and concepts that you have encountered in the course materials or class discussions this module? Substantial post due 11/22, responses due 11/24.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Theme: Bringing Spiritual Activism into Community Materials: Read select readings from Part 4: Direction of the Youth in Fleshing the Spirit (eds. Facio and Lara)Read Chapter 4: Knowledge in Transforming Feminist Practice (Fernandes)Read Part 2: Community Accountability and Transformative Justice in Feminist Accountability (Russo)Read first half of 10,000 Beloved Communities graphic novel (Zimmerman)Watch Zimmerman interview Watch American Revolutionary: The Evolution of Grace Lee Boggs Assignments: Module 5 discussion post Each module students will review course materials, post 1 substantial reflection on the materials to Canvas, cite the sources of their reflection, and end your post with an engaging question by the Friday before the next class. Students will meaningfully respond to at least 2 questions posed by peers by the Sunday before the next synchronous class meeting. Some questions include but are not limited to, What are important, compelling, or confusing terms and concepts that you have encountered in the course materials or class discussions this module? Substantial post due 11/22, responses due 11/24.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 08:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We continue our series on Octavia Butler's Parable of the Sower: The Election Episode. We speak to Nube Brown, sister broadcaster, at KPOO 89.5 FM in San Francisco. Her series on CA prisons has a wide following. She joins us to talk about parallels between Butler's dystopian California, USA 2024 and California, USA now. There is an election and the protagonist Lauren Oya Olamina and her chosen family are headed to north, from LA. They settle in Humbodlt County, which happens to be where Nube raised her son and where her mother still resides. We talk about ballot measures, specifically 6, 33, and 36. Listen up. We'd love to hear your thoughts on the episode and other related themes or topics. Musically, we feature: Nana Sula Spirit's "Oya, The Transformer featuring Sunni Patterson (poet)."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 19:30:00 +0000

We speak this afternoon with Deborah Vaughan, Artistic Director and Founder of DIMENSIONS DANCE THEATER about the premiere of a new work, HEALING TO JOY OCTOBER 12, 2024. This new work by Haitian-American Choreographer Laurie Fleurentin and Ms. Vaughan explores the transcendent power of joy to empower unity and growth. The work includes composer/performer Jeff Pierre and guest spoken-word artist and poet devorah major. The premiere performance marks the 51st season of Dimensions Dance Theater, one of the country’s longest-standing and most respected Black dance companies with a dual focus on creating and presenting relevant, contemporary choreography and traditional dance from many African cultures and dance of the African Diaspora. Dimensions presents a reminder of the fundamental importance of practicing culture to unite, uplift and educate community and foster positive social change. The premiere performance of Healing to Joy will be given Saturday, October 12, at 6 pm at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts in Oakland and will be followed by an audience Q&A. Tickets, priced at $15-$25 may be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-to-joy-tickets-984554678547

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 06:30:00 +0000

Thursday, August 29, 2024, was the 19th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Ms. Wanda Sabir gave a talk at a BIPOC Al Anon principles meeting.

Wanda's Picks

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

What do Black-eyed peas have to do with Octavia Butler's Parable of the Sower? Much! Join Iya Wanda Ravernell this morning and she will share about this African Disapora staple at The 9th Annual Black-Eyed Pea Festival, Sat. Sept. 14, 2024, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. @Marston Campbell Park, 17th and West Streets, Oakland CA, 94607. Enjoy Jazz, Second line bands, Black entrepreneurs, soul food and a special pavilion for children at this free event. Wanda Ravernell, Executive Director of Omnira Institute After retiring from a 20-year career in print journalism, she embarked on creating programming that would lead to the creation of Omnira Institute in 2009. As its director, Ravernell has developed and implemented the program known as ‘Roots of Faith/Roots of Freedom,’ under the artistic direction of her husband, (Dennis) Tobaji Stewart. Held all over the S.F. Bay Area, the lecture demonstrations draw on the musical framework provided by African ritual bata drums, which is then applied to African American history using a choir comprised of practitioners of African spirituality. The Black-Eyed Pea Festival is her brainchild. Now in its 9 year, the festival celebrates the legacy of African and African American music, food and art. 2. Rebroadcast Black August 2009. This is an early show. I'd just started broadcasting August 29, 2008. Hurricane Katrina Anniversary is August 29. This is the 19th Anniversary. Ashay!

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically, movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! This new season we will be looking at the work of Octavia Butler, Ibaye. Ancestor, visionary, and writer of the Parable of the Sower, Parable of the Talents series. In each episode, we will explore an aspect of this work. For our second show we will talk about another theme TBA (smile). Oya, the orisha is featured prominently in the story as the protagonist's name is Lauren Oya Olamina. When we meet Lauren, July 20, 2024, she is 15. Today we speak with devorah major, SF Poet Laureate Emeritus, scholar & activist. https://www.devorahmajor.com Music: Oya The Transformer Sula Spirit feat. Sunni Patterson

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio: Black Art and Culture

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Motherline Query

Fri, 31 May 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Today we speak with Dr. Zoe Franklin, an Africana Studies Professor at a community college in Chicago, Illinois. We speak by phone. Dr. Franklin and I discuss the inner child, her acknowledgment, reclamation, and healing. She shares a series of journal reflections (100 completed) to let us hear the voice of her inner child. What does repair or mending sound or look like? We appreciate Dr. Franklin's vulnerability and willingness to share her story with us today. We also appreciate the other women who have shared their Motherline Stories with us since March 2024. Dr. Franklin is our fifth participant.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 11 May 2024 05:30:00 +0000

This is a poem I wrote to document the end of my first two semesters in the Women's Spirituality Program at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in San Francisco. I am working on a doctorate. I am supposed to complete the rest of my coursework in the next year. I have learned a lot. This semester we looked at Radical Birthing and Revolutionary Mothering. What a concept! I also took a Gender, Sacred Sex and Healing class and Critical Thinking.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 07 May 2024 20:00:00 +0000

We speak to Marcus Anthony Shelby about Zaccho Dance Theatre & Dancers' Group Co-Presentation of "The People's Palace" (World Premiere), a site-specific performance installation and artistic intervention inside San Francisco's City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, in San Francisco. Performances are Thursday & Friday, May 9, 10 and Sunday, May 12, 8-10:30 PM. It's free. On Friday, May 10, 7 PM there is a Haptic Tour and Audio Description. Free, however, reservations are required: https://dancersgroup.org/onsite-joanna-haigood/ For more information: https://www.zaccho.org/?event_the-peoples-palace Marcus Shelby is a composer, bassist, bandleader, and educator who currently lives in San Francisco, California. His work focuses on the history, present, and future of African American lives social movements, and music education. In 1990, Shelby received the Charles Mingus Scholarship to attend Cal Arts and study composition with James Newton and bass with Charlie Haden. Currently, Shelby is the Artistic Director of Healdsburg Jazz, an artist in residence with the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, and a past resident artist with the San Francisco Jazz Festival and the Healdsburg Jazz Festival.

Wanda's Picks Motherline Series

Mon, 06 May 2024 17:00:00 +0000

We are hosting a series of conversations with women about their motherlines. We began in March this year and continue through March 2025. In these conversations over the next year, we will speak to Black women about their motherlines. Our guest today is Makeda Esi Ohemaa aka Sandra Hooper Mayfield. She is the youngest daughter of Ruby Mae, granddaughter of Evie, great-grandaughter of Hester, and great-great-granddaughter of Mary Magdalen. Ruby Mae passed away when she was 36 years old Makeda was 9. Makeda fell in Love with words when her first-grade teacher read a poem. She is grateful to report, that she is still in Love. Makeda is a retired mental/behavioral health counselor. At 50 years Makeda returned to academia and earned a BA in business management. Makeda is the former Editor of the South County Post Newspaper, Curator of Sugar Water (An artist support group for girls and women), and the "Third Saturday Open Mic." Makeda's work is published in three anthologies with the West Oakland Seniors. She is also published in the West Oakland to West Africa anthology. Makeda is a community activist who serves and promotes change through art and literacy in carceral institutions. She is a 7-year cancer survivor whose diagnosis set her free. . . . We open with Mary Mary's "Shackles," and close with Tracey Chapman's "Stand by Me."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 18:00:00 +0000

We are hosting a series of conversations with women about their motherlines. Join us monthly. We began in March and continue through March 2025. We speak with Stephanie JT Russell, poet and visual artist, Poet Laureate for Dutchess County, New York. Poet,interdisciplinary artist, and cultural worker Stephanie JT Russell’s most recent creative nonfiction book is One Flash of Lightning, a poetic treatment of the classical Samurai Code (Andrews McMeel). Her poetry, essays, and visual art are anthologized in books and journals including Colossus: Body, Xavier Review, The Winter Anthology, Sequestrum, Lightwood, and ArLiJo. She has performed and exhibited at venues such as The New Museum, The Griffin Museum of Photography, The Albright Knox, Bowery Poetry Club, and The Berkeley Museum. A visiting teaching artist at New York University, Vassar College, The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, and other noted institutions, Russell received the Overall Winner Award from the 2022 Wirral Poetry Festival, UK. As Dutchess County Poet Laureate, Russell is curating Stream of Life, a series of intercultural poetry and multidisciplinary events featuring diverse Hudson Valley artists. https://www.artsmidhudson.org/dc-poetlaureatewww.stephaniejtrussell.comwww.stephaniejtrussell.com We close with Abby Lincoln and Max Roach's "Freedom Now." When do we want it? Now!

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio: Motherline Stories Series

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 22:30:00 +0000

As the series kickoff, I start with my own Motherline Story. Here is a brief bio: Ms. Wanda Sabir, is a poet, essayist, arts editor and retired professor. Wanda’s Picks column, podcast and YouTube channel are a local and national staple. Her interest is in Art for Social Change. A depth psychologist, Ms. Sabir’s area of research is on trauma and its impact on memory. Ms. Sabir served as board member for Legal Services for Prisoners with Children. An advocate of Diaspora Citizenship for descendants of formerly enslaved Africans, Ms. Sabir is also co-founder and CEO of the San Francisco Bay Area Maafa Commemoration in its 28th year this October 2023. Her recent initiative is Wombfulness Gatherings (March 2021-present). Summer 2022 she launched “Souljourning for Truth Project,” a wombful pilgrimage from California to New York, MA and MI, inspired by the life and work of Sojourner Truth, formerly enslaved Black woman, preacher, womanist, abolitionist, suffragette. Here is a link to the film and interview. Presently, Ms. Sabir is at the beginning of her doctoral journey in the Women's Spirituality program at CIIS. We close with Nina Simone's "Take Me to the Water."

Motherline Stories #2 featuring: Kathryn Waddell Takara

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:30:00 +0000

In these conversations over the next year, we will speak to Black women about their motherlines. Our guest today is Kathryn Waddell Takara, Ph.D., who taught and developed the first Black Studies in the Ethnic Studies Department beginning in 1971. She transferred to Interdisciplinary Studies where she continued to develop new courses including Africana Studies. Her primary research was African American history, politics and culture. A winner of the (BCF) 2010 American Book Award, Kathryn Waddell Takara, PhD, poet, has published over 300 poems, 11 books of poetry and numerous academic articles. She is currently a writer and traveling performance poet since retiring from the University of Hawai’i (2007) after 31 years of teaching. She is recognized as a widely traveled professor, public scholar of ethnic and Africana Studies. She has travelled, taught and performed her poetry within the USA as well as in W. Europe, West and South Africa, and Eastern China. She was born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, educated at Quaker George School and Tufts University on the East Coast, and studied in France twice. She earned a Fulbright scholarship, an M.A. in French from the University of California, Berkeley and moved to Hawai`i in 1968, where she earned a PhD in Political Science from the University of Hawai’i at Ma̵noa. She has been of service to the community as a coordinator and producer of many socio-political and cultural events. We end with Nina Simone, "To Be Young Gifted and Black."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 17:00:00 +0000

1. We are joined by the erudite playwright, musician, and scholar Ishmael Reed, Carla Blank, director, and an illustrious cast tospeak about The Shine Challenge online at The Nuyorican Poetry Cafe in New York. Reservations and further information can be found at www.nuyorican.org Reed says: "In my grandmother’s brother’s house, the only painting on the wall was that of the Titanic. The sinking of the Titanic challenged the boasts of white supremacy. From the collective imagination of the Negro streets came the “toast” of “Shine,” who delivers a warning to the first- class passengers that the ship, thought to be invincible, was taking water. One might consider Shine to be the grassroots nomination for a member of the Black prophetic tradition." Ishmael Reed has lengthened the 40 or so lines of the typical Shine rap into a 100-page script in which he expands on the issues addressed in the original toast: race, class, immigration, engineering, and Edwardian morality by putting Shine on trial, in which he is both the accused and his own defense attorney. One of the reasons Reed wrote the play was he found that members of three generations of Blacks had never heard the story of Shine. He calls the play, The Shine Challenge, 2024, because he expects that a future playwright will expand upon what he has accomplished. Directed by Carla Blank, The Shine Challenge, 2024 cast includes Jesse Bueno, Maurice Carlton, Caridad De La Luz, Emil Guillermo, Rome Neal, Ishmael Reed, Tennessee Reed, Laura Robards, Monisha Shiva, and Brian Simmons as Shine. 2. We close with an interview with Lola Hanif, womanist scholar, healer, activist, writer (3/8/2012).

Wanda's Picks Radio: Gender, Sacred Sex& Healing

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 19:30:00 +0000

Part I proceeds Part III In querying the text, Sacred Pleasure: Sex, Myth and the Politics of the Body (1995) by Riane Eisler, Ph.D., I spend too much time wading through Western dominator theories. The land is too far from the shore for safety. I do not swim. I respect water, and its power to interrupt and separate my spiritual home from me. If I board the ship, I am stuck, so I keep my body safe and stay away from floating ideas (with muscles). Eventually, they--these ways predicated on fallacy or untruth, will all evaporate and I will walk free again. I didn't know until looking at the copyright information that Eisler and David Loye did create The Partnership Way, a workbook, which might answer some of my questions here.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! The poem, "Untitled," came in a dream this morning. When I heard, “Returning” by Jennifer Berezan recorded in the underground oracle temple in the Hypogeum in Hal Saflieni, Malta a 6000-year-old Goddess site for healing, I recited a poem I wrote to it. In the YouTube video, the song is sung against a visual landscape with works of art by Nicholas Roerich. It is stunning. I then went to Berezan's website and bought the song which is 52 minutes long. it is deeply meditative and calls on the dieties from different traditions. Linda Tillery, historian, musician and scholar in African folk, spirituals, sings to Yemanja. I'd just read an essay, "Jesus and Mary Dance with the Orishas: Theological Elements in Intereligious Dialogue" by Clara Luz Ajo Lazaro (Cuba), last night from the collection, "Hope Abundant: Third World and Indigenous Women's Theology," edited by Kwok Pui-lan. In the essay, the scholar explains syncretism or the blending of African and Christian theologies in slave states. Yemonja and Yeye Osun are explored along with other orisha in the essay. Osun is reinvented to reflect rape culture, linguistic co-mingling and survival strategies. My poem is untitled and came to me when I awoke this morning.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We speak to Ms. Deborah Vaughn, Dimensions Dance Theater, co-founder, Artistic Director, and Ms. Latanya d.Tigner, Dimensions Extensions, co-director, about this celebratory conclusion to an amazing year, Sat., Oct. 21 at 7:30 PM PT and Sunday, Oct. 22 at 4 PM PT at the Malonga Casquelourd Center, 1428 Alice Street, in Oakland, CA. The internationally acclaimed company closes its 50th anniversary year with performances of select signature works that have earned it a place as one of the country’s longest-standing and popular African American performing arts organizations. The program features dances that have help Dimensions become widely recognized for its presentation of both traditional and contemporary choreography drawn from African, Jazz, and Modern dance idioms. The diversity and inclusiveness of DDT’s repertoire is unique to the company and has contributed greatly to its reputation for innovative dynamism. Works to be performed include choreography by Deborah Vaughan, Latanya d. Tigner, Andrea Vonny Lee, Colette Eloi, Erik K. Raymond Lee, Justin Sharlman, Makaya Kayos, Denice Simpson Braga, and Alseny Soumah. Tickets: general $35, Seniors $25, Students $20, Youth under 12yrs $15, 4 tickets for $100 and may be purchased at www.eventbrite.com or www.dimensionsdance.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Today we speak to Michael Gene Sullivan (he/him) (Head Writer, SFMT Collective), SF Mime Troupe about its current production, "Breakdown," July 1-Sept. 4. MGS has performed with all four of the Bay Area’s Tony award-winning theaters: American Conservatory Theater, Berkeley Repertory Theater, TheatreWorks, and the San Francisco Mime Troupe (where he is also a Collective Member, director, and as Resident Playwright has written or co-written over 25 plays). He has also worked with SF Playhouse, California Shakespeare Theater, Denver Center Theatre Company, Marin Theatre Co., Aurora Theatre Co., Magic Theatre, TheatreFirst, Lorraine Hansberry Theater, African American Shakespeare Co., and the SF Shakespeare Festival. Michael is the author of the internationally produced stage adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984, of the critically-acclaimed The Great Khan, and in 2022 Michael was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship as a Dramatist. www.michaelgenesullivan.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 May 2023 16:30:00 +0000

Zaccho Dance Theatre and Bayview Opera House Inc. present:Flying to Freedom: Celebrating Juneteenth through Aerial Dance, Music, and Theater, a collective reflection on liberation created and performed by Bay Area music, theater, dance and aerial artists and curated by Joanna Haigood. Performances are at 8 pm on Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17. Tickets are $10-$35. To purchase tickets, go https://flyingtofreedom.eventbrite.com We speak to Joanna Haigood, Veronica Blair and Steven Anthony Jones. Juneteenth is a national holiday that celebrates the day (June 19, 1865) that the last enslaved people in Texas were informed of their emancipation, two years after Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. It became a national holiday in 2021. Each artists’ contribution is unique. For example, theater artist Steven Anthony Jones’ work Flying to Freedom examines the accounts of African Americans who were told stories of Black People who literally flew away to freedom. He explains, “I'll look at accounts that were heard by children and adults and I will draw on prose and poetry writing about ‘negroes who flew away.’” Aerialist Veronica Blair’s contribution is Thank You, Forgiveness!, an aerial silks performance exploring the unpacking of trauma created to heal people in a public space. “One of the most important components of liberation is healing,” she explains. “Having lived through generations of perpetual harm and rejection, we as Black people undoubtedly carry our stories and traumas in our bodies.”

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 May 2023 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 11:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Professor Ampim has taken educational tours to North Africa and Central America. In addition, he has conducted an extensive 13-country research tour to all of the major museums, institutes and libraries throughout America, Europe and Canada, which house ancient Egyptian and Nubian artifacts. Since the 1990s, he has completed several field research projects in Egypt, Nubia, and the Sudan to continue his primary research at dozens of field sites to study ancient African social organization and spiritual culture, document modern forgeries, and to record the vanishing evidence of classical African civilizations in the Nile Valley. After visiting the King Ramses II exhibit at the deYoung Museum, I had to speak to Professor Ampim to get the truth about King Ramses and clarity on what I saw at the museum. Visit wandaspicks.com (January-February 2023) for a review.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Today we spoke with Aurora Theatre Company’s Associate Artistic Director, Dawn Monique Williams about Dominique Morisseau's "PARADISE BLUE," her Detroit Trilogy: Paradise Blue, Detroit ʼ67, and Skeleton Crew. All have been produced off-Broadway and around the country. Aurora produced a successful run of Morisseau's Detroit ʼ67 in their 2018/2019 Season. Tickets are pay what you can Januar 27-Feb. 1. The show opens Feb. 2. It streams online Feb. 21-26. For single tickets ($20-$75) or subscriptions ($200-$385), the public can call (510) 843-4822 or visit www.auroratheatre.org. There is an African Diaspora Affinity Night (though all are welcome) on Friday, February 10. Discussion host and director Dawn Monique Williams may be joined by the actors, community members, and local storytellers. Other post show discussions are: Friday, February 3, Tuesday, February 7, Wednesday, February 15 Thursday, February 23 Dominique Morisseau's "Paradise Blue." is the perfect play for the Bay, the geographic resonance will echo in one's hearts long after the final curtain. Check back for the Wanda's Picks Discount code.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 17:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Today we speak to ELIJAH AHMAD LEWIS (David Ruffin) in "Ain't Too Proud, The Life and Times of the Temptations" opening tonight at Broadway SF’s Golden Gate Theatre (1 Taylor Street) November 9 – December 4, 2022. Tickets, ranging in price from $56 to $256, can be purchased at broadwaysf.com. The multi-award-winning singer, actor, songwriter and arranger has appeared on Broadway: Motown, Tony Award®-winning Ain’t Too Proud. Tours: Motown (First and Second National), Mama, I Want To Sing(Japan). TV/Film: “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” B-Boy Blues, Mama, I Want to Sing!, America (starring Rosie O'Donnell), The Grammys. Music: SZA, Chance the Rapper, Ariana Grande, James “JT” Taylor, Cissy Houston, Madonna. He says: "Thanks to family & my team. To my mentor/friend Cicely Tyson, this is for you!" IG:@elijah.ahmad.lewis elijahahmadlewis.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! SF Mime Troupe's "Back to the Way Things Were" up on vemeo through November 6. The shows are free. donations accepted. https://www.sfmt.org/ (Code "Power to the People") 1. Michael Gene Sullivan (he/him) (Head Writer, SFMT Collective) has performed with all four of the Bay Area’s Tony award-winning theaters: American Conservatory Theater, Berkeley Repertory Theater, Theatreworks, and the San Francisco Mime Troupe (where he is also a Collective Member, director, and as Resident Playwright has written or co-written over 25 plays). He has also worked with SF Playhouse, California Shakespeare Theater, Denver Center Theatre Company, Marin Theatre Co., Aurora Theatre Co., Magic Theatre, TheatreFirst, Lorraine Hansberry Theater, African American Shakespeare Co., and the SF Shakespeare Festival. Michael is the author of the internationally produced stage adaptation of George Orwell’s 1984, of the critically-acclaimed The Great Khan, and in 2022 Michael was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship as a Dramatist. www.michaelgenesullivan.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We continue our discussion with members of the cast in Ishmael Reed's latest play, "The Conductor," directed by Carla Blank, is a play in two acts. It has four (4) virtual live streamed readings this week, Thursday-Sunday, October 13-16 at Theater for the New City, https://theaterforthenewcity.net/shows/the-conductor/ When: Thursday Oct. 13, Friday Oct.14, Saturday Oct.15 at 8:00 pm & Sunday Oct. 16 matinee at 3:00 pm; Tickets $18.00; Phone 212-254-1109 Cast for The Conductor readings includes Emil Guillermo, Imran Javaid, Tennessee Reed, Laura Robards, Monisha Shiva, Brian Simmons, and Kenya Wilson. Joining us today are: Imran Javaid, Laura Robards, Monisha Shiva, and Kenya Wilson. 2. Mildred Inez Lewis, playwright, joins us to talk about the world premiere of her homage to George C. Wolfe, "The Museum Annex," directed by Elizabeth Carter, at Central Works in Berkeley, Oct. 15-Nov. 13 Visit http://centralworks.org/the-womens-annex/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 17:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 05 May 2022 21:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 19:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 20:30:00 +0000

We spoke to Quincy Troupe, author, poet, about his latest work, "Duende." It is a collection that spans 50 years of a creative life fully embodied. Taped in Zoom, this audio only approximates the honor it is to speak to such a magnificent human being 3 months before his 83rd revolution around so(u)l. He has a few more appearances this month: 1. National Poetry Month: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, NY Public Library, Iris Project, Thursday, April 14 (free, in person and virtual) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/between-the-lines-duende-poems-1966-now-by-quincy-troupe-tickets-302280518167 2. With Mildred Howard and David Murray at the close of the "The House that Will not Pass for Any Color than Its Own." Friday, April 16, from 4 to 6pm at Belvedere Plaza (just north of the North Cove Marina) to mark the end of the artwork’s stay in Manhattan’s Battery Park City. 3. Poet, Quincy Troupe | DUENDE: Poems 1966- Now | Reading & Book Signing at the Carrie Chen Gallery on Saturday, April 23 from 4-5pm, 16 Railroad Street, Great Barrington, MA 01230 4. NY Society Library, Apr. 28, 6 PM ET Livestream (free) https://www.nysoclib.org/events/livestream-quincy-troupe-duende-poems-1966-now

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 03:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 21:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Virtual Interview podcast version: Theatre Rhinoceros's presents: "How Black Mothers Say I Love You", directed Tanika Baptiste, written by Trey Anthony; and Carla Banudejesus, actor join us to talk about this play at Theatre Rhino in SF https://therhino.org/ Dates: March 17 – April 3, 2022 Where: Spark Arts, 4229 18th Street, SF, in the Castro. West Coast Premiere. Meet Claudette, now in her late thirties, who travels to visit her dying mother Daphne in Brooklyn, but that doesn’t stop her anger and abandonment issues from bubbling up. It doesn’t stop Daphne from voicing her opinions on how Claudette lives her life, either. With Daphne, Claudette, and another daughter Valerie all under one roof again, each family member is forced to confront her emotions while there’s still time.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 21:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Jesse Douglas Allen Taylor made his transition this past weekend. It was rather sudden for all of us, especially his family, Tarika Lewis and Geoffrey Pete. There was a memorial for him Sunday, March 6. I had a great conversation with Jesse, PEN Oakland honoree, about his first novel, "Sugaree Rising." This is a rebroadcast of that interview (4/5/2013). https://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2013/04/05/wandas-picks-radio-show "We open with an interview with Bay Area author, journalist and political columnist J. Douglas Allen-Taylor about his first novel, Sugaree Rising, set in the South Carolina coastal area Lowcountry in the late Depression years and discuss his well-crafted female characters like narrator Yally, Aunt Soo, Na'Risa, Nana'Timbi, Eshy. . . to hold the bridge between the past and the present as this community of Gullah people face an enemy threatening to end their collective lives. They resist while Yally feet in the middle of the path finds no rest, as her beloved community seems to be unraveling and withit her identity. Sugaree shows there are many ways to die, some more painful than others. And what do we do with the dead who refuse burial? http://www.sugareerising.com/"

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 00:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Amy Alanes serves as the Executive Director for the Women’s Cancer Resource Center (WCRC) in Berkeley. Serving Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, WCRC provides comprehensive and coordinated services that include community-based cancer patient navigation, psychotherapy and affinity-based support groups, wellness programs, and emergency financial assistance. Her work has spanned homeless services, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, rape and sexual assault, mental health, and cancer support services. She previously served as the Executive Director of the Summit Bank Foundation, the Development Director of Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area, Director of Administration for Community Violence Solutions, and in multiple positions with New Connections Behavioral Healthcare. Dolores Moorehead is the Lead Client Navigator/Multicultural Client Support Clinician for the Women’s Cancer Resource Center (WCRC). Dolores began her tenure with WCRC as a volunteer and board member and has been on staff for 19 years. Previously, Dolores was employed for almost 14 years at the American Cancer Society as a Patient Services Manager. She received a Master's of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.S. in Psychology with honors from Walden University. She obtained training from The Center of Mind Body Medicine as a facilitator in Mind Body Relaxation Skills. For over 33 years, Dolores has passionately devoted her professional career to serving individuals with cancer in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2008, she received the American Cancer Society’s National Lane Adams Quality of Life Award in recognition of exemplary cancer care and ongoing support to cancer patients. 3. L. Peter Callender & Leontyne Mbele-Mbong on Antony and Cleopatra (African American Shakespeare 2015-16). african-americanshakes.org/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We speak to Joanna Haigood, Artist Director, and Walter Kitundu collaborating multimedia artist, about Haigood's latest opus, "Love, A State of Grace," a performance ritual installation at San Francisco's Grace Cathedral. Performing Artists bio: http://www.zaccho.org/?bios_love https://vimeo.com/630195772 Since 1980 Joanna Haigood has been creating work that uses natural, architectural, and cultural environments as points of departure for movement exploration and narrative. Her stages have included grain terminals, a clock tower, the pope’s palace, military forts, and a mile of urban neighborhood streets in the South Bronx. Her work has been commissioned by many arts institutions. She has been honored with the Guggenheim Fellowship, the Herb Alpert Award in the Arts, the United States Artist Fellowship, and a New York Bessie Award. Haigood is a recipient of the esteemed Doris Duke Artist Award and she has had the privilege to mentor many extraordinary young artists internationally at the National École des Arts du Cirque in France, Spelman College, the Institute for Diversity in the Arts at Stanford University, the San Francisco Circus Center, and at Zaccho Studio in San Francisco. Walter Kitundu is a multidisciplinary artist with a focus on kinetic sculpture and sound installation, composition, public art, and teaching. He builds (and performs on) extraordinary musical instruments, while researching and documenting the natural world. Kitundu has created hand-built record players driven by the wind, rain, fire, earthquakes, birds, light, and the force of ocean waves. In 2008 he received a MacArthur Fellowship in recognition of his art practice and his capacity to make important cultural contributions. He was a Bay Area resident for 15 years.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 21:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 21:00:00 +0000

From the archives, MLK Jr. Special Programming 2009 and 2021. Visit wandaspicks.com for 2022 Dr. King events. 1. We begin this morning in conversation with Charles Curtis Blackwell, poet, playwright, artivist, subject of film: "God Given Talent" and Rev. Clarence Johnson, a veteran of the Civil Rights Movement, join us to talk about the legacy of Dr. MLK Jr. who would have been 92 in 2021. 2. We speak to Marcus Shelby, who is participated in the MLK Music Tribute in 2009. He premiered an excerpt of a new work honoring Martin King. Ms. Faye Carol, featured in Marcus' new work, joined the musician/composer in the studio and then stayed on when Melanie DeMore joined us. We had a fun conversation, so much so, I could barely get a word in to welcome Clifford Brown Jr., into the studio. The three then had a great time conversing until Ms. Carol had to sign off. Okay, I am trying to let out my breath...whew! 3. Miko Marks and Kev Choice came into the studio after this segment, to talk about their work, Miko as a country western singer, and Kev as a rap artist whose work seeks to uplift the community, his listeners. They both performed, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2009, 8 PM, at the Oaktown Jazz Workshop fundraiser at Yoshi's in Jack London Square in Oakland. 4. We close with a conversation with Hodari B. Davis and Mike Turner. Mike is a student at Encinal High School, and Hodari is director of National Initiatives for Youth Speaks.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Archives July 10, 2012

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

1. Akilah Jaramogi, Forester, Environmental Consultant, Social Entrepreneur and Cultural Activist. is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Fondes Amandes Community Reforestation Project in St. Ann's, Trinidad and Tobago. The jeweler is a proud Merikin descendant, and the Co-founder, past president and CEO of the Merikin Heritage Foundation. 2. Michael "Khubaka" Harris, Sasha Briscoe, Statewide President, Allensworth Friends; Carmen Setness, Community Outreach Coordinator, San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) join us to talk about the Rededication, Sat., Oct. 9 @Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. 3. Michael Burdette, President of Hylife-Ocity Productions based in Oakland and artist Anessa Strings. 4. Andrea Chung, Artist joins us to talk about her exhibit at Tyler Park in LA: "We Was Girls Together," through Oct. 30.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We continue our discussion of Veterans Healing Veterans (VHV) @ the Veterans Transition Center in Monterey county and in CA State Prisons. We are joined by the founder, participants and facilitators: Sally McNeill, Craig Farrell, Randal Williams, Marcus Blevins-- participants VHV; Jenny Nesler, VHV; Ron Self, Founder, VHV; Bobby Emory, VHV; Alejandra Saldana, Caseworker, VTC/VHV 2. Deodoceo Habi, veteran, joins us to talk about his healing journey outlined in his book: "Memoirs in the Moment" (2021). 3. David M. Massey, the first African American Filmmaker ever Oscar-Nominated for “Best Live Action Short Film” (for 1992’s “Last Breeze of Summer” which he produced,) joins us to talk about his newest Short Film Project: “Passage.” The film presents a West African culture that faces an unprecedented challenge in the year 1600.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. In "LIFE I SWEAR" by Chloe Dulce Louvouezo, she brings together twenty-five of today’s most influential Black female voices in an exploration of self love and healing. Chloe will be in the SF Bay Area on November 19, 2021 for an event at Black Girls Greenhouse in Oakland. ("Love After Love" by Derek Wilcox.) 2. nialla rose is an accredited T'ai Chi Chih teacher. She has been practicing t'ai chi/ qi gong for over a decade. 2 years ago, she co-created a group for movement teachers determined to make movement increasingly accessible to everyone. nialla has worked in the health field for 25+ years, with a focus on marginalized communities and women with cancer. 3. Amikaela Gaston from 07/26/2014 This morning we also mix it up with prerecorded or previously broadcast interviews with filmmakers and actors and activists. Be surprised for now. We will annouce and then update the website later.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 16:00:00 +0000

1. For our first hour we speak to veterans about their return to civilian life, some of whom made detours into CA Correctional facilities. The Veteran's Transition Center, Veterans Healing Veteran's program, facilitates the reentry for these men and women at the former Ft. Ord military base in Marina, Monterey County, CA. http://veteranshealingveterans.com 2. El-Hajj Mauri [pronounced Moor-e] Saalakhan is a Metro-Washington, DC, based writer, poet, and human rights advocate, who currently serves as director of operations for The Aafia Foundation, a Muslim led human rights organization. He joins us to talk about Dr. Aafia Siddiqui and Imam Jalil Al Amin and the rally Nov. 13, in Washington, DC for political prisoners: www.aafia.org 3. Sam Jackson (Risa/Miranda), a San Francisco based actor, vocalist and teaching artist and William Thomas Hodgson (Baldwin/Louis), an acting company member at the Oregon Shakespeare Company; co-Artistic Director, Oakland Theater Project, join us to talk about the World Premiere of Father/Daughter by Kait Kerrigan, Nov. 12 on stage, streaming Dec.7-12, at the Aurora Theatre in Berkeley, CA: https://www.auroratheatre.org/fatherdaughter

Wanda's Picks Radio Archival Show March 29, 2013

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

We close our March celebration of women with a look at the legacy of Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman. We start with a conversation with Avery Sharpe, a visionary composer, educator and musician whose work “Ain’t I a Woman” consists of compositions based on formerly enslaved abolitionist and women’s rights advocate, Sojourner Truth’s life, the title of the project taking its title from a speech she made for woman suffrage in Seneca Falls, NY, in 1851. Later in the show we continue this conversation with Paula M. Kimper, composer of “Truth, a New Folk Opera about Sojourner Truth, the ex-slave, fiery abolitionist and women’s rights pioneer, Linda McInerney, director/co-creator and co-conceiver, is also founder and Artistic Director of Old Deerfield Productions; and Mari-Yan Pringle, who sings the lead. Visit http://truthopera.com/ Between the two Truth conversations is a prerecorded interview with scholar and author, Dr. Jeanne Theoharis about her latest book: "The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks." The full interview is broadcast April 3, 2013. We close with a conversation about the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument as the 399th unit of the National Park System (to open in 2015) with Robert G. Stanton, former Director of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Senior Adviser to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. Visit www.nps.gov/hatu

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. CHARLOTTE HILL O’NEAL aka Mama C aka Iya Osotunde Fasuyi is an internationally known visual artist, musician, performance artist, ATR priestess, film maker, poet/writer of more than three decades experience. Visit UAACC 2. Destiny Muhammad Trio, joins us to talk about her Digital Residency Nov. 3-5, 12-1 PM PT on YouTube and FB. 3. Br'er Peach from archives, April 17. We speak to director, Andrew Saito and cast, Michael Gene Sullivan and Resa Mishina. 4. Br'er Peach @ AlterTheater The season starts with an audio play by Andrew Saito, Br’er Peach, produced in collaboration with The Parsnip Ship and in association with Business Lunch Productions. We speak to Jeanette Harrison, Co-Founder, Artistic Director AlterTheater; Desdemona Chiang, Director, Iyvon E., Dramaturg. The run is October 21 - December 12, www.altertheater.org/peach

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Oct. 20, 2021

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Oct. 14 with Tongo Eisen Martin; Margo Hall

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special-- 6th Annual Black Sustainablity Summit, 10/14

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 02:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Akilah Jaramogi, Forester, Environmental Consultant, Social Entrepreneur and Cultural Activist. is the Co-Founder and CEO of the Fondes Amandes Community Reforestation Project in St. Ann's, Trinidad and Tobago. The jeweler is a proud Merikin descendant, and the Co-founder, past president and CEO of the Merikin Heritage Foundation. 2. Sasha Briscoe, Statewide President, Allensworth Friends; Carmen Setness, Community Outreach Coordinator, San Joaquin Regional Rail Commission (SJRRC) join us to talk about the Rededication, Sat., Oct. 9 @Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park. 3. Michael Burdette, President of Hylife-Ocity Productions based in Oakland and artist Anessa Strings. 4. Andrea Chung, Artist joins us to talk about her exhibit at Tyler Park in LA: "We Was Girls Together," through Oct. 30.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast 09/28/2021

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Hurricane Ida Update, Electric Lady: The Ladies in the Life of Jimi Hendrix, We Cry Genocide, International Tribunal, Oct. 22-25, 55th Anniversary of the BPP 1. BJ, Black Panther Party Alumni Museum, joins us to talk about the 55th Anniversary October 22-24, program in Oakland, CA. The big day is Oct. 23. 2. Baba Jalil Muntaquim, POW, joins us to talk about JERICHO and the International Tribunal Oct. 22-25 (virtually). 3. Update on Hurricane Ida with Nana Sula Spirit and Baba Malik Rahim. 4. Electric Lady: The Ladies in the Life of Jimi Hendricks is Oct. 1 (5 PM PT/8 PM ET) virtually. Jerome Preston Bates, Rome Neal, Rosa Lee Brooks and Genia Lear Morgan, join us to talk about the production. Electric Lady (An Infinity of Jimi) is a BLACK REPERTORY GROUP (Berkeley) 59th. MAINSTAGE SEASON production.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: 55th Anniversary of the BPP; Hurricane Ida Update

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Sept. 22, 2021

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Kushite Nubian International Conference Oct. 1-3

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

1. Brother Manu Ampim and Sis. Mayada Mannan-Brake join us this morning to talk about an upcoming conference: Kushite Nubian Heritage International Conference: Perserving an African Legecy, Oct. 1-3; Her father Baba Nuraddin Abdulmannan (retired Sudan Ambassador to the U.S.) will not be available for the interview. Sister Mayada is a long-time Nubian activist with family roots in northern Sudan. 2. Delfeayo Marsalis joins us to talk about his beloved NOLA post-Ida. 3. Lewis Jordan, musician, composer, artist, joins us to talk about his concert at The Freight and Salvage, Monday, Sept. 27

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast -- The Jimi Hendrix Experiment

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special with Omar Sosa

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Special Guests: Cuban composer and pianist Omar Sosa is one of the most versatile jazz artists on the scene today. He fuses a wide range of jazz, world music, and electronic elements with his native Afro-Cuban roots to create a fresh and original urban sound – all with a Latin jazz heart. Omar Sosa’s musical trajectory has taken him from Camagüey and Havana to touring in Angola, the Congo, Ethiopia, and Nicaragua in the 1980s; to a sojourn in the African-descent communities of Ecuador in the early 1990s; to an extended presence on the San Francisco Bay Area Latin jazz scene; to his current engagement with artists from France, Cuba, Brazil, and several North, West, and East African nations. https://omarsosa.com/short_biography/ Omar joins us to talk about his date, Sept. 16 @ SFJAZZ: Motherland Journey w/SCULPTOR-PAINTER GITHINJI WA'MBIRE & DRUMMER AMAURY ACOSTA. Githinji Wa'mbire joins us too. https://www.sfjazz.org/tickets/productions/omar-sosa-motherland-journey/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show ft.: Jerome Preston Bates re: Jimi Hendrix Experiment

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show (Sept. 11, 2020 Rebroadcast)

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast 9/1/21

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

1. Hon. Pamela Price, Esq.,Justice with Compassion (pamelaprice4da.com/about) 2. ShakaJamal Redmond (Olu8); MXO and Don Dada join us from South Africa. MXO’s debut single “Sista Kunjani” intricately showcased his distinct way of moulding afro soul, jazz, funk, traditional and pop, carving a post-modern eclectic genre which was emulated by many young musicians but never matched. Menelik Nesta Gibbons also known as Don Dada is a Zimbabwean born South African citizen who is a multi-platinum selling reggae/hip hop artist on a quest to push convention and carve out a legacy as one of the motherland’s thought leaders and influencers whose music is not just entertainment but about consciousness, identity and pride. Olu8 is a culturally innovative artist, producer and filmmaker from Oakland, California. @shakajamal @olu8films 3. We close with an archived interview with ShakaJamal.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 15:30:00 +0000

Link to register for the upcoming N'COBRA 2021 Conference, Friday-Sunday, June 25-27. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ncobra-32nd-annual-national-conference-tickets-150726116873 Rebroadcast from 7.29.2020 Today we speak to the male co-chair of N'COBRA, Nana Kwesi Jomoke Ifetayo about the 31st N'COBRA Virtual Conference, July 30-Aug. 1, 2020. Contact: reparationsj@gmail.com (678) 437-7882 2. Delfeayo Marsalis has launched a new non-profit – Keep NOLA Music Alive – designed to help keep New Orleans music culture thriving during these uncertain times. Delfeayo kicks off the fundraising effort with a “Double-Nickel Birthday Bash” virtual performance Sunday, August 2, 3 p.m. PT/5 p.m. CDT/6 p.m. EDT marking his 55th birthday..

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Dr. Lynne Morrow joins us to talk about James Weldon Johnson whose song or poem, Lift Ev'ry Voice is the Black National Anthem and is perhaps to become this year, the National Hymn. 2. Audio from a Zoom interview with DeNeen Brown, awardwinning writer for the Washington Post. Her research and series of articles are the basis for "Rise Again: Tulsa and the Red Summer, directed by Dawn Porter. The film premieres on National Geographic Friday, June 18, 9 PM ET/PT and available to stream on Hulu the same day. Visit https://films.nationalgeographic.com/riseagain 3. We close with a conversation with two Tupac Shakur (June 16, 1971-Sept.13, 1996) scholars: Dr. Dawn Elissa Fisher & Dr. Dionne Bennett (9/11/20). Music: Billy Harper's Knowledge of Self featuring Amiri Baraka; Tupac's Keep Ya Head Up; Committed's Lift Ev'ry Voice.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 20:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Poor People's Virtual Weekend, 6/20-21, 2020 1. Nell Myhand is an Oakland based organizer, author and speaker whose work brings people together across age, race, class and other differences forming alliances to create powerful, effective solutions to common problems that leave no one out and no one behind. She is a member of the Bay Area Poor People’s Campaign Steering Committee working locally and nationally to amplify the voices of low/no wealth people and our demands for resources to meet our basic needs for housing, education, healthcare, and a livable climate. She also organizes with Women of Color in the Global Women’s Strike, an international organization calling on all governments for a Care Income Now that would recognize unwaged caregiving as work deserving of a wage. https://www.june2020.org/ 2. Vincent Terrell Durham, joins us to talk about theatre, writing, walking while Black and his Polar Bears. Black Boys & Prairie Fringed Orchids and Juneteenth Theatre Justice Project https://www.vtdisme.com/ 3. From the Archives: Bryan Keith Thomas@Joyce Gordon Gallery

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 May 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 May 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Celebrates Malcolm X; Motherhood & African Ancestors

Fri, 21 May 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 May 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 May 2021 15:30:00 +0000

Legacy Film Festival on Aging Features May 24-31 1.Sam Hampton, Director, "Twelve Ingredients"; Adele Hampton 2. Sandra Hubbard, The Giants Wore White Gloves (40 mins) (The Lost Years) 3. David Wild, director, "Today Was a Good Day" with KaTania “Kat” Brown (subject) was born and raised in Detroit. She is a small business owner, freelance virtual assistant of Virtually Possible 365, and newly launched business social media deactivation service Digital Footprint Consulting. Author of Love Notes: A Caregiver’s Journal (2019), in addition to being a caregiver for her mother since 1991 before her passing October, 2020. www.virtuallypossible365.com 4. Mothers of Gynecology with Michelle Browder, JC Hallman

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 May 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Masashi Niwano is the Festival & Exhibition Director at the Center for Asian American Media (CAAM). He is a Bay Area native who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Film Production from San Francisco State University. Masashi has been associated with CAAM for over a decade, starting as an intern, then becoming involved in theater operations and, finally, being chosen as a selected filmmaker (Falling Stars, 2006). Prior to re-joining CAAM as Festival & Exhibition Director, Masashi was the Executive Director for the Austin Asian American Film Festival. He is also an active filmmaker, who has worked on numerous films and music videos that are official selections at Outfest, Newfest & South By Southwest. 2. Br'er Peach Andrew Saito@AlterTheater (donate by May 9) 3. Sheila Malkind, founder and Executive Director, Legacy Film Festival 4. AMERICANISH director/writer/producer, Iman Zalwahry joins Aizzah Fatima (writer/producer) to talk about CAAMFest 2021 closing feature May 23. It is also their first feature film!

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Join us at 9 AM this morning for a wonderful conversation with Ameha Molla and Rajal Pitroda, San Francisco filmmakers who won BLACK PUBLIC MEDIA’S PITCHBLACK for their documentary feature "Higher 15", which tells the story of Molla’s uncle, Kiflu Ketema, a former Ethiopian revolutionary turned lead witness in an FBI investigation against his murderous prison guard in war-torn Addis Ababa. Our next guest is Cherilyn Parsons, Executive Director and Founder of the Bay Area Book Festival starting May 1. There is a free special tribute to Lawrence Ferlinghetti this evening 5:30-6:30 PM PT We close with a rebroadcast of an interview with Dawn Monique Williams Associate Director, Aurora Theatre's production of Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye" (adapted by Lydia R. Diamond). Michael J. Asberry (actor) joins Dawn Monique.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 21:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We play the audio from an interview with Margo Hall (3/12), Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, and director of the new play [hieroglyph] by Erika Dickerson-Despenza For tickets to the co-production through 4/3 visit: San Francisco Playhouse and Lorraine Hansberry Theatre or call: (415) 677-9596. Involuntarily displaced in Chicago two months post-Katrina, 13-year-old Davis wrestles with the cultural landscape of a new city and school community while secretly coping with the PTSD of an assault at the Superdome. With her mother still in New Orleans committed to the fight for Black land ownership and her father committed to starting a new life in the Midwest, divorce threatens to further separate a family already torn apart. Will Davis be left hanging in the balance? [hieroglyph] traverses the intersection of environmental racism, sexual violence, and displacement, examining the psychological effects of a state-sanctioned man-made disaster on the most vulnerable members of the Katrina diaspora.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 15:00:00 +0000

1. Seenaa Jimjimo is an Oromo-American born in and raised in Ethiopia. She works as Environmental Health Specialist II and is the co-founder and Executive Director of Oromo Legacy Leadership, and Advocacy Association (OLLAA) formerly known as Coalition of Oromo Advocates for Human Rights and Democracy. Website: https://ollaa.org/ 2. Art Hazelwood on Ronnie Goodman at PS1 NY MOMA tonight, 6:30-8 PM ET (3:30 PM PT) Register https://www.moma.org/calendar/events/6998 A panel and short film screening Honoring Ronnie Goodman will be held at MoMA PS1 in an online presentation as part of the exhibition "Marking Time." Nicole Goodman, Ronnie’s daughter, will be there, Nicole Fleetwood, curator of the exhibition will be speaking, Gary Harrell, recently “graduated" from the Prison Arts Project at San Quentin, Katya McCulloch, teacher at San Quentin, Frank Ruona, running coach at San Quentin, Laurie Brooks, William James Association, and myself, as well as other speakers. 3. Jayson Johnson, director, co-writer; Sara Anders, co-writer, producer re: T.H.O.T.? a new film to look for in the theatres soon.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 19:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! This morning we hosted in Zoom via Facebook.com/ wandasabir "Growing Up in the Nation of Islam." Today, Feb. 26, is a day known as Savior's Day, the day our Black God was born. The meeting included Wanda Sabir as host with childhood friends Verna Owens Brooks, Zakiyyah Mahasin and other members of the community who were our big sisters: Marva Reed, Raja Hayat, Sister Wafiyyah and Sister Nisaa Bismillah. We will close with an archived show from Feb. 12, 2021 with Elisha Greenwell, Black Joy Parade 2021; Afiya Madzimoyo, M.S.W., joins us to talk about Black Love Day 2021, Sat., Feb. 13; Spell #7 @Celebration Arts in Sacramento, opens its season, Feb. 11, directed by Melinda Wilson Ramey, Ph.D., with choreography by Linda S. Goodrich, Ph.D., they join us to talk about playwright Ntozake Shange's remarkably astute work about Black identity.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

1. Alita Henderson, STOP THINK AND RESTORE, founder/Lifestyle Coach, shares Say I Love You to Yourself workshop Feb. 28, 2021. 2 Kharyshi Wiginton joins us to talk about. RedZone film screening & discussion is Friday, Feb. 12, 6-8 p.m. ET This masterful choreographed tale of a Black woman survivor finding healing and liberation speaks to and honors the resilience and power of survivors. The theater performance, which debuted at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts in Oakland, California, was written by Survivor Healing Series panelist and singer Jennifer Johns and choreographer Kendra Barnes. 3. gina breedlove joined me 2/14/13 to speak about 1 Billion Rising 6/22/12 (I think)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Belly of the Beast: This morning we are joined in the studio by director, Erika Cohn and attorney Cynthia Chandler to talk about a beast and women who were consumed by this beast, CDCR, women like Kelli Dillon to took the beast to court and won. 2. Jeff Ross joins us to talk about 23rd Annual SF Indie Festival, Feb. 4-21, 2021. Jeff has been an events producer for over twenty five years, ranging from nightclub shows, art openings, live music, performing arts and film festivals. In the past, he has served as Operations Manager at the SF International Film Festival (1997-2001) and as a member of the operations team at Burning Man (2006-2018). He founded SF IndieFest in 1998 and currently produces four annual film festivals a year in San Francisco which present nine weeks of programming and a combined annual attendance of over 20,000 patrons. 3. Rebroadcast Feb. 3, 2021 show.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We begin the morning with poets: Kim McMillion; Kim Shuck; Hassaun Ali Jones Bey (recorded) and Lenard Moore. There is always time for poetry. 2. Playground Solo Performances: Carla Vega in Grandma’s Hands, direction by Shyamala Moorty Rayshawn Chism in Beethoven and Misfortune Cookies, written & directed by Joni Ravenna, original direction by Allison Bergman 3. SF Indie Festival Jeff Ross has been an events producer for over twenty five years, ranging from nightclub shows, art openings, live music, performing arts and film festivals. In the past, he has served as Operations Manager at the SF International Film Festival (1997-2001) and as a member of the operations team at Burning Man (2006-2018). He founded SF IndieFest in 1998 and currently produces four annual film festivals a year in San Francisco which present nine weeks of programming and a combined annual attendance of over 20,000 patrons.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Lisa Goshon is the President of LGI Branding Inc. and the first minority-woman in the U.S. to manufacture N95 surgical-grade face mask. She’s also the pioneer of the patented biometric authentication 2-way exchange software called “PECX” and founder of the Black Women of COVID Alliance. Lisa resides in Southern California. https://www.blactecfacemasks.com/ Nikcole Cunningham is an adoption social worker for Department of Human Services in San Francisco, California where she supports families with mental health services and ongoing difficult issues. 2. Watershed Environmental Poetry Festival is this weekend, Jan. 30-31. We are joined by Joyce Jenkins, editor, Poetry Flash and Kim Shuck, SF Poet Laureate to talk about this event. PoetryFlash.org 3. Diane Barnes joins us to talk about her latest work which is having an encore https://www.dianebarnes415.com/about

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to Faye Kennedy and Kevin Carter, Poor People's Campaign in Sacramento, CA

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

1. Wallis Tinnie, Ph.D., & Dinizulu Gene Tinnie re:VIRTUAL Annual Seminole Maroon Spiritual Remembrance of the Two 1838 Battles of the Loxahatchee 1/9 & 1/17. FBHRPINC.org for links to programs 2. Stacey Hoffman, ED, Living Jazz, joins us to talk about In the Name of Love: A Musical Tribute to Dr. MLK Jr. (2001), Jan. 17, 2021, 4 p.m. PT. Poetry Jam: the Afrofuturist Edition. Thursday, January 14, 2021. Hosted by San Francisco’s Poet Laureate Kim Shuck. Sponsored by the San Francisco Public Library one can view from YouTube feature: Ishmael Reed and Dr. Glenn Parish. 3. Ishmael Reed is the winner of the prestigious MacArthur Fellowship (genius award), the renowned L.A. Times Robert Kirsch Lifetime Achievement Award and the Lila Wallace-Reader's Digest Award. Ishmael Reed is the author of more than thirty titles including the acclaimed novel Mumbo Jumbo, as well as non-fiction, plays and poetry. Reed’s latest book of poetry is Why The Black Hole Sings The Blues. He is a Distinguished Professor at the California College of the Arts. Dr. Glenn Parris writes cross-genre books in medical mystery, Afrofuturism, science fiction, fantasy and historical fiction. Dr. Parris’s short story "The Tooth Fairies: Quest for Tear Haven" is now available in the Outland Entertainment new faerie stories anthology, Where the Veil is Thin, edited by Alana Joli Abbot and Cerece Rennie Murphy. His Afrofuturistic novel, Dragon’s Heir is being republished by Outland Entertainment in 2021.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

January is Sexual Trafickking Awareness Month. Sharan Dhanoa, Director of Strategic Development for the South Bay Coalition to End Human Trafficking, joins us to talk about this public health emergency that flies to low on the radar, no one is aware of the danger our young Black and Brown girls and boys face. She has organized a series of conversations for the public to educate us about the problem, who's at risk and what can be done to stop it. Sharan facilitates collaboration amongst over thirty-five member agencies. In May 2014, she began facilitating the largest multi-county workgroup in the Bay Area, No Traffick Ahead, which is unifying efforts in eight counties in order to effectuate collective impact across sectors. Prior to joining the Coalition, Sharan worked with women trafficked into sexual exploitation in Calcutta, India, by aiding their development through economic empowerment. She started her career in crime research, has worked in crime surveillance, and in an emergency psychiatric facility. Sharan holds a Master’s degree in Criminology from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Juris Doctorate from Santa Clara University School of Law. Sharan was awarded “2015 Abolitionist of the Year” for Advocacy by the San Francisco Collaborative Against Human Trafficking, the "Unsung Hero Award" by the County of Santa Clara Valley in 2015, and the South Asian Bar Association’s “Community Impact Award” in 2016. 2. We speak to the newly elected Mayor Ge'Nell Gary, City of Albany 3. C. SADE TURNIPSEED MBA/MS/PhD joins us to talk about the Cotton Pickers Museum and other projects that honor the legacy of enslaved Africans and their descendents.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Another Hole in the Head Film Festival thru 12/27

Fri, 25 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We speak to Benji Carver, programmer, about the 17th Annual Hole in the Head Film Festival Dec. 11-27, 2020 via Eventive.org and Zoom.us. W speak about several films with themes related to African and African Disapora interests and films with SF Bay area directors. The festival will once again bring the freshest new independent genre films from around the world to San Francisco audiences. The festival will include over forty feature films, and over 250 short films - all available on demand through Eventive. Selected content will also screen live on Zoom during special weekend shows, featuring audience Q&As with the filmmakers. Tickets are $10; a full pass is $125, ten film pass is $75 and five film pass is $40. There are also numerous free programs. For all festival information, visit https://ahith2020.eventive.org/welcome. Music: Zion Trinity and Nana Sula: Humanity and The Ancient Mothers

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to co-editors of Colossus: HOME (2020), Sara Biel and Karla Brundage colossuspress.org Sara Biel is a poet, visual artist, and social worker. Her work combines original text with different art materials. She is passionate about collaborative art and performance processes, and focuses on art as a medium for building community. Sara’s work has been featured in Oakland’s Moondrop productions and sPARKLE & bLINK. She is the editor of Colossus: Bay Area Poets Challenge Immigration Injustice, Sara and Karla Brundage collaboratively edited Colossus:Home Karla Brundage is a Bay Area based poet, activist, and educator. Born in Berkeley, California in the summer of love to a Black mother and white father, Karla spent most of her childhood in Hawaii where she developed a deep love of nature. She is a Pushcart Prize nominee and the founder of West Oakland to West Africa Poetry Exchange (WO2WA) and is a board member of the Before Columbus Foundation. http://westoaklandtowestafrica.com/ as well as on https://www.karlabrundage.com/ 2. Silicon Valley Dance Festival rebroadcast Music: Zion Trinity; Imani Coppola

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

We speak to Benji Carver, programmer, about the 17th Annual Hole in the Head Film Festival Dec. 11-27, 2020 via Eventive.org and Zoom.us. W speak about several films with themes related to African and African Disapora interests and films with SF Bay area directors. The festival will once again bring the freshest new independent genre films from around the world to San Francisco audiences. The festival will include over forty feature films, and over 250 short films - all available on demand through Eventive. Selected content will also screen live on Zoom during special weekend shows, featuring audience Q&As with the filmmakers. Tickets are $10; a full pass is $125, ten film pass is $75 and five film pass is $40. There are also numerous free programs. For all festival information, visit https://ahith2020.eventive.org/welcome. Free Preview on Zoom tomorrow night starting at 6 pm. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_KyiIe2_cSW-Y_Mcd18wHOg We'll be screening trailers and speaking briefly with each of the filmmakers in attendance. These are always a lot of fun, so I hope you can join us as well. Music: Zion Trinity and Nana Sula: Humanity and The Ancient Mothers

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Babatunji Johnson was born in Portland, Oregon but raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. He received his formal dance training from Center Stage Dance Studio and the University of Hawaii in Hilo before moving to San Francisco to train at the LINES Ballet Training Program on full scholarship. Currently, he is a dancer with Post:Ballet and SFDanceworks in San Francisco. Sidra Bell Dance New Yorkis rapidly gaining an international profile for work that reveals aspects of the human condition through a distinctly female lens. The Company has performed extensively throughout the USA, Europe, Canada, and South America. Bell’s process is intuitive, collaborative, and emphasizes the integration of multiple design elements and languages. Her work combines design, media, and fashion creating a singular vision in contemporary dance. Robert Moses’ KIN's mission is to produce work that speaks to what is specific and unique in human nature. Robert Moses' KIN uses movement as the medium through which race, class, culture and gender are used to voice the existence of our greater potential and unfulfilled possibilities. Moses' focus on the expressiveness of the human body and his desire to speak with the voices of his African American heritage have produced works with regional, national and international recognition. We close with a treat from the Archives circa 2012.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 20:00:00 +0000

1. Oliver "Tuku" Mtukudzi is a Zimbabwean musician, businessman, philanthropist, human rights activist who recently made his transition Sept. 22, 1952-Jan. 23, 2019. We share a March 23, 2011 interview. Zimbabwe Music Festival in the Bay Feb. 1-2, 2019, at http://www.ashkenaz.com/ 2. Josh Folan, producer, Ask for Jane at SF Indie Fest 2019 3. CHRISTOPHER GREENSLATE's film, SAVIOR, is at SF Indie Feb. 2 (9:30 PM) and 2/6 (9:15 PM) at the Roxie. 4. Ellen Sebastian Chang is the Creative Director (11 plus years) for The World As It Could Be Human Rights Education Program, where we use the arts to teach the historical and current understanding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This event, Feb. 14, 21, 23, is in celebration of the 70th anniversary of the drafting of this important document that only 7% of our population is aware of. Sandy Sohcot is the director and originator of The World As It Could Be Human Rights Education Program. Sandy Sohcot holds a California Lifetime Teaching Credential. In July 2001, Sandy became Executive Director of the Rex Foundation and served as in that capacity through 2013, to help renew the Foundation in the absence of direct Grateful Dead concert funding. Artist, Virginia "Nia" Jourdan, who also joins us, is hosting the programs and unveiling 24 works inspired by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Min. Imhotep Alkebulan, founding member, Wo'se Community Church (1987). Senior Minister of Wo'se Sacramento.. 2. Demetri Broxton is the Senior Director of Education at Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in San Francisco, CA. An Oakland native, Broxton has over 19 years of experience working in the field of education and the arts. Outside of his role at MoAD, Demetri is an independent curator and practicing artist. He served as a curator for the City of Berkeley (2013-2020) and his artwork is represented by Patricia Sweetow Gallery in San Francisco. Broxton holds an M.A. in Museum Studies from San Francisco State University (2010) and a BFA from UC Berkeley in Art Practice (2002). 3. Baba Opesanwo Ifakorede Fadairo, Alagbigba Babalawo joins us to talk about ancestors and his work with herbs and nutrition as medicine (winter season) 4. Riddim Doctors: Val Serrant and Sikiru Adepoju

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! The International Day to End Violence Against Women & Girls the 16-Day Campaign is Nov. 25-Dec.10 Dr. Kim McMillon is a producer, playwright and upcoming Willow author (Voyages). McMillon is a contributor to the anthology Some Other Blues: New Perspectives on Amiri Baraka (Ohio University Press, 2021). She also produced the Dillard University-Harvard’s Hutchins Center Black Arts Movement 2016 Conference in New Orleans, and with UC Merced’s Center for the Humanities, ASUCM, and the Office of Student Life, Ms. McMillon co-produced the 2014 UC Merced Black Arts Movement Conference, Fifty Years On. Nina Serrano is a Vallejo poet. She has published 3 books of poetry and a novel She has also edited an anthology of bi lingual English Spanish poetry Poetry in Flight. Nina produces regular poetry radio programs on KPFAfm in Berkeley and Ozcat radio in Vallejo. Her work can seen on her website ninaserrano.com Diarah N'Daw-Spech, the African Diaspora International Film Festival 2020, Inc., co-founder, Co-director ArtMattan Productions, Inc./General Manager (1993 to present) Friday, Nov. 27-Sunday, Dec. 13 We end with a special rebroadcast of Poets Unite Nov. 25, 2020, Dr. McMillon hosted.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 07:55:43 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We begin with a show aired Nov. 26, 2008 featuring Rafael Jesus Gonzalez and Karla Brundage. We speak about Indigenous Rights and being Thankful. We close with another show, first aired April 28, 2009. Today's show features: director, Tim Disney and subject, Regina N. Kelly, of the new film, "American Violet," which opens in the San Francisco Bay Area, Friday, May 1, 2009. There is a free screening Tuesday, April 28, 7 p.m. at the Metreon (4th and Mission Streets, San Francisco, 3rd level). Our next guest is Jean Marie Teno, director of the new film, "Sacred Places," which looks at African Cinema and the FESPACO film festival on its 40th anniversary and questions its goals and objectives. The film screens several times at the San Francisco International Film Festival. We close with an extended interview with Ra Un Nefer Amen 1, Hon. D.D., spiritual leader and founder of the Ausar Auset community, and author of the new novel: "Heru: The Resurrection."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 18:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with author, Doris I. Mangrum, whose "A Soiled Identity: From Triumph to Tragedy and Back Again," tells the story of Darnell Cookson, former Marine and former felon as he rejoins society. However, this is not a typical rehabilitation story. Told in the protagonist's voice as if we were seated in his home one evening getting to know one another, we meet Darnell just as he arrives home from prison to new wife, new child and many relationships he has to restore, like that between he and his two older daughters by a prior marriage, and his kid brother who is making a bit too much money fast. Darnell tries to hold his head up when applications are rejected and interviews have no follow-up calls, but it is hard. Darnell's reentry is a community venture; each chapter ends with what Mangrum calls, "Choice Moments" where her audience gets to imagine a "what if?" In "Live Your Life," the reader is invited to learn from Darnell's experiences while we also gear up to participate in an "Idea Infusion," which per chapter is a way to make the returning veteran or prisoner feel welcome and supported (171).https://www.facebook.com/LetsSaidiana 2. Musicians Damu Sudii Alii and Paul Tillman Smith join us to talk about the music, of course, but also a wonderful music series in two Oakland resturants. The Wednesday & Sunday, Jazz Jams sessions are free and open to professional musicians to sit in on and play. www.chumpchange.com 3. "The Village of Peace" (SFJFF 2014) tells the story of the Hebrew Israelites, African Americans who moved from America to establish a home in Israel. Directors and producers join us this morning to close the show: Ben Schuder, Director/Producer and his brother Sam Schuder, Producer. www.villageofpeacemovie.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0000

1. Living at the intersection of Blackness, womanhood, art, and activism, Nia McAllister is a Bay Area born poet, avid reader, and environmental justice advocate. She is the host and curator of the monthly open mic series at the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in San Francisco, where she is the Visitor Experience Manager. Through her work, Nia is dedicated to creating literary platforms for writers of the African Diaspora to be seen, read, and represented. Nia’s poetry has been featured on Poets of Color Podcast and the Nomadic Press Dial-a-Poet series. In her free time, she can be found performing at Open Mics, writing outdoors, and taking care of her plants. 2. Lenard D. Moore is a poet, fiction writer, essayist, book reviewer, public speaker, photographer, and the author and/or editor or co-editor of several books, including All The Songs We Sing (Blair, 2020), The Geography Of Jazz (Blair, 2020), One Window’s Light (Unicorn Press, 2017), and A Temple Looming (WordTech Editions, 2008). His literary works have appeared in African American Review, Agni, Callaloo, Colorado Review, North American Review, North Dakota Quarterly, Obsidian, Prairie Schooner, and Valley Voices. He is the founder and executive director of the Carolina African American Writers’ Collective and co-founder of the Washington Street Writers Group. He is recipient of several awards, including the North Carolina Award for Literature (2014); Haiku Museum of Tokyo Award (2003, 1994, and 1983); and Margaret Walker Creative Writing Award (1997).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

1. Dr. Iyabeji Cathy Royal and Ohen Nedra T. Williams join us https://www.eventbrite.com/e/council-for-global-ancestral-reverence-presents-ancestral-souls-rising-tickets-124636468031?aff=erelexpmlt 2. Jo Kreiter, Flyaway Productions at the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in San Francisco, join us to talk about "Meet Us Quickly Digital Exhibit, curated by Rahsaan "New York" Thomas" open presently. 3. Sister Sheba Makeda Haven joins us to talk about the Stolen Lives Project (10/22) as well as Activism 101 4. We close with a gem, from the Archives, Stanley Nelson (2015) Free Gwendolyn Brooks Conference, 10/28-29: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/23rd-gwendolyn-brooks-black-writers-conference-2020-tickets-122767941217

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 19 Sep 2020 06:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show-- Hurricane Katrina 15th Anniversary

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Guests: Parnell Herbert and Tracie Washington from Louisiana Justice Institute, Kenneth Cooper, CeCe Campbell Rock join us from New Orleans and California to discuss New Orleans six years after Hurricane Katrina. We conclude with two poets: Marta Sanchez, writer and artist from Panama who now lives in Oakland, CA, and Furaha Youngblood from Louisiana by way of Los Angeles and Oakland, CA who now lives in Panama (smile). We discuss their books: Cat-Eyed Woman from Louisiana (FY) and Beauty Unbalanced (MS). Music: Anthony Brown Orchestra's Afro-Blue, Babatunde Lea.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 16:30:00 +0000

1. Dr. Marta Moreno Vega, joins us to talk about the Creative Justice Initiative, available through Aug. 31, 2020 2. Naru Kwina & Leroy Frankilin talk about their new film, The Joe Capers Legacy, airing Aug. 29, 2020, 7-9 PM PT 3. We speak to Dr. Shemell Bell, Shalom Cook, Fountainetta Coleman, about the 28-Day Global Meditation for Black Liberation Aug. 1-28, 2020 and other events such as Movement for Black Lives National Convention 8/29 and the NAACP Virtual & Actual March on Washington, 8/27-28. 4. We close with an interview with Rennie Harris, choreographer, "Lazarus," set on Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre 2018 for its 60th Anniversary. We spoke when the work came to Cal Performances last year.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Randall Kline, SFJAZZ Founder and Executive Artistic Director joins us to talk about NEA Jazz Masters concert honoring the work of Bobby McFerrin, Roscoe Mitchell, Reggie Workman, Dorthaan Kirk, is the first time the NEA has partnered with a West Coast organization, Thursday, August 20, 5:00pm PDT Tune in at SFJAZZ.org It's free The Hon. Marcus Garvey's Birthday is Monday, August 17, 2020. Although the Pan African Flag day was 8/13, you can still fly your red, black and green flag this month. There will be a special program in Zoom 8/17 and the annual conference is this week as well beginning 8/20. 1st Assistant President General UNIA/ACL RC2020, Baba Senghor Baye is joining us to talk about this and more. We close with a rebroadcast of the Tribute to Denise Adele Gums (8/6/20) We open with Tupac Shakur's "The Rose that Grew from Concrete" featuring Nikki Giovanni

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

1. Continuing our conversation about Oromo activists in Ethiopia, we speak to 4 women scholars and artists about growing up Oromo and what is happening in Ethiopia following the killing of the beloved artist: Hachalu Hundessa. Guests are: Alby Ungashe; Marii Beshir; Eden Daniel. 2. Political Organizer and Revolutionary Mother, Moya Mzuri Nana Yaa Offeibea Pambeli is a member of the All-African People’s Revolutionary Party (A-APRP) and is currently serving on the Central Committee of the A-APRP as the Coordinator of the All-African Women’s Revolutionary Union (A-AWRU) for the U.S. Region of the A-APRP. Sister Mzuri is a long time activist and coalition builder. Some of her coalition work has included the Black August Los Angeles coalition (Political Prison Campaign), the Pan-African Diaspora Union (PADU) – Sixth Regional representing the African Diaspora, preparing to join the African Union. 3. We close out with libations for Jonathan Jackson (17) who tried to set his elder brother free at the Marin Courthouse 50 years ago. We speak to Nathaniel Moore, educator and archivist at Freedom Archives and UC Berkeley Ethnic Studies Library. Freedom Archives has pulled together recorded material and visual documents commemorating this historic day.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Archives

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 03:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast (7/13/20)

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Today we rebroadcast Monday, July 13, 2020 show. The San Francisco Jewish Film Festival kicked off its 40th season with a wonderful film about our very own Congresswoman Barbara Lee, "Truth to Power," directed by Abby Ginzberg. It was at the Concord Drive-In. The feature was proceeded by a Q&A with festival directors Lexi Leban, the Congresswoman and the director. The theatre was packed and afterward, if the horns (read applause) were any indicator, everyone enjoyed the preview screening of a great film about a woman who has dedicated her life to the "people." There are many films screening online without cost which also have an interactive component, that is, Q&A. Visit jfi.org/summerdays for all the information and for tickets to other drive-in films through Sunday, July 19. We feature co-directors, Marlon Johnson and Anne Flatté with Albert Shumake protégé and new director, River City Drum Corps. "River City Drumbeat" captures the story of Edward “Nardie” White’s thirty year run as leader of the dynamic Louisville, Kentucky River City Drum Corps, which OPENS AUG. 7-21, 2020 for a Two Week Virtual Engagement at Roxie Virtual Cinema: bit.ly/rcdatroxie We close with an interview with Tamar Manasseh, African American resident in Chicago's south side and founder, MASK (Mothers/Men Against Senseless Killing). The mother of two adults is also a rabbinical student and the subject of "They Ain't Ready for Me," directed by Brad Rothschild, USA, 2020. The film is a part of Cinegogue Summer Days, SF Jewish Film Festival's 40th Anniversary program, Sat., July 18, 12 p.m. in an online screening followed by a Q&A with Ilana Kaufman, director of the Jews of Color Field Building Initiative. For tickets: https://jfi.org/summer-days/day-3

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast July 8, 2020

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:30:00 +0000

This morning we talk about the SF Jewish Film Festival. 1. Lexi Leban joined the Jewish Film Institute as Executive Director in 2011. A longtime member of the Bay Area film community, Leban has over 20 years experience in all aspects of film, from production to distribution to exhibition. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Academic Director of the Digital Filmmaking & Video Production at the Art Institute of California and creator of their Bachelor's degree program. As a documentary filmmaker, Leban has directed award-winning films that focus on women's rights, criminal justice and LGBT issues. Her films have screened widely at festivals in the U.S. and abroad. Her most recent film, Girl Trouble aired nationally on the acclaimed PBS series Independent Lens and an interactive game based on the film debuted at Sundance. She served for 8 years in the marketing and web operation department at New Day Films, a 40 year old filmmaker-run educational distribution company with over 230 award-winning titles. She earned a BA degree in Political Science from Barnard College of Columbia University and an MFA in Cinema from San Francisco State University. 2. Abby Ginzberg, director, producer & Shola Lynch, consulting producer re: Truth to Power: Barbara Lee Speaks for Me https://jfi.org/summer-days/day-1 (7/16, 8:30 PM PT at West Wind Drive-in, Concord) 3. Brad Rothschild, "They Ain't Ready for Us" http://theyaintreadyforme.com/the-team/ (online 7/18, 12 noon PT)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Guests today are: 10-Time Emmy-Winning Filmmaker Marlon Johnson and Award-Winning San Francisco Filmmaker Anne Flatté and Albert Shumake protégé and new director, River City Drum Corps. The film, River City Drumbeat, captures the story of Edward “Nardie” White’s thirty year run as leader of the dynamic Louisville, Kentucky River City Drum Corps and chronicles his passing of the baton to former student Albert Shumake. The film shows the love Mr. White has for his drum corps members and their families, his belief in African values and Black children. Seldom are success stories shown to a large national audience only the tragedies. This story is one that will make audiences move with delight and hope-- Roses do grow in the most difficult enviornments if they get enough sunlight and water and love. The film OPENS AUGUST 7-21, 2020 for a Two Week Virtual Engagement at Roxie Virtual Cinema:bit.ly/rcdatroxie We close with an interview with Tamar Manasseh, African American resident in Chicago's south side and founder, MASK (Mothers/Men Against Senseless Killing). The mother of two adults is also a rabbinical student and the subject of "They Ain't Ready for Me," directed by Brad Rothschild, USA, 2020. The film is a part of Cinegogue Summer Days, SF Jewish Film Festival's 40th Anniversary program, Sat., July 18, 12 p.m. in an Online Screening with a Q&A. For tickets: https://jfi.org/summer-days/day-3

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 06:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We speak about "Race" this morning, "Race" as in David Mamet's play, "Race" produced by SF Recovery Theatre. 1. Susan Heywood, ACT-SF's joins us to talk about Race @ ACT-SF, Nov. 4, 2011. 2. Geoffrey Grier, Director, Executive Director, SF Recovery Theatre, which produced Mamet's "Race," June 19-21 with PianoFight. 3. The cast of SFRT's Race joins us to talk about the work and their roles: Phoenyx – NRaca Rakshami (Susan); Richard Darnell May (Henry Brown); Robert Geshlider (Charles Strickland); Richard Wenzel (Jack Lawson). Jack Lawson (white, mid-40s) and Henry Brown (black, mid-40s) are attorneys at a burgeoning law firm. Charles Strickland (white, mid-40s), a prominent businessman, has been charged with rape. Phoenyx's Stop Killing Us video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXdS3xcZqvY

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Juneteenth 2020 http://wandaspicks.com/wandas-picks-june-2020/ Poor People's Virtual Weekend, 6/20-21, 2020 1. Nell Myhand is an Oakland based organizer, author and speaker whose work brings people together across age, race, class and other differences forming alliances to create powerful, effective solutions to common problems that leave no one out and no one behind. She is a member of the Bay Area Poor People’s Campaign Steering Committee working locally and nationally to amplify the voices of low/no wealth people and our demands for resources to meet our basic needs for housing, education, healthcare, and a livable climate. She also organizes with Women of Color in the Global Women’s Strike, an international organization calling on all governments for a Care Income Now that would recognize unwaged caregiving as work deserving of a wage. https://www.june2020.org/ 2. Vincent Terrell Durham, joins us to talk about theatre, writing, walking while Black and his Polar Bears. Black Boys & Prairie Fringed Orchids and Juneteenth Theatre Justice Project https://www.vtdisme.com/ 3. From the Archives: Bryan Keith Thomas@Joyce Gordon Gallery

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 04:00:00 +0000

1. Aldo Billingslea, Ph.D., director, Juneteenth Theatre Justice Project, joins us to talk about Vincent Terrell Durham’s thrilling and timely play, Polar Bears, Black Boys & Prairie Fringed Orchids, Friday, June 19, 7 p.m. It is a free event. Tickets are required: https://tickets.playground-sf.org/TheatreManager/1/online?performance=931 From the Arrchives: --Interview with Susan Heyward, a principle in ACT production of David Mamet's Race (2011) --Rebroadcast of interview with two members of the cast in Berkeley Rep's production of Lynn Nottage's "Ruined" (2013). 4. Geoffrey Grier, director, joins us to talk about SF Recovery Theatre's production of David Mamet's "Race," Friday June 19, Juneteenth weekend, in collaboration with PianoFight, 7:30 pm PT in Zoom. Subsequent shows will be re-broadcast Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21: https://www.pianofight.com/virtual-venue/ Suggested $20 Donation PayPal.me/sfrecoverytheatre

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 06:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 May 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 May 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 May 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 May 2020 13:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Mon, 18 May 2020 02:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 May 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 May 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:00:00 +0000

1. Mr. Guy Forchion, Executive Director, Virginia Key Beach Park Trust with Board Member, Dr, Gene Dinizulu Tinnie join us to talk about the historic Virginia Key Beach's 75th Anniversary https://virginiakeybeachpark.net/ 2. Leroy F. Moore Jr., Founder of the Krip-Hop Nation, joins us to talk about two programs, Disability Justice and Covid-19, May 8, 4 p.m., and Corona19 Artistic Flow, May 16, 2-5 PM PT, featuring top names in Krip-Hop. 3. Camellia Moses Okpodu (born January 24, 1964 in Portsmouth, Virginia), Professor of Biology and Dean of Arts and Sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA), New Orleans, LA, join us to talk about the Black Mother. 4. Mrs. Sadie Williams, 96, born in Houston, TX, joins us to talk about being a mother.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 May 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 May 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Melanin Magic Sessions Take 11: A special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. 1. Marvin X, editor, and Michael Satchel, screenwriter, l join us to speak about his new work, "Tariq,(the Moor)" an historic story of the African General in Spain. https://blackbirdpressnews.blogspot.com/2020/04/book-release-tarik-by-michael-satchell.html 2. Dameion Brown had his first ever public performance as the title role in Othello at Marin Shakespeare Company in 2016, achieving what has never been done before by a first-time actor: the honor of “Best Lead Actor” from the Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle. Since then, he has appeared in The Seagull at Utopia Theatre Project, Waafrika and The Farm at TheatreFirst (winning another BATCC award), Dance of the Holy Ghost with Ubuntu, and Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing last summer at Marin Shakespeare. He formerly taught parenting classes at the San Francisco Sheriff's Department for at-risk-youth, now he's a teaching artist and mentor at Alameda Juvenile Facility at O.H.Close and Chad facilities in Stockton.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Melanin Magic Sessions Take 10: A special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. We'd like to open the show with something about jazz, and McCoy Tyner and the improvisational nature of life-- Black life and Muhammad B. Hanif, Charles Curtis Blackwell, and Damu Sudi Alii join us to talk about it. 1. Mina Morita, Crowded Fire joins us to talk about Mina Morita, Artistic Director, Crowded Fire theatre, director, Dustin Chin’s Snowflakes, or Rare White People, May 1-10, 2020 http://minamorita.com/aboutmina/ https://events.berkeley.edu/index.php/calendar/sn/TDPS.html?event_ID=125989 2. Jazz History Month concludes with a conversation with: Damu Sudi Alii Charles Curtis Blackwell Muhammad B. Hanif

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 15:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Melanin Magic Sessions Take 9: A special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. We open the show with Tosin Aribisala, drummer, percussionist, singer, composer, who hails from Lagos, Nigeria. He joins us to talk about his single, released earlier this year, and Africa Rising (2016) and other projects. This is the final Friday, National Poetry Month. It has been really lovely sharing the airwaves with poets throughout the country. Thanks so much to Kim McMillon, Ph.D., poet, playwright, scholar, for curating with her friend, Lucinda J. Clark is the founder of P.R.A. Publishing and the Poetry Matters Project from Augusta, GA. We close with a bang, an all women set featuring Bay Area poets: Joyce Young, Adrienne Oliver, Kathryn Takara, in Hawaii, and Karla Brundage. Co-hosts, Kim and Wanda, will close the program with a poem. We'd like to open the show with something about jazz, and McCoy Tyner and the improvisational nature of life-- Black life. However, at this writing that is an idea without flesh.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

We open with guests: Deborah A. Wright, a retired Reference Librarian/Administrator from the College of Charleston’s Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture (Charleston, SC, USA; Dr. David L. Horne, the International Facilitator for the Sixth Region Diaspora Caucus (SRDC) and the Pan African Diaspora Union (PADU), an international umbrella organization of Diasporans & Nvasekie N. Konneh, a Liberian writer, poet, magazine publisher, community and cultural activist. We will talk about SEHWAH Liberia, Inc., a local Liberian NGO and the Sixth Region Diaspora Caucus (SRDC) its United States based Pan African counterpart's Proposal for COVID-19 Awareness and Food Assistance in Liberia beg. 4/20 so that families can stay safe during the crisis. Donations can be sent via Cash apps or Zelle @ $KDonzo or 571-237-9159, and Mr. Nvasekie Konneh 267-826-3952. 2. Zarinah Shakir is the Producer/Host of the award winning Perspectives of Interfaith, a TV program taped and aired at the Arlington Independent Media studios in Arlington, VA over 16 years. It airs at DCTV, Washington,DC, Manhattan Neighbourhood Network and other markets. She is also the former Producer/Host for six years of Islamic Perspectives, the longest running TV program about Islam and Muslims in the Washington, DC metro area. Ms. Shakir joins us to talk about Ramadan, the Islamic month fasting which begins this week. 3. Queen Hollins, Earthlodge Center closes the show. Rafael Jesus Gonzalez's poetry for Earth Day is another highlight of today's show.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Improvisational Storytelling Series

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 02:00:00 +0000

Join us for an evening of improvational storytelling with Yeye Luisah Teish and Ms. Jovelyn Richards as Voodoo Queen and Ms. Pat. Ms. Pat has a boarding house her friend, the Voodo Queen, likes to visit when she's in town. They let me record their conversation for a listening audience, if I promised to not interrupt. This evening is part one of a three (3) part series, 7 p.m. 3rd Sundays through June 21. Pull up a chair, fill a cup with tea leaves and sit back and enjoy. Soundtrack: Cannonball Adderley Autumn Leaves 10:59 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpB7-8SGlJ0 McCoy Tyner & Ravi Coltrane - Walk Spirit Talk Spirit – LIVE (12:52 mins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dFtZbha29M Chuck Mangione Feels So Good (9:42 mins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FExBwfQHXlE Luisah Teish (also known as Iyanifa Fajembola Fatunmise) is a teacher and an author, most notably of Jambalaya: The Natural Woman's Book of Personal Charms and Practical Rituals. She is an African-American, born in New Orleans, Louisiana. ... She is an Iyanifa and Oshun chief in the Yoruba Lucumi tradition. Jovelyn Richards is a writer, performance artist, instructor, radio host, film director, novelist. https://www.jovelynrichards.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 14:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Melanin Magic Sessions Take 5: A special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. 1. Shekhem Samerit Kau (aka Marcus Gary) joins us to talk about Ausar Auset Society West Coast Chapter's workshop series: Ancient Tools for Successful Living-- Virtual Workshops, Sun., April 12, 12 noon PT. Based in Oakland, CA Shekhem Samerit Kau has 26 years experience in the application of holistic living and Wellness as a member of the Ausar Auset Society. Backed with 17 years experience with Qi gong and Chinese medical science, He is an Instructor of Qi Gong, Yoga, Meditation, Male Virility, Bazi Astrology and Digital Meridian Imaging. Shekhem is a graduate of UC Berkeley with a Bachelors Degree in Architecture and a minor in Structural Engineering. Also holds a Masters of Civil Engineering from Stanford University with a focus in Construction Engineering and Management. www.facebook.com/qigongbootcamp 2. Leah Davis, Wealth & Wellness Coach. To register for the webinar on Women's Empowerment Stories visit https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_P4sR6_t6R361BkZdxuqZ0g 3. National Poetry Month Celebration continues this week with poets from throughout the country

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Melanin Magic Sessions Take 5: A special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. Wind & Fire: Honoring the Divine Feminine & Masculine in Africana Religions is the theme for the ADRSA 2020, April 17 Dr. Funlayo (foon-la-yo) E. Wood-Menzies (postdoctoral fellow at UC Santa Barbara) specialist in Ifa-Orisa, Yoruba indigenous religion. She is the founding director of the African and Diasporic Religious Studies Association (ADRSA) and of Ase Ire, an Ifa-Orisa temple and spirituality learning center. Dr. Kyrah (keer-ah) Malika Daniels (Leadership council founding member ADRSA, professor of African and African Diaspora studies and art history, Boston College, specialist in Haitian Vodou and Congo traditions) Stephen Hamilton (conference featured artist,visual artist itanproject.com, specializing in bringing indigenous techniques into his work, art education, African indigenous art techniques like weaving and dyeing in addition to painting) 2. Leah Davis,Wealth & Wellness Coach for WOC 3.Nathan Richardson,SC Publishing, Frederick Douglass Reenactment Actor

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special: Bill Withers & Dr. King . . . Aṣẹ

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0000

We celebrate William Harrison Withers Jr. "Bill Withers," today. Born in Slab Fork, West Virginia, July 4, 1938 in a family of 13, he the youngest, most people know him as an American singer-songwriter and musician who performed and recorded from 1970 until 1985. He recorded several major hits, including "Ain't No Sunshine", "Grandma's Hands", "Use Me", "Lean on Me", "Lovely Day", and "Just the Two of Us." However, he was so much more and we learn about these other dimensions of a man who stopped recording for 33 years to have a family and a life with that family. The film, "Still Bill," co-directed by friends and colleagues, Damani Baker and Alex Vlack, is a wonderful portrait of this complex man's life from growing up in a coal mining town, to joining the navy to working in the air force making toilets, to fame in his 30s. I am going to play a little of the audio here this morning following an interview with director, Damani when the film was debuting in a free community screening at the Kabuki Theatre in San Francisco 11 years ago. We open with Amikaeyla Gaston singing "Lovely Day." We then shift to a conversation with Simone Missick, who portrays the character Camae in Katora Hall's play "The Mountaintop" (2013) at TheatreWorks in Palo Alto, CA. We play Nina Simone's moving Why did they kill the man of peace? After that song, well what could anyone say? So we play about 30 minutes of "Still Bill." Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wdizl63aols In between the two segments I read a review of the play. The show is Wanda's Picks tribute to two great men from a generation of men and women slipping into other dimensions so quickly we need to pay attention and enjoy their gifts now before they return to the earth. . Aṣẹ, Aṣẹ, Aṣẹ-o.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show National Poetry Month Special

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Today we feature 20 poets who share words of inspiration and hope. Here is a link to their bios: https://wandasabir.blogspot.com/2020/04/national-poetry-month-special-friday.html We also commemorate Dr. King, on the anniversary weekend of his death, April 4, 1968, a day he was taken from us before we were ready to let him go. I have a few poems from the canon to share. I'd like to start with one by Qwendolyn Brooks (1917-2000), Poet Laureatte of Chicago, author of the Maud Martha chronicles and the classic work, "We Real Cool." 'I don't like the idea of the black race being diluted out of existence. I like the idea of all of us being here.''Gwendolyn Brooks (b. 1917), African American poet. As quoted in I Dream a World, by Brian Lanker (1989). Sonia Sanchez's Morning Song and Evening Walk; Aurielle Lucier's What Dream America? The work is taken from Nadia Alexis's "Five Poets Honor Dr. MLKing"

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This show is the 4th in a special series of shows featuring healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. 1. Wanda K. Whitaker, of Anchored In Spirit, is a certified hypnotherapist, spiritual life coach and visionary artist. She is the former owner of a cause-related marketing consultancy agency, Whitaker & Associates. Her purpose is to awaken people to their Higher Selves and greatest potential. http://www.anchoredinspirit.com/index.html African American Virtual Townhall 11-1 4/2/20 2. Dorsey Nunn, Executive Director, LSPC https://prisonerswithchildren.org/staff-and-board/ 3. Nathan Richardson, SC Publishing joins us to talk about Frederick Douglass-- rescheduled 4. Tajmal Payne, Zuni Designs Concepts, Inc. joins us to talk about Homeless Force Coalition. Oshalla Diane Marcus also joins us. She is Managing Director of Sekhmet Community Acupuncture Clinic in South Richmond. https://wandasabir.blogspot.com/2020/04/wednesday-april-1-2020.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 15:00:00 +0000

For complete bios visit: https://wandasabir.blogspot.com/2020/03/wandas-picks-radio-show-black-art-and.html 1. Baba Opesanwo Ifakorede Fadairo, Alagbigba Babalawo 2. Queen Hollins is a sovereign being and founder of the Earthlodge Center for Transformation where she practices and teaches earth-based nature medicine and curriculum. To stay connected with Queen and the Earthlodge community sign up at earthlodgecenter.org 3. Dr. V.S. Chochezi and Staajabu, a mother daughter poetry duo, originally from Camden, NJ, have self-published seven books of poetry, one Sci-fi Anthology, produced 2 spoken word CDs and produced many programs in Sacramento.They have made over 600 appearances as featured readers, speakers, presenters, panalists and workshop facilitators. Their writings have appeared in publications too numerous to name. Dr. V.S. Chochezi, is a college professor, writer, poet, editor, mosaic artist and photojournalist. Staajabu is a writer, editor, producer, poet, health advocate, graphic artist, Air Force veteran, UC Davis retiree and serves on the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Commission. Both are members of ZICA Creative Arts and Literary Guild. straightoutscribes.com Music: Zion Trinity's Opening Prayer Elegba; Marcus Shelby's We're A Winner (Soul of a Movement)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We have a special series of shows kicking off this morning with healers who will leave us with tools we can use to strengthen ourselves during a time when isolation is encouraged while the soul cries for communion. 1. Michele Elizabeth Lee, author, Working the Roots: Over 400 Years of African American Healing, joins us to talk about how the literal earth is the best medicine. 2. Sister Dr. Bisola Marignay joins us to share wisdom, poetry and mindfulness practice. Dr. Adeshima Penn joins Sister Bisola to share a guided meditation to help us to use our breath to keep grounded in heart and balanced in spirit. 3. We close with a conversation with Major Joe Womack, Africantown, native. Visit http://africatownhpf.s442.sureserver.com/ and http://www.africatown-chess.org/ Short bio at: https://bridgethegulfproject.org/users/joe-womack

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Special Broadcast

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

1. Bay Area Musicals present The Full Monty Feb. 15-March 15 at SF Victoria Theatre. ALBERT HODGE (Noah Simmons) an Oakland native, joins us to talk about the play and his role. Rescheduled. 2. Dr. Arletha "Angel" Lands-McTair joins us to talk about The Black Church Production presents: "Only Three Fifths Human" at the Flight Deck, Feb. 16 (6 p.m.) and Feb. 22, 2020 (8 p.m.) 3. Skyler Cooper, an actor and writer, known for "Hero Mars" (2013), "The Grey Area" (2018) and the film "Worthy of Survival," joins us to talk about "A One Man Show" at TheatreFirst opening Feb. 15-Mar. 7 at TheatreFirst at its new Berkeley Location.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 22:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Jan 2020 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 23:00:00 +0000

The Recorder: The Marion Stokes Project opens at the Roxie Theatre Jan. 17 in San Francisco, Roger Macdonald, TV collections director at The Internet Archive in San Francisco, joins us with Tevor Von Stein, who was a volunteer initially on the Marion Stokes Project at the Archive. They join us to unravel the mystery and wonder that is Marion Stokes and this over 70,000 VHS tapes and also writings and other documents in the MSP. Roger will be speaking this weekend at the Roxie at select screenings. Visit https://www.roxie.com/ai1ec_event/recorder-the-marion-stokes-project/?instance_id=38611 Marion Stokes (1929-2012) famously recorded TV news 24 hours a day for 35 years. When she passed away in 2012, she left behind over 70,000 VHS tapes containing hours and hours of footage. Filmmaker Matt Wolf set out to document this obsessive documenter in his new film, "Recorder: The Marion Stokes Project," which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival opens at the Roxie in SF Jan. 17-23. 2. MacKenzie Fegan interviews Matt Wolf on Bric TV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cb00vGaWa6c 3. The Rescue List, dir. Alyssa Fedele, Zach Fink (2018). On PBS 3.23.2020.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Minister Daniel Buford joins us to talk about Art and Spirituality and his show at Colorlines Restaurant Feb. 2020 (reception 2/13, 5 p.m.) at the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights. 2. Emily Dickinson - In Her Own Words - Exclusive Solo Performance by Chetana Karel-Michaan, America’s Leading Theatrical Interpreter of Emily at Berkeley City Club, 7 p.m., Jan. 11, 2020. Directed by Andrea Adler. Co-written by Andrea Adler and Chetana Karel-Michaan. Music by Dale Zola. 3. Living Jazz director, Stacey Hoffman, joins us to talk about "In the Name of Love: 18th Annual Musical Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jan. 19, 7 p.m. at the Scottish Rite Center in Oakland. Visit livingjazz.org 4. We conclude with a conversation with Maestro Michael Morgan, Oakland Symphony, about the Celebration of Bernard Tyson & His Playlist, Friday, Jan. 24, 8 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. Visit OaklandSymphony.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 07:51:07 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Archived Rebroadcast

Thu, 02 Jan 2020 07:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 23:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Rozz Nash, People's Conservatory joins us to talk about KOLA: An Afro Diasporic Remix of the Nutcracker https://www.thepeoplesconservatory.org/events 2 Cinderella @ African American Shakes guests: Funmi Lola who is playing Cinderella and Jan Hunter who is playing the Grandmother https://www.african-americanshakes.org/productions/cinderella/ 3. Geronimo Whitaker joins his sons Joshua Bicaso Whitaker, SpirithausGallery owner and Justice Whitaker, filmmaker to talk about the closing reception, 12/15, for Trauma Cycle: the Art of Geronimo Whitaker 4. Soulful Christmas Dec. 13-22 at Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco, with Yvonne Cobbs, musical director; Bertram Watson, Rhonda: https://www.lhtsf.org/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Oakland Ballet Company Presents Graham Lustig's The Nutcracker with the Oakland Symphony, Dec. 21-22, 1 and 5 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre. The Artistic Director and Paunika Jones (Marie) join us to talk about this year's production. http://oaklandballet.org/wp/performances/graham-lustigs-the-nutcracker/ 2. Ben Vereen excerpt (2012) 3. Rev. Dr. Liz Theoharis, co-founder, The Poor People’s Campaign joins us to talk about: A National Call for Moral Revival organized a 25-state “We Must Do MORE: Mobilizing, Organizing, Registering, and Educating” national tour from September 2019 to May 2020. This tour stops in SF today. https://www.poorpeoplescampaign.org/more/ 4. Gabriel Christian and Chibueze Crouch join us to talk about Performing Disapora at CounterPulse this weekend, Dec. 11-14, 80 Turk, 7:45 p.m. with Cherie Hill's SheVerse.http://counterpulse.org/event/performingdiaspora2019/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 Dec 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Ben Vereen @ Rrazz Room 6/12/12 excerpt 2. Byb Bibene, joins us to talk about 7th Mbongui Square Festival 2019 Dec.15-22 mbonguifest.org Venues include: Temescal Arts Center (12/19& 12/20). Shawl Anderson and The Flight Deck (12/21-22). 3. Nell Myhand is a long time Oakland resident who has been working for justice since the 1970's who is also a member of the Poor People's Campaign:A National Call for Moral Revival Bay Area Steering Committee. Join her with artist David Solnit in Richmond at the We Must Do M.O.R.E. Tour’s Art-Build, Thursday, December 5th, 2019, 6PM - 9 PM at Bridge Storage and ArtSpace, 23 Maine Ave, Richmond. Visit www.poorpeoplescampaign.org to learn more and get involved. 4. Cherie Hill, IrieDance and Chibueze Crouch join us to talk about their work this year at Performing Diaspora at CounterPulseThu-Sat, Dec 5-7 & 12-14, 7:45pm-9pmPay-what-you-can Thursdays: counterpulse.org/performingdiaspora2019/ 5. African American Steering Committee for Health and Wellness members, Dr. Tony Jackson and Pastor Horacio S. Jones join is to talk about the "2019 Annual African American Conference: The Souls of Black Folka Reclaiming Our Humanity from Racialized Trauma", Dec. 10. It is at capacity presently.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 07:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

This is the third conversation in a series, Nov. 20 & Nov. 21, which looks at the historic Slave Rebellion Reenactment Nov. 8-9, 2019 in the places the German Coast Uprising January 1811 took place in Southeast Lousiana. The brainchild of artist provocateur Dread Scott, these conversations are an opportunity for the Army to reflect on the experience and where we go from here. We are joined by: Jardyn Lake, aka Sweetboi, is a black/queer cultural activist, youth worker, and artist living in New Orleans; Kelsey Robinson is a Pittsburgh and Brooklyn-based actor-singer with an interest in global folk music and theater with a focus on racial/multiracial identity and empathy elevating immersion; Victoria Netanus Grubbs is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Media, Culture, and Communication and New York University. Nicole Eugene is an Assistant Professor at the University of Houston-Victoria. Camellia Moses Okpodu is Professor of Biology and Dean of Arts and Sciences at Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA), New Orleans, LA.; Carrie Hawks (they/them) is a Brooklyn-based filmmaker, animator, artist and performer who focuses on healing and queer narratives. Dread Scott, artavist (artist+activist), provocateur and visionary who pursued the Slave Rebellion Reenactment concept from idea to fruition Nov. 8-9, 2019 in Southeast Louisiana into New Orleans and beyond. https://www.slave-revolt.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 20:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 16 Nov 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast of Oct. 18, 2019 show.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Nov 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Mina Morita joins us to talk about Crowded Fire's Matchbox Play Reading Series: http://www.crowdedfire.org/2019-Matchbox-Reading-Series/ Ms. Morita is the Artistic Director of Crowded Fire Theater, a critically acclaimed, intrepid, female-led company dedicated to developing a fierce contemporary theater canon that reflects the plurality of our world. Previously, she served as the Artistic Associate at Berkeley Repertory Theatre—and a founding member of its Ground Floor program; as Board President of Shotgun Players; as a 2014 Lincoln Center Director’s Lab participant; as one of the founding members of Bay Area Children's Theatre; as Community Arts Panelist with the Zellerbach Family Foundation; Panelist for the Getty Leadership Summit; and Guest Artist at UC Berkeley and Stanford University. She is a recipient of Theatre Bay Area’s 2014 award for Best Director of a Musical: Tier II and TBA's 2016, 40@40 award for her impact on Bay Area Theater. In 2015, Mina was honored to share her story on TEDx, and in 2016, she was chosen as one of the YBCA100, for "asking questions and making provocations that will shape the future of culture." 2. We speak to Tamika Baptiste and Paige Mayers, Single Black Female 1 & 2, in Lorrianne Hansberry Theatre's production of Lisa B. Thompson's play, directed by AeJay Mitchell. Runs Friday-Sunday, 8 p.m. Sat. (matinee at 3 p.m. too) and Sun. matinee only. Visit https://www.lhtsf.org/single-black-female

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We open the show with conversations with directors, curators, and dancers featured in the 10th Annual San Francisco Dance Film Festival, Nov. 2-4 and Nov. 9-10 at Brava Theatre. Afia Thompson, dir. MAPENZI Laura Ellis, moderator of a discussion about activism and the arts after the Raising Voices shorts program on Nov 9, 6pm at Brava (the program includes MAPENZI and the other If Cities Could Dance-- Oakland).https://www.sfdancefilmfest.org/festival-films/2019-program/raising-voices/ Kabreshiona Smith, dancer, in If Cities Could Dance: Richmond 2. We speak to Dr. Rachel Carrico, an Assistant Professor of Dance Studies in the School of Theatre + Dance at the University of Florida. Her research explores the aesthetic, political, and social histories of second lining, an improvisational dance form rooted in New Orleans's African diaspora parading traditions. She will give a lecture Friday evening, Nov. 1, on the intersection of New Orleans and Oakland Dance traditions. Program starts at 6:30 p.m. Visit performingarts.mills.edu

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. SF Doc Stories this weekend! Nov. 1-4 sffilm.org We speak to Rachel Rosen, Director of Programming for SFFILM since 2009. From 2001–2009, she was Director of Programming for Film Independent and the Los Angeles Film Festival. 3. Top Shelf Classic's Royalty of Soul: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight at Boxcar Theatre Friday-Sat., Nov. 8-9, 8 p.m., 644 Broadway, San Francisco Guests: LaDonna Trotman: Director of Top Shelf Classics, as well as Corporate Executive IT Project Manager, Assistant Vice President for PMO, recently retired and focusing 100% on Production Company as well as a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly. With a genuine care for making a difference in one’s life by bringing joy, even if just for a moment, If Top Shelf’s performance can touch one person with positivity and take them to a place in time that brings them peace, then our job is complete. Brenda Knight, Collaborative partner for event concepts and production Wanda Diamond, Top Shelf’s featured performer for next week’s performance Visit https://www.boxcartheatre.org/top-shelf-classics.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Cathleen Riddley (Mary Tyrone) in Ubuntu Theatre Project's Long Days Journey into Night by Eugene O'Neill extended through Nov. 3 at The Flax Building in Oakland. ubuntutheaterproject.com 2. Barbara Lee and Elihu Harris Lecture Series will present something different, topical and engaging: Kenyan comedian and performance artist Anna Mwalagho’s one-woman show, Never Thought I Was Black Till I Came to America. Through comedy, storytelling, music and truth, Ms. Mwalagho looks at race and race relations in the US through the immigrant experience. The performance will be given Thursday, October 24, at 7 pm in the James Moore Theater at the Oakland Museum of California, located at 1000 Oak Street. Popular Bay Area comedian and activist Don Lacy will introduce the evening. Admission is free and due to the limited seating, reservations are required by calling the Freedom Center at 510-434-3988. Check out the video of Anna Mwalagho, her work and what audiences have to say about her one-woman show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3i4duvKOYc

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast: Adia Tamar Whitaker

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Adia Tamar Whitaker, Artistic Director of the 19-year old Brooklyn based dance theater ensemble Àse Dance Theatre Collective, joins us to talk about the West Coast premiere of "Have K(No!)W Fear: A Bluessical, Oct. 17-19, 2019, Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m. at ODC Theater, 3153 17th Street, SF. odc.dance/Bluessical (415) 863-9834. 2. Jess Curtis/Gravity presents (in)Visible Oct. 10-13 at CounterPulse, 80 Turk Street, in SF. Jess joins us with Sherwood Chen and Gabriel Christian, dancers, choreographers, to talk about this new work. www.jesscurtisgravity.org/invisible or 415-626-2060. 3. Rebroadcast 9/25/2019 with Stella Heath: The Billie Holiday Project at Feinsteins at Hotel Nikko in San Francisco, Oct. 10, 2019. https://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2019/10/09/wandas-picks-radio-show

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 21:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake joins us to talk about the 75th Jubilee of The Church for the Fellowship of All People this weekend, Sat.-Sun., Oct. 19-20. The free celebration includes the Dorsey O. Blake Forum for Social Transformation, 10/19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the 24th Annual Convocation, 10/20, 3 p.m. fellowshipsf.org Dr. Blake has served as Presiding Minister of The Church for The Fellowship of All Peoples (San Francisco) since 1994. He also serves as Faculty Associate at Pacific School of Religion. Dr. Blake has extensive field ministry experience with interfaith groups addressing justice and peace issues. Dr. Blake has conducted seminars and workshops locally and nationally including one with Rajmahon Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi. He is the recipient of numerous community service awards. In 2000, he traveled to Morocco with an interfaith delegation of Muslims, Jews, and Christians in a quest to promote interfaith respect and cooperation. In October 2010 he met His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and served on an interfaith panel responding to his teachings We close with another conversation, from the archives, Howard Thurman Special with Rev. Liza Rankow and Rev. Dr. Blake, recorded Nov. 8, 2010. Howard Thurman interview with Landrum Bolling https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGX4-Wv9UD0

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. We speak to Michelle Lanier, Executive Producer, Mossville: When Great Trees Fall, officiel selection, San Francisco Green Film Festival 2019, 9/-24-9/29. Sat., 9/28, 1-3 join Ms. Lanier at the free Impact Film Forum at Manny's 1 p.m. (90 mins). “Welcome to beautiful downtown Mossville,” Stacey Ryan says wryly. “Population: one.” At one time, Mossville, Louisiana, was a thriving, self-sufficient, historically black community, teeming with gardens, grand fruit trees, and families. But since petrochemical industries started snatching up affordable real estate nearby, the community has begun to wither. Ryan’s neighbors begin to leave—at first one by one, then in droves—but he boldly refuses to budge. Soon he finds himself all alone. Surrounded by a smoldering, hellish industrial wasteland that has gobbled up Mossville’s once bucolic neighborhoods, he is cut off from power, supplies, and community. But Ryan stands his ground, even while living rough in his own home. This story of one man’s valiant resistance is at once intimately personal and vast in scope, exposing the links between race and environmental injustice, not just in the U.S. but across the globe. TAW 2. Rebroadcast Sept. 25, 2019 show: Andrew Saito, El Rio at Brava; Lesley Currier and Dameion Brown re: Marin Shakes's presents A Midsummer Nights Dream; Stella Heath's Billie Holiday Project at Feinstein's at Hotel Nikko, Oct. 10.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 15:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1.Andrew Saito is an internationalist playwright who focuses on indigenous and cross-racial stories, hybridity, and struggles against colonialism and its long-lingering footprints. He has worked with Peru's legendary theater collective Grupo Cultural Yuyachkani, Cuba's Conjunto Cultural Korimakao, and the Asociación Xajooj Tun in Rabinal, Guatemala, culture bearers of the Rabinal Achi, named intangible cultural patrimony of humanity by UNESCO. He holds an MFA from the Iowa Playwrights Workshop, and was a Fulbright Scholar in Papua New Guinea. Andrew's passionate about learning languages, cultural exchange, cooking, Kung Fu, and underwater encounters with octopuses and manta rays. He is becoming a climate activist and encourages others to do the same. 2. Marin Shakespeare Company closes with A Midsummer Night's Dream Thursday-Sunday, 9/26-9/29, with Lesley Schisgall Currier, director & Damieon Brown, Oberon. marinshakespeare.org 3. The Billie Holiday Project, led by Stella Heath, celebrates the music of Lady Day! Thursday, October 10th, 8pm at Nikko Hotel, 222 Mason St., SF. Dinner and Full bar offered www.stellaheathmusic.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast features David Roach OIFF 2019

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Dr. Megan Ebor joins us to speak about Upspoken created RoyalTea, a sexual health and wellness guide by Black women for Black women RoyalTea, Hot Tips to Sip for Sexual emPowerment -- Sip 1 – Our Secret (Not For Long). https://upspokenwomen.com/ 2. Rebroadcast Sept. 6, 2019 show with Raissa Simpson, Push Dance Company founder and Artistic Director, joins us to talk about the 14th Home Season and Sixth Anniversary PUSHfest Dance Festival, Friday-Sunday, Sept. 20-22 at ODC Theater, 3173 – 17th Street, San Francisco. Visit https://www.pushdance.org/festival The exhibit opens Thursday, Sept. 19, 6-9 p.m., with a performance at 7:30 p.m. 3. Dawline-Jane Oni-Eseleh and Sawyer Rose join us to talk about Sawyer's new exhibition collaboration: Counting the Hours, Art, Data, and the Untold Stories of Women’s Work at Code & Canvas, 151 Potrero Ave., San Francisco, Sept. 19-Nov. 2, Tues. & Thurs. from 1-6 p.m., Sat. from 12-3 p.m. and by appointment. Free admission http://www.carrying-stones.com/counting-the-hours. The exhibit opens 9/18, 6-9 p.m. with a special dance performance at 7:30 p.m. 4. Titus and Androdicus at Theatre Lunatico, August 30-Sept. 29, 2019 at La Val's Subterranean Theatre https://theatrelunatico.wordpress.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Raissa Simpson, Push Dance Company founder and Artistic Director, joins us to talk about the 14th Home Season and Sixth Anniversary PUSHfest Dance Festival which features Mothership III by Raissa Simpson and a World Premiere by Gerald Casel within four different programs of local and visiting artists over three evenings Friday-Sunday, Sept. 20-22 at ODC Theater, 3173 – 17 Street, San Francisco. Visit https://www.pushdance.org/festival 2. Dawline-Jane Oni-Eseleh is an Oakland based exhibiting and teaching Artist. Sawyer Rose is a sculpture, installation, and social practice artist. She is a graduate of Williams College in Massachusetts and currently lives and works in the San Francisco Bay Area, both women join us to talk about Sawyer's new exhibition collaboration: Counting the Hours, Art, Data, and the Untold Stories of Women’s Work, New art exhibition by Sawyer Rose and The Carrying Stones Project at Code & Canvas, 151 Potrero Ave., San Francisco, Sept. 19-Nov. 2, Tues. & Thurs. from 1-6 p.m., Sat. from 12-3 p.m. and by appointment. Free admission. 3. Titus and Androdicus at Theatre Lunatico, August 30-Sept. 29, 2019 at La Val'sSubterranean Theatre directed by Tina Taylor, Shane Fahy (Titus); Bryce Smith (Aaron) https://theatrelunatico.wordpress.com/ 4. "Shakti Butler on Healing Justice" from The Wanda's Picks Archives

Wanda's Picks Radio Show features Emma Van Lare in Cal Shakes' House of Joy

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 15:30:00 +0000

1.Kathy Cotton, director, "A Place at the Table: African American Pioneers of Silicon Vallery," screening at SFBFF XXI, 12 noon, June 15, at the African American Art and CultureComplex, 762 Fulton Street, SF http://www.kathycottondigitalstoryteller.com/news 2. Nana Daffuor, SPRINT, June 20-21, 7:30 pm, $15-25 @East Bay Community Space, 507 55th Street, Oakland, CA https://www.sprintmovement.com/performance Presented by Nana Duffuor and directed by Dazié Rustin Grego-Sykes, Sprint is a powerful stage performance blending film, theater, poetry, music, and dance to tell the coming of age story of Nana—a queer black child of Ghanaian immigrants, discovering herself (and her dignity) in White America. In the era of #BlackGirlMagic, Sprint begs the critical question: "What happens when magical black girls break?" Charles Curtis Blackwell 3. Jeff M. Giordano, dir."THE GOD GIVEN TALENT: THE CREATIVE LIFE OF CHARLES CURTIS BLACKWELL," screening tomorrow, June 15, 12 noon as a part of SFBFF XXI 2019, has been directing independent films since 2004’s "Among Garbage & Flowers". He has interviewed over 80 people for documentary productions. Giordano has completed 4 full-length documentaries. Most recently, "The God Given Talent: The Creative Life of Charles Curtis Blackwell" (2019): the 70 minute-documentary has its World Premiere at the San Francisco Black Film Festival XXI on June 15, 2019.

Wanda's Picks 11th Anniversary Show

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 16:00:00 +0000

This tenth Anniversary Month (August 2018) ends with a MASH-up. . . clips from shows over the past decade. Can't play everything . . . there are so many shows (1061). Funny, August 2008, I only had 1 shows and the next month I had a few more broadcasts. I have 1061 published episodes. This is 106 episodes a year. My average is 8 shows a month which is 2 shows a week. I remember sometimes having more than two shows a week and sometimes less.I am still interested in being syndicated. I just need to find my hours in the day. I am happy to have a dedicated audience who follow Wanda's Picks. (2019 update: 1174 published episodes with 259,070 listens). There are two clips August 29 & Sept. 5, 2008. We revisit the Gulf Region and see what's going on there on the ground in Louisiana and Mississippi by speaking to Jackie and King. Jackie lives in the 7th Ward. King lives in Austin. Katrina destroyed his home. Next, Tayo Aluko joins us to talk about Call Mr. Robeson, a fundraiser for Mumia Abu Jamal, Sept. 5, and con't. Sept. 6-7 at 5 PM at the Phonenix Theatre. Next Richard Talavera, playwright, and director, Norman Gee share Before the Dream: the mysterious death (and life) of Richard Wright. Coleman Domingo, playwright of "A Boy and His Soul" is next. We are also honored to have the directors of the new film "Trouble the Water," which opens this weekend, Sept. 5 in the San Francisco Bay Area. Check your listings.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special: Libations for Toni Morrison

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 15:30:00 +0000

1. Kim McMillon will officially earn her doctorate in Interdisciplinary Humanities this summer at the University of California, Merced 2. Joyce A. Joyce, Ph.D, Chairperson of the Department of English from 2012 to 2015 at Temple University and a 1995 recipient of an American Book Award for Literary Criticism for the collection of essays Warriors, Conjurers, and Priests: Defining African-American Literary Criticism, Joyce earned her Ph.D. in English from the University of Georgia in 1979. She has published articles on Richard Wright, Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, Gwendolyn Brooks, Nella Larsen, Zora Neale Hurston, Arthur P. Davis, Toni Cade Bambara, Ishmael Reed, E. Ethelbert Miller, Askia Touré, Gil Scott-Heron, and Sonia Sanchez. Her current project is titled “Black Literary Essays: The Kaleidoscopic Imagination.” Her papers are housed in special collections at the Odum Library, Valdosta State University. 3. devorah major joins us. Thanks to all who called in for this Libation to Toni Morrison. We close with Shamarr Allen, "I Love You." He is at SJ Jazz Summerfest Sunday afternoon, Aug. 11, summerfest.sanjosejazz.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Dr. Patricia Nunley, ABPsi Western Regional Representative 2019-2021, joins us to talk about her new position (theme Dr. Theopia Jackson 2017-2019 President Elect) Fortifying for the Future and Beyond), recent conference where it was announced, and to introduce Dr. Zethu Cakata who currently works as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of South Africa, in Tshwane (Pretoria) South Africa. She is in town to present her workshop: Ubugqirha: A Healing Beyond the Western Gaze. 2. We rebroadcast a segment of the Wed., July 31 show that features human rights activist and playwright Regina Evans who is performing her work, 52 Letters at Ubuntu Theatre Project over the next few weeks. She is joined by Oakland native, vocalist, and culture and wellness advocate, Rashida Chase.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Jul 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Lesley Schisgall Currier, Managing Director, Director, A Midsummer Night's Dream, at Marin Shakespeare Company. As the MTC celebrates its 30th Anniversary Season we talk about the current production, "Measure for Measure," through July 21, and the theme: Playing for Good. 2. Elizabeth Jones, Motormouth Maybelle, Bay Area Musicals, July 6-Aug.11 at Victoria Theatre in SF. Visit bamsf.org/hairspray 3. From the Archives 4. 2019 Bay Area Playwrights Festival Witness The Power Of Truth with Outgoing Artistic Director, Amy Mueller and Playwrights (this morning): Terence Anthony (The House of the Negro Insane), Candis C. Jones, dir.(HNI); Candrice Jones (FLEX); Claudia Alick, dramaturg (FLEX), Delicia Turner Sonnenberg, director, FLEX; July 19-28, Potrero Stage, 1695 18th St., San Francisco. https://playwrightsfoundation.org/ 50th Anniversary of Apollo II https://earthsky.org/space/space-scientists-apollo-anniversary-talk-program-july17-2019 Music: Meklit &Quinn; Zion Trinity

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast: James Ijames, playwright

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special Broadcast

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast from May 29, 2019

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 14:30:00 +0000

1. Alma Robinson, Executive Director of California Lawyers for the Arts 2. Cassidy Friedman and Eric Butler's "Circles" screening at SF Indie Doc Fest selection, Sat., May 1, 2:30 at the Roxie & Monday, June 3, 9 p.m. (Roxie). sfindie.com https://www.circlesmovie.com/ 3. Abdul Kenyatta, Speakeasy Storyteller Cafe at SFIAF, 9:00 p.m., Friday, May 31, & https://www.facebook.com/abdul.kenyatta

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1.Kathy Cotton, director, A Place at the Table: African American Pioneers of Silicon Valley, screens at SFBFF XXI, 12 noon, June 15, at AAACChttp://www.kathycottondigitalstoryteller.com/news 2. Nana Daffuor, SPRINT, June 20-21, 7:30 pm, $15-25 @East Bay Community Space, 507 55th Street, Oakland, CA 94609 https://www.sprintmovement.com/performance 3. Jeff M. Giordano, dir. "THE GOD GIVEN TALENT: THE CREATIVE LIFE OF CHARLES CURTIS BLACKWELL," screening tomorrow, June 15, 12 noon as a part of SFBFF XXI 2019. Charles Curtis Blackwell also joins us this morning. Visit: https://www.jeffmgiordano.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Paul Struthers, DIRECTOR OF EXHIBITION & PROGRAMMING @ Frameline43/ San Francisco International LGBTQ+ Film Festival June 20-30, 2019 www.frameline.org 2. Cornelius Moore. Co-Director at California Newsreel joins us to talk about CA Newsreel and special programming Carribean in Motion Film Series at MoAD in conjunction with Coffee, Rhum, Sugar, Gold: a Post-colonial Paradox. 3. Cheryl Patrice Derricotte, GhostShips@ MoAD rebroadcast 4. Andrea Chung, artist, MoAD's Coffee Rhum Sugar, Gold http://andreachungart.com/about/ Proverbs 12:22, 2019. Sugar, beads, rice, herbs, spices and paper, site specific installation. Courtesy of the artist.

Wanda's Picks Special

Tue, 11 Jun 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special: SF DocFest 2019

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Audrey Candy Corn and Peter Menchini, Directors of the film, "Soar Torian Soar," screening at SFDoc 2019, 6/9/19, 2:30 PM at the Roxie Theatre in SF. Visit sfindie.com 2. William Rhodes, Artists, joins us to ta;lk about JUKE CITY: A Harlem of the West Immersive Art Experience, June 13, 6-9pm at the African American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street; Artist Talk: July 25, 6-9pm at AAACC. 3. Will Agee, Director, Producer, Cinematographer, Editor, "The Land of High Mountains," at SFDoc, Roxie Theater, 6/9, 12:15 p; 6/11, 7 p https://www.landofhighmountains.com/ 4. Bridgette Auger, Director/DP/Producer, "We Are Not Princesses," at SFDoc, Roxie theater, 6/9, 4:45 p.; 6/13, 7 p http://www.openartfoundation.org/we-are-not-princesses Music: Zion Trinity, Opening Prayer for Elegba; Amikaeyla Gaston, Lovely Day http://tobtr.com/s/11368807

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Lavar Munroe, artist from Nassau, Bahamas, joins us to talk about his work in the exhibition: Coffee, Rhum, Sugar & Gold: A Postcolonial Paradox, May 8-Aug. 11, 2019 at the Museum of the African Diaspora in SF. Visit moad-sf.org 2. San Francisco Black Film Festival XXI, June 13-16 with a special tribute to Jeff Adachi, SF District Attorney, and panel on Prison Reform, June 12. 3. Justin (actor) and Jeffrey Givens (director) join us to talk about their film selection, "Disparity," screening at the Special Tribute on June 12 and again later on in the Festival. Meet Charlie, he’s white and has been arrested for selling cocaine. Meet Syd he’s black and has been arrested for crack. Despite being caught with the same drug the disparity in their treatment will open your mind about race and class in the broken u.s justice system.Tag line: Same story, different endings. 4. "Soar Torian Soar" interview with co-directors: Audrey Candy Corn and Peter Menchini.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. East Bay Dances, hosted by Oakland Ballet Company, features among others, Linda Steele II, who is a improvisational dance artist and creator, formally trained at Marin Ballet and Marin School of the Arts before receiving her BFA from Dominican University of CA where she also studied Art History. You can see Linda Steele II's work Sunday June 2, 2019, 4pm at Laney College, Odell Johnson Theater, 900 Fallon St. (across from Lake Merritt BART). Visit www.oaklandballet.org 2. Jackie Wright joins us to talk about the 21st Annual San Francisco Black Film Festival, June 12 (preview) to June 16, 2019 Visit https://sfbff.org/wordpress/official-selections-2019 3. Wanda Ravernell, Executive Director is the visionary of Omnira Institute and promoter and manager for Awon Ohun Omnira, (Voices of Freedom) and serves as the narrator for its performances. She has been the administrator and booking agent as well as the publicist for all of its activities. She joins us to talk about the 2019 Juneteenth Ritual in Oakland at Lake Merritt Boat House,11-1, Sat., June 12 Visit https://www.omnirainstitute.org/ 4. Kanika Marshall, author, artist featured in the Sac Black Book Festival, May 31-June 1, 2019 https://www.kanikamarshall.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 30 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 May 2019 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 May 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Fri, 17 May 2019 19:00:00 +0000

1. Jason Mendez, Supremacy @ EXIT on Eddy through 5/18 1. Alma Robinson, Executive Director of California Lawyers for the Arts, expanded the organization in 1987 into a statewide agency with staff in San Francisco, Berkeley, Sacramento, Los Angeles and San Diego. In 2011, she began CLA's successful Arts in Corrections Initiative in collaboration with the William James Association to restore funding for California’s arts programs in prisons, which had been defunded in 2003. With support from the Art for Justice Fund, Alma produced a series of six Art for Justice Forums with co-conveners in Michigan, Texas, Alabama, Georgia, California and New York in 2018 while concluding a three-year project funded by the NEA that is demonstrating the benefits of arts programs in county jails throughout California. CLA's third conference on Arts in Corrections will be presented in June,2019 at Santa Clara University. A graduate of Middlebury College and Stanford Law School, Alma was a founding board member of California Arts Advocates and the Museum of the African Diaspora, and has served as a trustee for the San Francisco Opera Association, Mills College and the Urban School. 2. Andrew Woods, Executive Director, SF International Arts Festival 2019; Jasmine Milan Williams, SFIAF artist: Us and the US (5/24, 7 PM;5/26, 6:30 PM); Abdul Kenyatta, SFIAF artist (5/31, 9 PM), Speakeasy Storytellers Series

Wanda's Picks Radio

Wed, 15 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Ahjamu Umi, joins us to talk about African Liberation Day 2019. He has been an organizer for the All African Peoples Revolutionary Party since 1984. He has organized for the party on three continents and the Caribbean. He has a Masters Degree in Econ/Political Science and he has authored/published four books including the recently released political thriller "The Paradox Principles." 2. We speak to Carol Leigh, founder and director and Jovelyn Richards re: Sex Workers Film Festival 20th Anniversary. http://www.sexworkerfest.com/events.html Jovelyn D. Richards is an international performance artist, writer, film and theater director and radio host for Pacifica radio KPFA 94.1 3. Rene Marie interview from June 29, 2011 (excerpt). 4. Nambi E. Kelly's "Jazz" at MTC through Wed.-Sunday, May 19. She and C. Kelly Wright (Violet/Country Violet) join us to talk about the work.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast May 1, 2019

Fri, 10 May 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast May 1, 2019 Show: 1. Aminah Elsters, Family Unity Project Program Coordinator for LSPC, and joins us to talk about "Ain't I a Mother Too?" May 10, 2019, 6-8 p.m. at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 388 9th Street, Oakland. Register at this free event: https://www.prisonerswithchildren.org/2019/04/aint-i-a-mother-too/ 2. Lindsey Krumbein, founder, executive director, Gritty City Rep Youth Theatre re: The Taming of the Shrew, May 16-25 at the Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, Oakland. She is joined by Nijzah Waterman, a junior at Envision Academy - a charter school in Downtown Oakland. This is her 4th show with GCRep - she has been performing with us for 2 years. She plays Lucentia in this production of Taming. https://www.grittycityrep.org/ 3. Jason Mendez (Playwright) is a content creator, making his debut as a playwright with Supremacy, directed by Amanda Ortmayer at the EXIT Theatre, 156 Eddy St, SF, May 3 - May 18, 2018. http://www.theexit.org/supremacy/ 4. Lisa Geduldig joins us to talk about the Thursday, May 9th installation of Comedy at Ashkenaz-- a Mother’s Day Comedy Show featuring a line up of Bay Area comedians who are moms (including a mom to a newborn): Diane Amos, Karinda Dobbins, Emily van Dyke, and Brandi Brandes, with de facto Jewish mother, Lisa Geduldig, as the MC. http://www.ashkenaz.com/eventcalendar/2019/5/9comedy-night-at-ashkenaz While Ashkenaz is an all ages venue, the comedy shows are not recommended for kids under 16.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 May 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 May 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Aminah Elsters, Family Unity Project Program Coordinator for LSPC, and joins us to talk about "Ain't I a Mother Too?" May 10, 2019, 6-8 p.m. at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 388 9th Street, Oakland. Register at this free event at eventbrite. 2. Lindsey Krumbein, founder, executive director, Gritty City Rep Youth Theatre re: The Taming of the Shrew, May 16-25 at the Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, Oakland. She is joined by Nijzah Waterman, a junior at Envision Academy - a charter school in Downtown Oakland. This is her 4th show with GCRep - she has been performing with us for 2 years. She plays Lucentia in this production of Taming. 3. Jason Mendez (Playwright) is a content creator, making his debut as a writer with The Exit. Jason knows the power of voice, striving to challenge and complicate social narratives by making space for un- and -underrepresented experiences. His written works range from commissioned readings for the San Francisco Olympians Festival to the graphic novels and has previously worked with Netflix on the set of 13 Reasons Why. Jason holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Playwriting from San Francisco State University. Supremacy by Jason Mendez directed by Amanda Ortmayer, EXIT Theatre, 156 Eddy St, SF, May 3 - May 18, 2018 4. Lisa Geduldig joins us to talk about the Thursday, May 9th installation of Comedy at Ashkenaz-- a Mother’s Day Comedy Show featuring a line up of Bay Area comedians who are moms.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 01:30:00 +0000

1. Jo Kreiter, Flyaway Productions, Laura Elaine Ellis, Executive Director of the African & African American Performing Arts Coalition (AAAPAC), Catalina "Caty" Palacios and Tanea Lunsford Lynx who are both members of Essie Justice to talk about The Wait Room, a site specific dance honoring women with incarcerated loved ones, April 19-20, April 24-25, April 26-27 at 1125 Market Street, a vacant lot opposite UN Plaza at Civic Center. 2. Howard Thurman Special with Rev. Liza Rankow & Rev. Dr. Dorsey Blake, Nov. 8, 2010. Upcoming programs at OneLife 2/17 & 3/7, both at East Bay Church of Religious Science, 4130 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, California 94609. Don't forget to watch: Backs Against the Wall: The Howard Thurman Story, dir. Martin Doblmeier, (http://journeyfilms.com/batw/) on Public Television's WORLD Channel this afternoon/evening, 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. PT, Feb. 8. There are also local screenings on Feb. 9 and Feb. 12.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Apr 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Rev. Harry Louis Williams II joins us to talk about "When the Struggle Is Real" (2019). Visit www.IAmOGRev.com 2. Arisika Razak RN, MPH is Professor Emerita, and former Chair of the Women’s Spirituality Program, at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). She has served as CIIS Director of Diversity, and currently is a core teacher at the East Bay Meditation Center in Oakland. For over twenty years she was an inner city midwife in the SF Bay Area, attending the births of women from over 70 countries. A regular contributor to books and journals, Arisika is also a dancer who has performed nationally and internationally for over thirty years; she has led healing and empowerment workshops for women for over 30 years and spiritual and movement workshops for beings of all genders for over two decades. Her film credits include Fire Eyes, the first full length feature film by an African woman on female genital cutting; and Alice Walker: Beauty in Truth where she is interviewed on Alice Walker's womanism. She joins us to talk about Destiny Art Center's Jewels at odell Johnson Theatre through Friday-Sunday, 4/12-4/14. 3. Rennie Harris, choreographer, joins us to talk about his work, Lazarus, (Program A at Cal Performances 4/9 & 4/13) commissioned by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Cal-Performances for AAADT's 60th Anniversary (1958-2018). https://calperformances.org/performances/2018-19/dance/alvin-ailey-american-dance-theater.php

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 13:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Rennie Harris, choreographer, joins us to talk about his work, Lazarus, commissioned by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Cal-Performances for AAADT's 60th Anniversary (1958-2018). Program A, performed Tuesday, April 9 at 8pm and Saturday, April 13 at 8pm at UC Berkeley's Zellerbach Hall, features the Bay Area premiere of hip hop dance pioneer Rennie Harris’ Lazarus (2018), inspired by the life and legacy of Alvin Ailey. The work is the company’s first two-act ballet and was a 2018 recipient of the New England Foundation For the Arts prestigious National Dance Project grant. With Lazarus, which has a score by Darrin Ross, Harris addresses the racial inequities America faced when Ailey founded this company in 1958 and still faces today. True to tradition, the program closes with Revelations, Ailey’s 1960 masterpiece celebrating the African-American experience. 2. Rebroadcast of Wed., April 3, 2019: Erik Lee & Latanya Tigner, Mazin Jamal, Dr. David Campt, Shelley Davis Roberts

Wanda's Picks Radio

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Erik Lee and Latanya Tigner join us to talk about new work premiering at Dimensions Dance Theater this weekend: We Have Ourselves, April 5-6 at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts theatre. For tickets visit dimensionsdance.org or (510) 465-3363 2. Mazin Jamal, Professional Life and Leadership Coach, is the founder and director of Holistic Underground (2014), a community organization providing personal and professional development to leaders, creatives, and change agents. This weekend he is at MAPP performing as Tarawa with Seoulstice 3. Dr. David Campt, White Ally Toolkit designer, (@thedialogueguy) is a nationally renowned in the areas of civic engagement, dialogue and deliberation, and collaborative decisionmaking. Events 4. Shelley Davis Roberts Lead Designer for “divine the darkeness” Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Shelley Davis earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA and a Master of Architecture Degree from U.C. Berkeley. Her multi-disciplinary interests in architecture and continued dedication to the arts has guided her work and exploration in diversified community development, identity and culture while working as a visual & performing artist, designer, educator and project manager for twenty years.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Jessica Hicks is the Programs & Community Partnerships Manager at Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland, CA, joins us to talk about Tinkerfest, Sat., April 13. 2. Darryl V. Jones (LHT Acting Artistic Director) joins us to talk about A. Zell Williams's The Urban Retreat Mar. 22-Apr. 6 at the Burial Clay Theatre, 762 Fulton Street, SF, at the AAACC. Visit lhtsf.org 3. Michael Fried – In collaboration with Monday Night Playground, Co-Founder & Artistic Director, Planet Earth Arts & New Play Festival, joins us to talk about the 5th Annual event, Monday, April 1, 8 p.m. (7 p.m. artist talk), at Berkeley Rep. playground-sf.org/monday 4. Alice (Aziza) Jefferson, Artistic Director, Sankofa Akili Dance Ensemble 2019 Spring Benefit, Sat., April 13, 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at deFremery Recreation Center, 1651 Adeline Street, Oakland www.BigPictureAnthems.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

1. Rev. Kamal Hassan, facilitator, OneLife Institutes' "Healing Black Lives": A special day of healing and renewal for people of African Descent" at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church. https://www.onelifeinstitute.org/healing-black-lives. 2019 dates: Saturdays, March 16, June 8, Aug 17 & Dec 7 (9:30am-4:30pm) Kamal Hassan, OneLife Board Member & Spiritual Co-Director is also a spiritual leader, educator, and community servant. He currently serves as Pastor/Teaching Elder at the Sojourner Truth Presbyterian Church in Richmond California, a position he has held since 2008. Before this call Reverend Hassan spent more than three decades as both a public and private school educator, community organizer and religious worker. Kamal is a founding member of both the New Afrikan People’s Organization and the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement. He has worked for social justice and Human Rights locally, nationally, and internationally. 2. Deborah Santana, editor, All the Women in My Family Sing (recorded 07.03.2018). 3. Dina Zarif, curator, Iranian artist, join us to talk about "Music of the Banned" concert March 16, 2019. http://redpoppyarthouse.org/event/motb-20190316/ 4. Amara Tabour Smith, Nkeiruka Oruche, Amber McZeal join us to talk about: House/Full of Black Women's Black Women Dreaming "divine darkeness" March 24-April 14, 2019 visit http://www.deepwatersdance.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Cheryl Fabio has been working in documentary film since 1976. She attended Fisk University, (BA/Sociology/Photography); then Stanford/Communications/Documentary Film program. Then freelancing when eventually she became a producer/director bringing many projects to fruition for KTOP TV and other community-based organizations. She was Program Director at Black Filmmaker’s Hall of Fame, Inc. (Oakland, CA), she taught at City College of San Francisco and Managed EATV, Operations Manager at KTOP TV – City of Oakland, and in 2009 she graduated from John F. Kennedy School of Law. Her non-profit, Sarah Webster Fabio Center for Social Justice, is co-producer of Evolutionary Blues … West Oakland’s Music Legacy. https://www.swfcenter4sj.org/ She joins us to talk about her film and conversation series: Resilience, Resistance, Anticipation: A Fresh Look at the Black Arts Movement at the Oakland Public Library, 1021 81st Avenue. 2. Michael Wayne Rice (Geoffrey Dean) joins us to talk about Lucy Thurber's Transfers, directed by Ken Savage currently at Crowded Fire through March 23 at the Potrero Stage. http://www.crowdedfire.org/transfers/ Music: Meklit Hadero's "Call." http://tobtr.com/s/11238443

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Nicia De'Lovely, Oakland native, is an acclaimed published Poetess, Multifaceted Artist, Antichild molestation/ trafficking/ exploitation ARTivist, spirited Survivor and Entrepreneur. 2. Mariam Diakite –Lead Vocals, Percussion, Dance with Orchestra Gold and Erich Huffaker, guitar, multi-instrumentalist. They have a show 3/9 at Starry Plough & 3/29 an EP Party at Ashkenaz Music and Dance Center, both in Berkeley. 3. 25 Annual Collage des Africaines continues, 3/8-10, with a concert Sat. evening, 3/9. Naomi Gedo Diouf is the Artistic Director of Diamano Coura West African Dance Company. She is joined Mabiba Baegne, an internationally acclaimed dancer, dance teacher and choreographer of traditional and contemporary African Dance. 4. Transfers through March 23, Crowded Fire Theatre cast: Caleb Cabrera (Christofer Rodriguez), David Everett Moore (David DeSantos), Victor D. Ragdale (Clarence Matthews).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. We speak to Zachary Whelan, ED, Avary Project, and director, John Beck, to talk about Invisible Bars, the effects of mass incarceration on children. The hour-long documentary Invisible Bars is a rare look at families caught in generational cycles of imprisonment - and those who are determined to break those cycles. The film debuts on KQED on March 19, 11 p.m., and screnes again on March 20 at 5 a.m. and on March 21 on KQED Plus at 10 a.m. Black Choreographer's Festival Here and Now 2019: BCF Co-founder Kendra Barnes, (KKDE), who has made a dance for a quartet of women. Set to the sultry voice of Jennifer Johns, the piece, titled ReD zONE, explores various healing rituals for survivors of sexual violence, while tackling subjects like gaslighting, catcalling and the silencing of women. Shawn Hawkins, choreographer, joins us to talk about the duet for himself and Nafi Thompson titled "Stages of Love." Julia Hughes, choreographer, together with her husband Julio Remelexo, directs a large ensemble of dancers, musicians, actors and capoeiristas called Tô Aí: We Are One People. The two set the choreography of Brazilian artist Dayse Brasil on their company. It's a dance and musical performance about the Orishas Exu and Pombagira, divinities in the Afro-Brazilian religious tradition, Candomblé. We close with Laura Elaine Ellis re Soul to Soul at Walking Distance Dance Festival 2017 at ODC, 5/12-19/2019 this year. http://tobtr.com/s/11191933

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 01:30:00 +0000

We speak to Ben Gilbarg, Creative Catalyst, Founder, Big Picture Anthems (2016). Gilbarg was at the helm of New Bedford-based non-profit 3rd EyE Unlimited from 1998-2011. “Taking Back the Power: The New Women’s Rights Anthem,” is debuting at Impact HUB Oakland, Friday, March 8, 7:00pm – 10 pm, 2323 Broadway, 510-858-2323. Iva Brito - spoken word artist who finishes the film, also joins us. The premiere of “Taking Back the Power” will headline a night filled with artistic inspiration, valuable discussion, and great music. The launch event will feature performances from some of the anthem’s featured artists: Iva Brito, spoken word poet and talented rapper and Dakota Lopes, both traveling from the east coast (New Bedford, MA). There will be a panel discussion with topics including the role of the arts and how it can help enhance the women’s movement. Panelists include creators of the anthem and film, as well as activists on the front line. The event will be mc’ed by Angel Diaz. Doors open at 7 pm, 7:30 pm panel, 9 p.m. film screening followed by a discussion and music by Dj Anghelli. https://oakland.impacthub.net/things-to-do-in-oakland/ 2. Mama Naomi Washington

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast 2/20/2019

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 18:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 17:00:00 +0000

TheatreWorks has selected two dynamic Bay Area actors to play the titular duo: Sister Rosetta & Marie Knight—Michelle E. Jordan and Marissa Rudd. Ms. Jordan, our guest this morning, is a musical icon and 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Sister Rosetta Tharpe in TheatreWorks: Rosetta and Marie (with Marissa Rudd as Marie). Rosetta and Marie is up March 6-31 at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Rd., in Palo Alto. Jordan, a TheatreWorks veteran, received a Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle Award for her performance in TheatreWorks’ Dreamgirls. She has also been seen at TheatreWorks in It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues, Crowns, Go Down Garvey, Hi-Hat Hattie!, Shakin’ the Mess Outta Misery, and Ain’t Misbehavin’. She also performed in Blues in the Night with Maurice Hines and Freda Payne at the Post Street Theatre and Bricktop at the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, and serves as the choir director of East Bay Church of Religious Science. For tickets and information visit: theatreworks.org or call (650) 463-1960. 2. We rebroadcast the Special Tribute to Ntozake Shange (Nov. 23, 2018).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Ricki Stevenson, founder of Black Paris Tours, has served as its creative thinker and CEO since its inception in 1998. She dreamed of life in Paris at three years old, when her mother, a former professional dancer, took her to see Josephine Baker perform in Los Angeles and later, at ten years old when her Mom took her to hear James Baldwin speak on Stanford Campus. Ricki says the idea for Black Paris Tours grew out of traveling the world as a television travel reporter...becoming a person of the WORLD...always looking and finding more Black history outside than at home!! http://www.blackparistour.com/ 2. Bryant B. Bolling holds a M.A. degree in African-Centric Musicology and a B.S. degree in Music Education. He joins us along with Mr. Jones, accompanist, and Zakiyyah Capehart Bolling, poet, to talk about TuBeNu Productions' "I Too Sing America – A Musical Journey through Slavery" for Black History Month 2019 at the Altenheim, 1720 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, Feb. 22, 7 p.m. It is a free event. 3. Jacqueline Francis, Ph.D., joins us to talk about "Black Refractions Symposium at MoAD-SF," Sat., Feb. 23, 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. https://www.moadsf.org/event/engage-black-refractions-symposium/ 4. Actors, Devin Cunningham and Thomas Simpson join us to talk about Leslie Lee's Black Eagles at African American Shakespeare Company at the Marines Memorial Theatre, March 16-31 https://www.african-americanshakes.org/productions/black-eagles/ Related Event: The Black History Month Blacks in the Military Exhibition has been extended to February 28, 2019. The Hours are 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Mondays through Sundays- Veteran’s War Memorial Building- 401 Van Ness Avenue- Veteran’s Gallery- Room 102. Visit http://alwmcsf.org/gallery/2019-black-history

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Swingin’ At The Savoy is an event to celebrate Lindy Hop & Jazz, the joy of the dance and the music, their heritage and history. It takes place every year in February to follow on in the foot steps of the tradition established by the Northern California Lindy Society (NCLS) with the Frankie Manning weekends. The event is open to dancers of all ages and promotes Lindy Hop & Jazz dance and music education, open-mindedness, playfulness, and creativity. Its goal is to help build and strengthen the Lindy Hop community. https://swinginatthesavoy.com/ Feb. 22-24 in Oakland Norma Miller (Dec. 1919) If Frankie Manning was the king of Lindy Hop, Norma Miller is no doubt the reigning queen. Her position today is at an elevated throne, her background and career is without comparison. She’s the last of the classic Savoy Lindy Hoppers of the swing era, she’s a dynamite story-teller and lecturer. Chazz Young A spectacular dancer with a long and successful stage career, son of Lindy Hop master Frankie Manning, Chazz Young tours worldwide, spreading the gospel of Lindy Hop and Tap. Chester Whitmore Chester Whitmore is a man of many talents: tapper extraordinaire, master in karate, renowned drummer, bandleader, arranger, composer, songwriter, choreographer, stuntman.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1.Black Choreographers Festival Here and Now at 15. Today we speak to co-founder Laura Elaine Ellis, Executive Director of the African & African American Performing Arts Coalition (AAAPAC) and to presenting choreographer: Dazaun Soleyn, artistic director of dazaun.dance, graduated from the University of South Florida with a BFA in Modern Dance Performance and Choreography. Soleyn is currently a freelance artist and an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco. For BCF 2019, Soleyn will show a work titled love me naked, which he describes as "a declaration of love of self through an exploration of vulnerability." 2.Kali Tambree is a PhD student in the department of sociology at UCLA. She received her BA in Sociology and Africana Studies from Vassar College in 2017. She reads and writes the Black Atlantic. Kali is a prison abolitionist and seeks to provide opportunities for inside education. She is from Baltimore. thinkinggender@women.ucla.edu 3. V-Day 2019: Archival Interview rebroadcast with Gina Breedlove, 1 Billion Rising 6/22/2012 V-Day 2019 Vagina Monologues https://www.eventbrite.com/e/vday-east-bay-the-vagina-monologues-2019-tickets-53896983328

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Martin Doblmeier joins us to talk about his latest film, Backs Against the Wall:The Howard Thurman Story, airing nationally on PBS World Channel, Fri., Feb. 8, 9 PM PT. Since 1984 he has produced and directed more than 30 films focused on religion, faith and spirituality. Martin combines a lifelong interest in religion with a passion for storytelling. His films explore how belief can lead individuals to extraordinary acts, how spirituality creates and sustains communities and how faith is lived in extraordinary ways. Visit http://journeyfilms.com/media/ 2. Lisa Riley, One Degree of Separation Events and Travel, joins us to talk about Women of Color Entrpreneur Conference, at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose, March 16, 10 am-4 pm. Visit https://www.odostravel.com/events/entrepreneur-conference/ 3. Shola Adisa-Farrar, a Jamaican American Artist currently based in Paris, France is back for a three day residency, Feb. 14-16, the Black Cat in San Francisco for a three day residency. Her music is Jazz with Caribbean flavors and a touch of Afrobeat. Her debut album Lost Myself (Hot Casa Records, 2016) has been playing on international radio stations since 2016 and last Fall Spike Lee, personally selected one of her songs to be featured in his Netflix show, "She's Gotta Have It" season 1. Shola has served as an American Music Ambassador to 5 African countries and has headlined concerts in over 10 countries on 4 continents, including US, Russia and France 4. Mr. Bertram Clark, Collector, historian and Vietnam Veteran, feat. African American soldiers from The Revolutionary War to WWII in an exhibit opening Saturday, Feb. 9th 2-5pm @ the SF War Memorial Veteran Building | Veteran Gallery RM 102. For more info visit: http://alwmcsf.org/gallery/2019-black-history

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Emily Kulhmann, director of exhibitions and Curatorial Affairs at the Museum of the African Diaspora in SF joins us to speak about Black Refractions: Highlights from the Studio Museum in Harlem 2. CHRIS METZLER, programmer, joins us to talk about the 21st Annual SF Indie, Jan. 30-Feb. 14, 2019 http://sfindie.com/festivals/sf-indiefest/ 3. Sampson McCormick and Francesca Fiorentini join us to speak about Not My F--ing President's Day https://www.brava.org/all-events/2019/2/17/not-my-fing-presidents-day-2019 4. Pam S, (dir.) & Wendell Watkins, (subj.), join us to talk about the wonderful AmericaReframed film "Detroit 48202: conversations Along a Postal Route." https://worldchannel.org/episode/arf-detroit-48202/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. OUSD Kehinde Salter, Oakland Unified School Teacher, LPAA Artistic Director / Co-founding member and Artistic Director of Lyric Dance and Vocal Ensemble, joins us to talk about the sick out today in Oakland Public Schools District. www.prlog.org/12748968-fremont-high-teachers-call-another-ousd-sick-out.html Call Labor Director's Office: 510-879-4048 Superintendent Dr. Kyla Johnson-Trammell: 510-879-8200 (https://www.ousd.org/domain/4813) Mrs. Salter has served as an educator for the past 17 years, vocalist, dancer, percussionist, poet, writer and ordained minister with a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts with a minor in music. https://www.lyricperformingartsacademy.com/instructors 2. Stacey Hoffman, Executive director, Living Jazz, joins us to talk about the annual tribute to Dr. King, In the Name of Love, this Sunday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m. at Oakland Scottish Rite Center. http://jazzcampwest.livingjazz.org/about_StaceyHoffman.php https://www.livingjazz.org/mlktribute/ 3. Charles Blackwell, teacher at Youth Spirit Arts, in Berkeley, visual artist, playwright, poet--artivist, joins us to talk about Dr. King's legacy. 4. Kathleen Dowdey, dir., John Lewis, Get in the Way

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 23:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Daurus Cyprian, Senior Organizer, All of Us Or None. Expertise, Ban the Box, Reentry, Community Organizing, Policy Advocacy, PublicSpeaking. https://www.prisonerswithchildren.org/about/staff-directory/dauras-cyprian/ Norris Henderson, Voice of the Experienced https://www.vote-nola.org/norris-henderson.html Mr. Cyrian and Henderson join us to talk about the free community forum tomorrow at Booth Hall, UC Berkeley School of Law, 7-9 PM, "Restore Our Rights" which looks at the disenfranchisement of the millions of voters who were formerly incarcerated in the United States and how we can correct that error. We close with a rebroadcast of our Special Broadcast, Jan. 14, 2019 which highlighted the Say It Loud Collection @Heritage Auction Jan. 15, and the Fillmore Heritage Center Fundraiser tomorrow evening, 6-10 p.m. 1330 Fillmore Street, San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 16:00:00 +0000

Guests: John Silverstein is a former public art gallery curator and director, university art history instructor, produced screenwriter, owner of a vintage props rental business called Hot Property, and life-long collector whose interests have ranged from Underground comix, to Bauhaus applied arts, to historic and modern photography, to his present and ongoing involvement with African American objects and art. He lives and works in Toronto. Sandra Palomino, Director, Historical Manuscripts, has more than twenty years of experience working with historical manuscripts, autographs, and rare books both via private treaty sales and auction. She joined Heritage in 2006 and during her tenure has brought to market such important collectibles as the last paragraph of Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address and Francis Crick’s Nobel Medal and diploma. She has also had the honor of working with the papers of Benjamin Harrison (a large archive that descended through the family of his second wife that was placed with an institution), and the papers of Maude Ballou, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s first secretary. Her course of study at Yale focused on 18th and 19th Century American History. Her professional experience also includes direct marketing and public relations with such noted companies as Rapp Collins and Donnelly Marketing. Cheryl Finley is Associate Professor of Art History. She holds a Ph.D. in African American Studies and History of Art from Yale University. 2. David Hardiman Sr., joins us to talk about the concert benefit this Thursday, Jan. 17, 6-10 p.m. to save the Fillmore Heritage Center, 1330 Fillmore Street in SF. He is joined by Destiny Muhammad, Harpist from the 'Hood.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Wax-Poets

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast 12.07.2018

Thu, 10 Jan 2019 05:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 18:00:00 +0000

FRESH is an ARTLAB (a rising tide lifts all boats) production of ALTERNATIVA. FRESH 2019 is curated by Kathleen Hermesdorf and José Navarrete, along with substantial community input, and sponsored by Joe Goode Annex. https://freshfestival.org Fresh Festival 2019, Jan. 4-27:24 days of embodied art, action+ interaction with 85+ risk-taking artists from the Bay Area + beyond, featuring:https://joegoode.org/event/fresh-fest-performances-2019/ 1. Byb Chanel Bibene, born and raised in the Republic of Congo, choreographer and artistic director of Kiandanda Dance Theater is featured the first weekend of Fresh Festival. His own technical and aesthetic sensibility is rooted in the culture and traditional dances of his country. Visit https://www.facebook.com/kiandanda/ 2. Daiane Lopes da Silva is a dancer, choreographer, teacher and artistic director of Kinetech Arts. Her work has been performed in Brazil, France, Belgium, Greece and the U.S. She was a resident artist at SAFEhouse arts, CounterPulse and Headlands Center for the Arts. Daiane studied at The Municipal Ballet of São Paulo, Brazil and at P.A.R.T.S (Performing Arts Research and Training Studios), directed by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker in Brussels. She graduated with a B.A. in Psychology, Alpha Beta Kappa, from SFSU. She is on faculty at Alonzo King Lines Ballet Dance Center and Western Ballet. Visit http://kinetecharts.org Music: Amikaela Gaston's Lovely Day

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 02 Jan 2019 16:00:00 +0000

1. Theodore Lush, Michael Jackson, Karen Jones join us to talk about: 7th Annual Montgomery MAAFA Commemoration, Sat. July 14, 2018. RemembertheAncestors.com 2. Gina Yashere, London born, Nigerian comedian opens at Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, July 8, 2018, 7 p.m.(thefreight.org) 3. Baba Luther Gray and Kalamu ya Salaam as Grand Griot joins us to talk about the 18th Annual MAAFA Commemoration in NOLA this Sat., July 7, 2018, 7 AM at Congo Square. However, beginning tonight there are many programs scheduled from the Maafa Exhibit which opened June 29 to the series of cultural programs this evening, tomorrow and Friday afternoon. (https://www.ashecac.org/) 4. Alashe Michael Oshoosi a.k.a. Michael F. Wright, Ph.D., JD and decorated veteran of the Civil Rights Movement, joins us to talk about his ancestors who established the first African village in America, "Wetitquin" (also sp. Wetipquin), Maryland, a stop on Tubman's Underground Railroad. Loyalists, his grandfathers supported Britain (1787, 1796-1812) in exchange for the promise of human rights and abolition. At the end of the Civil War African Loyalists were moved to Nova Scotia and Chatham, Canada and then to Sierra Leone where they built what is know as Freetown. His late mother, Sarah E. Wright (poet and novelist) was former VP of the Harlem Writers Guild. The conversation weaves ancestral past with present to form an intentional life dedicated to upliftment of African people.(http://oshoosi.com/tuskegee-movement-sncc.html) Permalink: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2018/07/04/wandas-picks-radio-show Shortlink: http://tobtr.com/10852689

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 22:30:00 +0000

Rebroadcast KWANZAA 2019 with Min. Mxolisi; Tiffany Magee, LUXE Laundromat, Fresh FEST Jan. 2019

Wanda's Picks Radio 10th Anniversary Year

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 20:30:00 +0000

What's the Word? UMOJA--UNITY

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 18:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2008/12/26/Wandas-Picks Our discussion during the first half hour will be about Kwanzaa 12/26-1/1/2009: 8 AM: Dr. Oba T'Shaka, Ms. Pam Hurley, Destiny, Harpist from the Hood and others. 8:30 AM: Darryl Obama Prevost about the Cheikh Anta Diop Golden Awards Charity Gala 12/30 at AAMLO with Eddie Hart and translator for Cheikh Diops’ work Darryl Obama Prevost, and Danny Glover who is presenter and recipient of an award. 9 AM: American Book Awards 12/28, 4-6:30 PM at Anna's Jazz Island with honorees: Douglas A. Blackmon, author of "Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to WW II, and Frank B. Wilderson, III, author of "Incognegro." 9:30 AM: Richard Brown, SF8, Claude Marks, Freedom Archives; Sean Vaughn Scott, Black Rep's Music in the Community and Paul Mooney, comedian Dec. 28, 6 & 8 PM about the annual holiday show and the upcoming fundraiser for the SF8 at BRG

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Rebroadcast from Wed., Dec. 19, 2018 with: 1. Phyllis Magee, founder & CEO, Luxe Laundromat: A Wash Houze Christmas, Dec. 22, 10 AM to 2 PM @ Poppy's Bubble Wash, 7851 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, 94605 https://www.facebook.com/Luxelaundromat 2. Brother Mxolisi T. Sowell: For more than 50 years, an advocate and activist for our broadest, deepest study of our Black/African/African American History, Heritage, Cultural and Spiritual Traditions -- (as our honorable ancestor Carter G. Woodson advised). He is one of the founding members of the Wo’se Community of the Sacred African Way in Oakland, CA (Dec. 1980) 3. Kathleen Hermesdorf, Fresh Festival co-curator with FRESH is an ARTLAB (a rising tide lifts all boats) production of ALTERNATIVA. FRESH 2019 is curated by Kathleen Hermesdorf and José Navarrete, along with substantial community input, and sponsored by Joe Goode Annex. https://freshfestival.org She is an international dance artist, educator and producer based in San Francisco who directs ALTERNATIVA with musician Albert Mathias.ALTERNATIVA presents week 4, Jan. 25-26 features FAKE Company, DAFUQ.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Phyllis Magee, founder & CEO, Luxe Laundromat: A Wash Houze Christmas. Dec. 22. 10 AM to 2 PM @ Poppy's Bubble Wash, 7851 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland, 94605 https://www.facebook.com/Luxelaundromat 2. Brother Mxolisi T. Sowell: For more than 50 years, an advocate and activist for our broadest, deepest study of our Black/African/African American History, Heritage, Cultural and Spiritual Traditions -- (as our honorable ancestor Carter G. Woodson advised), and the utilization of the information, wisdom, awakening and empowerment embodied within them as foundation for the greatest good of our people; ultimately for the greatest good of all humanity. He is one of the founding members of the Wo’se Community of the Sacred African Way in Oakland, CA (Dec. 1980), an African-centered spiritual community which has operated an exceptionally successful independent school (Pre-K through 8th grade) since 1985 -- Ile Omode. Mxolisi is one who is “eager to share and be supportive of this kind of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) by and with my people whenever and wherever that spirit arises." 3. Kathleen Hermesdorf, co-founder of FRESH FESTIVAL, is an international dance artist, educator and producer based in San Francisco. She directs ALTERNATIVA, with musician Albert Mathias. www.la-alternativa.us & freshfestival.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

FRESH is an ARTLAB (a rising tide lifts all boats) production of ALTERNATIVA. FRESH 2019 is curated by Kathleen Hermesdorf and José Navarrete, along with substantial community input, and sponsored by Joe Goode Annex. https://freshfestival.org Fresh Festival 2019, Jan. 4-27:24 days of embodied art, action + interaction with 85+ risk-taking artists from the Bay Area + beyond, featuring:https://joegoode.org/event/fresh-fest-performances-2019/ Byb Chanel Bibene, born and raised in the Republic of Congo, is a choreographer and artistic director of Kiandanda Dance Theater. His own technical and aesthetic sensibility is rooted in the culture and traditional dances of his country. https://www.facebook.com/kiandanda/ Daiane Lopes da Silva is a dancer, choreographer, teacher and artistic director of Kinetech Arts. Her work has been performed in Brazil, France, Belgium, Greece and the U.S. She has received support from Zellerbach Family Foundation, CA$H Grant, Phyllis C. Wattis Foundation and CounterPulse. She was a resident artist at SAFEhouse arts, CounterPulse and Headlands Center for the Arts. Daiane studied at The Municipal Ballet of São Paulo, Brazil and at P.A.R.T.S (Performing Arts Research and Training Studios), directed by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker in Brussels. She graduated with a B.A. in Psychology, Alpha Beta Kappa, from SFSU. She is on faculty at Alonzo King Lines Ballet Dance Center and Western Ballet. http://kinetecharts.org Music: Amikaela Gaston's Lovely Day

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Candice Elder, East Oakland Collective, Free Brown & Chef Shelby (Experience FUEL Oak) discuss the Homeless Black Women: Multi-Service Day Dec 15th at the West Oakland Youth Center. Visit https://hopetaskforce.org/ . 2. Mrs. Kehinde Salter, Lyric Performing Arts Academy (LPAA) joins us to talk about the third annual?Jazzy Nutcracker?at the East Oakland Youth Development Center on Saturday, December 15th, 2018, 4:30 p.m. (doors 4 p.m.). Set to the music of Duke Ellington's Nutcracker Suite, this family-friendly event will provide children of all ages an afternoon of holiday fun. 3. Lynn Morrow, Ph.D. joins us to talk about the Oakland Youth Chorus @ Swing & Soul, Let Us Break Bread this weekend with the Oakland Symphony

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Regina Louise. Someone Has Led this Child to Believe (2nd bk. Lifetime film based on Somebody's Someone). www.iamreginalouise.com 2. Donte Clark with Dr. Khalid Akil White re: "Know Freedom" book event at Richmond Pulse, Bridge Art Space, 23 Maine Ave., Richmond, CA, 3-6 pm 3. Martin Luther, McCoy Actor, guitarist, singer/songwriter, producer joins us to talk about the Oakland Symphony's Swing and Soul – Let Us Break Bread Together, Sunday, Dec. 16, 4 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. https://www.oaklandsymphony.org/ 4. Nathan M. Richardson, Poet / Author / Douglass Historian, joins us to talk about Frederick Douglass on his 200 birth year. https://www.scpublishing.com/events--workshops

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 16:30:00 +0000

1. Kim Carter, Founder & Ambassador of Time for Change. She is an affordable housing developer, motivational speaker, author, coach. Ms. Carter joins us to talk about the opening of a residence for formerly incarcerated women and children in Hayward. 2. Adrian Williams, Kwanzaa Village Project 2017 (archived rebroadcast) 3. Lindsay Krumbein, Founder and Executive Artistic Director, Gritty City Repertory Youth Theatre @The Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, Oakland. Krumbein taught theatre and English at Bay Area high schools for a decade, and has produced and directed 21 shows with talented youth performers since 2002. www.grittycityrep.org Robert Paige, co-playwright, actor, Community Engagement and Technical Apprentice Zaria Stanton is a junior at Envision Academy in her second season with GCRep. In "Caught Up" she plays Angela Davis as well as performing in a number of large scenes with the whole ensemble. 3. Kathleen Dowdey, dir., John Lewis, Get in the Way (archived interview) 4. SCILLA ANDREEN, Director, Producer, Executive Producer, "Like," the film indieflix.com and Daniel Wright, Fusion, Head Of School, the hosts of the community screening, Thursday, Dec. 6, 6 p.m. Music: Victoria Theodore: "Blue"; Meklit and Quinn: "Tunnels." http://tobtr.com/s/11093627

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 17:00:00 +0000

We open with Brie Knight, the winner of the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre Playwrights Festival (https://www.lhtsf.org/), with her "Pancake Queen," and close with an archived show taped April 11 this year. 1. Theresa Dorcelus, Juris Doctorate Candidate 2020, Southern University Law Center, joins us to highlight the case of John Cluchette, who was once again denied parole by Gov. Brown. 2. Rakiah Anderson, "Black Lives, Black Lungs," doc and panel at Laney College Forum, Fri., April 13, 2018, 510.604.7589. 3. Edythe Boone & Miranda Bergman, Maestra Peace Mural Book Project Kickstarter 4. Deborah Vaughn, Latanya d. Tigner, Andea Vonny Lee, join us to talk about Dimensions Dance Theater's 45th Anniversary, Kick High, Turn Fast: Celebrating 45 Yrs. of Dance at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts, 1428 Street, Oakland. Call 510.465.3363, www.dimensionsdance.org Shortlink: http://tobtr.com/10712569

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Today we host a Tribute to Ntozake Shange. We open with a prerecorded interview with the late playwright, poet, novelist and co-director, Cassandra Henderson. October 18, 1948 – October 27, 2018)(PoetryFoundation.org). Our guests include: Claudia Alick, Lisa Brimmer, Nanna Mwaluko, Halifu Osumare Shange is best known for the Obie Award-winning play for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf. She also penned several novels including Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo (1982), Liliane (1994), and Betsey Brown (1985), a novel about an African-American girl who runs away from home. Among Shange's honors and awards were fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation and the Lila Wallace Reader's Digest Fund, and a Pushcart Prize. In April 2016, Barnard College announced that it acquired Shange's archive.[3] Shange lived in Brooklyn, New York (wikipedia).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Toni-Michelle Williams is an activist and co-director of Solutions Not Punishment Coalition (SNaPCO) in Atlanta, Georgia. She is a celebrated community organizer in prison abolition/prison reform issues, and the criminalization of poverty and Black transgender people. She is in town for Violence Against Trans Women: State of Emergency at Commonwealth Club of CA in SF, 11.26/2018, 6:30 p.m. 2. Sikivu Hutchinson, Ph.D. is an educator and author who has written and published extensively on the African American experience in Peoples Temple and Jonestown; CHARLOTTE WILLIAMS (Hy Strayer) charlotteevelynwilliams.com; ELVINET PIARD (Jess McPherson/The Night Watchwoman) is trained in communication and performing arts, Elvinet is an L.A.-based actor and voice-over artist. They join us to talk about the upcoming production of White Nights, Black Paradise, Fri., Nov 30 – Sun, Dec 02 at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. http://www.blackjonestown.org/events/ 3. We close with an interview with Ntozake Shange, playwright, “for colored girls who’ve considered suicide when the rainbow was enuf." The performance was at Black Rep in Berkeley.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 17 Nov 2018 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. From the Archives Dec. 9, 2016 features: Oakland East Bay Symphony re: Let Us Break Bread 2016 celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Black Panther Party http://tobtr.com/9645829 2. From the Archives: Stanley Nelson, dir. "Vanguard of the Revolution (2015)." 2. The Honourable Tony Ince was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Cole Harbour-Portland Valley in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. He has served as Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. He has worked as a Department of Community Services Counsellor, a sales representative and as an actor. Minister Ince was born and raised in the north-end of Halifax Nova Scotia. In addition to working for the Department of Community Services as a youth and family counsellor, he has chaired the African Canadian Advisory Board for Nova Scotia Community College and is a past member of the African Nova Scotian Advisory committee for the Halifax Regional School Board. As a teacher and educator, he has instructed history and drama, and been involved with instructing equity and diversity programs within Ontario high schools. He has a passion for social justice and fairness and a strong commitment to issues affecting youth. Tony Ince was also an actor. He has worked in the television and film industry since 1994; --having appeared in many movies and commercials. Recently, Mr. Ince was part of the Stryker-Indigo New York Production Team during filming of the documentary BLACK ICE. Mr. Ince is introduced by his friend, Arif Khatib, businessman, filmmaker, radio show host and founder of the Oakland-based Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame (originally the African-American Sports Hall of Fame. http://tobtr.com/s/11071959

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. 40 Years After Jonestown: Homecoming: Sunday, November 18, 2018, beginning at 1:45 pm Geary Blvd. & Fillmore @ 1859 Geary, the former location of People's Temple. We are joined by survivors, scholars and concerned citizen activists: Lt. Yulanda D.A. Williams, Professor James Lance Taylor. https://sfbeautiful.org/40-years-after-jonestown/ 2. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre's Playwrights Festival is Friday-Sunday, Nov. 16-18 and features: Cleavon Smith whose Vs. premiered in Berkeley, CA during the 2016-17 season at TheatreFirst. He has had short plays produced by the Utopia Theatre Project, the Best of PlayGround Festival, and the Ohlone College Playwrights Festival. Cleavon lives in Oakland and teaches English at Berkeley City College and is in his third year as the playwriting mentor for the Berkeley Rep's Young Writers of Color Collective. Visit https://www.lhtsf.org/ 3. JooWan Kim, Ensemble Mik Nawooj & Mina Morita, Artistic Director of Crowded Fire Theater, join us to talk about DEATH BECOME LIFE: BANISH DARKNESS, a future vision by Crowded Fire Theater, AXIS Dance Company, Star Finch, and Ensemble Mik Nawooj With Presenting Sponsor Bayview Opera House Ruth Williams Memorial Theatre, 4705 3rd Street, San Francisco, November 16, 8:00pm, November 17, 3:00pm and 8:00pm. Ticket Price: $25. Visit www.crowdedfire.org/dbl-banish-darkness for more information and to purchase tickets. Box Office by phone (415) 523-0034 ext 1.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Lead singer and lyricist BUTTERFLY WILLIAMS and music producer WINSTON BERGER join us to talk about their group OLOKUN is a psychedelic power pop duo based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their debut album SURVIVAL KIT. Visit http://bit.ly/olokunitunes 2. Byb Kongo Bilene, Kiandanda Dance theatre, join us to talk about the Mbongui Square Festival fundraiser, Nov. 11 at EastSide Arts Alliance. Visit 3. Aldo Billingslea, Interim Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, joins us to talk about Playwrights Festival Competition, Nov. 17-18 at the Burial Clay Theater, 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco. Visit lhtsf.org or call 415-474-8800 4. Jessica Care Moore and Yahzarah joins us to talk about Black Women Rock at YBCA, Sat., Nov. 2, 9 PM. & the moderated panel: They Say I'm Different with artists at The Lab, 2948 16th Street, San Francisco, Sunday, Nov. 4,10 AM-12 noon. Visit ybca.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. Ibrahima Seck is a member of the History department of University Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar (UCAD), Senegal. His research is mostly devoted to the historical and cultural links between West Africa and Louisiana with a special interest for religious beliefs, music, foodways, and miscellaneous aspects of culture. Dr. Seck is now holding the position of Director of research of the Whitney Plantation Slavery Museum located in St. John the Baptist Parish in Louisiana. He is the author of a book on this historic site entitled “Bouki fait Gombo: A History of the Slave Community of Habitation Haydel (Whitney Plantation) Louisiana, 1750-1860. [New Orleans: UNO Press, 2014]. http://whitneyplantation.com/ 2. Gason Ayisyin is a New Orleans-based photographer who immigrated to the United States as a young child from Haiti, and Karel Sloane-Boekbinder Ashe Programs assistant For Theatre Visual Art And Education at Ashé Cultural Arts Center join us to talk about the new exhibit at the Powerhouse "Loa" 3. Graham Lustig, Artistic Director, Oakland Ballet, Luna Mexicana, Nov. 2-3 at the Paramount Theatre, Oakland oaklandballet.org 4. Tom Bruett, director and Nick Hadikwa Mwaluko, dramaturg, joins us to talk about Cardboard Piano by Hansol Jung: Playing Oct 26 - Dec 2 at New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness Avenue, Lower Lobby, San Francisco, CA 94102. nctcsf.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. We are joined in the studio by four black men, leaders at Positive Directions Equals Change, Inc. to speak about the agency's 25th Anniversary Gala, Sat., Nov. 2, 8 PM-12 AM, 1753 Carroll Avenue, in SF: Calvin “Cregg” Johnson, affectionately known as “Big Cregg”, Reggie Boyer, Ron Thomas, and Executive Director, Cedric Akbar. Visit positivedirectionsequalschange.org 2. Gerald Lenoir, Strategy Analyst Haas Institute for a Fair and Inclusive Society at the Haas School, joins us to talk about the play, Barbershop Chronicles by Inua Ellams (10.26-28) at calperformances.org There is a Community Dialogue with Cast Members, Thursday, October 25, 7 pm to 9pm at Benny Adem Grooming Parlor, 408 14th Street, Oakland. No charge. Light refreshments served. 3. Champagne Hughes (Francine/Lena) in Altarena Playhouse production of Clybourne Park, by Bruce Norris, directed by Darren A.C. Carollo. altarena.org or 510.523.1553 4. Ethel Long-Scott is Executive Director of the Women's Economic Agenda Project, (WEAP). She is known nationally and internationally for devoting her life to the education and leadership of people at the losing end of society, especially women of color. The next teach-in at Laney College in the Student Center, Oct. 30, 9:30 AM-1:30 PM Visit weap.org & https://laney.edu/umoja-ubaka/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Guests: 1. Enoch Jemmott & Juliane Dressner join us to talk about the film “Personal Statement,” a new AmericaReframed feature debuting on The World, Oct. 23. Personal Statement by Juliane Dressner and Edwin Martinez, follows Karoline Jimenez, Christine Rodriguez and Enoch Jemmott, three inspirational teens in Brooklyn who take it upon themselves to make a difference by becoming peer college counselors in their schools. They are high school seniors who are fighting to defy the odds not only for themselves but for every single one of their classmates. They have decided to become the very resource they don’t have themselves. 2. Jess Curtis/Gravity joins us to talk about Beyond Gravity, his latest showcase of new work with international, local and national artists including Gabriel Christian, who joins us as well to talk about aleph is for annals (World Premiere), performed and created by jose e. abad and Gabriel Christian, featuring Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Beyond Gravity is October 25-27, 2018 at CounterPulse in San Francisco: http://counterpulse.org/event/beyond-gravity/ or 415-626-2060 and JessCurtisGravity.org 3. Joanna Haigood, Artistic Director and Choreographer, Zaccho Dance Theatre re: "Picture This: Bayview Hunters Point" at the Ruth Williams Opera House, Oct. 18-21, 8 pm (free). There is a post-show talk Friday, Oct. 19. Visit zaccho.org 4. Thomas Simpson, Founder, Artistic Director and Nina Causey, actress, singer, join us to talk about the 24th Annual AfroSolo Arts Festival and its "Black Voices Performance Series: Our Voices, Our Lives," October 18 -21, 2018, at the Buriel Clay Theatre in the African American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA. Visit: afrosolo.org or call (415) 771-2376.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Today we speak to directors presenting work at the SF Dance Film Festival through Sunday, Oct. 4-14. 8:00AM --Live radio Interview with Justina Kamiel Grayman (BLACK IN AMERICA) Screens Sunday, Oct. 14, 3 p.m. in a program called "Raising Voices" at sfdancefilmfest.org/raising-voices/ at Brava Theatre in SF. To learn more about Dr. Grayman's work visit justinagrayman.com 8:30AM -- Interview with Rafael Roy (CIPHER). Roy's film is also a part of Raising Voices. To learn more about the film and director visit: https://www.allsolidthings.com/ 3. We close with a rebroadcast of Johanna Haigood, Artistic Director and Founder, Zaccho Dance Theatre in San Francisco speaking about Sailing Away, Sept. 13-16, 2012. her latest work is: Picture This: Bayview Hunters Point, which opens Thursday, Oct. 11, at the Bayview Opera House, 8 p.m. and runs through Sunday, Oct. 21. Visit zaccho.org Show link: http://tobtr.com/s/11017173

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Oct 2018 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

8 AM LSPC@ 40; AOUON @15 Gala, Wed., Oct. 3, 6-9 pm prisonerswithchildren.org Vonya Quarles, A native Californian, lives in Corona CA. She is practicing Attorney and co-founder of Starting Over, Inc., a transitional living and reentry service provider. A WKKF Fellow and member of All of US or NONE, she works on criminal justice issues that impact her community. Ms. Quarles hosts Prop 47 events and provides pro-bono post-conviction relief which includes Prop 47. Ms. Quarles is a woman that has been incarcerated as a youth, and as an adult. Like many other African American women, she has far too many loved ones behind the walls. 2. In her one woman show, "It’s Me I’m Running From," Alice Aida Ayers names and shames the horrors, makes you laugh at human foibles, marvel at her resilience, and be inspired by her courage. Performances are Sept. 29 in Sacramento & Oct. 4. in Oakland. Visit http://aidaayers.blogspot.com/2018/03/its-me-im-runnig-from.html 3. Sept. 26 was Marcus Gardley Day in the City of Oakland. Sept. 26 is also the return of the Cal Shakes production of his "black odyssey," Sept. 26-Oct. 7 http://www.calshakes.org/ http://tobtr.com/10986667

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 06:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Joanna Haigood, "Picture Bayview Hunters Point," at the Bayview Opera House "The Ruth", 4705 Third Street (Oakdale and Newcomb), Thurs.-Sun., Oct. 11-14 and 18-21, 2018, 8 PM. Visit zaccho.org for tickets (150 spots per show). Call in your dream for the Bayview Community: 628-333-5063 Since 1979 Joanna has been creating work that uses natural, architectural and cultural environments as points of departure for movement exploration and narrative. Her stages have included grain terminals, a clock tower, the pope’s palace, military forts, and a mile of urban neighborhood streets in the South Bronx. Her work has been commissioned by many arts institutions. Joanna has had the privilege to mentor many extraordinary young artists internationally at the National École des Arts du Cirque in France, the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in England, Spelman College, the Institute for Diversity in the Arts at Stanford University, the San Francisco Circus Center and at Zaccho Studio. 2. 40th Anniversary of Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC). Founder, Ellen Barry and Executive Director, Dorsey Nunn, share its history. LSPC Gala is Oct. 3, 2018, 6-9 PM in Oakland at the Scottish Rite Center. Visit prisonerswithchildren.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Sgt. Yulanda Williams, President, Officers for Justice, joins us to talk about the Gala, Sat., Sept. 29 celebrating its 50th Anniversary. Visit http://officersforjustice.org/events.html 2. In her one woman show, "It’s Me I’m Running From," Alice Aida Ayers names and shames the horrors, makes you laugh at human foibles, marvel at her resilience, and be inspired by her courage.Performances are Sept. 29 in Sacramento & Oct. 4. in Oakland. Visit itsmeimrunningfrom.godaddysites.com 3. Liza J. Rankow, OneLife Institute, Founder & Spiritual Co-Director, Desert Rose join us to speak about TAKING THE ARROW OUT OF THE HEART An Evening with Alice Walker & Desert Rose on World Peace Day at First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison: https://www.onelifeinstitute.org/workshops-events 4. Gayle Madyun and Ayodele N'Zinga join us to talk about Protection Shields: the exhibit at Oakstop, play opening this weekend at The Flight Deck and workshop at OneLife Institute Oct. 6, film available at protectionshields.net http://tobtr.com/s/10986649

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 19:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Judy Juanita, Homeage to the Black Arts Movement: A Handbook, joins us to talk about her reading and panel discussion at African American Museum & Library at Oakland, 659 14th Street, Oakland, this Sat., Sept. 15, 2-4 p.m. on the Black Arts Movement and the 50th Anniversary of the School of Ethnic Studies at SFSU. 2. Wanda Ravernell, Ominra Institute, joins us to talk about the 5th Annual Black-Eyed Pea Festival on the front lawn at Oakland Technical High School.It's free. 3. Rev. Liza Rankow, co-founder, One Life Institute, joins us to talk about Taking the Arrow Out of the Heart: An Evening with Alice Walker & Desert Rose at First Congregational Church of Oakland, Friday, September 21, 7:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m., 2501 Harrison Street, Oakland. For tickets visit: www.onelifeinstitute.org/workshops-events Founded in 1999 by world music composer, Lynne Holmes, Desert Rose is based in Cape Town, South Africa and is widely regarded as leading composers, producers and performers of Universal Sacred World Music. In 2005 Lynne Holmes teamed up with her life partner, Yusuf Ganief, and started an exciting journey through diverse cultures and faith groups from Sufism, Gregorian Chanting to ancient languages including Aramaic, Sanskrit, Hindi, Hebrew and Gurmukhi. Visit https://www.desertrosemusic.co.za/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Judy Juanita, Homeage to the Black Arts Movement: A Handbook, joins us to talk about her reading and panel discussion at African American Museum & Library at Oakland, 659 14th Street, Oakland, this Sat., Sept. 15, 2-4 p.m. on the Black Arts Movement and the 50th Anniversary of the School of Ethnic Studies. 2. Wanda Ravernell, Ominra Institute, joins us to talk about the 5th Annual Black-Eyed Pea Festival on the front lawn at Oakland Technical High School. It is a free event. 3. Rev. Liza Rankow, co-founder, One Life Institute, joins us to talk about Taking the Arrow Out of the Heart: An Evening with Alice Walker & Desert Rose at First Congregational Church of Oakland, Friday, September 21, 7:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m., 2501 Harrison Street, Oakland. For tickets visit: https://www.onelifeinstitute.org/workshops-events Founded in 1999 by world music composer, Lynne Holmes, Desert Rose is based in Cape Town, South Africa and is widely regarded as leading composers, producers and performers of Universal Sacred World Music. In 2005 Lynne Holmes teamed up with her life partner, Yusuf Ganief, and started an exciting journey through diverse cultures and faith groups from Sufism, Gregorian Chanting to ancient languages including Aramaic, Sanskrit, Hindi, Hebrew and Gurmukhi. Visit https://www.desertrosemusic.co.za/ http://tobtr.com/10965175

Wanda's Picks Radio Show (archival show)

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. This morning we speak to organizers of the Global Simultaneous Libation for the Ancestors Saturday, June 14, 2014, 9 AM Pacific Time, 12 noon Eastern Time. Osei Terry R. Chandler, co-founder of the Charleston, SC, Remembrance with Deborah Wright, Helen Phillips or “Salako”, libation pourer. Chadra Pittman Walke, Hampton, Virginia; Jerrie Spruce, Hampton, Virginia; Brother Osakumi Jackson, Georgetown, South Carolina. 2. Michael Gene Sullivan, playwright, actor, director, joins us to talk about his new work, based on another 9/11 story: fugitive/slave/act 3. Tangela Large (Ruby) and Tyee Tilghman (Cecil), cast from pen/man/ship, Christina Anderson’s World Premiere at The Magic Theatre. 4. Regina E. Mason, Oakland native, is the great-great-great granddaughter of pioneering autobiographer William Grimes who wrote the first fugitive slave narrative in America, Life of William Grimes, the Runaway Slave. She is joined by Oakland veteran actor, director, playwright, Michael Lange.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

SF Green Film Festival https://www.greenfilmfest.org/ 1. Soumyaa Kapil Behrens, dir. (NAIL HOUSE) Soumyaa is an award-winning director, producer and scholar whose projects have screened at festivals across the globe. Her work engages issues that influence the human condition and the political landscapes that shape identity and power structures within marginalized communities. 2. Marcy Cravat (DIRT RICH) trained at the Art Center College of Design and at the Berkeley Digital Film Institute. She founded Passelande Pictures in 2011 which has been focused on creating environmental documentaries given the dire need for public awareness during this very fragile time on this planet. National Prison Strike Aug. 21-Sept. 9 https://www.facebook.com/freescmovement/ https://incarceratedworkers.org/campaigns/prison-strike-2018 3. Nube Brown, New Abolitionist and Director of Outreach at California Prison Focus Mama Efia Nwangaza--Maverick Revolutionary Organizer in the Prison Human Rights Movement, Director, Malcolm X Center for Self-Determination, reflects on Hon Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the Prison Movement (bio:"Invisible Giants" https://wmxp955.com MXGR blog and Facebook). Morgage Donations ($90,000) can be sent to 202 Lavinia Avenue, Greenville, SC 29601.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Terah J. Lawyer, Project Coordinator, Impact Justice; Terri (host) and KC (the participant) join us to talk about The Homecoming Project from Impact Justice: Housing for People coming out of prison. Visit (707) 794-2151; tlawyer@impactjustice.org, www.impactjustice.org homecomingproject@impactjustice.org 8:30 am with Tom Booth (FOOD COOP), 9/12, 5:15 pm at YBCA 9:00 Anjali Nayar, dir. SILAS, SF Green Film Festival selection on Sept.11, 6 pm. Free event at SFPL Main Branch. 9:30 AM: Bay Area playwright Jovelyn Richards & Bob Lane, retired lawyer and English teacher, join us to talk about 9-1-1 What’s Your Emergency?'s World Premiere September 8 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm The play is an artistic response to gentrification, stereotypes, systemic racism and the personal narratives of humanity. Visit lapena.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Tenth Anniversary Mash-up

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 06:30:00 +0000

This tenth Anniversary Month ends with a MASH-up. . . clips from shows over the past decade. Can't play everything . . . there are so many shows (1061). Funny, August 2008, I only had 1 shows and the next month I had a few more broadcasts. I have 1061 published episodes. This is 106 episodes a year. My average is 8 shows a month which is 2 shows a week. I remember sometimes having more than two shows a week and sometimes less.I am still interested in being syndicated. I just need to find my hours in the day. I am happy to have a dedicated audience who follow Wanda's Picks. There are two clips August 29 & Sept. 5, 2008. We revisit the Gulf Region and see what's going on there on the ground in Louisiana and Mississippi by speaking to Jackie and King. Jackie lives in the 7th Ward. King lives in Austin. Katrina destroyed his home. Next, Tayo Aluko joins us to talk about Call Mr. Robeson, a fundraiser for Mumia Abu Jamal, Sept. 5, and con't. Sept. 6-7 at 5 PM at the Phonenix Theatre. Next Richard Talavera, playwright, and director, Norman Gee share Before the Dream: the mysterious death (and life) of Richard Wright. Coleman Domingo, playwright of "A Boy and His Soul" is next. We are also honored to have the directors of the new film "Trouble the Water," which opens this weekend, Sept. 5 in the San Francisco Bay Area. Check your listings.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show (since August 1998)

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Kumasi Speaks with Naji Mujahid on August 7, 2012 . Visit https://archive.org/details/KumasiSpeaksWhatIsBlackAugust 2. Rachel Caplan, Founder & CEO, SF Green Film Festival Sept. 6-13 greenfilmfest.org 3. Thomas Robert Simpson, actor, director, producer, and writer, is the founder and artistic director of AfroSolo Arts Festival (1991). He joins us to talk about Courage Under Fire: The Story of Elroy, which he will perform Saturday, August 25, 2018, 8pm Berkeley Black Repertory Group Theater, 3201 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 74703. Tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com or afrosolo.org 4. BILAL SUNNI-ALI, Bilal Ali Mafundi, Nube Brown, Mama Efia Nwangaza, Maverick Revolutionary Organizer in the Prison Human Rights Movement & Director, Malcolm X Center for Self-Determination in Greenboro, SC, https://wmxp955.webs.com/staffandfriends.htm join us to give us an update on National Prison Strike activities nationwide. http://sawarimi.org/national-prison-strike https://incarceratedworkers.org/campaigns/prison-strike-2018

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. The Drum and the Word: An evening of percussion and poetry with Dame Drummer and Tongo Eisen-Martin, Aug. 22, 2018, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at The Lab, 2948 16th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 864-8855, thelabsf@thelab.org. $8 entry (no one turned away for lack of funds), free for members A virtuosic combination of two liberation artists push the bounds of expression and resistance. Tongo Eisen Martin and Dame Drummer bring all facets of the diaspora to bare in a night of haunting and relentless percussion and poetry at The Lab. 2. Alita Henderson, Say I Love You To Yourself (SILYTY) workshop trainings. Contact: silytysinst@gmail.com and (510) 551-8987 and Facebook.com 3. Mama Efia Nwangaza, Maverick Revolutionary Organizer in the Prison Human Rights Movement, Director, Malcolm X Center for Self-Determination, reflects on Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the Prison Movement (bio:"Invisible Giants" https://wmxp955.webs.com/staffandfriends.htm, MXGR blog and Facebook) Music: Mama C: Voices of My Ancestors; Billy Harper's Knowledge of Self featuring Amiri Baraka; UpSurge: Ancestors http://tobtr.com/10934417

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Ms. Veronica Stafford; Dr. Corey Malcom, Director of Archaeology, Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Society in Key West, FL, join Brother Dinizulu Gene Tinnie, member of ICCAAMP, scholar and artist, to talk about the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition (officially August 23) in Key West at the African Cemetery memorial monument, at Higgs Memorial Beach, 1074-94 Atlantic Boulevard, Key West, FL 33040, this Sunday, August 19, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The location is just west of the White Street Pier and adjacent to the West Martello brick fort. For information contact: 305-904-7620, dinizulu7@gmail.com 2. What is Black August? A Conversation with Comrade Kumasi, scholar, Black August & Prison Movement Historian, former Political Prisoner, Prisoner of War. What goes into the formation or making of a revolutionary? Send letter on behalf of prisoner serving LWOP to the National Clemency Project. Make sure the person is being represented first: https://www.nationalclemencyprojectinc.com/ 954.271.2304 Music: Zion Trinity; Childish Gambino's This Is America: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYOjWnS4cMY

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! In 2010, four Black Men, artists in Oakland: Jimi Evins, Ted Pontiflet, Ronnie Prosser, and James Reid, participated in a group show called: Love of Art: Show and Sale. Eight years later we mourn the loss of yet another artist, James Reid, whose funeral is this morning, Friday, August 10, 11 a.m., in West Oakland at Baker Atkins Mortuary, 980 8th Street. Ronnie passed a few years ago. In these three (3) conversations the men speak about their work, inspiration, and how they shape perception since American society does not value artists. The men respect each other and speak appreciatively about one another's work. The show was intimate and fun at James Reid's gallery at Studio 750A 14th St. @ Brush, Oakland. It's not often that the public had an opportunity to see work like this at a price one could afford to take home. The three shows were: Feb. 19, 26 and March 5, 2010.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Tenth Anniversary

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We open with Nube Brown who gives us information about the National Prison Strike 2018: 8/21-9/09. Email: prisonstrike@forjustice.us or text: prison strike to 818.918.2376 Visit: http://newest.prisons.org/ For the action Aug. 25, 11 AM to 3:30 PM at San Quentin, email BayAreaPrisonStrike@gmail.com Also visit: https://www.ficpfm.org/about/ Archived Show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2011/08/17/wandas-picks-radio-show 8 AM: Dr. Oba T'Shaka: Garvey's organization and how this impacted his life and work 8:30: Nefertina Abrams on Marcus Garvey's Legacy and His Wives. There is an event this weekend in FL. 9:00: Sheba Makeda Haven, UNIA Member; Elder Freeman, event in LA, Jabari Aali Shaw re: Marcus Garvey Parade and Event in Oakland, CA, Saturday, August 20, 2011. 9:30: Sundiata Tate (wasn't able to make it), Elder Freeman, Robert King re: Black August and George Jackson. Sheba Makeda Haven and Jabari Shaw join us as well. Show link: http://tobtr.com/s/10922985

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. Kristiana Rae Colón is a poet, playwright, actor, educator, Cave Canem Fellow, creator of #BlackSexMatters and co-director of the #LetUsBreathe Collective. She was awarded 2017 Best Black Playwright by The Black Mall. 2. Dennis Rowe, dir. Port Chicago 50, at SF State's McKenna Theater in Creative Arts Building, July 28, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., has been producing for over twenty years under his company, Dennis Rowe Productions/ Entertainment. Rowe has an extensive theater background where he has written, produced, developed and directed over eight shows. He just finished producing his show Port Chicago 50 at the National Black Theater Off-Broadway in New York. portchicago50.eventbrite.com 3. Bay Area Playwrights Festival 2018 con't with Jon Bernson: When Lighting The Voids - Sunday, July 22nd, 2pm & Friday, July 27th, 8pm; Lauren English (Director) and Roweena Mackay (Dramaturg) We also speak to Madhuri Shekar: House of Joy, Saturday, July 21st, 8pm and Saturday, July 28th, 12pm Daniel Banks (Director) and Vidhu Singh (Dramaturg). This play opens Aug. 17, 2019 at Cal Shakes in Orinda.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Julia Bacha, dir. "Naila and the Uprising" at SFJFF38 2. Ayanna Anderson, creative architect of Donor Network West & AAMLO's Giving Me Life multimedia-exhibit at AAMLO (06/09-08/31). Dr. Maisha Gray-Diggs (donor recipient); Eric Murphy, photographer, curator https://www.donornetworkwest.org/about/ 3. Dennis Rowe, dir. Port Chicago 50, at SF State's McKenna Theater in Creative Arts Building, July 28, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., has been producing for over twenty years under his company, Dennis Rowe Productions/ Entertainment. Rowe has an extensive theater background where he has written, produced, developed and directed over eight shows. He just finished producing his show Port Chicago 50 at the National Black Theater Off-Broadway in New York. portchicago50.eventbrite.com 4. Othello Jefferson, Musical settings and Concept for BATCO's "I Too, Sing America," July 27-28: www.sfbatco.org/tickets (Use "Othello" in code for a discount) http://tobtr.com/10896773

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Tue, 24 Jul 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 9:00AM PSTSophie Huber, dir. BLUE NOTE RECORDS@ SFJFF38 The film will screen at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival 38, Sunday, August 5th at 4:05PM at the Piedmont Theatre in Oakland. Ambrose Akinmusire (subject) will be present at the screening. 9:20 AM: V. Scott Balcerek, dir., SATAN & ADAM @ SFJFF38 Screenings are: Saturday, July 28th at 6:20PM at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco, Sunday, July 29th at 6:55PM at the Albany Twin Theatre in Albany, and Friday, August 3rd at 6:00PM at the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center in San Rafael. Oakland based filmmaker V. Scott Balcerek will be present for all screenings of the film. Subject Adam Gussow will be present in SF and Albany. 10:00 AM: Tommy Shepard, Alphabet Rockers performing at Oakland's Art and Soul this weekend.http://alphabetrockers.com/about/ Music: Zion Trinity, John Coltrane, Alphabet Rockers (Walls) http://tobtr.com/10896761

Wanda's Picks Special Broadcast

Mon, 23 Jul 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Ron Yassen (Director) of "Crossroads," a featured selection of the SFJFF, is an Emmy® Award-Winning sports documentary producer and director who began his career at Classic Sports Network and a founding member of Network of Champions. He has produced and directed numerous films, including Roger Maris: Reluctant Hero, Glory in Black and White, and Kareem: Minority of One. He is a partner at Roadside Entertainment. https://jfi.org/sfjff-2018/film-guide/crossroads 2. Deborah Santana, ed. All the Women in My Family Sing https://allthewomeninmyfamilysing.com/ 3. Kristiana Rae Colón's "suspension" is a part of the SF Playwrights Festival July 2018. She is also a poet, playwright, actor, educator, Cave Canem Fellow, creator of #BlackSexMatters and co-director of the #LetUsBreathe Collective. She was awarded 2017 Best Black Playwright by The Black Mall. Amy Mueller, Artistic Director, Playwrights Foundation, gives an introduction, overview of this 2018 season, July 20-29. http://playwrightsfoundation.org/bapf2018/ http://tobtr.com/s/10894509

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 15:30:00 +0000

1. Theodore Lush, Michael Jackson, Karen Jones join us to talk about: 7th Annual Montgomery MAAFA Commemoration, Sat. July 14. ReembertheAncestors.com 2. Gina Yashere, London born, Nigerian comedian opens at Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, July 8, 7 p.m.(thefreight.org) 3. Baba Luther Gray and Kalamu ya Salaam as Grand Griot joins us to talk about the 18th Annual MAAFA Commemoration in NOLA this Sat., July 7, 7 AM at Congo Square. However, beginging tonight there are many programs scheduled from the Maafa Exhibit which opened June 29 to the series of cultural programs this evening, tomorrow and Friday afternoon. (https://www.ashecac.org/) 4. Alashe Michael OshoosiMichael F. Wright, Ph.D., JD and decorated veteran of the Civil Rights Movement, joins us to talk about his ancestors who established the first African village in America, a stop on Tubman's Underground Railroad. Loyalists, his grandfathers supported Britian in exchange for the promise of human rights and abolishion. At the end of the Civil War African Loyalists were moved to Nova Scotia and Chatham, Canada and then to Sierra Leone where they built what is know as Freetown. His late mother, Sarah E. Wright (poet and novelist) was former VP of the Harlem Writers Guilde. The conversation weaves ancestral past with present to form an intentional life dedicated to upliftment of African people. Visit http://oshoosi.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. Theodore Lush, Michael Jackson, Karen Jones join us to talk about: 7th Annual Montgomery MAAFA Commemoration, Sat. July 14. ReembertheAncestors.com 2. Gina Yashere, London born, Nigerian comedian opens at Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, July 8, 7 p.m.(thefreight.org) 3. Baba Luther Gray and Kalamu ya Salaam as Grand Griot joins us to talk about the 18th Annual MAAFA Commemoration in NOLA this Sat., July 7, 7 AM at Congo Square. However, beginging tonight there are many programs scheduled from the Maafa Exhibit which opened June 29 to the series of cultural programs this evening, tomorrow and Friday afternoon. (https://www.ashecac.org/) 4. Alashe Michael Oshoosi a.k.a. Michael F. Wright, Ph.D., JD and decorated veteran of the Civil Rights Movement, joins us to talk about his ancestors who established the first African village in America, "Wetitquin" (also sp. Wetipquin), Maryland, a stop on Tubman's Underground Railroad. Loyalists, his grandfathers supported Britian (1787, 1796-1812) in exchange for the promise of human rights and abolishion. At the end of the Civil War African Loyalists were moved to Nova Scotia and Chatham, Canada and then to Sierra Leone where they built what is know as Freetown. His late mother, Sarah E. Wright (poet and novelist) was former VP of the Harlem Writers Guilde. The conversation weaves ancestral past with present to form an intentional life dedicated to upliftment of African people.(http://oshoosi.com/tuskegee-movement-sncc.html)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black Art and Culture

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Broadcast

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 14:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. Antoine Hunter & Colette Ewoi re: 35th Ethnic Dance Festival, June 29-30, 2013. 2. Latanya d. Tigner is one of the programmers for the World Arts West: "Ethnic Dance Festival, it's 40th Anniversary." The Festival opens with a free public celebration with performances in San Francisco City Hall’s rotunda on Friday, July 6. Two different programs will be presented at the Opera House July 14 & 15 and July 21 & 22, and a complete list of dates and artists may be found below. Tickets are priced $25-$45.Visit sfethnicdancefestival.org Tigner currently directs Dimensions Extensions Performance Ensemble, Dimensions’ pre-professional youth ensemble. She holds a B.A. in Physical Education/Dance and a Master's Degree in Arts Administration, and currently teaches dance at Contra Costa College and the University of California-Berkeley. 3. Angelique Kidjo rebroadcast (June 18, 2014). http://www.kidjo.com/ife-yoruba-songs Music: Kidjo's "Orisha"; Wadada Leo Smith's "Don't You Remember"; Zion Trinity's Opening Prayer for Elegba."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 15:30:00 +0000

Black Art and Culture

Fri, 11 May 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 May 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 May 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 May 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. "Alleluia Panis and Jose Abad join us to talk about the dance media production 'Incarcerated 6x9'. The story is told through the lives of three Pilipino American inmates and their struggles to endure the American judicial system. The show premiers in San Francisco May 4-13, and involves community discussions after each performance." The venue is Bindlestiff Studio, 185 6th Street, https://www.kularts-sf.org/incarcerated6x9 2. Stephen Vittoria joins us to talk about a new book he and Mumia Abu Jamal are rolling out in three segments, Murder Incoporated: Book 1: Dreaming of Empire. Join Stephen and Mumia Abu Jamal (by phone), Pam Africa, Emory Douglas, Ayana Davis, and others in a reading, Sunday, May 6, 7 p.m. at Oakstop, 17th and Broadway, in Oakland. Visit prisonradio.org 3. Dr. Rachel Elahee & Toni Renee Battle, Ph.D. candidate join us to talk about the opening weekend at EJI's National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum: From Slavery to Mass Incarceration in Montgomery, AL. https://museumandmemorial.eji.org/museum

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The National Memorial for Peace and Justice Opens

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Rebroadcast of Libations for Kiilu Nyasha (4/13). If you missed the show and want to add your words to the wonderful tapestry record them at: 510.255.5579. The show closes with guests: Kelly Takuna Orphan and Zivanai Masango (guitar) join us to talk about Zimbabwean ensemble KTO Project's two concerts, April 19 and April 21 at Ashkanaz Music and Dance Center. Happy Independence Day to Zimbabwe April 18, 2018. Visit www.ashkenaz.com Kelly Takunda Orphan: The KTO Project is rooted in the diverse musical relationships and heritage of its bandleader, Bay Area singer, drummer, composer and dancer, Kelly Takunda Orphan. In 1994, after recording and touring with Babatunde Olatunji and the Afro-pop band, African Rain, Kelly studied ethnomusicology at the University of Zimbabwe. Zivanai Masango (guitar) was born in Harare, Zimbabwe and has toured both nationally and internationally with the two legends of Zimbabwe: Thomas Mapfumo and Oliver Mtukudzi. Zivanai has been a member of The KTO Project since 2006.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Apr 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Tribute to Kiilu Nyasha

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! For the first part of the program we honor Iya Kiilu Nyasha, Freedom Fighter, a woman whose life was dedicated to the People. Visit http://kiilunyasha.blogspot.com/ We close with the Zimbabwean ensemble KTO cofounders who have a series of shows coming up at Ashkenaz Music and Dance Center, April 19 & 21. www.ashkenaz.com Kelly Takunda Orphan: The KTO Project is rooted in the diverse musical relationships and heritage of its bandleader, Bay Area singer, drummer, composer and dancer, Kelly Takunda Orphan. In 1994, after recording and touring with Babatunde Olatunji and the Afro-pop band, African Rain, Kelly studied ethnomusicology at the University of Zimbabwe. Zivanai Masango (guitar) was born in Harare, Zimbabwe and has toured both nationally and internationally with the two legends of Zimbabwe: Thomas Mapfumo and Oliver Mtukudzi. Zivanai has been a member of The KTO Project since 2006.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special Time

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 04:00:00 +0000

Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise About the Co-Director/Co-Producers Rita Coburn Whack & Bob Hercules Rita Coburn Whack is an independent filmmaker with Emmy Award winning documentaries for Curators of Culture, Remembering 47th Street and African Roots American Soil. Other documentaries have aired on C-Span and the History Channel. Under her direction Maya Angelou’s Radio Show for Oprah Radio was awarded the Women in Radio and Television Gracie Awards, “Best Radio Program” 2008, “Best Radio Host” 2009 and the “Silver World Medal” in radio New York festival 2009. Author of the novel Meant to Be (Random House Strivers Row 2002) her company RCW Media Productions, Inc. produced Maya Angelou’s Black History Month Specials distributed by Public Radio International 2011, 2012 and 2013. Bob Hercules is an independent filmmaker whose recent films include Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance and Bill T. Jones: A Good Man. The Joffrey film, narrated by Mandy Patinkin, tells the full story of the groundbreaking ballet company and their many rises and falls. It premiered in January, 2012 at the Dance on Camera Film Festival at Lincoln Center and aired on PBS’ American Masters December, 2012. A Good Man aired on American Masters in 2011 and played at many film festivals including IDFA, Silverdocs, Full Frame, DOXA and the Southern Circuit. Hercules acclaimed Forgiving Dr. Mengele (2005) won the Special Jury Prize at the Slamdance Film Festival and has been seen in film festivals around the world.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 31 Mar 2018 21:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 15:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 28 Mar 2018 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 15:00:00 +0000

1. LWOP Town Hall, March 24, 5-8 PM at Red Bay Coffee & Roastery in Oakland: Terah was incarcerated at the age of 18 and was facing life without the possibility of parole for aiding and abetting in a murder her cousin committed. By waving her appellate rights, she was able to receive a reduced sentence. Throughout the 15 years she served, she stayed very proactive facilitating groups and pursuing a higher education. Since her release in November of 2017, she has continued to work with several organizations who advocate on prison issues, mass incarceration, restorative justice, and youth diversion. 2. Omitola Toluwalase Akinwunmi, African medicine woman, educator and therapist, joins us to talk about the Indigenous Healing Arts Institute; International Affliation Lutha (Lubowa Traditional Healers Association). Call: 510.417.9336. 3. Ubuntu Theatre Project: “Dance of the Holy Ghosts” lead actors: Berwick Haynes, Grandfather Oscar, and Michael Curry, who plays his grandson Marcus G.— join us to talk about the current production 4. Rotimi Oyenekan, Gba’Dunn-In-Style Band, with special guest: Nkan “Kemi” Eledua, join us to talk about a special concert March 24, at Miliki Spot, 10-11:30 p.m., 3725 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 17:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Rev. Edward Pinkney, former Poliical Prisoner speaks about the New Poor People's Movement. Rev. Pinkney is President and CEO of the Black Autonomy Network Community Organization (BANCO). He is a Pastor, community activist, who really acts and one of the most influential people in the political area and social voice. Rev. Pinkney joins his friend Mrs. Ethel Long Scott, founding director, Women's Economic Agenda Project (WEAP.org). Feb. 14, Rev. Pinkney was in Oakland for a New Poor People's March CA Tour. Please visit: P-SPAN #612: Laney College Teach-In: Rev. Edward Pinkney The East Bay working group meets monthly on Tuesdays, 4-6 p.m. in the Laney College Tower Building, 900 Fallon Street, Oakland. For information call: 510-986-8620. 2. From the archives March 14, 2012: Luisha Teish on Sacred Space

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 15:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 09 Mar 2018 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 16:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 02 Mar 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Feb 2018 17:30:00 +0000

1. We open with an interview with Wax Poet(s): Artistic Director Heather Stockton and Wax Poet(s)Executive Director Garth Grimball. The two artists join us to talk about Swivel:Hinge:Return, a New Work in Two parts exploring What does your resistance dance look like? How is a radical body in a state of change? March 1-3 at CounterPulse, 80 Turk Street, in San Francisco. 2.Laura Elaine Ellis is Executive Director of the African & African American Performing Arts Coalition (AAAPAC) and co-founder with Kendra Barnes of the Black Choreographers Festival: Here and Now. She joins us to talk about the 14th Annual Black Choreographers Festival Here 2018: Feb. 17-March 4. Visit bcfhereandnow.com Cherie Hill (week 2 @ SAFEhouse Arts) is a creative artist, dancer, performer, teacher and scholar, whose art explores human expression and how it is conveyed through the body in collaboration with nature, music and visual imagery. 3. Central Works 2018 Season opens Feb. 17--March 18, with "Bamboozled: A New comedy about Family Valuables" by Patricia Milton, directed by Gary Graves. Shows are at the Berkeley City Club, 2315 Durant Avenue, Berkeley. CW Resident Playwright Patricia Milton and actors Susan Jackson (Opal Anne) and Jeunée Simon (Abby) join us to talk about "Bamboozled."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 17:00:00 +0000

1. Ben Vereen (from Archives June 2012) 2. Charles Peoples III (Ruby) is thrilled to perform with Theatre Rhino once again! Charles is a performance artist who explores visual storytelling to raise awareness, demand social justice, and cultivate self-love. He received his BA in Musical Theater from Sarah Lawrence College ('12) and is pursuing a Masters in Vocal Performance at SF State. In addition to school, he is working on his debut album and regularly performing new works. Additional theater credits include: Pink in The Legend of Pink and Adam in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, both with Theatre Rhinoceros, Collins in Rent, and Neil in The Story. www.CharlesPeoplesIII.com 3. Life of the Law Live with executive producer: Nancy Nullane (archived interview 2/21) 4. Jeanne Theoharis on The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks

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Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 16 Feb 2018 17:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Feb 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Compton, California native and CEO, Dr. Theresa Price founded the National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) a 501c3 non-profit organization in 1999 in a direct response to the passing of California’s proposition 209 that banned affirmative action programs in California colleges. Since its inception, the organization has secured and distributed more than $300 million in scholarships & grants to over 400,000 students (over 200,000 first generation students) through 100 College Expos produced by NCRF. The next stop is Oakland, CA at the Marriott on Sat., Feb. 17. https://www.thecollegeexpo.org/events/oakland 2. Jovelyn Richards joins us to talk about her latest project with show featuring: Ciara Lovelace, Kimberly Turner, Feb. 11, 7-8:10 p.m. at La Pena Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. lapena.org 510-849-2568. 3. John Santos, composer, educator, joins us to talk about, an upcoming concert, The Sacred Roots of Latin Jazz, 2/11, 4 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Oakland. https://santoslatinjazz.brownpapertickets.com/ 510-533-6629 4. Billy X, Its About Time Black Panther Programs in the Oakland Public Library: West Oakland (2/17, 1-4 pm), Golden Gate (2/10, 2-5 pm). Visit itsabouttimebpp.net

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Kiara Boone, Deputy Program Manager, earned a degree in Political Science from Davidson College in 2011 and a nonprofit management executive certificate from Georgetown University in 2012. Prior to joining EJI, she worked with the National Coalition for the Homeless in Washington, DC, and managed support for community development in Florida for the Jessie Ball duPont Fund. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum: From enslavement to Mass Incarceration April 26-29, 2018. https://eji.org/national-lynching-memorial & https://eji.org/enslavement-to-mass-incarceration-museum 2. Billy X, Its About Time Black Panther Programs in the Oakland Public Library: West Oakland (2/17, 1-4 pm), Golden Gate (2/10, 2-5 pm). Visit itsabouttimebpp.net 3. John Santos, composer, educator, joins us to talk about, an upcoming concert, The Sacred Roots of Latin Jazz, 2/11, 4 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Oakland. https://santoslatinjazz.brownpapertickets.com/ 510-533-6629

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Halifu Osumare, Ph.D., author of the new work, Dancing in Black, A Memoir (2018, University of Florida Press). Dr. Osumare is professor emerita of African American and African Studies at the University of California, Davis, is the author of "The Hiplife in Ghana: West African Indigenization of Hip-Hop" and "The Africanist Aesthetic in Global Hip-Hop: Power Moves." New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2007. 2. WO2WO members: Karla Brundage, Tyrice Brown, Sanda "Makeda" Hooper-Mayfield, and Zakiyyah Capehart-Bollings, join us to talk about African Diaspora conversations through the Japanese poetic form, Renshi. 3. Archived interview 2/24 (Geoffrey Grier and Jeffery Smith) 4. SF Indie 2018 directors: Cathy Lee Crane, director, The Manhattan Front (2/10:4:30 PM); 2/14: 7 PM); Rocky Capella, dir., Guitar Man (2/11:7 PM; 2/15: 9:15). Cathy Lee CRANE, 2000 MFA graduate from SF State's Cinema Program has been charting a speculative history on film since 1994. She joins us to talk about The Manhattan Front: "Women, anarchists, and spies conjure the fantastically true story of how America entered WW1," which is having its world premiere at the SF Indie Festival 2/10 4 PM and 2/14 7 PM at the Roxie Rocky Capella, dir., "Don't Shoot I'm the Guitar Man," has worked in the film industry on more than six hundred films, commercials, television and internet projects as an award-winning action director, stunt coordinator and performer. Rocky has been a member of the Director's Guild of America for more than 25 years. "Don't Shoot! I'm the Guitar Man" is gives the average person an "inside look" at prison and the inner workings of a music program in San Quentin State Prison.

Wanda's Picks Radio

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Diane Amos is a San Francisco-based actress, improv artist, and comedian joins us to talk about her gig with other Afircan American comedic artists at Ashkenaz Music and Dance Center, 1317 San Pablo Ave., in Berkeley, Thursday, Feb. 8, at 8 p.m. 2. Lisa Tealer, Interim Executive Director of the African American Community Health Advisory Committee (AACHAC) www.aachac.org (Soul Stroll folks) Joins us to talk about "An Evening with HeLa" on Feb 1, 2018 from 6-9 pm & Educational Seminar: Communities of Color & Clinical Trial Participation: A Call to Action on Feb. 2, 2018 from 9am-1:30pm www.aachac.org or hela.brownpapertickets.com 3. Zakiya Harris is a Shapeshifter. She is an afro-eclectic mix of soul, dance and theater and she is a part of MIXTAPE Vol. 1: Femme Fatale, Feb. 1, 8 p.m., at the Starlite Social Club, 2236 Martin Luther King, Oakland, 1-510-593-2109, hrs.4:00 pm-2:00 am 4. David Graves, artist, joins us to talk about Spirit Migration, Jan. 5-Feb. 22, M-F 8-4:30 PM at EBMUD Oakland Administration Building, 2nd floor lobby, 375 11th Street, Oakland. Artist reception, Friday, Feb. 2, 5-7 p.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 24 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 19 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 17 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Special:

Tue, 16 Jan 2018 23:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Opera Parallèle’s Harriet’s Spiritwith Tiffany Austin as Harriet Tubman on Jan. 18, at 6 pm, Jan. 20, at 10 am and 1 pm at the Buriel Clay Theater of the African American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street in San Francisco. Suggested donation for tix: $5-$15. Make Reservations at: https://opharrietsspirit.bpt.me Tiffany Austin (Harriet Tubman): One of the West Coast’s fastest rising jazz vocalists, Tiffany Austin is a classically trained singer who delivers a fiery blend of blues and classic swing. A graduate of UC Berkeley’s Boalt School of Law who has lived and performed on three continents, Austin decided to forgo a career as a lawyer to focus on music, her true passion. Her 2015 debut album Nothing But Soul earned positive reviews, including four stars from Downbeat Magazine and an NPR Fresh Air radio feature. Austin is currently working on her second album, Unbroken, scheduled for release in early 2018. 2. W. Kamau Bell, radio and TV host, comedian, joins us to talk about his Playlist at OEB Symphony this Friday, Jan. 19. 3. From the Archives: Destiny Muhammad plays Alice Coltrane (aired Aug. 9, 2017).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

1. Diane Barnes, playwright and actor, joins us to talk about her solo performance: "My Stroke of Luck" at the Marsh in SF through Feb. 3: Thursdays @8PM, Saturdays @ 5 PM January 21 and 28th @ 2PM Tickets: https://themarsh.org/my_stroke_of_luck/diane-barnes/ 2. Theologian, Cultural Worker, Singer-Songwriter, Francisco Herrera brings together different styles of music to promote human rights and Social Justice His latest album Honor Migrante crosses physical and musical borders. 3. Stacey Hoffman, Living Jazz hosts “The 16th Annual In the Name of Love” tribute, Oakland’s only non-denominational musical tribute to Dr. King, Sunday, Jan. 14, 7-9:30 at the Oakland Scottish Rite Center. Living Jazz also honors Wendy Jackson, this year’s recipient of the Oakland Citizen Humanitarian Award. 2018 Oakland Citizen Humanitarian awardee: Wendy Jackson is the Executive Director of the East Oakland Community Project (EOCP), a community-based, nonprofit organization that provides emergency housing for homeless individuals, families and people living with HIV/AIDS. The theme of this year’s tribute is “Songs of Change” highlighting 5 outstanding vocalists, an exciting backup band, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir; the 200-voice Living Jazz Children’s Project backed up by the Oakland School for the Arts Ensemble. Dana King, formerly with CBS, will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies. 4. Kim Nalley joins us to talk about MLK Jr.'s legacy and what she plans to sing at the Tribute. http://www.kimnalley.net

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 11 Jan 2018 03:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Guests this morning are participating in the inaugural PlayGround Solo Performance Festival January 11-28 at Potrero Stage - 1695 18th Street, San Francisco. Visit http://playground-sf.org/solofest/ for the entire schedule each day. Lisa Evans: YOU REALLY SHOULD SIT LIKE A LADY (OR HOW I GOT TO FEMME) Jan 12-7PM / Jan 13-6PM / Jan 21-3PM / Jan 27-2PM Malcolm Grissom:ME, MY SONG AND I Jan 13-8PM / Jan 18-7PM / Jan 20-2PM / Jan 26-8:30PM / Jan 28-5PM Thomas Robert Simpson: COURAGE UNDER FIRE: THE STORY OF ELROY Jan 14-7PM / Jan 20-4PM / Jan 25-7PM 2. From the Archives: Interview with OKA director, Lavinia Currier (2011). Music: Zion Trinity's "Opening Prayer for Legba"; Climbing Poetree's "She Lives." We close with a rebroadcast of an interview with director of the film OKA (2010).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Dec 2017 17:00:00 +0000

1. Ayodele Nzinga, MFA, PhD is the founding producing director ofThe Lower Bottom Playaz, Oakland's premiere North American African Theater Company, going into its 20th year of production. Nzinga was inducted into the Alameda County Women’s Hall of Fame in 2017, recognized by the Alameda County County Arts Commission for Excellence in Arts Leadership in 2016, Theater Bay Area for being one of the 40 faces to change the face of theater in the Bay Area, and the Helen Crocker Russell Art Award (SFF 2017). Dr. Nzinga is the only director or producer to mount and direct the entire August Wilson Century Cycle in chronological order. Her new book, The Horse Eaters an origin tale is on sale at Nomadic Press. Her latest work, Lifer, closes a season of original works, dedicated to exploring incarceration with this story based on the life and times of Lifer at Large, Glenn Bailey who also joins us this morning. Glenn Bailey is A Lifer at Large ©, having spent a total of 52 years incarcerated in the California Penal System. Mr. Bailey is an experiential expert on the prison industrial complex who uses his experiences as an inmate to offer insight to youth, so that they can benefit from his accumulated experiences without being imprisoned. 2. Rebroadcast: Cheryl Fabio, director, West Oakland Blues Legacy, free screening at EastSide Arts alliance, 7 p.m. Dec. 29, tonight.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Dec 2017 17:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 22 Dec 2017 17:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 20 Dec 2017 16:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 15 Dec 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Veronica Blair (aerial straps) in Mittens and Mistletoe, Dec. 22-28 at Dance Mission joins us to talk about her aerial career as well as The Uncle Jr. Project 2. Maestro Michael Morgan joins us to talk about the seasonal favorite concert, Hallelujah! Let Us Break Bread Together, Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m. at Oakland's Paramount Theatre. 3. Aldo Billingslea, Interim Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry joins us to talk legacy in the future tense this morning as the season ends and begins again for a Bay Area premiere Black Theatre Company. Don't miss 2017 Soulful Christmas Dec. 14-24 at the Burial Clay Theater at the AAACC. 4. Graham Lustig, Artistic Director, Oakland Ballet, joins us to talk about his Nutcracker,12/23-24 at the Paramount Theatre and "Jungala" based on Kipling's Jungle Book, 3/18.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Professor Manu Ampim joins us to talk about a workshop he is hosting: Historic African Coalitions: Building a Network to Advance the Work at Melrose Library, Sat, December 2, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM OAKLAND PUBLIC LIBRARY: MELROSE BRANCH, 4805 Foothill Boulevard, Lower Level Meeting Room, Oakland, CA. 2. End Game AIDS in the Black Community interview with Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick (7/10 rebroadcast). 3. Brother Anthony T. Browder is an author, publisher, cultural historian, artist, and an educational consultant. He is a graduate of Howard and has lectured extensively throughout the United States and five continents. Mr. Browder is the founder and director of IKG Cultural Resources and has devoted 35 years researching ancient Egyptian history, science, philosophy and culture. https://aalbc.com/authors/author.php?author_name=Anthony+Browder

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0000

1. Dinizulu Gene Tinnie joins us to talk about “The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, Dec. 2. He is a visual artist, educator, writer, and community activist based in Miami, Florida. Among the projects with which he is involved are a Slave Ship Replica Project and an annual Middle Passage remembrance; the restoration of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, Miami’s fondly remembered onetime “Colored Beach” of the Jim Crow era. He recently collaborated on the design and installation of an exhibition at Fort Lauderdale’s Old Dillard Museum on the history of Black educational philosophy from ancient times to the present, before during, and after slavery. 2. Dr. Marsha Guess, MD and Dr. Kathleen A. Connell join us to talk about women's pelvic health. See https://urogyn.coloradowomenshealth.com/ 3. Trombonist, scholar, educator and activist Angela Wellman has performed with the McCoy Tyner Big Band, Joe Williams, Al Grey, Slide Hampton, and other noted musicians. The Kansas City, Missouri, native is a third generation musician and music educator. In 2016 she received the Cultural Key to the City from Mayor of Oakland. She is presently pursuing a Ph.D. in Education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and plans to have it completed in 2019. 4.Taiwo Kugichagulia-Seitu, storyteller, and praise singer, joins us to talk about The Jazzy Nutcracker & Go Tell It: A Harriet Tubman Christmas Story, Dec. 9 & Dec. 16, 2017 at Fremont High School in Oakland. See GoTellIt.info and lyricperformingartsacademy.com

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Fri, 24 Nov 2017 17:30:00 +0000

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Wed, 22 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 15 Nov 2017 17:00:00 +0000

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Fri, 10 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Lois Vossen, Executive Producer, Independent Lens. The fall seasons opens, Nov. 6, with Chasing 'Trane. 2. Linda Connelly, Founder/President Successful Reentry joins us to talk about Jenny Phillips latest film, After Incarceration, There's Life: Beyond the Wall, which follows five returning citizens who are attemping to rebuild their lives on the outside with little to no support from our criminal justice system. The film shot mostly on the streets in Lowell and Lawrence, Massachusetts, and looks at addiction, crime, trauma, recovery, relaspe, and restorative justice. The film has two free screenings Nov. 6, 4-6 pm at the LGBT Center and Nov. 7 at the Oakland Museum of CA. To RSVP: impact@bayondthewall.com 3. Rodney Ewing, artist. 4. Doctors Without Borders interactive exhibit: Forced from Home at Henry J. Kaiser Center, 10th Street in Oakland (parking lot).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 20:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Rodney Ewing, "Days and Occasions: the Unexpected Griot," at Southern Exposure Gallery in SF. His open studios is Nov. 10-12. Pacific Felt Factory, 2830-20th Street #202 San Francisco, CA 94110 www.rodneyewing.com 2. Doctors Without Borders present: Forced From Home Exhibition Oct. 30-Nov. 5, 9-5 daily, at Henry J. Kaiser Center (outside). Visit forcedfromhome.com 3. Jayson Johnson, writer/ director, Redress Jayson earned an MA in film production from Eastern Illinois University and then took a marketing position working for legendary film director Francis Ford Coppola. Jayson worked on several successful wine and food ventures and then transitioned over to Coppola’s film studio, American Zoetrope. Jayson worked under film pioneers Walter Murch, Richard Beggs and Mr. Coppola himself. Jayson took Coppola’s advice to ‘go out and become famous’ and now works as a producer. Jayson works full time as a freelance producer for Strike Five Films.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Rodney Ewing, "Days and Occasions: the Unexpected Griot," at Southern Exposure Gallery in SF. His open studios is Nov. 10-12. Pacific Felt Factory 2830-20th Street #202 San Francisco, CA; www.rodneyewing.com 2. Doctors Without Borders present: Forced From Home Exhibition oct. 31-Nov. 4 at Henry J. Kaiser Center (outside). Visit forcedfromhome.com 3. Jayson Johnson, writer/ director, Redress Jayson earned an MA in film production from Eastern Illinois University and then took a marketing position working for legendary film director Francis Ford Coppola. Jayson worked on several successful wine and food ventures and then transitioned over to Coppola’s film studio, American Zoetrope. Jayson worked under film pioneers Walter Murch, Richard Beggs and Mr. Coppola himself. Jayson took Coppola’s advice to ‘go out and become famous’ and now works as a producer. Jayson works full time as a freelance producer for Strike Five Films.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1.Whose Streets interview with directors, Sabaah Folyan & Damon Davis. Review 2. Bobbyie Waters, African Americans for Balanced Health & Phillipe Matthews, Executive Director of the HOWmovement.org, a 501c3 talk about HAPI:The Role of Ecomonics on the Development of Civilization, Fri., Oct. 27, 5:30-9:30 p.m. at the Guild Theater, 2828 35th St., Sacramento, hapifilm.com Sat., Oct. 28, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Dr. Ephraim Williams Family Life Center, 4036 14th Ave., Sacramento: www.aabh.eventbrite.com 877-491-2224 (AABH). Facebook.com/AA4BH 3. Rebroadcast Johanna Haigood, Dir. Zaccho and Jeff Raz, Associate Director re: "A View from Here" which celebrates the work of artist Marc Chagall closes this weekend, Fri.-Sun., Oct. 27-29 at ZACCHO Studios: 1777 Yosemite, SF. zaccho.org Music: Miguel Zenon, Zion Trinity

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Thu, 19 Oct 2017 04:00:00 +0000

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Wed, 18 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Thomas Robert Simpson, AfroSolo 23, Oct. 18-22 at the AAACC's Burial Clay Theatre, 762 Fulton Street, SF is joined by one of the soloists, Anjali Austin, who will present an excerpt of Live Oak, a tribute to her grandmother and the 30 quilts she inherited from her. Visit afrosolo.org 2. Joanna Haigood, Artistic Director and co-founder, Zaccho Dance Theatre joins us with Jeff Raz, a creative collaborator in the reprise of the 2002 work The View from Here, inspired by the work of artist, Marc Chagall, Oct. 20-22, Oct. 27-29 at Zaccho Studios, 1777 Yosemite Ave., (off Third St.) Studio 330, SF. Visit zaccho.org 3. Artists Kristine Mays and William Rhodes join us to talk about their Open Studio, Friday, Oct. 27 (party) 6-9 p.m., followed by two days of art, Oct. 28-29, 11-6 at 1491 Dolores Street (in Noe Valley), SF. It is a free event. Art will be for sale at the home studio gallery. Visit kristinemays.com and williamrhodesart.com 4. Anjali Austin returns for a longer conversation on her work and anticipated appearence in AfroSolo 23, with her work, "Live Oak." Visit dance.fsu.edu/anjali-austin/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Dr. Gail Myers, dir., Farms to Grow, Inc., and Missionary, Anna Marie Carter, "the Seed Lady of Watts," join us to talk about: Circling Back: Honoring Dr. George Washington Carver, Friday, October 13, 6-8 at AAMLO. 2. Donald Lacy, dir., "Hidden Treasure." debuts tonight at Grand Lake Theatre (10.4, 7 p.m.) 3. Actors Tara Pacheco (Sally Hemings), William Hodgson (James Hemings) in Thomas and Sally by Thomas Bradshaw at Marin Theatre Company, marintheatre.org 4. Lewis Jordan, composer, musician, joins us to talk about, this is where i came in. . . .his new work which is creatively autobiographical. He is joined by poet, artivist and SFSU Mazza Writer-in-Residence, Tongo Eisen-Martin, whose latest work is Heaven Is All Goodbyes Pocket Books (2017). Tongo is collaborating with Jordan on his EastSide Arts CD Release event, Oct. 20. Visit lewisjordan.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 15:30:00 +0000

1. Leroy F. Moore, joins us to talk about his Black Disabled Art History 101 Children's Book Release, Thursday, September 28, 12:30-2:30 p.m., University of San Francisco, Lone Mountain 100, Handerly Room. 2. Marvin X, poet, scholar joins us to talk about his concert/fundraiser: Walk in the Light Tour, Sat., Sept. 30, 8 p.m., at Black Rep in Berkeley 3. Cheryl Fabio, director, EVOLUTIONARY BLUES … WEST OAKLAND’S MUSIC LEGACYdebuts tonight at the Grand Lake Theatre, 7-8:30 p.m. 4. Kheven La Grone, playwright, AeJay Mitchell, director of The Legend of Pink, which opens the 2017-18 Season for Theatre Rhinocerous, closes this weekend with performances: 9/27-30 at the Gateway Theatre in San Francisco (formerly Eureka) There is a talk with the playwright 5. Johanna Brown and Ms. Billie Cooper join the playwright to talk about the historic period referenced in the work.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

8:00 AM – We are joined by 2017 Heritage Keepers Honoree: Dr. Bisola Marignay, Educator, Writer, and Leader, Self-Healing with Negro Spirituals Workshops and Dr. Lynne Morrow, Educator and Choral Director, The Pacific Edge Voices and Oakland Symphony Chorus and Friends of the Negro Spirituals co-founder, Ms. Lyvonne Chrisman. The award ceremony ( a free event) is Sat., Sept. 16,1-4 p.m. at the San Francisco Main Library (Koret Auditorium), 100 Larkin Street. 2. Professor Stephen Best of UC Berkeley's English Department, who was instrumental in developing the James Baldwin film series at BAMPFA (9/14-11/16) joins us. 3. Peter Nicks, The Force, his new film which goes deep inside an embattled urban police department struggling to rebuild trust in one of America's most violent cities at a powerkeg moment in American policing. The Force opens today, Sept. 15 at the Grand Lake theatre in Oakland, and Landmark Embarcadero in SF and Landmark CA in Berkeley. Visit theforcefilm.com 3. Shakti Butler, Executive Director, World-Trust, is a multiracial African-American woman (African, Arawak Indian, and Russian-Jewish) whose work as a creative and visionary bridge builder has challenged and inspired learning for over two decades. She is the producer and director of groundbreaking documentaries including The Way Home, Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible, and Light in the Shadows, Cracking the Codes: The System of Racial Inequity uses story, theater and music to illuminate the larger frame of structural/systemic racial inequity. She joins us to talk about her latest film: Healing Justice with a world premiere Sat., Sept. 16, at the First Congregational Church of Christ, 2501 Harrison Street in Oakland.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The Legend of Pink

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Patricia Nunley, Ph.D.—ABPsi, joins us to talk about "the Political Climate and How it is Effecting Our World." The onversation which is centered in the concept of Nommo from the Dogon in Mali, is at the West Oakalnd Boys and Girls Club, 3233 Market Street, Oakland. It is a free event. 2. Kheven La Grone, playwright, AeJay Mitchell, director of The Legend of Pink, which opens the 2017-18 Season for Theatre Rhinocerous, previews 9/13-9/16 matinee at 3 p.m. Opening night is this Sat., evening at 8 p.m. Learn more at www.TheRhino.org. 3. Johanna Brown & Ms. Billie Cooper join the playwright to talk about the historic period referenced in the work. 4. Shakti Butler, director, World-Trust: Social Impact through Film and Dialogue, joins us to talk about her latest film, Healing Justice. It debuts this weekend, Sept. 16. Music: Sweet Honey in the Rock (Hope), The Pyramids (Otherworldly, Memory Ritual), Ruth Foster (Stone Love), Thao and the Get Down Stay Down (Human Heart), Kim Nalley (I Wish I Knew What It It Would Feel to Be Free).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Raissa Simpson, Artistic Director, 4th Annual Push Fest; Halifu Osumare, Ph.D. choreographer featured in the Festival 2. Director/Producer/Writer John Ridley: LET IT FALL: LOS ANGELES 1982-1992 ,opens September 1st in San Francisco at the Roxie Theater. 3. CHARLIE LEVIN, is a multidisciplinary artist whose work has been presented locally, nationally, and internationally. She joins us to talk about a new project: Truthiness at The Flight Deck in Oakland. 4. SF Fringe 2017 9:30am - Michael Washington Brown of BLACK! 9:40am - Dazié Grego-Sykes of Nigga-Roo

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 02 Sep 2017 01:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Mallah Divine Mallah, Author, Youth Motivator, Social Justice Advocate, The Hidden Hand: the Duality of Self. 2. Geoffrey Grier, Executive Director of Recovery Theatre, joins us to talk about August Wilson's "Radio Golf," directed by Gloria Weinstock, Multi Ethnic, in Association with SF Recovery Theatre at Piano Fight, 144 Taylor Street, Wed.-Sat., Aug. 30-Sept. 9, 7 p.m. Geoffrey Grier, who plays Harmond Wilks, Real-estate developer, heads the San Francisco Recovery Theatre and hosts The Mr. Geoffrey Show, an on-line show that focuses on the issues, concerns, and events of the Tenderloin community. 3. Ayodele Nzinga, director, playwright with DeJon (Terminal Murderer) in Growing Home at the Flight Deck in Oakland. 4. Cat Brooks joins us to talk about Tasha at the Fringe Festival 9/9 at 5:30 p.m., 9/10 at 7 p.m., 9/12 and 9/13. Music: Zion Trinity: "Opening Prayer for Elegba" and Climbing Poetry's "She Lives."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show on the Road

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special: "Black Odyssey" with Aldo Billingslea

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 18:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Jul 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast (7/12/17)

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Juneteenth in Oakland, CA: 562 Bellevue Ave., 11-1, 6/10; Friends of the Negro Spirituals, 1-4 p.m., 1801 Adeline Street, Oakland. 1. Wanda Ravernell, Executive Director is the visionary of Omnira Institute and promoter and manager for Awon Ohun Omnira, (Voices of Freedom) and serves as the narrator for its performances.June 10 is Omnira Institute's 10th annual Ritual of Remembrance commemorating the Emancipation Proclamation that includes acknowledging several of the faiths of the captives who would become slaves during the Slave Trade Era. Bisola Marignay, Ph.D., educator, performing artist, writer, and therapeutic facilitator and board member of Friends of the Negro Spirituals. FNS Juneteenth program is 6/17, 1 p.m. at the West Oakland Library Complex. 2. Micky Duxbury, Berkeley resident, is a freelance writer and an advocate for change in the criminal justice system conceived and developed the Welcome Home Project book project at John O’Lague Galleria, 777 B Street @ Hayward City Hall through 7/28. Reception:5:30-7:30 p.m. 6/9. 3. Laura Elaine Ellis joins us to talk about Soul to Soul, a part of ODC's Walking Distance Dance Festival, in San Francisco. The free program is at 12:30 p.m. in collaboration with Joanna Haigood's Zaccho Dance Theatre at Joe Goode Annex in SF. 4. Jose Alfredo Ramirez Fuentes, professor and researcher at the University of El Salvador joins us to talk about Libations for the Ancestors this summer, the 4th Annual Celebration August 26.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Jun 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Karla M. Wynn Diouf has served as ADACI’s Director of Public Relations since 1994; Francisco J. Tovar B.,Venezuelan scholar and activist, also director and Founder of the Institute of Afro-Diasporic Studies (IEA); Luther Gray, Ashé Cultural Arts Center, with Danys “LaMora” Perez-Prades, dir. Oyu Oro Experimental Dance Ensemble from Cuba and Francisco Mores (musician). 2. Trevor R. Getz & Soumyaa Behrens join us to talk about Abina and the Important Men: A Graphic History, the film having its world premiere as a part of the SF Black Film Festival, free screening at the deYoung Museum, 6 p.m., Fri., June 16. 3. L. Peter Callender, Artistic Director, African American Shakespeare Company joins us to talk about The Winter's Tale opening, June 9 and continuing through June 17.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Graham Lustig, Artistic Director, Oakland Ballet, joins us to talk about "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at Odell Johnson Theatre at the Laney College, June 1-3 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 4, 4 p.m. at Laney as well. 2. Cherie Hill, Artistic Director, IrieDance, joins us to talk about her new work.Terrestrial Footprints Part 2, June 2 & 3 at Alena Museum, a West Oakland space for African Diaspora art, 2725 Magnolia Street, 8 p.m. 3. Laura Elaine Ellis , executive director of the African & African American Performing Arts Coalition and co-director of the Black Choreographers Festival curates: Soul to Soul: An Artistic Response to Baldwin and Coates, 6/3 and 6/10, a collaborative piece which draws on the writings of James Baldwin and Ta-Nehisi Coates to illuminate contemporary issues related to race and social justice at odc.dance/wddf and 415-863-9834.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 May 2017 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 16 May 2017 17:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forbearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Andrew Wood, SFIAF He founded the Festival in 2002. Prior to that I had over 10 years experience as a presenter and an artist manager working at places such as ODC Theater, Life on the Water, the Ethnic Dance Festival and the San Francisco Mime Troupe. 2. Eugene Redmond, Annual Tribute to Miles Davis, Henry Dumas, and Katherine Dunham. Three artistic giants who greatly impacted this city and the world will be honored Friday, May 19, 2017, at 6:30 pm in the Multipurpose Room of Building “D” on the Higher Education Campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), 601 J.R. Thompson Dr., East St. Louis (62201).Three artistic giants who greatly impacted this city and the world will be honored Friday, May 19, 2017, at 6:30 pm in the Multipurpose Room of Building “D” on the Higher Education Campus of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), 601 J.R. Thompson Dr., East St. Louis (62201).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Safiya Fredericks, a Richmond native, most known for her work in IndepenDeandre Evans, playwright and Safiya Fredericks, director, join us to talk about a new play opening this weekend, May 6-7, 6-8 p.m., Richmond Renaissance at El Cerrito High School. Evans acted in four theatrical productions over the last three years: “Te’s Harmony,” “Po’Boys Kitchen,” “The Adventure of Grief,” and “Bag Ladies’ Butterfly Blues.” His poetry and raps have been featured in The Bigger Picture Campaign and the Off/Page Project’s “This Is Home”—he is emerging as a well-respected voice in the important dialogue around food justice, low-income housing rights, mental health and other social justice issues in Richmond. Deandre teaches weekly spoken word workshops and helps to coordinate open mics at the RYSE Center, creating safe spaces for Richmond youth to express themselves. 2. Shifting Movement:Art Inspired by the Life &Work of Yuri Kochiyama (1921-2014) artists: Susan Almazol, Jocelyn Jackson, Lenore Chinn. 3. Dorsey Nunn, Executive Director, LSPWC, joins us to speak about Quest for Democracy Advocacy Day at the state capital, Monday May 8. 4. George Spencer, Musician & Composer, Piano & Trumpet is being featured at City College of San Francisco Advanced Band Workshop, Tuesday, May 9, 8 p.m.-10 p.m. with Professor David Hardiman Jr. at Diego Rivera Auditorium, City College Ocean Campus, 50 Phelan Avenue, SF.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 May 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Grace Lee, Korean American director, joins us to talk about her interactive media project and film, K-Town'92: Who Gets to Tell the Story. Interactive Website On Saturday, April 29th at 1P ET/10A PT, WORLD Channel will be Facebook Live streaming K-Town '92 Reporters. WORLD Channel’s Executive Producer Chris Hastings will be joined by director Grace Lee, and a special guest, to discuss the anniversary of the 1992 L.A. riots and the K-Town project, including the short film and newly launched interactive website ktown92.com. Use the comments section to ask questions after the stream. Join in at facebook.com/WORLDChannel. 2. Roger Guenveur Smith, joins us to talk about Rodney King, the film, directed by Spike Lee which airs on Netflix today, the 25th Anniversary of the LA Rebellion (4/30). 3. Peoples Climate Movement -- Bay Area, April 29, 11-5 p.m. at Lake Merritt Ampitheatre. Joining us are: Susan Schacher and Carroll Fife.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special Broadcast

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Kelly Carlisle, a former member of the Navy who leads an urban farming program where at-risk children grow and sell fresh food to eat healthier and deposit the profits they earn into individual savings accounts to build toward a better future. Executive Director of Acta Non Verba, the US Navy veteran and has been the recipient of many awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. She is an avid gardener and is an Alameda County Master Gardener Trainee. She is an active member of the Farmer Veteran Coalition. Ms. Carlisle was selected as one of 200 U.S. Delegates to Slow Food International’s Terra Madre and Salone del Gusto in 2012 and 2014. Ms. Carlisle is the December 2011 Bon Appetit Good Food Fellow. She has worked with and mentored pre-teen and teenage youth since the age of 14. A native of East Oakland, California, she is committed to creating positive change in her childhood city. Most recently, Kelly’s work has been honored at the White House by President Barack Obama. 2. Pat Mullen, member, Junius Courtney Big Band at Freight & Salvage 3. SAGE Conference April 22

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 15:00:00 +0000

1. Donna C. Roberts, dir. Yemanja: Wisdom from the African Heart of Brazil, a part of the Oakland International Film Festival, Wed., April 5, 6:30 p.m. at HNU Valley Performing Arts Center in Oakland. For tickets:http://oiff.org/yemanja 2. The Flight Deck's Overnight opens tonight, March 31. We speak to Anna Shneiderman, Executive Director and Founder: Ragged Wing Ensemble and Ayodele Nzinga, Artistic Director, Lower Bottom Playaz. Flight Deck. 3. OneLife Institute presents: Transformative Visions: Art, Music, Spoken Word: Sat., April 8, 2-5 p.m. at Oakstop. We are joined by Rev. Liza Rankow, presenter, and artists: Mar Stevens, Virginia Jourdan, and Nicole Dixon.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 03 Apr 2017 23:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sun, 02 Apr 2017 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: Jewelle Gomez's "Alberta Hunter: Leaving the Blues

Sat, 01 Apr 2017 20:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Kheven LaGrone; playwright & Darryl Jones; director, join us to talk about The Legend of Pink at Theatre Rhinoceros in cooperation with the GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street in San Francisco. Kheven is an artist/writer from the Bay Area. His writings have appeared in such academic journals as Journal of Human and Civil Rights, Media Ethics and Transitions.He has curated many shows that have gone to New York and Atlanta, include BABA Black Artists Expressions of Father and I Am San Francisco. Darryl V. Jones is Full Professor of Theatre at Cal State East Bay where he teaches in the Musical Theatre, Acting and Directing concentrations. 2. Jewelle Gomez, playwright, joins us to speak about the New Conservatory Theatre Center's world premiere of Leaving the Blues: A Play with Music about Blues Legend Alberta Hunter through April 2. Visit nctcsf.org T'Ain't Nobody's Bizness (2011), dir. Robert Philipson's film, which Jewelle narrates, features as one of the protagonists: Alberta Hunter T’Ain’t Nobody’s Bizness Music: Zion Trinity; Sweet Honey in the Rock

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Professor S. Omowale Fowles, Ed.M. and Ms. Ethel Long Scott, director and founder: Women's Economic Agenda Project (WEAP) speak about current political issues among them the end of the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care). The Senate votes tomorrow, 3/23. Call 202-224-3121 to express your views. 2. Kheven LaGrone, playwright & Darryl Jones, director, joins us to talk about staged reading, "The Legend of Pink" at Theatre Rhinoceros, April 3 @ 7 p.m., in cooperation with the GLBT History Museum, 4127 18th Street, San Francisco. 3. Leaving the Blues (Jewelle Gomez, playwright) actors: Desiree Rogers (Alberta Hunter) and Leontyne Mbele-Mbong (Lettie) currently up at New Conservatory Theatre Center through April 2. Wed.-Sat, 8 pm, Sun., 2 pm 4. Edward Neville Ewell (Youngblood) and Jemier Jenkins (Rena), AAShakes production of August Wilson's "Jitney," 4/1-16 at Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco. african-americanshakes.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 16:00:00 +0000

1. Genny Lim speaks about: "Don't Shoot: A Requiem in Black" an interdispliary new work opening March 8 & 9 at SafHouse in San Francisco. For info: footloose.com Ms. Lim is the current San Francisco Jazz Poet Laureate. She is a noted poet performer who’s collaborated with the late Max Roach and bassist, Herbie Lewis. Lim has performed at the SF Jazz Poetry Festival and World Poetry Festivals in Venezuela, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Italy. She is featured in the documentary: The Voice (pbs.org 2002); and was featured in the five-part PBS series, The United States of Poetry, and San Francisco Chinatown. 2. Shola Adisa-Farrar performs at SF Black Cat, Sunday, Mar. 5, two shows.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Rotimi Agbabiaka joins us to talk about his solo show: Type/Caste: A Solo Show about Acting while Black. 2. Tornange Yeghiazarian, director, joins us to talk about Novid Parsi's "Our Mother's Meal" at Playwrights Foundation's 11th Annual Rough Reading Series, 2/27, 7:30 at Standford University & 2/28, 2 p.m., at Custom Made Theatre in San Francisco. 3. Nefertina Abrams join us to talk about theBlack Empowerment Market and Tribute to Queen Mother Makinya at Piedmont Elementary School in Oakland, Sunday, Feb.24, 2-6 p.m. 4. We close with a conversation with Bryant Bolling and Zakkiyah Capehart. They host a Black History program at the Altenheim Ballroom, 2/25, 5 p.m. (510) 531-6394.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Tue, 14 Feb 2017 19:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 13:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 16:30:00 +0000

1. Watani Stiner, Troy Williams, Zoe Mallery: CCDA Mass Incarceration Awareness & Action Day, 7-9 p.m. at Redeemer Community Church in San Francisco. 2. Frankye Kelly-Carruthers performs Sat., Feb. 4, 8-10 p.m. at the Californa Jazz Conservatory, 2087 Addison Street, Berkeley. 3. Music Director/Performer Meklit Hadero and Choreographer Amy O'Neal about Clas/sick Hip Hop featuring Amy O'Neal's "Opposing Forces" and UnderCover Presents: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Clas/sick Hip Hop will be February 16-18 at YBCA.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 22:00:00 +0000

1. Rhodessa Jones's "The Ressurection of She" (3/28-4/7/2013). 2. Dr. Carmaletta M. Williams and Dr. John Edgar Tidwell join us to talk about My Dear Boy, Carrie Hughes's Letters to Langston Hughes 1926-1938 http://news.ku.edu/2014/02/24/project-examines-how-letters-langston-hughes-mother-influenced-his-writings 3. We close the show with frequent guest Raissa Simpson, choreographer, master teacher and Artistic Director of PUSH Dance Company's premiere of "Point Shipyard," March 29-30, 2014 at MoAD-SF. She is joined by collaborators and performers: Katie Wong and Adriann Ramirez www.pushdance.org Music: Dwight Tribble's "I've Known Rivers" (based on Langston Hughes's poem by same title); soundscape from PUSH Dance Company's collaboration with the 3rd Street Youth Center & Clinic.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. 1. Women's March Team for San Francisco Bay Area: Renee McKenna is the San Francisco lead and expert on all things Women's March. Christina is on the Arts & Speakers team of volunteers for the march. She is a photographer and artivist from New York City, now in San Francisco: http://www.christinaecampbell.com Jamae Tasker is going to Washington, DC. 2. Ayodele Nzinga, director, Lower Bottom Playaz's production: "Mama at Twilight: Death by Love" at The Flight Deck in Oakland, CA, 1/12-29. 3. Al Letson, National Public Radio host, joins us to talk about: "Summer in Sanctuary" at The Marsh San Francisco, Friday (8 p.m.)-Saturdays (8:30 p.m.), through Feb.28. Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 8:30pm, www.TheMarsh.org 4. Dinizulu Gene Tinnie, a visual artist, educator, writer, and community activist based in Miami, Florida, joins us to talk about two landmark events at Loxahatchee Battlefield Park on Sunday, January 15, and Friday-Saturday, January 27-28, two commemorate pivotal battles fought between the U.S. military and Florida Seminoles and their allies in northern Palm Beach County (9060 W. Indiantown Road) 179 years ago this month.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 17:00:00 +0000

From the Archives features this episode from 12/12/2012: 1. Ann Chinn, Executive Director of Middle Passage Ceremonies and Port Markers (MPP), an organization that began this year to Commemorate the nearly 2 million Africans who perished in the Middle Passage of the transatlantic human trade 2. Baba Achebe Hoskins, member, The Brotherhood of Elders Council speaks about Kujichagulia or Self-Determination, Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012, at the Malonga Center, in Oakland. He is a 2011 City of Oakland Humanitarian Award Winner, a father, cultural worker and playwright. Baba Achebe currently facilitates a Transformative Manhood Group which is made up of fifteen elders who conduct a weekly, multi-ethnic intergenerational “Critical Thinking” session for between ten and twenty youth, thirteen to twenty five years old. 3. Artist, Activists: Malik Seneferu and Brotha Clint join us to talk about the Kwanzaa 2012 kick-off in San Francisco today at 12 noon at City Hall. Visit www.thevillageprojectsf.org 4. We close with a conversation with Adimu Madyun and Ayodele Nzinga Ph.D. who talk about Warrior Spirit Art Experience this Saturday, UJAMAA or Cooperative Economics. The evening features: "WolfHawkJaguars: A Band of Hunters" at the 57th Street Gallery, 5701 Telegraph. The Cleansing starts at 5 p.m., show 8:30-11 p.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Dec 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Rebroadcast: Let Us Break Bread @ Oakland East Bay Symphony

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 23:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Oakland Symphony’s nontraditional holiday tradition – Let Us Break Bread Together – is back December 11, 2016 at 4 PM at Oakland’s Paramount Theatre. Enjoy many of your holiday favorites! 2016 marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Black Panthers, and an important time in Oakland’s history. Oakland Symphony will pay homage by performing music from the time including Motown classics, gospel and protest music of the 60’s and 70’s. Let us Break Bread Together will feature Oakland Symphony Chorus, Linda Tillery, Vocal Rush, Kugelplex, Mt. Eden High School Concert Choir, and Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. Maestro Michael Morgan, Music Dirctor and Conductor, Dr. Lynn Morrow, OEBS Chorus Director, Mr. Terrence Kelly, Oakland Interfaith gospel Choir, and Ms. Ellen Hoffman, Pianist and Composer We close with Rodney Leon, architect, Ark of Return, Tribute to formerly enslaved Africans, permanent exhibit at United Nations in New York City (previously broadcast Aug.12,2014).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Nov 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Fri, 25 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Edward P. Jones is a New York Times bestselling author and has been awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, the National Book Critics Circle award, the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award, and the Lannan Literary Award for The Known World. His first novel The Known World is about the ownership of slaves by a black master in the antebellum South. Reviewers lauded Jones for the novel's epic grandeur, vernacular, and lyrical prose, fully realized characters, and lively dialogue. Comparing Jones favorably with William Faulkner and Toni Morrison. After winning the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction Jones told Publisher's Weekly : "I want to write about the things which helped us to survive: the love, grace, intelligence, and strength for us as a people." Jones also received a MacArthur Fellowship in 2004. His first collection of stories, Lost in the City, won the PEN/Hemingway Award and was short-listed for the National Book Award. The stories recapture the life Jones knew growing up in the 1950s and 1960s, especially the rich vernacular of his mother and her associates. "I remember black people's poetic language," His second story collection, All Aunt Hagar’s Children, was a finalist for the Pen/Faulkner Award. He has been an instructor of fiction writing at a range of universities, including Princeton. He lives in Washington, D.C. 2. From the Archives: Rhodessa Jones talks about her work: "SHE:The Rhodessa Jones Story," which opened at Brava in SF, March 28-April 7, 2013. Music: Sweet Honey in the Rock; Teri Simmons; Thao & the Get Down Stay Down; Ethnic Heritage Ensemble

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Director - NC Heikin began her career at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club in New York and went on to work on and off Broadway as an actress, singer, dancer, writer and director. Her most recent film, Sound of Redemption, The Frank Morgan Story (http://frankmorganstory.com/) about a troubled jazz musician, was produced by bestselling author Michael Connelly and premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival in 2014 and theatrically in NY and LA in 2015. Her most recent film is Life Crime and tells the story of Reggie Austin and how music saved his life. www.NCHeikin.com 2. Mama Naomi Gede Diouf joins us to speak about The Forbidden Bush premiering this weekend, Nov. 26, 8 p.m. and Nov. 27, 3 p.m. at Laney College, the Odell Johnson Theatre, 900 Fallon Street. 3. Velina Brown joins us to talk about Word 4 Word and Z Space's production of Edward P. Jones's Aunt Hagar's Children. 4. Taiwo Kujichagulia-Seitu, Lyric Dance School, joins us to talk about the Jazzy Nutcracker featuring Duke Ellington's music, Dec. 10, 3-6 p.m. at EOYDC.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 17:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Cleavon Smith graduated from the US Naval Academy and Mills College. He is the writer of Vs., produced by TheatreFirst in their 2016-17 season. His short plays have been featured in the 2012 PlayGround and the 2015 Ohlone College Playwrights Festivals. He lives in Oakland and teaches in the English department at Berkeley City College." 2. Standing Rock Protest. Tiyesha Meroe, People's Community Medics. To help visit https://medichealercouncil.com/donate/ 3. Mark Harris, artist joins us to speak about his recent work and an exhibit opening Friday, Nov. 11, 6-9 at CIIS in San Francisco. His artist talk is Nov. 16, 6 p.m. at CIIS, 1453 Mission Street: "Freedom isn't Free", "American Exceptionalism - Same as it Ever Was", "Silence = Violence No. 3", "Home Sweet Home" 4. Keith Josef Adkins, playwright, Safe House, at Aurora Theater in Berkeley Nov. 4 through Dec. 4.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000

1.Poetic Response to the Elections with poets: Rafael Jesús González, Eugene Redmond, Marcus Lorenzo Penn, Sandra "Makeda" Hooper-Mayfield, Karla Brundage, Alan Laird, Ann Marie Davis, Raymond Nat Turner, Charles Curtis Blackwell, Karla Brundage, Zigi Lowenberg 2. 30th Annual Black Doll Artists Show and Sale, Nov. 12, 10-5 at the African American Museum and Library, Oakland 3. BACCHANAL DE AFRIQUE Nkeiruka Oruche, Artistic Director/Producer Nkeiruka Oruche is a Nigerian of Igbo descent who lives and plays with her family in Oakland. She is a dancer, musician, performer and educator specializing in street dance and music styles from Africa and her Diaspora. With over 15 years of experience and a passion for social justice and community-building, her goal is to work with people to use art as a way to lead healthy lives and create positive change in the world. Nkeiruka has worked with Amara Tabor-Smith, Loco Bloco, Dance Mission Theater, the Oakland Museum of California, Our Family Coalition, Youth Speaks and a host of change-making entities. Currently, Nkeiruka is leading Afro Urban Society, a group that works to foster and preserve the resiliency, interconnection and existence of people of African descent in global urban settings through art performance and social engagement. She is also a Co-Founder of BoomShake, a social justice oriented musical community. November 18: Til’ Dance Do Us Part, Afro-Urban Musical, 8PM @ Dance Mission Theater, San Francisco November 19: Community Lab for the African Diaspora, 6PM @ EastSide Arts Alliance, Oakland November 19: Afrobeats vs. Azonto Master Dance Class, 2PM @ Dance Mission Theater, San Francisco November 20: Afrobeats & Soul Line & Turf & More Dance Workshops, 11AM - 7PM @ EastSide Arts Alliance, Oakland

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Nov 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Presidential Election Special

Sat, 05 Nov 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 15:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Nov 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Oct 2016 15:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Frantz Jerome, Haitian political analyst, joins us to talk about the Island Nation. Frantz is very knowledgeable and has been a frequent guest on Flashpoints, Sojourner Truth and other radio programs discussing Haiti. He is a former professor at CUNY, well-known and respected in the NY community where he was the coordinator of a coalition of 80 Haitian grassroots organizations during the 1990's. http://www.haitiemergencyrelief.org/Haiti_Emergency_Relief_Fund/home.html 2. Wanda Ravernell, Director, Omira Institute, joins us to speak about the National Museum of African American History and Culture opening weekend, Sept. 23-25. 3. Stogie Amir Kenyatta, One Man Show on the life of Paul Robeson. “The World is my Home – The Life of Paul Robeson,” at Berkeley Black Rep, 3201 Adeline Street, Oct. 28-29, 2016. http://www.blackrepertorygroup.com/ www.PaulRobesonOnManShow.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Joanna Macy, Ph.D., Ann Marie Davis, and Ty Blair join us to speak about Lberation Dharma in the Time of the Great Turning, a program hosted by the East Bay Meditation Center this Friday, Oct. 28, 7-10 PM at the First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison @27th Street, in Oakland. Visit http://eastbaymeditation.org/ 2. We close with a conversation with Krissy Keefer, Artistic Director, Dance Bridgade, about the Tibetan Book of the Dead: The Great Liberation Upon Hearing, Friday & Saturday, Oct. 28-29, at 7:30pm; Sun., Oct. 30 at 6pm at 3316 24th Street, San Francisco, (across from the 24th Street BART Station). Oct. 30 is a benefit for Tara Mandala Retreat Center and features guest artist Jennifer Berezen and a 4pm silent auction. Tixs are: $23-$30 Fri-Sat; $15-($50 Sunday) brownpapertickets.com or 1-800-838-3006 Use CODE: "Wanda" to purchase tickets today for Sat./Sun. For information: dancemission.com or 415-826-4441. Music: Rene Marie, Regina Carter, Meklit & Quinn, gina breedlove.

BPP 50th Anniversary Special

Sat, 22 Oct 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Wed, 12 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Deborah Vaughn, Co-founder and Artistic Director of Dimensions Dance Theatre, joins us to talk about Project Panther, premiering at the Malonga Casquelord Center for the Arts Sat., Oct. 15, 8 p.m. https://www.dimensionsdance.org/history.html 2. Frantz Jerome, Haitian political analyst, joins us to talk about the Island Nation. Frantz is very knowledgeable and has been a frequent guest on Flashpoints, Sojourner Truth and other radio programs discussing Haiti. He is a former professor at CUNY, well-known and respected in the NY community where he was the coordinator of a coalition of 80 Haitian grassroots organizations during the 1990's. http://www.haitiemergencyrelief.org/Haiti_Emergency_Relief_Fund/home.html 3. Wanda Ravernell, Director, Omira Institute, joins us to speak about the National Museum of African American History and Culture opening weekend, Sept. 23-25. 4. Stogie Amir Kenyatta, One Man Show on the life of Paul Robeson. “The World is my Home – The Life of Paul Robeson,” at Berkeley Black Rep, 3201 Adeline Street, Oct. 28-29, 2016. http://www.blackrepertorygroup.com/ www.PaulRobesonOnManShow.com

Wanda's Picks Special Broadcast: King Theo on the NMAAHC

Sat, 08 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Thu, 06 Oct 2016 14:00:00 +0000

Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise About the Co-Director/Co-Producer Bob Hercules Bob Hercules is an independent filmmaker whose recent films include Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance and Bill T. Jones: A Good Man. The Joffrey film, narrated by Mandy Patinkin, tells the full story of the groundbreaking ballet company and their many rises and falls. It premiered in January, 2012 at the Dance on Camera Film Festival at Lincoln Center and aired on PBS’ American Masters December, 2012. A Good Man aired on American Masters in 2011 and played at many film festivals including IDFA, Silverdocs, Full Frame, DOXA and the Southern Circuit. Hercules acclaimed Forgiving Dr. Mengele (2005) won the Special Jury Prize at the Slamdance Film Festival and has been seen in film festivals around the world. About the Co-Director/Co-Producer Rita Coburn Whack Rita Coburn Whack is an independent filmmaker with Emmy Award winning documentaries for Curators of Culture, Remembering 47th Street and African Roots American Soil. Other documentaries have aired on C-Span and the History Channel. Under her direction Maya Angelou’s Radio Show for Oprah Radio was awarded the Women in Radio and Television Gracie Awards, “Best Radio Program” 2008, “Best Radio Host” 2009 and the “Silver World Medal” in radio New York festival 2009. Author of the novel Meant to Be (Random House Strivers Row 2002) her company RCW Media Productions, Inc. produced Maya Angelou’s Black History Month Specials distributed by Public Radio International 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

1. Ann Chinn, Director, Middle Passage Ceremonies and Portmarkers Project 2. Damani Baker, director, The House on Coco Road A native of the Bay Area, Damani Baker is a Brooklyn-based director and filmmaker. His first feature documentary (with co-director Alex Vlack) about the life and music of Bill Withers, “Still Bill,” opened theatrically to critical acclaim in 2009 and was acquired by Netflix, Showtime, and BBC. Previous work includes “Return,” an award-winning film that explores the genius of traditional African medicine. Damani’s career spans documentaries, music videos, museum installations, and advertisements, and he has worked for clients including Rainforest Alliance, Puma, IBM, and Wieden+Kennedy, among others. His current projects include over 10 films for museums in Nigeria and Chattanooga, Tennessee for Ralph Appelbaum Associates, Inc. Damani is a Sundance Fellow and alum of Filmmaker Magazine’s “25 new faces in independent film.” In addition to his work, Damani is a professor in the filmmaking, screenwriting, and media arts program at Sarah Lawrence.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. "Black Folks Don't. . . " enters its 4th and final season Sept. 26, and we join creator, Angela Tucker (tuckergurl.com) to talk about her popular series. https://www.youtube.com/user/BlackFolkDont 2. Darryl V. Jones (Director), Tarell Alvin McCraney's "The Brothers Size" at Theatre Rhinocerous, where he has directed several world and West Coast premieres of new plays, including Xtigone by Nambi Kelley and Follow Me to Nellie’s by Dominique Morisseau. He holds a Bachelor of Music from The Catholic University of America and an M.F.A. in Directing from Boston University. Visit www.TheRhino.org 3. Bruce Graham, playwright, professor, actor, joins us to talk about "White Guy on the Bus" which closed Sept. 24 at Theatre Aluminous in Oakland. We also talk about writing, acting and the importance of character (smile).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

1. Brother Malik Rahim; Dr. Robert H. King join us to talk about the First Annual Louisiana/Angola Black Panther Party Film Festival Sept. 15, 6 p.m. (Oct. 4), at Ashé Cultural Center in New Orleans, La. King also reports on the FICPFM Conference in Oakland, Sept. 9-11. 2. Souls at Sea founder Regina Hartfield, Michael Campbell, Co-founder, Universal Sailing Club, and Marcellus Butler, owner, Butler's Marina, a black owned marina in Annapolis, MD, join us to talk about the fourth annual commemoration Sept. 17. 3. Frank B. Wilderson III is Professor of African American Studies and Drama at the University of California, Irvine, is featured at BAMPFA at UC Berkeley this weekend, Sept. 17, 5-7 p.m. He will be screening his 2005 film "Reparations . . . Now." UCB is located at 2155 Center St, Berkeley, (510) 642-0808. http://www.bampfa.berkeley.edu/ 4. Pastor Kenneth Glasgow, The Ordinary People's Society (TOPS) joins us to talk about the hunger strike, FAM work stoppage called Sept. 9, to end legal slavery. He also gave input on the FICPFM Conference.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We rebroadcast Sept. 7 show which features: Pastor Kenny Glasgow, The Oridinary People's Society (TOPS), Kinetik Justice Amun, Free Alabama Movement co-founder. 1. Pastor Kenneth Glasgow joins us to talk about the work stoppage and fast which begins Sept. 9 to end slavery. Pastor Glasgow's life is one of redemption. He currently serves as the Executive Director for The Ordinary People's Society (also known as TOPS). TOPS is a faith-based organization that bridges the gap between the have and have-nots. https://www.facebook.com/paskenny.glasgow 2. We speak to Kinetik Justice Amun, one of the founders of FAM sponsors of the Sept. 9, 2016 Fast and Work Stoppage to end prison slavery. https://freealabamamovement.wordpress.com/f-a-m-pamphlet-who-we-are/ Music:Zion Trinity, Wild Magnolias

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Pastor Kenneth Glasgow joins us to talk about the work stoppage and fast which begins Sept. 9 to end slavery. Pastor Glasgow's life is one of redemption. He currently serves as the Executive Director for The Ordinary People's Society (also known as TOPS). TOPS is a faith-based organization that bridges the gap between the have and have-nots. Pastor Glasgow's direction of TOPS provides rehabilitation to repeat offenders while creating a program that target the youth before they reach the Criminal Justice System. Since his own release from the criminal justice system, Pastor Glasgow has remained committed to saving souls and ensuring that redemption is in the lives of those who have served their debts to society. https://www.facebook.com/paskenny.glasgow 2. We speak to Kinetik Justice Amun, one of the founders of FAM sponsors of the Sept. 9, 2016 Fast and Work Stoppage to end prison slavery. https://freealabamamovement.wordpress.com/f-a-m-pamphlet-who-we-are/ Music: Zion Trinity, Wild Magnolias

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 15:00:00 +0000

1. Hackathon Weekend Event Chris Norwood and Stephen Van Heflin Sept. 3-4 in NorCA & SoCAL speak about the first annual live streaming 'We Are Code' Virtual RealityHackathon programming competition between youth teams in Compton, CA (SoCal) and Oakland, CA (NorCal). Dhat Stone Academy and Bay Area Tutoring Association host: "We Are Code" VR Hackathon | NorCal vs. SoCal | 7-to-12th graders. Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 3-4, 2016 | 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in NorCal at: East Oakland Youth Development Center (EOYDC), 8200 International Blvd., Oakland, CA 94621. In SoCal at: NASA Columbia Memorial Space Center (CMSC), 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA 90242. 2. Wanda Ravernell joins us to talk about the the 3rd Annual Black-Eyed Pea Festival, a family friendly celebration of African American traditional food, music and art, Sat., Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m at Mosswood Park,Broadway and Macarthur Boulevard in Oakland 3. Actor, Dameion Brown as Othello in Marin Shakespeare production through 9/25

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a Black Arts and Site promoting the legacy of Black People: Past, Present, and Future. We speak to Dr. Desmond Carson about Immediate Care San Pablo. There is a special program this evening, 8/31, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Navigating Health Care in West Contra Costa County with Danny Glover, Actor, Philanthropist, Dr. Ramona Tascoe, and Dr. Carson. It is a free program at East Bay Center for the Performing Arts, 339 11th Street, Richmond, CA. Dr. Carson is one of the physicians at LifeLong Medical Care-Brookside located at 2023 Vale Road, San Pablo, CA 94806 Urgent Care Services; Walk In Available (510) 231-9800 From the Archives: We conclude with a special on Geronimo ji jaga Pratt on the occasion of his passing (b. Sept. 13, 1947, Morgan City, Louisiana- June 2, 2011, Tanzania). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GCvWo26JBI Music: Zion Trinity; Victoria Theodore

Wanda's Picks Radio

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! AfroSolo Arts Festival announces its 22nd Black Voices Performance Series “Our Stories, Our Lives,” August 26-28, 2016 in San FranciscoThe annual AfroSolo Arts Festival celebrates the Black experience through the arts and forums that give an authentic voice to the diverse experiences of Black. Performances take place at the Buriel Clay Theater within the African American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street in San Francisco’s Fillmore District with the Black Voices Series - Our Stories, Our Lives, Black Matters, August 26 - 28, Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m., Sunday, 3 p.m. We feature artists: Aqueila M. Lewis who will perform: Saving Black Lives: One Word At A Time; Luna Malbroux who will perform Laughter is the Best Weapon; Thomas Robert Simpson who will perform Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett: The Man, His Life and the Street Named After Him (1914-1997).

Wanda's Picks Radio

Sat, 20 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Aug 2016 13:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Honoring the Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey on his birthday! Guests: Dr. Oba T'Shaka, Brother Gene Dinizulu Teenie, Sister Sheba Makeda Haven Dr. T'Shaka is an activist's scholar, renowned public speaker, professor, workshop leader, author, organizer and visionary of exceptional influence who addresses audiences in the United States, Britain, France and Africa. For 38 years, Dr. T'Shaka was a Professor at San Francisco State University, where he is now Professor Emeritus. Don Rico: ‘Head Cook and Bottle-Washer' for South Florida's Annual Marcus Garvey Celebrations Committee, which has been producing and hosting the events since Mwalimu Marcus Garvey's Centenary since 1987.The AMGBC (Annual Marcus Garvey Birthday Celebrations) includes two signature events; the Annual Marcus Garvey Lecture/Afrikan Community Forum, and LIONSPLASH: which is a Pan-Afrikan Birthday Bash, “Forward2School” Family Fun Day & KulchaConcert.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Sat, 13 Aug 2016 02:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 08 Aug 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This special broadcast features: Thomas Cokenias (Wyatt Cooke), Norman Gee (Eban Carter), and Danielle Thys (Emma Cooke), for Dominic Hoffman's "Emmitt & Ava," currently up at the Fireside Theatre and Beverly Hills Playhouse in San Francisco, Friday-Sunday, August 12-14. For tickets visit: www.bhpsanfrancisco.com. Discount tixs at Goldstar.com The Carter and Cooke families have both experienced recent losses. Eban's son, Emmittt and the Cooke's daughter, Ava, have died. They were in a horrible car accident. The two victims are young, 19 and 20. The Cookes do not know Emmitt; however both Eban and his son, Evan (Eric Reid), know Ava, Emmitt's girlfriend. Both Emmitt and Ava are visual artists, one black, the other white. While race is certainly an element in the work, what is more explored is the nature of grief and loss and how one articulates this when it is still inexplicable. When Eban returns to the Cooke home after their daughter's funeral, he asks a favor. It is this favor that brings into the forefront, hidden prejudices and denial. Excellently portrayed by the cast, we are pleased to invite them to the show this morning to talk about Hoffman's "Emmitt & Ava."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We are joined by Antoine Hunter, founder, Urban Jazz Dance Company, and presenter and producer of the Annual Bay Area Deaf Dance Festival International. In its 4th year this season, Aug. 12-14, 2016 at Dance Mission Theatre in San Francisco. He is joined in the studio by Zahna Simon, Assist. Dir. UJDC and BADDF. Fred Beam, Wild Zappers from Washington, DC, and Isolte Avila, Sign Dance Collective, to talk about this year's programming which includes an artist meet and greet (8/13, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and Dance Workshops, Wed., Aug. 10, 6-10 p.m. Both events are at the Deaf Community Center, 1550 San Leandro Blvd., San Leandro). Tickets are available at Brown Paper Tickets (event/2561054). 2. Patricia Milton joins us to talk about her play, "Hearts of Palm," extended through Aug. 21 at Central Works (Berkeley City Club on Durant Street). The satire looks at the politics of food production: transfat, palm oil, Girl Scout cookies and orangutans. Visit http://centralworks.org/season/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Aug 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Aundrea Lacy, born and raised in San Francisco, has been a model, a television journalist, and a marketing executive for Fortune 500 companies. She earned her MBA from Golden State University. In 1996, she went from baking brownies for friends to building her own online bakery business, Luv Brownies. In addition, she gives career presentations for girls and women from around the country. Ms. Lacy, who is author of "Luv Story: From Homemade Brownies to My Own Internet Bakery" "Brownie Points: Lessons for Woman Entrepreneurs from One Who Made It," joins us to talk about her 20th Anniversary Clothing Drive tomorrow, Aug. 4, at the San Jose Municipal Stadium. Donors will be sweetly rewarded for their generousity. Visit luvsbrownies.com 2. We close with an interview with Thomas Simpson, AfroSolo founder, who will speak about the August 2016 season which opens with a free concert at Yerba Buena Gardens, in San Francisco, Ms. Tammy Hall and Dr. Linda Ricketts, both featured at the AfroSolo 2016 Concert at YBCA Mission @ Third Streets, this Sat., August 6, 1-3 p.m. Featured are two artists and their ensembles, Ms. Tammy Hall and Dr. Linda Ricketts. Dr. Ricketts will join us this morning. Visit afrosolo.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Our first guests look at soiltary confinement through the lens of Sarah Shourd's play The Box, at Z-Space through July 30. Sarah is joined by Jerry Elster, consultant: Jerry Elster is the Healing Justice Coordinator for American Friends Service Committee (AFSC). He is also a formerly incarcerated person. He has a in forensic psychology. He is pursuing a doctorate in forensic psychology. He has worked in the field of Mentoring, Substance Abuse Counseling, Restorative Justice, and Advocacy. He serves on the advisory board for Oakland & the World, a venture to aid formerly incarcerated people and those facing employment challenges to gain cooperative economic advancement by becoming owners of their own businesses. He is a member of All of Us or None, a movement-led organization that advocates for the rights of prisoners and their families. Jerry's trials have taught him how essential it is for people to speak and be heard in their own voices. He believes that, people without a voice are a people without hope. His goal is for human and civil rights for everyone regardless of origin or prior arrest history: http://www.afsc.org/content/jerry-elster Sarah Shourd is an author, prisoner rights advocate, Contributing Editor at Solitary Watch, and a Visiting Scholar at UC Berkeley—currently based in Oakland, California. Sarah was held as a political hostage by the Iranian government from 2009-2010. Sarah was held incommunicado in solitary confinement for 410 days before being released, without a trial or any evidence shown against her, by President Ahmadinejad on “compassionate grounds,” a move designed to ease international pressure against the Iranian government: We close with a conversation with Chaz Shermil & Kimba Daniels, cast in Katori Hall's Hurt Village, up through Sunday at Ubuntu Theatre Project in Oakland.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Jul 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Jul 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Jul 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. From the archives: "Grateful" -- Victoria Theodore (4/26/2013) This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. From the archives: "Grateful" -- Victoria Theodore (4/26/2013) 2. From the archives: Rhodessa Jones speaks about her solo performance: "SHE" (2013 at Brava). 3. Velina Brown joins us to talk about "Schooled," SF Mime Troupe's 2016 Summer Season opening July 2-3, 1:30 p.m. in Berkeley at Cedar Rose Park and 7/4 Dolores Park in San Francisco. Music: Zion Trinity's Elegba Opening Prayer; Victoria Theodore's "Grateful," Rene Marie's Star Spangled Banner/Lift Every Voice

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Gloria Brown joins us to speak about the 15th Annual Soul Stroll for Health, May 21 at Coyote Regional Park in San Mateo http://pgdglobal.com/soul/ 2. Ben Vereen (archived June 2012) 3. Carl Lumbly speaks about his role as Ira Aldridge in Red Velvet at San Francisco Playhouse (through June 25). In 19th century Europe, at a time when his kinsmen were still in chains in America, Aldridge built an incredible career on the stages of London and Europe. 4. Lynn Morrow, Music Director of the Oakland Symphony Chorus and Nicole Greenidge Joseph, Soprano soloist, join us to talk about the Oakland East Bay Symphony concert of music by John Adams, Stravinsky, Barber and Ravel tonight, Friday, May 20, at 8 pm at the Paramount Theatre. Ms. Joseph, who was the winner of the 2015 Toland Vocal Arts Competition, will sing Samuel Barber’s Knoxville: Summer of 1915. (Originally Broadcast 5/6).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 May 2016 14:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. . . . 1. Kola Adesokan -- Kolamanjaro & his Yoruba Heritage Ensemble is where the classic Yoruba song-meter meets the modern. It is indeed, the crossroad at which yesterday's rhythms intersect with today's sounds to propel the future of cultural arts entertainment forward. It is a bridge that seeks to link Yoruba from the source with others far and widely dispersed around the globe and across the Diaspora. Kola Adesokan, (aka Kolaman or Kolamanjaro) describes his music as Juju-Fusion, a style which he branded Rhythm-N-Groove™ of Afrika, which is another variety of Afro-Beat genre founded by Fela Kuti of Nigeria. Kolamanjaro is a jazzily rhythmic sound whose soul is deeply rooted in authentic Yoruba heritage experience. 2. Almaz Yihdego has a M.A. in Public Administration, from California State University East Bay and currently seeking a Ph.D.. in the Global Health Program at UC Berkeley. She has over ten years administrative experience working in non-profit organizations, government agencies and community services. She has developed programs for children, youth and adults that support their needs and has a broad range of experience in service identification, funding entitlements and empowering parents through advocacy. she joins us to talk about Y.E.S. a youth empowerment program which is having a fundraiser this weekend, May 21. Kolamanjaro is the headliner. Visit http://www.globalcommunicationservices.org/index.html Music: Zion Trinity's Elegba Opening Prayer; Kolamanjaro's Ori Mi Ma Deyin; Aar Maant's Deeqa; Eddie Gales's African Sunrise; Novalima's Coba Coba Liberta; Meklit and Quinn's Bring is Home to Me; Mark Lomax's Lives Matter Part 3: Black and Beautiful Power.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! May 8th-14th is National Women's Health Week 1. We are joined in the studio by Karla Antoinette Baptiste, author "Dig in Your Heels, The Glamorous (And Not so Glamorous) Life of a Young Breast Cancer Survivor)". She will share information about the 5th Annual Conference: Breast Cancer & African Americans (BCAA) Conference, May 14, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the South San Francisco Conference Center, 255 South Airport Blvd., South San Francisco. It's a free event; online registration is available at http://tinyurl.com/2016BCAA. For more information contact 1.800.383.0941 or pratliff@stanford.edu. Conference includes the latest topics on breast cancer, hot buffet lunch, health resource fair, and much more. (It's sold out, however, go anyway, there will probably be a few no shows.) 2. Charles Johnson is joining us with cast: Stuart Elwyn Hall, Desiree Rogers, Melvin Thompson from his latest play, "Ain't It So," at the MET in San Francisco Thursday-Saturday, May 12-14 with 2 performances 5/14: 2 & 8 p.m. at the Gough Street Playhouse, 1620 Gough (near Bush), SF. Visit wehavemet.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Agents of Change, co-director, co-producer, Abby Ginsberg, and student leaders at SFSU: Jimmy Garrett and Benny Stewart, and cast join us in the studio to talk about a powerful student-led protest movement on college campuses in the late-1960s and its connection to the Black Lives Matter movement on campuses today. The film premieres at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco, May 15, 1 - 4 p.m. Visit http://www.agentsofchangefilm.com/events/ 2. Professor Akubundu Amazu-Lott joins us to talk about African Liberation Day 2016: "African Women and Youth on the Frontline: Revolutionary Pan-Africanism is the Only Solution!" The event, May 28, 12-5 p.m. is at East Side Arts in Oakland. Visit http://www.africanliberationday.net/ and http://www.aaprp-intl.org/ (the organization founded by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, first President of Ghana, in 1958, which hosts ALD). 3. We speak to Dr. Lynn Morrow, Director, Oakland Symphony Chorus and Nicole Greenidge Joseph, soprano, about the Oakland East Bay Symphony program, Friday, May 20. http://www.oaklandsymphony.org/event/stravinsky-silverman/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 May 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a Black Arts and Culture Site. 1. San Francisco Arts Festival 2016 is May 19-June 5: Joining us are: Genny Lim (artist), Andrew Wood (Executive Director, SFIAF), Charlie Levin (artist), Jon Jang (artist). sfiaf.org 2. Alice Aziza Jefferson, Artistic Director of Sankofa Akili Dance Ensemble, speaks about the 2016 Spring Benefit, Apr. 30 at DeFremery Recreation Center, Lil Bobby Hutton Park, 1651 Adeline Street, in Oakland. She is first generation West Oaklander, Founder & Artistic Director of The Sankofa Akili Dance Ensemble. She founded the dance company in 1998 to pay tribute to the artistic legacy of her mentor Ms. Akili Denianke, under whom she studied at CSU-Hayward and elsewhere as a member of the Harambee Dance Ensemble. It is the mentorship of Ms. Denianke that she attributes the clarity she has attained regarding her life purpose. Info: 510-735-5150. 3. L. Peter Callender and Leontyne Mbele-Mbong join us to speak about ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA — which closes the African American Shakespeare Company 2015-16 season. Shakespeare’s epic love story — is set in modern day. Mark Antony has traded his power over an empire for the forbidden love of one woman, Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt. Jealousy, betrayal, death, and war cannot refute their undying love for each other. With award winning actors L. Peter Callender and Leontyne Mbele-Mbong in the title roles of Mark Antony and Cleopatra. Visit http://www.african-americanshakes.org/productions/antony-and-cleopatra/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Noel Schwerin’s documentary IN AN IDEAL WORLD will have its U.S. television premiere Tuesday, April 26, 2016, at 8 p.m. on WORLD Channel (check local listings), as part of the fourth season of AMERICA REFRAMED, public media’s newest documentary series. The film will be available for free streaming on http://worldchannel.org/programs/episode/arf-s4-e413-ideal-world/ starting April 27, 2016. Shot over seven years, with unprecedented access, IN AN IDEAL WORLD follows three men in California’s infamous Soledad prison—John Piccirillo, a white separatist murderer, Sam Lewis, a black ex-gang member and Ben Curry, a warden. Each entered the system young and learned its codes of conduct not only to maintain order and safety, but also for their personal survival. 2. From the Archives. 3. We close with an interview with Mfoniso Udofia about her two plays: "Sojourners" & "runboyrun" at The Magic Theatre through May 8/May 15. Visit themagictheatre.org Music: Zion Trinity's "Opening Prayer Elegba"; Miguel Zenon's "Second Generation Lulluby."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

1. Brooke Doaks is a Healing Artist, Cultural Curator, Creative Director and Founding Curator of Goddessflow Presents. She is the author of "A Grey Soul." Brooke graduated from Columbia College Chicago with a B.A. in Visual Production and Marketing Communications. Follow the blog goddessflowpresents.be and visit her websitewww.brookedoaks.com for more awareness. Her Goddessflowpresents involves developing a series of workshops, community and spotlight events all highlighting the black feminine divine. Her next event at the Naming Gallery, 335 15th Street, in Oakland, April 29 honors, artist, activist, Regina Evans, who will perform excepts from "52 Letters," stories of sexual trafickking: entrapment, bondage and freedom. 2. Camilla Nielsson (Director), based in Copenhagen, studied documentary filmmaking at the Tisch School of the Arts and holds an M.A. in visual anthropology from New York University. She joins us to talk about "Democrats" which premieres on Independent Lens, Monday, April 18. 3. Rebroadcast of interview with Steven Anthony Jones, Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre presenting, "Thurgood," closing this weekend at AAACC. Visit lht-sf.org 4. IDRIS ACKAMOOR speaks to us about a new tour next month locally and internationally withThe Pyramids' new music:"We Be All Africans." Ackamoor is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, actor, tap dancer, producer, administrator, and director. He is the Founder and Co-Artistic Director of the multi-disciplinary San Francisco performance company Cultural Odyssey. Mr. Ackamoor has been honored with TWO Lifetime Achievement Awards for his extraordinary musical and theatrical contributions.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 23:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Shaka Barak is the Minister of Education for the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA & ACL) through appointment by current President General Senghor Baye. Located in Chicago, he joined the Garvey Nkrumah Memorial Progressive Division #429 of the UNIA & ACL forty years ago under Dr. Charles L. James. President General James was a Graduate under the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey the Dean of the School of African Philosophy. Shaka Barak after years of service asked President General James to teach him the same Course of African Philosophy. Shaka Barak in 1981, was taught the course along with a few other hand-picked men and women. Only he was told publicly when he graduated by President General James that he knew because he had been taught and that he must “tell the story, and “if you don’t tell the story then you are no damn good”. Since President General James death in 1990 Shaka Barak co-founded over 24 years ago with his wife Qamar, The Marcus Garvey Institute (MGI), an organization that does research on the life and works of the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the UNIA & ACL.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Katori Hall's The Mountain Top cast: Khary L. Moye (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.) is honored to be playing the role of Martin Luther King, Jr. at C.C.C.T. Visit http://ccct.org/the-mountaintop/ Kimberly Ridgeway (Camae), Kim is excited to be back on the CCCT stage for the second time. 2. Alex Saragoza, Ph.D., Associate Professor Chicano/Latino Studies, joins us to talk about a free film/panel April 9, 5:30-8 p.m., "Latino Youth, Familia & Social Change: Cesar Chavez to the Present" at the Center for History and Community; 2488 Coolidge, Oakland. http://www.peraltahacienda.org Dr. Saragoza's work looks at the historical interface between processes of racialization and inequity in Latin America, especially Mexico and Cuba, and their intersections with immigration to the USA. PhD, 1979, University of California, San Diego, Doctoral program in Latin American history. 3. From the Archives: Simone Missick (as Camae) in The Mountaintop at Theatre Works, (4/3/2013 broadcast). Review: http://wandasabir.blogspot.com/2013/03/through-looking-glass_5130.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +0000

1. MoAD Emerging Artist, Cheryl Derricotte’s “Ghosts/Ships” She pays homage to Fred Wilson’s Mining the Museum by “mining the library” (the British Library) for images related to the global slave trade. This show includes approximately 20 works that reveal images of people from African descent who come from diverse locales and were involved in the slave trade. Images of slave ships and oceans reveal how the art and culture of the African people have been dispersed all over the world. The exhibit will include portraits of enslaved people from the Diaspora, ships, oceans and botanical illustrations of cotton, which was a central crop to the institution of slavery and the basis of much of the early craft art. Originally from Washington D.C., Derricotte is a visual storyteller who currently resides in Oakland, Calif. She holds a MFA from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) and has been awarded Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass’ Inaugural Visionary Scholarship and a D.C. Commission on the Arts & Humanities /National Endowment for the Arts Artist Fellowship Grant. She’s exhibited at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, Florida State University Museum of Fine Arts and the San Francisco Airport Museum. 2. Steven Anthony Jones, Artistic Director, LHT-SF, joins us to talk about "Thurgood."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Stephen Anthony Jones, Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, joins us to talk about "Thurgood," which opens at the AAACC April 7-17, in the Burial Clay theatre in San Francisco.http://www.lhtsf.org/tickets 2. La Freshia Brown, Uppity Edutainment, presents "Not for Sale: The Oscar C. Wright," (2015) directed by Michael Lange. All screenings are at Oakstop, 1721 Broadway, every Thursday at 6 p.m. Screenings start at 7 p.m. http://www.up-ed.com/home.html 3. Christopher K. Walker, director, Welcome to Leith which premieres on Independent Lens Monday, April 4, 2016, 10:00-11:30 PM ET (check local listings) on PBS.http://itvs.org/films/welcome-to-leith/ 4. We close with a conversation with Cheryl Patrice Derricotte re:Ghost/Ships at MoAD-SF through Sunday, April 3. https://www.moadsf.org/ Music: Brother Jahahara's "Pachamama."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: 1. Sheila S. Walker Ph.D. and Dinizulu Gene Tinnie, join us to talk about the United Nations General Assembly designation of March 25, as International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (moved to March 29). 2. Nana Farika, Vice President of WADU will join us to talk about a recent forum in Washington to look at The State of Africa and Its Diaspora (3/20/2016). 3. We close with a conversation with a representative about a special program in Oakland, March 27, to honor the legacy and work of Dr. Mutulu Shakur, Political Prisoners, Prisoner of War. We were looking forward to his release, Feb. 10, 2016, at his recent parole hearing. mutuluriswelcomehere.com Dr. Mutulu Shakur, Omar Hunter, a member of the New African People’s Organization and the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement is one of the longest held political prisoners of war in US federal detention at this time. Just before this date he was informed that he would only be scheduled to get a hearing for parole on April 4, 2016.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 16:00:00 +0000

1. Mahealani Uchiyama, director, Mahea Uchiyama Center for International Dance in Berkeley, Kumu Hula (hula teacher) of Halau Ka Ua Tuahine. She is creator and director of the annual Kapili Polynesian dance and music workshops and Traci Bartlow, as Artistic director, Starchild Dance Company uses African, hip hop, house, praise dance, and authentic jazz dance styles in her choreography. Both choreographers are featured in the 21st Annual Collage des Cultures Africaines, Mar. 10-13, at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Art in Oakland. 2. Christian L. Frock, guest curator for Take This Hammer @ YBCA March-August, 2016. Opens tonight! Frock is an independent curator, writer, and educator. Frock’s practice focuses on art and politics. Invisible Venue, the curatorial enterprise Frock founded and has directed since 2005, collaborates with artists to present art in public spaces. Unexpected Art, came out Mar.'15. Recent work: co-curated Public Works: Artists’ Interventions 1970s – Now at the Mills College Art Museum; 2015 - 2016 Scholar in Residence at California College of the Arts’ Center for Art + Public Life: www.invisiblevenue.com and www.visiblealternative.com. 3. Risk Is This @ Cutting Ball Theatre in San Francisco opens next weekend. We are joined by one of the playwrights whose work is featured: Phillip Howze, a Yale School of Drama graduate in Playwriting, who is the author of tiny boyfriend, abominable, and all of what you love and none of what you hate. These and other works by Phillip have been presented at The Bushwick Starr, Dixon Place, Bay Area Playwrights, and now Cuttingball. Ariel joins us from Cutting Ball to talk about this Risky Season. 4. We close with a phone interview with Albert "Shaka Cinque" Woodfox, upon his release from Angola State Prison Feb. 19, 2016.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Mar 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Guests speak about the Million Man March: Justice or Else and a 20 year MMM Retrospective through films and conversation, this Friday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. at The ALTENHIEM COMMUNITY ROOM, 1720 MacArthur Blvd 94602, Oakland, CA 2. Ruth Price, drummer, joins us to talk about Witches Brew, her band which has a performance this weekend, Feb. 27, 8-10 p.m. at Musically Minded http://musicallyminded.org/event/ruthie-prices-witches-brew/ 3. Nicolas Beard joins us to talk about the musical, Bridges at Berkeley Playhouse through Mar. 6, and his new CD, "Invitation." CD release party is March 26 at the Sound Room in Oakland. 4. Adimu Madyun, host, Orisha Urban World Conference March 11-12 in Oakland, CA is joined by elders circle panelists: Baba Kola Abímbolá and Baba Obafemi. Visit http://www.orisaurbanworldfestival.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Mar 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Mon, 29 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 26 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Invisible Black Men: African American Artists on Art, guest artists, Charles Curtis Blackwell and James Knox, join us to talk about this exhibit, curated by Damon Powell, at Warehous 416 at 416 26th Street, Oakland programing this closing weekend, Feb. 26-28 with panel discussions on a variety of topics beginning at 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. 2. Leroy Franklin Moore, Krip-Hop poet, disabilities actvist, educator, and journalist, joins us to talk about his new collection, Black Kripple Delivers Poetry & Lyrics and his tour this weekend with stops in San Francisco and Oakland. 3. Sister Sheba Makeda Haven, revolutionary activist, poet, member of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense, jeweler and textile artist, joins us to talk about the 50th Anniversary of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense. 4. Kiara Harris joins us to talk about Sistah’s Aging with Grace & Elegance (SAGE), in partnership with the California Black Women’s Health Project, seminar March 5 honoring sisterhood & self-care as well as elders in our community while changing the narrative about aging for Black Women. Visit https://www.facebook.com/Sistahs-Aging-with-Grace-Elegance-SAGE

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

1. Guests speak about the Million Man March: Justice or Else and a 20 year MMM Retrospective through films and conversation, this Friday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. at The ALTENHIEM COMMUNITY ROOM, 1720 MacArthur Blvd 94602, Oakland, CA 2. Ruth Price, drummer, joins us to talk about Witches Brew, her band which has a performance this weekend, Feb. 27, 8-10 p.m. at Musically Minded http://musicallyminded.org/event/ruthie-prices-witches-brew/ 3. Nicolas Beard joins us to talk about the musical, Bridges at Berkeley Playhouse through Mar. 6, and his new CD, "Invitation." CD release party is March 26 at the Sound Room in Oakland. 4. Adimu Madyun, host, Orisha Urban World Conference March 11-12 in Oakland, CA is joined by elders circle panelists: Baba Kola Abímbolá and Baba Obafemi. Visit http://www.orisaurbanworldfestival.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Feb 2016 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. From the archives August 29, 2014 show: Middle Passage walk, Theodore Rush, Fetch Cly, William Rhodes 2. Playwright Tanya Barfield joins us to talk about The Call (Feb. 20-Mar.12) at Theatre Rhinoceros in SF. http://www.therhino.org/buy.htm or 1- (800) 838-3006. 3. We close with a conversation with Emerging choreographer Wanjiru Kamuyu whose work is a part of Black Choreographer's Festival this weekend, Feb. 20 at Dance Mission. Her career began with its genesis in New York City. As a performer Kamuyu has worked with Jawole Willa Jo Zollar of Urban Bush Woman, Bill T. Jones (Broadway show FELA!), Molissa Fenley, Julie Taymor (Broadway show The Lion King (Paris, France)), Nathan Trice, Tania Isaac, Dean Moss, amongst others. Visit http://www.bcfhereandnow.com/ In 2007 Kamuyu located to Paris, France collaborating with directors Jérôme Savary (musical theater) and Hassan Kassi Kouyate (theater). In 2009, Kamuyu founded her dance company WKcollective. She continues to work between Europe and the US.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Feb 2016 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 17:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Tammy Hall, composer, musician, joins us to talk about Mahalia Jackson: Just As I AM at the Cinnabar Theater, Thursday, Jan. 21-Sunday, Jan. 24. Visit http://www.cinnabartheater.org/mahaliajackson/ 2. Dee Hibbert-Jones, co-director, joins us to talk about her Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short, Last Day of Freedom. The story is that of two brothers, Bill and Manny Babbitt. When Bill realizes his brother Manny has committed a crime, he agonizes over his decision - should he call the police? LAST DAY OF FREEDOM (32 min.) tells the story of Bill’s decision. This film is a portrait of a man at the nexus of the most pressing social issues of our day–veterans’ care, mental health access and criminal justice. 3. Woody Carter, Ph.D., author, theologian, associate professor and theater arts instructor joins us to talk about Narada's Children: A Visionary Tale of Two Cities (2015). He is having a book signing at Marcus Books, 3900 MLK Jr. Way, in Oakland, Sat., Jan. 23, 5-7 p.m. Music: Tammy Hall live performs "There is Power in the Blood" from Mahalia Jackson: Just As I Am; Staple Singers' "Precious Lord"; Kim Nalley's "Trouble the World."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 14:30:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Tammy Hall, composer, musician, joins us to talk about Mahalia Jackson: Just As I AM at the Cinnabar Theater, Thursday, Jan. 21-Sunday, Jan. 24. Visit http://www.cinnabartheater.org/mahaliajackson/ 2. Dee Hibbert-Jones, co-director, joins us to talk about her Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short, Last Day of Freedom. The story is that of two brothers, Bill and Manny Babbitt. When Bill realizes his brother Manny has committed a crime, he agonizes over his decision - should he call the police? LAST DAY OF FREEDOM (32 min.) tells the story of Bill’s decision. This film is a portrait of a man at the nexus of the most pressing social issues of our day–veterans’ care, mental health access and criminal justice. 3. Woody Carter, Ph.D., author, theologian, associate professor and theater arts instructor joins us to talk about Narada's Children: A Visionary Tale of Two Cities (2015). He is having a book signing at Marcus Books, 3900 MLK Jr. Way, in Oakland, Sat., Jan. 23, 5-7 p.m. Music: Tammy Hall live performs "There is Power in the Blood" from Mahalia Jackson: Just As I Am; Staple Singers's "Precious Lord"; Kim Nalley's "Trouble the World."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 15 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Cat Brooks, Anti Police-Terror Project (APTP) speaks about the 96 hours of direct action across the Bay Area this weekend: https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/96hours and https://www.facebook.com/Anti-Police-Terror-Project-513658562107268/ 2. Canaan Kennedy (18), author, Struggles to Victory over Racism in America (2015). 3. Amikaeyla Gaston, director, Living Jazz Children's Project for "In the Name of Love, the 14th Annual Musical Tribute Honoring Dr. MLK, Jr.," Sun., Jan. 17, 7 p.m. Visit mlktribute.com or call (510) 858-5313. 4. Co-Artistic Director William Hodgson and actors Rolanda Dene & William Hartfield speak about Ubuntu Project's season opening work: Marcus Gardley's Gospel of Loving Kindness, Jan. 13-31 at Oakland City Church, 2735 MacAthur Blvd., Oakland, (510) 646-1126 & ubuntutheaterproject.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We open with a conversation with Ramona Africa, MOVE Minister of Communication, Political Prisoner (7 yrs.), and the only adult survivor (11 killed, 5 children) of the bombing of the house on 62nd and Osage Avenue in West Philadelphia 30 years ago, May 13, 1985. We are speaking about the earlier incarceration of nine MOVE members who have served their sentences. Why are they still behind bars? See http://www.freemumia.com/2011/08/help-free-the-move-9/ and https://www.facebook.com/Free-the-MOVE-9-435412386474163/ and http://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2015/05/13/406243272/im-from-philly-30-years-later-im-still-trying-to-make-sense-of-the-move-bombing 2. We are joined by Sister Yaya & Brother Kwalin, to talk about Warrior Queen, Dr. Frances Cress Welsing who made her transition Monday, Jan. 4. She was 80. 3. Sharon Scott as "Mahalia Jackson:Just As I Am." http://www.cinnabartheater.org/mahaliajackson/ 4. We close with Nina Causey, singer, songwriter, actress re: National Human Trafficking Month @ Black Rep 1/10 @ 3 p.m. & 1/11 @ 7 p.m. (510) 652-2120 www.ninacausey.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 Jan 2016 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We are joined by Regina Y. Evans and Zorina London to talk about National Human Trafficking Awrareness Month and a special evening of theatre, Jan. 10-11, 2 p.m. at Berkeley Black Repretory Group Theatre. Monday, Jan. 11, is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Visit http://www.nctsn.org/resources/public-awareness/human-trafficking Ms. Evans's play, "52 Letters" is a one-woman poetic stage play, written, performed and directed by this Oakland native. Through the use of poetry and Negro Spirituals, "52 Letters" brings awareness to the tragedy of sex trafficking and its effects upon American youth and women. "52 Letters" was honored to win a 2013 Best Of The San Francisco Fringe Festival Award. Ms. London's play is One Night of Day, an evening at the club with Billie Holiday when her friends Lena Horne and Bessie Smith drop by. Ms. Holiday has a lot on her mind that evening, but the music has a way of helping her transcend her troubles, literally leave them behind as her soul soars. The Black Rep is located at 3201 Adeline St, Berkeley. For information and tickets call: (510) 652-2120. Awareness Events: http://www.baatc.org/ Music: Novalima, Robert Glasper, Jahahara Alkebulan.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. We open with an interview with cast from Multi-Ethnic's production of Jitney (August 2014). 2. Directed by Ayodele Nzinga, Ph.D., we are joined by the cast for Radio Golf: Venus Morris (Mame Wilks); Koran Streets (Roosevelt Hicks); Pierre Scott (Sterling Johnson); Adimu Madyun (Elder Joseph Barlow); the final play in the ten-play, Centennial Cycle. Radio Golf is up at the Flight Deck, 1540 Broadway, in Oakland, Shows at 8:00pm Fridays and Saturdays with matinees at 2:00pm Saturday, Jan. 2 and Sunday, Jan. 3. Tickets are on sale on the web at www.lowerbottomplayaz.com The Flight Deck is easy to reach by Bart and Bus and is completely accessible. On street parking is available and the area has a number of lots within walking distance of the theater. Box Office: 510-332-1319 or email wordslanger@gmail.com. Music: Joe Driscoll & Sekjou Kouyate ZION

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The Village Project's Kwanzaa

Wed, 23 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Taiwo Kujichagulia-Seitu, speaks about her 4th Annual "Go Tell It: A Harriett Tubman Christmas Story." Visit http://www.gotellit.info/ 2. Pope Flyne, Ghanaian Music, Educator speaks to us about his One-Man Orchestra featuring classic Hi-Life, Reggae at Miliki Restaurant, 3725 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. 3. Yvonne Cobbs, Musical Director, LHT's Soulful Christmas: A Gospel Holiday Concert, continues Dec. 18 through Dec. 24. Visit lhtsf.org, call (415) 474-8800 or email: BoxOffice@LHTSF.org 4. Marvin X, Poet, Playwright, Scholar, Activist, BAM West Founder, joins us to speak about the Black Arts Movement Cultural District in Oakland. Save the dates: January 4, 12, 2016 at Oakland City Council. For information: jmarvinx@yahoo.com http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/black-arts-movement-cultural?source=s.icn.em.mt&r_by=14691340 Music: Selection from LHT's Soulful Christmas, "Emmanuel" & "The Africans Are Coming" from Pope Flyne's Sankofa Groove

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

1. Adrian Williams, Executive Dir., The Village Project, which will present its 10th annual Kwanzaa celebration throughout San Francisco, with seven days of community events starting on Dec. 26th, running through January 1st. The seven day celebration will open at the Museum of the African Diaspora at noon on Friday, December 26th, and continue with an evening celebration at the African American Arts and Culture complex at 7 p.m. The closing celebration will take place at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church on Friday, Jan.1st, 6 pm, with Tia Carroll crooning some down home blues. 415-424-2980, www.thevillageprojectsf.org, www.kwanzaasanfrancisco.com 2. Kheven LaGrone & Artists, Tomye Neal-Madison, William Rhodes, Michael Ross, join us to talk about the exhibit: "I Am San Francisco: (Re)Collecting the Home of Native Black San Franciscans" at the San Francisco Main Library, African American Center, Dec. 12, 2-4 Artist Talks. http://sfpl.org/index.php?pg=1022007301 3. Dr. Ayodele Nzinga and cast join us to talk about the Lower Bottom Playaz production of Radio Golf at The Flight Deck, 1450 Broadway in Oakland, Dec. 18-Jan. 3, lowerbottomplayaz.com 4. Peabo Bryson speaks about the 20th Annual Colors of Christmas, Dec. 14-15 at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco. Visit sfsymphony.org, 415-864-6000.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Encore Broadcast (12/2/2015)

Fri, 04 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. 1. This morning we speak to Mama Pam Williams, Council of Elders, about Wo'se Community Spiritual Center located at 8924 Holly Street, Oakland, CA, (510) which is having its 35th Anniversary celebration this weekend. Visit http://wosecommunity.org/ 2. Our next guest is Dr. Sekham Heka Maat Ra of KRST Unity Center in Los Angeles. He is going to be speaking with Professor Manu Ampim, Sat., Dec. 5, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the topic: "Maat: Ancient Wisdom and Contemporary Strategy. The talk is at the Golden Gate Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 5606 San Pablo Ave., in Oakland. 3. Amy Mueller, Bay Area Playwrights Foundations and playwrights: Arisa White, Michale Gene Sullivan, and Nana Mwaluko; The FlashPlays Festival will be held over two days on Sunday, December 6 and Monday, December 7, 8 pm at Brava Theater Center, 2781- 24th Street in San Francisco. The Festival features new short plays varying in length from 30 seconds to 2 minutes in order to tell riveting new stories in a quick flash.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 02 Dec 2015 16:00:00 +0000

1. This morning we speak to Mama Pam Williams, Council of Elders, about Wo'se Community of the Sacred African Way Spiritual Center located at 8924 Holly Street, Oakland, CA, (510) which is having its 35th Anniversary celebration this weekend. 2. Our next guest is Dr. Sekham Heka Maat Ra of KRST Unity Center in Los Angeles. He is going to be speaking with Professor Manu Ampim, Sat., Dec. 5, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the topic: "Maat: Ancient Wisdom and Contemporary Strategy. The talk is at the Golden Gate Branch of the Oakland Public Library, 5606 San Pablo Ave., in Oakland. Professor Sekhem is a disciple of Stokely Carmichael aka Kwame Toure and has been working over the last 35 years as a teacher of history, organizer and labor lawyer, championing the rights and dignity of the working class. Professor Sekhem is presently Executive Director of the Black Employees Association, a labor Union, and instructor of African Spiritual Science at KRST Unity Center. He is also the Director of the Sunday and Friday classes at KRST. He is a KMT focused researcher and Black Nationalist who posits that Nation Building, centered around the teaching and practice of MAAT, is the solution to the ills and malaise that besets the current conditions of African descendants in 21st century America. Visit http://www.krstunitycenter.org 3. Amy Mueller, Bay Area Playwrights Foundation and playwrights: Arisa White, Michael Gene Sullivan, and Nick Nanna Hadikwa Mwaluko; The FlashPlays Festival will be held over two days on Sunday, December 6 and Monday, December 7, 8 pm at Brava Theater Center, 2781- 24th Street in San Francisco. The Festival features new short plays varying in length from 30 seconds to 2 minutes in order to tell riveting new stories in a quick flash.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 27 Nov 2015 16:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

1.Interdisciplinary artist Lindsay C. Harris was born in Southern California in 1986 and raised in Santa Fe, NM. Receiving her B.A. in Africana Studies & Art from Vassar College and M.A. in Arts Politics from NYU, she is an arts educator, writer, critical thinker, cultural worker, comedian, designer, and performer. Her Evoking the Mulatto is a multiplatform narrative and visual art project examining black mixed identity in the 21st century, culminates Thursday, Nov. 19, at 6:30 pm in a screening of all four episodes of Evoking the Mulatto followed by a panel discussion featuring Harris, a project interviewee, and New School Director of Office of Civic Engagement and Social Justice Judy Pryor-Ramirez at the YouTube Space NY. The panel will be moderated by cultural programmer and arts administrator Maura Cuffie. The event will be live streamed on NBPC’s YouTube Channel, www.youtube.com/user/NBPC 2. Malik Seneferu, internationally renowned artist, joins us to talk about "Home Coming," his current exhibition at the AAACC in San Francisco, opening Nov. 20. Home Coming showcases several of Seneferu's explorations into art making. Mostly known for his paintings this exhibition concentrates on Seneferu's ballpoint pen drawings and miniature hand carved sculptures made from ivory soap and wood. 3. Isaura Oliveira, respected and celebrated Brazilian choreographer and educator, brings Bahia to the Bay Area this month culminating with free programs this week.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forbearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. American Black Beauty Doll Artisticians join us to talk about their show and sale, Nov. 14, 2015. 2. Julia Tsitsi Chigamba & Chinyakare with DeLisa (company member) speak about the ceremonies of the Shona people in Zimbabwe. The company is at Ashkenaz Music & Dance Center tonight, 11/13, 9 pm. Her dances reflect the traditional music and dance from Shona, Ndebele and other tribal groups from Southern Africa. http://www.chinyakare.com/ 3. Shakiri, dancer & choreographer, joins us to talk about a recent performance at NAKA re: Artists in Response to State Violence and Gentrification. The work is called Crazy Black Woman: Trail of Ghosts in Tow 4. Michael Smith, founder, American Indian Film Institute (aifisf.com), in its 40th year, Nov. 6-13 at AMC Metreon. The Motion Picture Awards Show & Gala is Nov. 14 @ Hotel Nikko in SF.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 16:30:00 +0000

1. Byb Chanel Bibene, director, Kiadanda Dance Theater, joins us to talk about his latest work, "Oyo Biso-Spirits of the Garden at EastSide Arts Theatre, Nov. 7-8, 8 p.m. Oyo is a part of Nava Dance Theatre, the theme: Artists in Reponse to State Violence and Gentrification. Bibene is a choreographer and performer working in theater and contemporary dance. His work often includes a sense of actual place and/or performed on location. An excerpted Oyo premiered, Sept. 2015, as a part of SF Trolley Dances. Bibene says the Nava version has the same vocabulary, with different music, added poetry and another dancer. It is going to be interesting to see how the work is adapted and expanded to fit an enclosed space. How does one's garden grow philosophically when the plain is disappeared or evaporating or just too small to hold the concept? In San Francisco, the setting was a large community garden smack in the middle of Bayview Hunter's Point, (Third & Palou), the corner a busy thoroughfare. Yet, when we stepped into the sanctuary all was suspended. Bibene's technical and aesthetic sensibility, rooted in the culture and dances of his country of origin, Democratic Republic of the Congo, are evident. Africa travels with him aesthetically as iconic references of the transport and dislocations -- both physicially and spiritually, show up in the soil of his movement, memories carried within the bodies of his company dancers, who, specifically in "Oyo" move and are moved in surprising ways. The inclusion of silences within the landscape also allow spirit to hover just within reach. It was pretty amazing, as will be its re-visioning this weekend. Visit http://www.kiandanda-dance.com/about/byb-chanel-bibene 2. From the Archives: Artist, Bryan Keith Thomas Visit http://museumca.org/exhibit/rituals-remembrance

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Jeff Liberman, dir. The Amazing Nina Simone opens in Bay Area theatres this weekend. Visit theamazingnina.com We open with a tribute song by Sam Waymon, Ms. Simone's younger brother, friend and band member. 2. Billy X Jennings, Black Panther Party Archivist speaks about a new exhibition at the Oakland Public Library. He is speaking 10/24, 2 p.m. at the Bradley C. Walters Community Room, 125 14th Street, Oakland. Visit itsabouttimebpp.com 3. Charles Blackwell, poet, painter, joins Dr. Eugene Redmond to speak about Eugene B. Redmond Collection and Learning Center, SIUE, which just opened Oct. 19, 2015. See http://www.siue.edu/news/index.shtml He is Poet Laureate of East Saint Louis [Illinois], Emeritus Professor of English, Founding Editor of Drumvoices Revue, former Chairman of Creative Writing Committee at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville). Before he began his 15-year stint at CSUS, however, he spent two years (1967-69) as Teacher-Counselor and Poet-in-Residence at Southern Illinois University's Experiment in Higher Education in East Saint Louis. At EHE, he taught with Henry Dumas, Joyce Ladner, Oliver Jackson, and Katherine Dunham, serving as a Senior Consultant to the latter at her Performing Arts Training Center. . . .

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Dr. Gail Myers, The Freedom Farmers Market; Farms to Grow speaks about the 6th Annual Black Urban Farmers Conference at Laney College, 900 Fallon in Oakland, CA today through Sunday. 2. Friends of the Negro Spirituals 12th Annual Heritage Keepers Awards Ceremony, Oct. 17, 1:30-3:30 p.m., at the SF Main Library, Koret Auditorium. We are joined by: Ms. Lyvonne Crisman, co-founder of the FNS, and awardees: Ivy Duncan representing Eugene F. Jones (1924-2003), A multi-talented bass, founder and director of The Echoes From JordanCommunity Choir, founder and first director of the now fifty year old Berkeley Community Chorus andOrchestra, and Oakland's first African-American career fireman; and The Echoes From Jordan CommunityChoir (inactive); Bob Duhurst representing Light Devoy Edwin Harris (1933-2014), an alchemist, a co-founder of The University of Light, the founder and director of the University of Light Jubilee Singers

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Pam Africa, International Friends and Families of Mumia Abu Jamal; Ramona Africa, MOVE Organization re: Bay Area Tour in San Jose at Evergreen Valley College, Montgomery Hall (Friday, 10/16, 12-4), Freedom Archives Hall, 518 Valencia St., SF (10/16, 7 PM); Niebyl Proctor Library, Oakland (Sat., 10/17, 7 PM); Sun., 10/18, 2-5 pm, 2251 Florin Rd, Sacramento, CA 95822 - Suite 126 2. From the archives: Long Distance Revolutionary, dir. Stephen Vittoria (2013) 2. Tiearea Robinson, Lecturer at a lecturer, Dept. of Africana Studies, Cal State University, Dominguez Hills, Friends of the Negro Spirituals Heritage Keeper 2015. 4. Jeff L. Lieberman, Re-Emerging Films, director, The Amazing Nina Simone which opens in New York with an art exhibit, Oct. 15-18. www.amazingnina.com Song: To Be Young Gifted and Black from Youtube

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Keith Wallace is a third year M.F.A. actor at UC San Diego. He joins us to talk about The Bitter Game, a new work debuting this weekend at LaJolla Playhouse in San Diego. The director was recently seen in the East Bay directing Ubuntu Theatre's Brothers Size. Mr. Wallace holds a B.A. in Drama from Morehouse College and is an alumnus of The British American Drama Academy. Maurice Poplar, Los Angeles based writer & filmmaker, speaks about his essay, Frankenstein Was a Black Dude. He is also directing the film: Donovan Quixote which traces the story of a young man through adulthood as he deals with the realities of the difficulties of growing up as a black man in America. Azadeh Zohrabi is the National Campaigner at the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights where she works with communities and policy makers on ending mass criminalization and incarceration. Azadeh previously worked as a Soros Justice Fellow at Legal Services for Prisoners with Children where she served on the litigation team representing Pelican Bay prisoners in the federal lawsuit which resulted in a landmark agreement to end indefinite solitary confinement in California. Zoe Willmott, Project WHAT! Program Manager is also an alumnus. A native of San Francisco, Ms. Willmott came to Community Works after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies and Race and Gender History of the United States from Barnard College of Columbia University. Tailani Crawford, Project WHAT! Youth Advocate is 16 years old and is a Junior at Castro Valley High School. The Oakland native has been a youth advocate at the agency for 3 years now, where she has trained to over 100 service providers on how to better support and empathize with youth with incarcerated parents. Tailani is a college-bound junior with plans to one day return to work as full-time staff at Project WHAT!, and is also interested in pursuing physical therapy for sports.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Medicine

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1. Marlene "Mo" Morris, director, A New Color, the Art of Edythe Boone with the star of the film, Ms. Edy. The film screens at the Mill Valley Film Festival October 10 and 16. Visit a newcolordocumentary.com 2. Dr. William Conwill Many African American teens find themselves wondering what they should or should not be doing and how they should behave toward each other. As they struggle to build their characters, they receive a wide range of feedback from multiple sources, bringing about confusion. Spirit Training offers a guide through that confusion by providing a personal training aid for Black teens in the arena of ethics. Spirit Training holds that our spirits, which protect and sustain us, should direct and unify our thoughts, efforts, and actions. Author William L. Conwill seeks to help Black teens who want to prepare for adulthood in the family, the community, and the world by developing their characters. Based on traditional African values, the principles presented in this guide serve as directives or instructions on living, as well as means of defense against destructive influences. These principles are represented throughout the text by Adinkra symbols, along with a self-defense interpretation for each principle and a reading to help provide insight. Drawing on brain science, transpersonal psychology, and mainstream psychiatry, as well as ancient traditions, Spirit Training invites Black teens to conduct a personal and conscious examination of the principles that have allowed us to survive, create, and nurture life.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guest:G. Kwame Scruggs, founder and executive director of Alchemy, Inc., has over 20 years experience working with urban male youth. He holds a Ph.D. and MA in Mythological Studies with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute, in Santa Barbara, California. His published works include “There’s a Secret in the Village: Using Myth to Engage Urban Adolescent Males.” Kwame also holds a MS degree in Technical Education with an emphasis in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Akron, where he also completed all coursework for a master’s degree in Community Counseling. He has conducted numerous workshops on the use of myth to engage urban youth, and has been a featured speaker at the C. G. Jung Foundation for Analytical Psychology of New York City. He is a Certified Facilitator of the Akan System of Life Cycle Development (African-based rites of passage), and completed his first level of post-certification in Ghana, West Africa.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1. Thomas Simpson, founder, director, AfroSolo Arts Festival 21, to talk about My Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper/SF and San Francisco’s Unified School District’s BLACK FAMILY: Cradle to College and Career Day Resource Fair (Saturday, 9/19/15) at Mission High School 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 3750 18th Street in San Francisco. 2. Deborah Vaughn, co-founder, director, Dimensions Dance Theatre and Micia Mosely, comedian, join usto talk aboutThe Town on Notice, Oct. 17, at the Malonga Casquelourd Theatre in Oakland. Combining dance, live music, spoken word and stand-up comedy, The Town takes on the subject of Oakland's gentrification as an invitation for meaningful dialogue. For tickets visit brownpapertickets.com or call 800-838-3006. 3. Aviva Kempner's films investigate non-stereotypical images of Jews in history and celebrate the untold stories of Jewish heroes. Here current film, ROSENWALD is the incredible story of Julius Rosenwald, who never finished high school but rose to become co-owner of Sears, Roebuck & Co. Influenced by the writings of the educator Booker T. Washington, he joined forces with African American communities to build over 5,300 schools across the segregated South during the early part of the 20th century, providing 660,000 black children with access to education. Landmark Theatres Engagement begins Friday, Sept. 11, 2015 at Opera Plaza Cinemas, 601 Van Ness, San Francisco, Shattuck Cinemas, 2230 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 12:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 09 Sep 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: Wanda Ravenell, founder, Omnira Institute, formerly known as NouvO’risha Institute, began in 2003 as a school for sacred knowledge for children of practitioners of spiritual traditions derived from West Africa by way of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Haiti. The organization’s choir, Awon Ohun Omnira (Voices of Freedom) participates in annual Juneteenth and Black History Month celebrations. Omnira Institute is located in Oakland, California and was founded by Wanda Ravernell who is a journalist and independent performing arts professional. The institute’s annual cycle of programming, called ‘Roots of Faith, Roots of Freedom’ began in 2009. It is a series of observances that honor the history of slavery and emancipation, that promote healing for Oakland’s African American community.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: 10th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina Special Part 2

Wed, 26 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Hurricane Katrina Special Part 1

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Odinwa Performance Ensemble

Fri, 21 Aug 2015 14:30:00 +0000

Two members of Odinwa Performance Ensemble, Sister Marysa Kenyatta and Sister Bisola Marignay, Ph.D., join us to talk about their concert this afternoon in Oakland, CA, at Coffee with a Beat on Perkins Street across from Lake Merritt Park. The Performance Ritual is from 3-5 p.m. It is free, but donations are appreciated. The segment is rebroadcast from August 18, 2015. Bisola Marignay, Ph.D., Singer/Performer, Activist/Writer, Facilitator/Educator, draws from her experience in transformative studies, anthropology, linguistics, social activism, performance studies, and spiritual practice to organize thematic formats for Odinma’s music performances, and to write the stories, spoken word, poems, and songs that center in the group’s performance rituals. Marysa Kenyatta, Julliard trained jazz pianist, has played a clubs all over the San Francisco Bay Area, including the Keystone Korner and other in San Francisco, Mr. Majors, Dillards, La Pena Cultural Center, 57th Street Gallery and many others in Oakland. She is one of the founders of the Women in Jazz jam sessions at Dillards and hs participated in many women's jazz ensembles during the past 20 years. She still continues to perform in various venues all over the Bay Area. Currently, she is with Father Amde Hamilton, a band of the Watts Prophets. Their recording, "Technical Difficulties," has just been released. She is the pianist for Odinwa Performance Ensemble, playing all styles of Afrikan classical music.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Marcus Garvey Special

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 04:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show August 7, 2014 Rebroadcast

Fri, 14 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast August 5, 2015

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Aug 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Christina Nichol, author of NCBA 2014 for novel, Waiting for Electricity, grew up in Northern California and received her MFA from the University of Florida. She has traveled widely, worked for nonprofit film companies,and taught English in India, South Korea, Kyrgyzstan,Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Russia, and the republic of Georgia, where her debut novel, Waiting for the Electricity, was set. Christina won a 2012 Rona Jaffe Writer’s Award and a gold medal in the 2015 California Book Awards for First Fiction. She has been published in Lucky Peach, Guernica, The Paris Review, Harper’s, Subtropics, Lonely Planet, and The Wall Street Journal. 2. Lucia MacBeth, Jordan Davis's mother, 3 1/2 Minutes, 10 Bullets, opens today. 3. Marvin K. White & Edris Cooper-Anifowoshe join us to talk about So Soul San Francisco: Blackbirds Boogie & other gumbo grooves, A Black Art Salon featuring the work of Wayne Corbitt, July 17-August 9, 2015 at Brava Theatre Center in San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 22 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 17 Jul 2015 12:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Who Is Albert Woodfox Rebroadcast

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Who is Albert Woodfox Part 2

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Who is Albert Woodfox

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast July 1

Fri, 03 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Freedomland

Wed, 01 Jul 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Dr. Mark "Ogunwale" Lomax speaks about the recent attack on the Black Church Community. The founding pastor of the First African Presbyterian Church of Lithonia, Georgia, he has served there since 1993. The Rev. Dr. Lomax is also Assistant Professor of Homiletics at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) since 1998. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio; a Master of Divinity degree from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio; and a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Lomax has served on various Presbytery and General Assembly committees and task forces, and as Interim President-Dean of the Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary. He is a published author who preaches and lectures and has ecumenical and interfaith appeal and experience. 2. Joanne Griffith, Awardwinning Journalist, author, Redefining Black Power:Reflections on the State of Black America http://www.citylights.com/book/?GCOI=87286100003110&fa=description 3. Michael Gene Sullivan,playwright, talks about the Tony Award-Winning San Francisco Mime Troupe's 56th Annual Production, "Freedomland" June 24-Sept. 7.http://www.sfmt.org

Wanda's Picks Radio: Mumia Abu Jamal: Writings on the Wall, Selected Writings

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1. Muadi Mukenge, Program Director For Sub-Saharan Africa, Global Fund For Women; Member of Board, Priority Africa Network, joins us to talk about the Congolese Independence Day Program, Sat., June 27, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 397 Euclid Ave, Oakland. Her talk is entitled: “Women’s Participation in the Peace Process in the Great Lakes Region: Insights From A May 2015 Visit To The Congo.” The fundraising event is sponsored by Congolese United Association (831) 324-3337. 2. Theodore Lush joins us to speak about the Montgomery, AL, Maafa Commemoration, Sat., July 12, 2015, 10 am. For information visit RememberTheAncestors.com 3. Dr. Johanna Fernández is assistant professor of history at Baruch College of the City University of New York and a former Fulbright Scholar. She is editor of Writing on the Wall, Selected Prison Writings of Mumia Abu Jamal (City Lights, 2015) and of the forthcoming book When the World Was Their Stage: A History of the Young Lords Party, 1968-1974 (Princeton University Press). She is the writer and producer of the feature length film, Justice on Trial: The Case of Mumia Abu-Jamal. 4. 38th Annual Bay Area Playwrights Festival, July 17-26: Amy Mueller, Artistic director, and featured playwrights: Tearrance Chisholm, Hooded or Being Black for Dummies; Kara Lee Corthron’s Welcome To Fear City. Visit PlaywrightsFoundation.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Remembering the Ancestors II

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 10:00:00 +0000

Description This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests Brother Osoi Tayari Casel, founder of Afrikan Martial Arts Academy. He is also guest speaker June 20, 9:30 am -12:30 pm at the ADACI Washington DC, River Ceremony, http://adaci.net/ and http://urbandragonsfilm.com/tayaricase/ Brother Osei Terry Chandler, co-founder, Ancestor Remembrance, Charleston, SC. Commemoration, Sat. June 13. Recently Retired as - Project Director, Trident Technical College’s Educational Opportunity Center. See: https://www.facebook.com/CHSRemembrance?fref=ts Brother Dinizulu Gene Tinnie, Key West, FL Dos Amigos/Fair Rosamond Slave Ship Replica Project. Commemoration, Sunday, June 21. One of South Florida’s most meaningful traditions continues on Sunday morning, June 21, from 5:30-8:00 a.m., when the 24th Annual Sunrise Ancestral Remembrance of the Middle Passage ceremony will be held at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, 4020 Virginia Beach Drive, off Rickenbacker Causeway (toll road), in Miami (33149).

Wanda's Picks Radio Rebroadcast: Mount Misery Extended at Cuttingball in SF

Thu, 18 Jun 2015 01:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:For the Ancestors

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1. Coalition to Commemorate African Ancestors of the Middle Passage (ICCAAMP). RememberTheAncestors.com Osei Terry Chandler, Charleston, NC; Chadra Pittman Walke, The Sankofa Project, Hampton, Virginia; Luther Gray, NOLA, La., Ashe Cultural Center; ADACI Washington, DC & ADACI Detroit, Eurika Huggins & Kefentse Kwesi Chike; Wanda Sabir, Maafa San Francisco Bay Area. 2. Stephanie Ann Johnson,Ph.D., "EVERY TWENTY-ONE DAYS: CANCER, YOGA, AND ME," at The Berkeley Marsh, 2120 Allston Way,, June 22, 7 p.m., to benefit The Women’s Cancer Resource Center. Tickets are $30.00 and can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets. Visit: lightessencedesign.com 3. Black Literature and Literacy Subject of June 19 Symposium at the Library of Congress, Program Marks 150th Anniversary of Juneteenth Holiday guest, Bahiyyah Muhammad, JD, assistant professor of criminology at Howard University, speaks about her “Project Iron Kids,” which educates and empowers children of incarcerated parents. The free program is 8:30 a.m.to 4:30 p.m. in the Reading Room of the African and Middle Eastern Division (LJ 220) of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building, located at 10 First Street S.E., Washington, D.C. 4. Rocky Dawuni, Branches of the Same Tree, uses art for social change. To this end, he is in Berkeley, June 17 to support Celebrate African Entrepreneurship with Whole Foods Market’s African Summer Celebration. The panel is at International Center UC Berkeley, 2299 Piedmont Avenue, at 5:30-7 p.m.; the party is at Whole Foods on Gilman. Visit www.facebook.com/events/1634195590128907/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Berkeley World Music Festival

Wed, 10 Jun 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Gianna Ranuzzi, Director, Berkeley World Music Festival, www.berkeleyworldmusic.org with BWMF featured artist, Nigerian guitar master and singer Adesoji “Soji” Odukogbe attracted acclaim originally as the lead guitarist for the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s groundbreaking Afrobeat band. Odukogbe draws on an extensive background in Nigerian Afrobeat, highlife, and spiritual music, bringing a unique sensibility to his highlife guitar interpretations.He is a founding member of The Afrobeat ConneXion and The Nigerian Brothers, as well as being a side man for various acts, such as “The West African Highlife Band and Kotoja. He has recorded and played with Femi Kuti, Babatunde Olatunji and Orlando Julius Ekemode, among others. Soji is now stepping into the spotlight to lead his own Afrobeat Band, featuring guitars, drums, smoking horn section and intricate vocal harmonies evident in his successful solo project, In the Flow. 2. The BWMF ends at Ashkenaz Friday evening, June 12, with a fabulous afterparty with Thomas Mapfumo, Lion of Zimbabwe, truly a man of the people. Mapfumo is bringing a new CD, Danger Zone and a new book about his revolutionary life by Banning Eyre, Lion Songs: Thomas Mapfumo and the Music That Made Zimbabwe. http://www.thomas-mapfumo.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: 2nd Annual Sac., CA Black Book Fair

Fri, 29 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: BEAN; SF Green Film Fest.

Wed, 27 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1.Darren Walker, BEAN founder Having been a business man from a very early age, Darren Walker became frustrated with the challenges of limited access to people and resources that could advance his business and personal endeavors. Thus, Walker created Black Economic Advancement Network (BEAN) to provide a way for African Americans to connect with business owners and capital to make it easier to identify and support each other’s businesses. At age 25, Walker—together with his friend and partner Dustin Young established GOES (Green Opportunities Energy Solutions). GOES was the first among the companies then incubating at Moore Norman Technology Center whose sales exceeded $1 million in its first year of operation at the Business Development Center where it started. Darren Walker is the youngest of six children born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He has been happily married to Lucy Walker for eight years, with whom he has two precious daughters, a toddler and an infant. 5th Annual San Francisco Green Festival, May 28-June 3 2. 8:30AM - Rachel Caplan (executive director, founder SFGF), and Jim McSilver director of OAKLAND ORIGINALS 3. 9AM - Michelle Grace Steinberg director of BEYOND RECOGNITION, and Shadia Fayne Wood for OUR POWER FULL FORCE 4. Originally from New York, Suraya Keating is Shakespeare for Social Justice Director for Marin Shakespeare Company, Clinical Supervisor for an Expressive Arts Therapy Program at Martinez Hospital and master trainer in Expressive Arts and Drama Therapy. Suraya is also an Adjunct Professor at the California Institute of Integral Studies and maintains a private practice in the Bay Area.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 May 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Liberation Day

Wed, 20 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: 1.As a youth living in Los Angeles, CA, Akubundu Amazu-Lott experienced first hand being profiled by the police. On at least a half dozen occasions he was pulled over at gun-point by the LAPD. This experience contributed to his understanding that African people in America were treated as second-class citizens. He made his way out of Los Angeles to SJSU. There he participated in sports (football) and received his B.S. in Business Administration and his Master of Urban Planning. He joined the All-African People’s Revolutionary Party (AAPRP) in 1979 and is currently on the Central Committee and the California Chapter Coordinating Council. It is through his extensive study of Pan-Africanism and the struggles of oppressed people globally that he remains motivated to work for positive change. He has been an adjunct professor at SJSU for the past seven years in the African-American Studies Department. 2. Jimi Evins, artist, curator, speaks about his show this weekend at Studio/Gallery 1508 in Oakland, 1508 8th Street, West Oakland. Charles Curtis Blackwell joins Jimi Evins. He is a jazz poet and a playwright, performance and visual artist. His paintings have been shown from coast to coast and have received multiple awards. In 2009 he was one of three featured artists at Lighthouse for the Blind’s 20th anniversary Insights exhibit in San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Ishmael Tetteh, The African Mystic

Fri, 15 May 2015 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Let the Fire Burn, 30 Anniversary of MOVE Bombing

Wed, 13 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Be Still Retreat

Fri, 08 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: 1. Dr. Frank Staggers, Jr. works as an Addiction and HIV medical doctor in Berkeley, CA. He is the Medical Director of the Berkeley Addiction Treatment Services Center. Presently he is also the President of the Alameda/Contra Costa County Medical Association, with a membership of 4000 physicians. 2. Darinxoso Oyamasela joins us to speak about the Umoja Community Choir's 10th Anniversary Scholarship Awards Dinner, May 16, 5 p.m. (dinner), 6:30 p.m. (concert) in Richmond, CA, at the Independent Holiness Church, 1605 South 16th Street. For information call: (415) 531-0821.Tickets are $10 & $25. 3. We close with a conversation with event sponsor and presenters: Sharon Green-Holder, Event Planner for Black Women’s Media Project and owner, Mom & Pop Green Non-Profit Organization, Jerri Lange, veteran journalist, author, activist, keynote speaker, and Maalak Atkins, Soul Chi workshop host. The Be Still Retreat at Mills College is May 9, 2015, 9-4 p.m. To register: http://www.hhrec.org/#!black-womens-media-project/c1ypj Music: Julia Steele Allen's "Words Are Seeds"

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 06 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Guests: 1. Echo Brown is a dynamic writer, performer, and community activist who uses story to inspire and transform, joins us to talk about her solo performance up at the Marsh SF, Black Virgins Are Not for Hipsters (through June 6). For tickets ($15-$100), the public may visit www.themarsh.org or call 415-282-3055 2. Amikaeyla joins us to speak about her music and peace work (July 26, 2014 archive). 3. Intima artist collaboarators: choreographer, Gregory Dawson and Ilyas Iliya, composer, join us to talk about the multidimensional work which looks at the epic story of King Gilgamesh. Intima is a fusion of visual art by Ali Kaaf, choreography by Gregory Dawson and dawsondancesf, and music directed by Ashraf Kateb, that investigates themes of self-discovery, conflict, loss, and resolution. Tayeb Al-Hafez of Al'Myra Communications was inspired by his roots to bring these artists together to highlight the universality inherent in Syria's current struggles for political freedom.http://zspace.org/guest-shows/intima 4. Mable Negrete joins us to speak about Conceiving Place with Mable Negrete/Counter Narrative Society in the Room for Big Ideas at YBCA,May 1 - Aug 16. Opening Reception Fri, May 8, 5-8 PMat the Front Door Gallery, 701 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, 415-978-2787 or ybca.org and http://mabelnegrete.com/blog/archives/1641

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: On a MOVE with Ramona Africa

Fri, 01 May 2015 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Ramona Africa, Minister of Communications, MOVE organization, joins us to speak about the 30th Anniversary Commemoration, May 13, of the bombing of her home where she is the only surviving adult, along with one child, Birdie Africa. See http://kasamaproject.org/history/2263-95ramona-africa-survivor-of-may-13-1985-move-massacre and http://www.davidsheen.com/sharing/interviews/ramona.htm 2. Munyiga Lumumba, director of Upward Bound at Mills College, joins us along with Val Serrant, Adjunct Professor at UC Berkeley . . . Music Department/"Caribbean Musics Course", since 2003; Faculty Member of "Vox Mundi School of Voice & Sound," join us to talk about More than a Taste Cultural Explosion, a special all day free arts program at Mills (10-3 Stern Hall, Rm. 100), 5000 MacArthur Blvd., in Oakland, CA.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Can Art Save a Community?

Wed, 29 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Rebroadcast Chicago's Wall of Respect

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: James Baldwin Feature Rebroadcast

Wed, 22 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: James Baldwin Presente!

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio: Chicago Black Arts Tour with Arlene Crawford

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

An Arlene Turner Crawford Journey with Charles Curtis Blackwell . . . The two artists join us, one in Oaktown, the other in Chitown to talk about The Wall of Respect and People’s Art Since 1967 - A Symposium April 17-18, 2015 at Chicago Art Institute (https://www.facebook.com/events/1556242241312832/). Both are panelists. Arlene Turner Crawford defines herself as a Visual Artist, Curator, Educator, Muralist and Cultural Activist. She has shown up as: Classroom teacher, University Administrator, Faculty member & Student Affairs, Unit Head; a Grants Developer & Institution builder of Cultural organizations; a Collaborator and Mentor. Her work is to integrate her creativity into service and the beautification of black community. Her mission is inspired and ignited by the intellectual thrust and purpose of the Black Arts Movement. and this commitment, as an artist, is to examine, elevate, and speak to what is beautiful, whole and authentic within my community. Her art is ritual, an attempt to express higher interpretations of life and she creates art through the manipulation of form, design, color, assemblage and collage. http://artywebsite1.wix.com/art-of-a#!portraits/ckiy She is an Executive Board member of the African American Arts Alliance, founding member of the Sutherland Community Arts Initiative and Sapphire & Crystals, a collective of African American women artists. Charles Curtis Blackwell is a jazz poet and a playwright, performance and visual artist: http://www.pbs.org/pov/differentcolorblue/blackwell.php and https://www.facebook.com/CharlesCurtisBlackwell

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Who Is Oakland?

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Prison Stories-- Mumia Abu Jamal, Frank Morgan

Wed, 08 Apr 2015 14:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forbearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Noelle Hanrahan speaks about Mumia Abu Jamal medical urgency. See http://www.prisonradio.org/news call 717-728-4109. 2. Emmitt Thrower is a disabled retired NYC Police Officer and a Stroke Survivor. He is also the Founder and President of Wabi Sabi Productions Inc., a small community based Non Profit Company (Tax Exempt 501 c3) founded in 2005 in New York City. Its mission is to use the arts to address social issues and develop our communities and youth in positive ways. Wabi Sabi has produced theatrical events, musical events, digital films and short documentaries about issues impacting upon social, political or health issues affecting under served communities and youth. Where Is Hope? is a collaboration with Poet/Activist Leroy Moore (The Black Kripple) Founder of Krip Hop Nation. Leroy Moore is a Black writer, artist, hip-hop\music lover, community activist and feminist with a physical disability. He has always been a strong voice in action and words against Police Brutality and in particular as it relates to people with disabilities. 3. NC Heikin and Edward Reed, join us to speak about Sounds of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story screening at Yerba Center for the Arts in San Francisco, April 9 and 11, 7:30 p.m. The director, Mr. Reed and Michael Connelly will be present at the 4/9 event.

Wanda's Picks: Rebroadcast March 6, 2015

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: State of Black Oakland 2015

Fri, 27 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Incarcerated Women

Wed, 25 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

1. Julia Steele Allen joins us to talk about Mariposa & the Saint: From solitary confinement, a play through letters.In 2012, Mariposa (Sara Fonseca) was sentenced to 15 months in solitary confinement. In 2015 she is still in a special confinement unit. Through letters with longtime friend Julia Steele Allen who met her through a CCWP prison visiting team, Mariposa brings her experience to the stage. The play will be performed May 7 & 10 in San Francisco & Berkeley, as a benefit for California Coalition for Women Prisoners. https://www.facebook.com/events/647744338704318/ A Benefit for the California Coalition for Women Prisoners, www.womenprisoners.org For more information contact CCWP info@womenprisoners.org, 415-255-7036 x 4 2. Paige Rogers joins us to talk about Antigone, which she directs at Cuttingball. It has performances Thursday-Sunday in San Francisco: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAZQ8EctwdQ 3. Rhodessa Jones speaks about Medea Project, Theatre for Incarcerated Women's latest work: Birthright? opens April 9-19, 2015, at Brava Theatre Center in San Francisco, in celebration of Medea Project's 25TH Anniversary. The work is a collaboration between Brava! For Women in the Arts, Cultural Odyssey and Planned Parenthood Northern California. For information and tickets please call (415) 641-7657 and/or log on to http://www.brava.org. 4. Rebroadcast of an interview Friday, March 20, 2015, with Ciera Payton and her father Michael DiazShe just premiered her solo work, Michael's Daughter at ACT-SF Costume Shop. It is the story of her relationship with her incarcerated dad, Michael (who is out now and joins us on the air).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Friday, March 6, 2015

Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Hassaun Ali Jones Bey's Dew Drops Come and Make Repairs

Wed, 04 Mar 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Bryan Keith Thomas's Pan African Heirlooms

Fri, 27 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Bryan Keith Thomas, CCA professor, painter, speaks about his exhibits (5), up in the San Francisco Bay Area. Heirlooms at Joyce Gordon Galllery in Oakland closes this weekend, March 1. 2. Ryan Nicole Austin ("Tigs"/Antigone) returns to talk about Nambi E. Kelley's Xtigone, directed by Rhodessa Jones, at African American Shakespeare Company, Sat. (8 p.m.) & Sun. (3 p.m.), through March 8 at the Buriel Clay Theater (AAACC) in San Francisco. 3. We speak to actors Carl Lumbly (Leo Price) & Cathleen Riddley (Mrs. Jessalyn Price) who are mother, son, in the SF Playhouse current production of Julie Hébert's Tree directed by Jon Tracey. 4. We close with visual artist, Marie Johnson Calloway, whose work is the topic of an artist talk early March 8, 2015, 2-3:30 PM, at the MoAD San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast from the Archives

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Be Still 2.0

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forbearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: 1. William E. Gary is current President, Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Cultural Complex, Inc. Board of Directors and former Co-Chair, Moore Heritage Festival of the Arts and Humanities. He is presently serving his third tenure as president of the North Brevard County Branch NAACP; Dinizulu Gene Tennie is co-director of the slaveship replica project. He will give the keynote at The Harry T. & Harriette V. Moore Program, 2 p.m., Sat., Feb. 21, 2015, 2180 Freedom Avenue, Mims, Florida. 2. We are joined once again by choreographers who will present week 2, Feb. 28-Mar. 1, at Black Choreographers Festival: Here & Now: Veterans Reginald Ray Savage, Raissa Simpson, Gregory Dawson and first time choreographer, Maurya Kerr. 3. The 9th Annual Be Still Retreat . . . 2.0, is Sat., February 28, 10-4 p.m. at Mills College in Oakland, CA. 510-834-5990. Our guests are: Event planner, Sharon Green-Holder; presenter, Jamila Makini, plus Mutima Imani, special guest speaker and workshop presenter. 4. Andrew I. Wilson, visual artist, whose work is currently at Joyce Gordon Gallery in Oakland through Feb. 28. http://www.aiwart.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 18 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: Thomas Allen Harris

Mon, 16 Feb 2015 15:00:00 +0000

THOMAS ALLEN HARRIS joins me to talk about the National Broadcast of his work: THROUGH A LENS DARKLY: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People. The Producer, Director Writer was raised in the Bronx and Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania. He is the founder and President Chimpanzee Productions, a company dedicated to producing unique audio-visual experiences that illuminate the Human Condition and the search for identity, family, and spirituality. Chimpanzee’s innovative and award-winning performance-based documentary films - VINTAGE – Families of Value, E Minha Cara/That’s My Face, and Twelve Disciples of Nelson Mandela - have received critical acclaim at International film festivals such as Sundance, Berlin, Toronto, FESPACO, Outfest, Flaherty and Cape Town and have been broadcast on PBS, the Sundance Channel, ARTE, as well as CBC, Swedish broadcasting Network and New Zealand Television. Mr. Harris’ video and installations – including Splash, Black Body, AFRO (is just a Hairstyle) Notes on a Journey Through The African Diaspora and ALCHEMY - have been featured at the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art Biennial, the Corcoran Gallery, Reina Sophia, London Institute of the Arts, Gwangju Biennale, and the Long Beach Museum of Art. Harris has received numerous awards and fellowships including a United States Artist Fellowship, Guggenheim Fellowship, Rockefeller Fellowship, two Emmy nominations as well as Sundance Film Institute Directors Fellowships and a Tribeca Film Institute Nelson Mandela Award. A graduate of Harvard College and the Whitney Independent Study Program, Harris has taught at a variety of institutions including University of California San Diego where he received tenure as an Associate Professor of Media Arts. A published photographer, curator, and write, Mr. Harris lectures widely on the use of media as a tool for social change.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Mighty Real: The Sylvester Story @ Brava

Wed, 11 Feb 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! 1. Aliyah Dunn-Salahuddin is an artist and educator in SF. Born in the SF Bay Area and raised in San Francisco, the CCSF history professor joins us to talk about, the Bayview Hunter's Point Riot in 1966, in a lecture at the John Adams Center Library at City College, San Francisco, 10:45-12:15, 1860 Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, (415) 561-1956 or mgarcia@ccsf.edu. It is a free event. 2. Mighty Real: A Fabulous Sylvester Musical creators, Anthony Wayne and Kendrell Bowman. Mighty Real opens at Brava Theatre in San Francisco tonight, Feb. 11. See www.brava.org & http://www.fabuloussylvester.com/about.html 3. Rhodessa Jones (director) & Ryan Nicole Austin (Xtigone "Tig") join us to talk about the World Premiere of Nambi E. Kelly's "Xtigone," @ the African American Shakespeare Company at the Buriel Clay Theatre, African-American Art & Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco. Tickets: $15-$34.00: http://www.african-americanshakes.org/productions/xtigone/ Music: Archie Shepp: "Revolution"

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Cast from Danai Gurira's The Convert

Fri, 06 Feb 2015 16:30:00 +0000

We close with an interview with Elizabeth Carter (Mai Tamba) & Katherine Renee Turner (Jekesai/Ester) in the Bay Area Premiere of Danai Gurira's The Convert at Marin Theatre Company, February 19 – March 15, 2015. Elizabeth Carter has appeared at MTC in Beggar’s Holiday, The Crucible and The Art of Dining. She was most recently seen as The Eternal Feminine in Wittenberg at the Aurora Theatre Company. Carter has performed with numerous Bay Area theaters. Her favorite roles include Rose in Fences, the Bawd in Pericles, Millie in Trouble in Mind, Effie in Dreamgirls, Mistress Ford in Merry Wives of Winsor and Agnes in Agnes of God. Carter teaches Shakespeare performance at Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts and has directed for the Cal Shakes Theater Summer Conservatory for nearly 20 years. She resides in Oakland and can be heard in the historic Peralta House audio exhibit. Katherine Renee Turner (Jekesai/Ester) has appeared at MTC in Fetch Clay, Make Man. A Washington D.C.-based actor, she has appeared in that region in Fetch Clay, Make Man at Round House Theatre; The Threepenny Opera at Signature Theatre; A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Much Ado About Nothing and The Tempest at Shakespeare Theatre Company; The Laramie Project at Ford’s Theatre; The Twelve Days of Christmas at Adventure Theatre, Rumplestiltskin at Imagination Stage and Photo-Op at UrbanArias. Turner is a graduate of Ithaca College and the National Theater Institute at Eugene O’Neill Theatre.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Ava DuVernay's The Middle of Nowhere Rebroadcast

Wed, 04 Feb 2015 15:00:00 +0000

On October 30, 2012 we spoke to Ava DuVernay, director, The Middle of Nowhere (now Selma); then Amara Tabour Smith, choreographer about a new project.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black Arts Movement, West

Fri, 30 Jan 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Guests: 1. ART & RESOLUTION: Films of Afro-Cuban Life and History, Thursdays, 2/5, 12, 19 at 6:30pm @ MoAD Cornelius Moore is Co-Director of the 46 year old Bay Area social issue film distributor/producer California Newsreel as well as a film programmer focused on work from the Black World. Mr. Moore joins us to talk about the Cuban film series her has curated for the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD), Mission @ Third in San Francisco. www.moadsf.org 2. African American Educators Professional Development Summit, Jan. 30 (reception & awards), Jan. 31 (summit) Bobbie Brooks, Board Member and Co-Founder of The African American Regional Educational Alliances www.theaarea.org & (510) 614-3000 Laura Babitt, 2015 Educational Service Award Honoree 3. Black Arts Movement West, Celebrating 50 Years @ Laney College, Sat. Feb. 7, 10 AM - 9 PM 510-200-4164 Marvin X is a playwright in the true spirit of the Black Arts Movement (BAM). His most well-known BAM play, entitled Flowers for the Trashman, deals with generational difficulties and the crisis of the Black intellectual as he deals with education in a white-controlled culture. Marvin received his MA in English/Creative writing from San Francisco State University, 1975. He has taught at San Francisco State University, Fresno State University, UC Berkeley and San Diego, Mills College, Merritt and Laney Colleges in Oakland, University of Nevada, Reno. His latest book is the Wisdom of Plato Negro, parables/fables, Black Bird Press, Berkeley. He currently teaches at his Academy of da Corner, 14th and Broadway, downtown Oakland, Lakeshore on Saturdays, & Sundays at the Berkeley Flea Market: www.blackbirdpressnews.blogspot.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 Jan 2015 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dance Mission's D.I.R.T. - Dance In Revolt(ing) Times

Fri, 23 Jan 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Guests: Lance McGee, MFT, a.k.a. Unique Derique, has been delighting audiences with his special brand of clowning for years. McGee joins us to talk about his latest show, FOOL LA LA! up at the Marsh Berkeley, Saturdays, Jan. 31, 2 p.m. through Feb. 28. Visit http://www.themarsh.org For a $5 discount use the code: LaFool Next we rebroadcast a bit of an interview with devorah major re: her latest project: Black Classic: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/black-classic-by-devorah-major Choreographers and dancers from Dance Mission's D.I.R.T. - Dance In Revolt(ing) Times, Jan. 23-Feb.1: sixteen choreographers in three distinct programs over two riveting weekends. What happens when artists revolt? brownpaptertickets.com / 1-800-838-3006 We close with a conversation with Tash Nguyen, Sin Barras (without prison bars) & CURB and Fox Sloan, mother of Amanda Fox Sloan, who died in the Santa Cruz County jail in July 2013, about a rally/march concerning the unjust incarceration of so many young people, poor people, people of color and members of gender minorities http://sinbarras.org/

Wanda's Picks Radio Special with Dr. Clarence Jones & Delfeayo Marsalis

Wed, 21 Jan 2015 18:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Film Festival @ BAMPFA

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 07 Jan 2015 20:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show #BlackLivesMatter

Fri, 02 Jan 2015 16:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! We rebroadcast our show from January 2, 2012. It is an update on US sanctions against Zimbabwe with cultural worker, entrepreneur, Ayotunde Akindele. This interview is followed with a conversation with archivist Bill Doggett whose historic art display at the Bayview Opera House January 2012-13 in honor of the 150 Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. We close with a live converation with Dr. Mark Lomax whose latest work #BlackLivesMatter will be released January 15. He joined us to talk about the genius of the work which like his esteemed Isis and Osirus is also in three movements: Amerikkka, Stop Singin and Start Swingin, Black, Beautiful and Powerful. Listen at http://marklomaxii.com/blacklivesmatter Other musicians and music: Gina Breedlove, Kim Nalley and Janis Joplin.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 24 Dec 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Breakfast with Mugabe

Fri, 19 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Today we have an opportunity to speak to playwright, Julie Hébert, and cast members: Susi Damilano and Carl Lumbly. TREE, directed by Jon Tracy, has its Regional Premiere at the San Francisco Playhouse, January 20th to March 7th, opens January 24, 2015. Winner of the Pen Award for Drama and Backstage Garland Award, Tree is the story of three generations divided by race, culture, and time. The play has contemporary resonance, posing questions about family and what it means to “be related.” “I set out to write a play about race and ended up writing a play about family,” said playwright Julie Hébert about Tree. “About the inescapability of family, of being known over time, of recognizing yourself in others, of continuing relationships after betrayal and suffering. We keep each other honest. Sometimes it’s funny, sometimes painful – and so it is with this play.” The story explored in Tree unfolds when a southern white woman shows up at the home of an African-American man in Chicago and claims to be his half-sister, impelling them to confront a shared past. In their search for the truth, they must navigate the fragmented memories of the man’s aged mother to discover where their roots intersect.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Dec 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black People Matter

Wed, 10 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Africa is more then Ebola

Fri, 05 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Guests: Sriram Shamasunder completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Harbor UCLA Medical Center in June 2008. As a physician who trained at a public hospital and has provided medical care abroad, Sri is interested in the delivery of comprehensive health care in resource poor settings. In addition to his clinical work training medical students and residents on the medical service at UCSF in San Francisco, he spends much of his time abroad. In 2009, Sri spent five months in rural Burundi and Rwanda with the organization Village Health Works and Partners in Health providing comprehensive primary and HIV care as well as designing innovative clinical programs. Following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, he led a group of Harvard surgeons in Western Haiti providing medical and surgical care in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. In 2012, he was a Fulbright-Nehru scholar to India studying innovations of care among tribal health organizations throughout rural India. In the last several years, he has split his time between UCSF, Liberia, Haiti and India. Currently, he is co-founder of HEAL initiative, which aims to support workforce capacity in limited resource settings, both in the United States and internationally. Clementine Ntshaykolo – Program Coordinator Clementine is originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). She is fluent in English, French and Lingala. Ms. Clementine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and a Minor in Sociology from UCSC. She most recently worked as an Event and Outreach Researcher for the Center on Contemporary Conflict (CCC) at the Naval Postgraduate School. Clementine Coordinates AAN’s activities including fundraising, grant writing, outreach and communication and direct assistance to clients. Clementine is in her last year of a Masters in Public Administration at San Francisco State University

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dimensions Rites of Passage @20

Wed, 03 Dec 2014 16:00:00 +0000

We speak this morning to Latanya d. Tigner who has been with Dimensions since 1986, studying and performing traditional West and South African dance, modern, contemporary, jazz, Haitian, Cuban, and Congolese dance. She has traveled to Cuba, Guinea, Brazil, Jordan, Germany, and throughout the U.S. Latanya was selected as one of three emerging artists for the first annual Black Choreographers Here and Now Festival in 2005. This past summer she participated in Urban Bush Women’s acclaimed Summer Leadership Institute in New Orleans, where she worked with dancers and other social activists to serve the New Orleans community. She also did a residency with Shaka Zulu to study the traditions of mask dance in New Orleans. Latanya is the artistic diector and choreographer for Dimensions‘ youth ensemble, Dimensions Extensions Performing Ensemble (DEPE). She joins us to talk about the 20th Anniversary performance of Rites of Passage, Sunday, Dec. 5, 3 p.m. in Oakland. Visit www.dimensionsdance.org We close with two archival interviews, the first with director, Haifa Al Mansour. Her film Wadjda is the first film by a Saudi woman (2013). We close with an interview with the former director of the Museum of the African Diaspora, Grace C. Stanislaus. Our conversation with Ms. Stanilaus is about the exhibit Desert Jewels. Music: Gina Breedlove's "Breathe" and "Wind."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Della Reese; Howard Thurman Rebroadcast

Wed, 19 Nov 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Douglas Stewart, Director of Special Programs at Alameda County Health and Human Resource Education Center, is targeting the African American community to promote the “getting healthy in our community. He is leading the charge for the Outreach and Education efforts for the new Affordable Health Care Act (Covered CA) and also implementing the new “Downtown TAY” initiative, which is a culturally enriched, comprehensive and creative empowerment program for youth: http://www.hhrec.org/ Tim Jackson is a nationally syndicated cartoonist and illustrator. His social commentary cartoons have appeared on the editorial pages of multiple journals and newspapers. He is currently based in Chicago, Illinois. Multiple First Place winner of the NNPA Award for Editorial Cartoons. Born in Dayton, Ohio, Tim began his formal art education with a Commercial Art program at Sinclair College, relocated to Chicago to attend the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. While still in college, founded the company, Creative License Studio. He first began long-term correspondence with Morrie Turner when I was 14. [43 years]) http://obita4.wix.com/clstoons2 Ms. Jerri Lange, journalistic career began at the San Francisco Chronicle, where she worked along side such luminaries as Art Hoppe, Charles McCabe and Count Marco, and her mentor, Scott Newhall. She continued with tours at stations KEMO, KBHK, KGO and KQED Television. She also taught at San Francisco State University. Morrie Turner's childhood friend, she joins us to share stories growing up in West Oakland and teen years in Berkeley where they both graduated from Berkeley High. Karen Oyekanmi also joins us to talk about Morrie Turner's encouragement when she was a child. She also tells us about the Black Beauty Doll and Gift Show Sat., Nov. 15, at AAMLO.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Nov. 12, 2008

Wed, 12 Nov 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today we will give an update on Hurricane Season in Texas, paying special attention to those areas where the devastation hit hardest and what organizations are responding to the disaster. We'll update listeners on any new developments in Albert Woodfox's case, with further reporting Friday, Nov. 14. During the second half of the show, we will also discuss what is going on in the Democratice Republic of the Congo--Patrice Lumumba land, King Leopold country, a place that has not know peace in almost 50 years. Exploited after its first democratically elected Prime Minister, post-colonial rule was killed by the west, turmoil in the area: Rwanda in particular and the country's vast mineral resources has made it a haven for international plunder. We hope to have representatives on our show today who can clarify the issues for us. Next we'll talk about Dafur and Southern Sudan and the continuing massacre there.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 07 Nov 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Tracy Porter, USF Trustee, joins us to talk aboutthe 5th annual Pathways to Building Your Future at USF. 60-80 under-resourced youth (7th and 12th Graders) from Mt. Diablo Unified School District in Concord will be welcomed to USF on Nov. 8 where they will be motivated by powerful black men like himself to see higher education as a place where they can get the tools rise above obstacles. The former NFL veteran is now CEO of Premiere Solutions, a firm connecting businesses with transportation services.USF President Fr. Paul Fitzgerald, S.J., will be on hand in the morning to officially welcome the young men to campus. Victor Fields joins us to talk about The Lou Rawls Project, a fresh and contemporary approach to the tribute collection. Recorded in Minneapolis, London, Nashville and the Bay Area, the project features a collection of timeless standards such as “The Girl From Ipanema,” “Natural Man,” and “(I'd Rather Drink) Muddy Water” alongside signature staples. Muisi-kongo Malonga, choreographer and dancer joins us once again to speak about the remounting of her Kimpa Vita! Nov. 14-16, at CounterPulse in San Francisco.Kimpa Vita! is a music, dance and theater narrative told through the dual lens of Kongolese and African American cultural arts traditions, exploring the controversial life of Kongolese prophet and martyr, Mama Kimpa Vita. We close with an extended conversation with Spanish director, Carlos Agulló, who speaks about Indelible Media's PLOT FOR PEACE, opening tonight, 11/7, at Landmark’s Opera Plaza Cinemas in SF which he will attend for Q&A after the 7:20pm and 9:55pm shows.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 05 Nov 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: American Indian Film Fest

Fri, 31 Oct 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Curators, LULU MATUTE & FALLON YOUNGjoin us to speak about Not One More, an altar in the Visions at Twight: Dia de los Muertos 2014 at SOMarts through Nov. 8 in San Francisco. Not One More is dedicated to victims of police brutality and state sanctioned violence. After moving to the Bay Area from Chicago, Lulu began advocating for education equity in California Community Colleges to improve college completion and transfer rates amongst students of color. As a member of the Alive and Free program in San Francisco, Lulu works to combat the disease of violence by addressing anger, fear and pain on the individual level as well as in communities. She joined the #BlackLivesMatters ride to Ferguson and #FergusonOctober to protest for justice with the people of Ferguson. Fallon Young coordinates outreach efforts and serves as the social media voice of SOMArts Cultural Center in her role as Director of Communications & Community Engagement. Visit http://www.somarts.org/ or call 415-863-1414. MICHAEL SMITH, founder/president of the American Indian Film Institute (AIFI), joins us to talk about the 39th Annual AIFF Nov. 1-9, in San Francisco. Visit http://aifisf.com/2014-american-indian-film-festival/ KAREN JO KOONAN who has been active in the National Lawyers Guild since early 1969, serving on local and national executive boards and the first non-lawyer to hold that office in the Guild’s 75-year history, joins us to talk about TNLG's recent trip to Palestine in May where she and others were hosted by Addameer, a West Bank organization dealing with the huge issue of political prisoners being held by Israeli authorities. Sahar Francis, General Director of Ramallah-based Addameer Prisoner-Support and Human Rights Association is speaking Mon., Nov. 3, 5:30-8 p.m. at UC Hastings School of Law, 100 McAlister in San Francisco. Visit nlgsf.org to RSVP.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: UNIVERSES' PARTY PEOPLE

Wed, 29 Oct 2014 17:00:00 +0000

We speak to UNIVERSES co-founders, Steven Sapp and Mildred Ruiz-Sapp about the Berkeley Rep premiere of Party People Oct. 17-Nov. 23. Steven Sapp: BARD College, BA ’89 - Theater. Playwright/Actor.Playwriting/Acting credits include: PARTY PEOPLE (Directed/Developed by Liesl Tommy); AMERIVILLE (Directed/Developed by Chay Yew); The Denver Project (Director Dee Covington); One Shot in Lotus Position (Director Bonnie Metzger); BLUE SUITE (Directed/Developed by Chay Yew); SLANGUAGE (Directed/Developed by Jo Bonney); Director- RHYTHMICITY (Director/Actor); THE RIDE (P/A/D) Directing credits include: THE ARCHITECTURE OF LOSS (Assistant Director to Chay Yew); Will Powers’ THE SEVEN (Director-The Univ. of Iowa); Alfred Jarry's UBU:Enchained (Director-Teatre Polski, Poland). Mildred Ruiz-Sapp: Playwright/Actor/Vocalist. BARD College, BA ’92 (Literature/Language). Publications: UNIVERSES-THE BIG BANG (2015 release- TCG Books); SLANGUAGE in The Fire This Time (TCG Books); BLUE SUITE in The Goodman Theatre's Festival Latino - Six Plays (Northwestern University Press); PARTY PEOPLE in The Manifesto Anthology (Rain City Projects- Fall 2014); Featured on the covers of American Theater Magazine 2004 and The Source Magazine 2000. Member: AEA. Awards/Affiliations: 2008 Ambassador of Culture: U.S. State Dept. and Jazz at Lincoln Center - Rhythm Road Tour; 2008 TCG Peter Zeisler Award; 2006 Career Advancement Fellowship from the Ford foundation through Pregones Theater; 2002-2004 and 1999-2001 TCG National Theater Artist Residency Program Award; BRIO Awards (Bronx Recognizes its own-Singing); Co-Founder of The Point CDC; Board Member (National Performance Network - NPN); Former Board Member (Network of Ensemble Theaters-NET); New York Theatre Workshop Usual Suspect. http://www.universesonstage.com/page37/page5/index.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 23 Oct 2014 04:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Justice for Alex Nieto

Tue, 21 Oct 2014 17:30:00 +0000

On Friday evening, March 21, 2014, Alejandro “Alex” Nieto, 28 years old, was shot at over fourteen times and killed by the San Francisco Police Department, on Bernal Hill Park, without justification. We speak to Adriana Camarena, attorney, writer, and resident of the Mission District of San Francisco since 2008, about the altar Alex's mother and others created to honor him as a part of the 15th Annual Dia de los Muertos at Somarts in San Francisco. It is up through Nov. 8. There is a special event in Bernal Heights today, Oct. 21, on the seven month anniversary of Alex's killing: http://justice4alexnieto.org/alex-story/ Listen in for the details. Since arriving in the Mission, Adriana began collecting tales of borders, line-crossings, and overlapping identities told by residents to provide a layered picture of this traditionally working class immigrant neighborhood in California. Two of her published Mission essays are “The Geography of the Unseen” in Rebecca Solnit, INFINITE CITY: A San Francisco Atlas, UC Press, (2010); and “Street Food” in “n+1” literary magazine, (Summer, 2012). Contact Adriana Camarena at mission.unsettlers@gmail.com – and be sure to follow Unsettlers on Facebook.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: SF Open Studios 10/18-11/9

Fri, 17 Oct 2014 15:00:00 +0000

SF Open Studios exhibition and events, https://www.artspan.org, call 415-861-9838, or email info@artspan.org Mark Harris -- Collage, photography and printmaking Mark Hosts his SF Open Studios on two weekends -- Oct. 18 and 19 as well as on Oct. 25 and 26 Mark Harris makes exceptional use of color in his paintings. He has a keen eye and the ability to create strong, beautiful, contemporary images. Mark has exhibited at the Triton Museum of Art in Santa Clara, CA, Marin Museum of Contemporary Art in Novato, CA, and the California Modern Gallery in San Francisco, CA, just to name a few. The University of Chile purchased a painting for the school of Agriculture and became the first institutional collector of Harris’ work. Ron Moultrie Saunders -- Photography Ron Moultrie Saunders creates photograms: photographs that are made without the use of a camera. This 19th Century process has an immediacy, rawness and truth that is not found in images created with a camera. Ron layers natural and man-made elements such as water, plants and rope on the surface of silver-based photographic paper. The paper is exposed to light from an enlarger to create a shadowy silhouette image. Then, Ron lays other images on top of the photo paper and makes another exposure, which results in a collage effect.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dia de los Muertos at Somarts

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Rebroadcast: Tribute to Geronimo ji jaga with Elder Freeman

Fri, 10 Oct 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today we will celebrate the life of Geronimo ji jaga, decorated US veteran, Black Panther, father, husband, sibling, friend, humanitarian, former Political Prisoner and POW, and founder of Kuji Foundation. Guests include: Kathleen Neal Cleaver, JD, former Communications Secretary, BPP, writer, professor,activist; Emory Douglas, author, artist, former Minister of Culture BPP; Robert King, author, prison abolishionist, Angola 3; Mujah Shakir, Ph.D., Detriot native & former member of the Nation of Islam, is a founding member of the International Campaign to Free Geronimo ji Jaga (Pratt) in 1987 and served as its Chair for 8 yrs. She is also a founding member of the national Jericho 98 Campaign to Free U.S. Political Prisoners and the local bay area Jericho Amnesty Campaign; Tiyesha Meroe, activist, member of Oscar Grant Committee Against Police Brutality and State Repression. She worked with the ICFGjj for 7 yrs.. She ,will co-host the the memorial and tribute to Geronimo with Emory Douglas at East Side Arts Alliance in Oakland, beginning at 6 PM July 15, 2011. Elder Ronald Freeman, Detroit, native, moved in LA in 1961. He was Field Secretary for Southern CA BPP chapter in charge of political and military activities, member, All of Us or None. Black Panther veteran, Kiilu Nyasha has been in the liberation struggle for over 40 years. An internationalist, she is a supporter of political prisoners, a death penalty and prison abolitionist & revolutionary journalist. Billy X Jennings& Dr. Gail Shaw ItsAboutTimeBPP.com. Special greetings from Tanzania, in order of broadcast: Joju ji jaga Cleaver, Brother Pete O'Neal, Mama Charlotte O'Neal.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Perma Kulture

Wed, 08 Oct 2014 14:00:00 +0000

William Rhodes and Crystal Azul Barajas Barr join us to talk about SOMArts Cultural Center Presents, Visions at Twight: Dia de los Muertos 2014, Oct. 10-Nov. 8 www.somarts.org/visionsattwilight. William Rhodes is a sculptural furniture designer who studied at the Baltimore School for the Arts. He then earned a BA in Furniture Building and Design from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and a Master's of Fine Arts from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Rhodes' work is in the collections of various galleries and museums. In addition, they are featured in several major publications. Visit http://williamrhodesart.com/ William is joined in the studio by artist and Oakland teacher Crystal Azul Barajas Barr. Her interest in the cyclical nature of all things has informed her creative practices, including her use and reuse of found, discarded, and biological materials. After a lengthy adventure learning ancestral survival skills, she earned a BA in Studio Art from Humboldt State University, with an emphasis on sculpture. Ras Kofi Kwayana joins us to talk about PermaKulture, natural living and the rhythms of life. He will be performing at Life is Living on Sat. Oct. 11, at Lil' Bobby Hutton Park in West Oakland and on Friday at the Black Panther Party Commemoration event The educator, veteran journalist and Manager of the Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture says his life work is the re introduction of the principles and practices of Agriculture into the mainstream pop culture. https://www.facebook.com/pages/RAS-KOFI-THE-FARMER/ We open with Amikaeyla Gaston (7/26/14).

Wanda's Picks: San Francisco Aerial Dance Festival Oct. 5-12

Fri, 03 Oct 2014 15:00:00 +0000

1. Idris Ackamoor, Founder, Executive Director, Cultural Odyssey, is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, tap dancer, actor, director and producer, joins us to talk about the Healing through Music Tour(Oct. 11-Nov. 10). There will also be a performance artists retirement workshop with Rebeka Black Visit culturalodyssey.org 2. Joanna Haigood and Chelsea O Riley join us to talk about the San Francisco Aerial Dance Festival Oct. 5-12, 2014 @ Zaccho Dance Studio. Visit http://www.zaccho.org/ and http://chelseao.com/ 3. Donald E. Lacy Jr. joins us to talk about Color Struck 2014-2015: Conversations N Color Tour written and performed by Donald E. Lacy Jr. Friday-Sat., Oct. 3-4, 8 p.m. at Laney College Theatre, 900 Fallon. For tickets visit or call 510 One Love or colorstruck.net Proceeds benefit LoveLife Foundations Art and Media Training Academy Foundations Art and Media Training Academy. Visit http://www.lovelifefoundation.com/ Featured Music: The Pyramids'sMemory Ritual 1 and Otherworldly

Wanda's Picks Radio: Cultural Odyssey@ 35 Rebroadcast

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast MAR 28, 2014:Cultural Odyssey @ 35 with Idris Akamoor, Rhodessa Jones and Lyrika Holmes. Visit http://www.culturalodyssey.org/ Second guest: Joanna Haigood, choreographer, Zaccho Dance Theatre with dancers Antoine Hunter and Travis Santell Rowland speak about Dying while Black and Brown. Visit http://www.zaccho.org/ Mr. Ackamoor is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, tap dancer, actor, director and producer. He is the founder and Executive/Co-Artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey. Idris curates and produces the Cultural Odyssey Performance Festival, and also records and tours with his acclaimed jazz ensemble. Ms. Jones is an actress, dancer, singer, writer, and teacher, Ms. Jones is Co-artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey and Founder/Director of the Medea Project: Theater for Incarcerated Women. Rhodessa tours her performances and speaks to "Theater for the 21st Century: art which precipitates community transformation.Lyrika Holmes joins us as featured artist at the 35th Anniversary gala. Ms. Holmes is an International performing artist "Lyrika Holmes" is an African-American recording artist, singer, harpist, songwriter and teacher. Music: Dwight Tribble's Ooh Child; Aar Maanta's Deeqa; Eddie Gale's African Sunrise with Destiny.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dia de los Muertos

Fri, 26 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Candi Farlice joins us to speak about SOMArts Cultural Center's VISIONS AT TWILIGHT: DIA DE LOS MUERTOS 2014, the 15th Annual Day of the Dead exhibit, October 10–November 8, 2014 curated by René and Rio Yañezwww.somarts.org/visionsattwilight Candi takes on social/political issues in her art. The installation that she is creating for “Visions at Twilight,” the Day of the Dead exhibition at SOMArts Cultural Center in San Francisco focuses upon the black male and how he is perceived. The working title is “No Matter What I Wear.” Ms. Farlice also has a solo show up through 10/16 in the African American Center at SF's Main Library, 3rd Floor. Byb Chanel Bibene joins us to speak about "Taboo and Heroes," a multi-media work that addresses the reality and consequences of violence and corruption through the specific experience of the war that overtook the Republic of Congo in the late 1990's. In this piece Bibene narrates his personal experiences, as a survival, in which hope was the only strength for survival. Bringing together dance and theater performers, an original music score, set design and video elements, the piece aims to transport the audience into the charged atmosphere of conflict that permeated, and still echoes in everyday life in the Republic of Congo. Taboos is Sept. 27, 8 p.m. at Zaccho Theatre, 1777 Yosemite Ave., San Francisco. Visit www.kiandanda-dance.com We close with a conversation with the African American Shakespeare Company team: L Peter Callender, Artistic Director, Nancy Carlin (guest director), Ponder Goddard (Ariel) about the 20th Anniversary of the theatre and the opening production of The Tempest Oct. 18-Nov. 9. Visit african-americanshakes.org Music: Judith Sephuma te Tshephile Mang; Steel Pulse's Uncle George (Jackson)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Save Nubia

Wed, 24 Sep 2014 14:30:00 +0000

Professor Manu Ampim is an historian and primary (first-hand) researcher specializing in African and African American history and culture. He earned a Masters of Arts degree in History & African American Studies from Morgan State University in 1989. He joins us to speak about the Save Nubia Project which has a program this Sat., Sept. 27, 1-3:30 at Contra Costa College, 2600 Mission Bell Drive at the John & Jean Knox Center, 2600 Mission Bell Drive, San Pablo, CA http://savenubia.org/about-us/who-we-are Currently, Prof. Ampim teaches history at Contra Costa College (San Pablo, CA), and a Africana Studies/Study Abroad course at Merritt College in Oakland, CA. He also teaches a pioneering 7-Step Primary Research Methodology Course at Advancing The Research. We continue our conversation with Mr. A. Dwight Pettit, attorney and author of the recent memoir, Under the Color of Law (2014). www.iuniverse.com We close with UbuntuTheatreProject.com members to talk about the closing performances this week of 4 plays in three locations: Sept. 24-27: N'Jameh Camara - Actress (Dance of the Holy Ghosts, Marguerite to Maya Angelou: a moment in prose) - Playwright (Marguerity to Maya Angelou: a moment in prose) Walker Hare - Actor (Campo Maldito, Radicalisation of Bradley Manning, Waiting for Lefty) Emilie Whelan - Director (Grounded, Waiting for Lefty) - Actress (Radicalisation of Bradley Manning, Waiting for Lefty)

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Under Color of Law

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Umbuntu Theatre Fest

Wed, 17 Sep 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Brothers in Pen(itentiary)

Fri, 12 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Brothers in Pen is the collective name of the writers included in the fiction and memoir anthologies of the Wednesday Night Creative Writing Class at San Quentin State Prison. The Prison Arts Project has been featured in the Bay Area Now7 at Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, 701 Mission Street, in San Francisco, 6-7 p.m. It is a free event. Joining us on the air are members of Brothers in Pen with facilitator, Zoe Mullery: Ernie Laszlo, Henry Montgomery, Talib Brooks, Carl Irons & Jerry Elster. José Navarrete speaks about The Anastacio Project: Stories of Immigration, Border Violence, Resistance and Hope, having its world premiere Sept. 19-21, 8 p.m. nightly,at EastSide Arts Alliance Cultural Center, 2277 International Blvd. in Oakland.Navarrete’s NAKA Dance Theater, in a multidisciplinary performance investigating race relations, state brutality and border violence. Combining interactive video and sound, a large-format mural, spoken word and dance.Dam/aged, the Musical is a theatrical performance that intentionally addresses the harsh realities or urban blight that exist in communities of color across America. Social issues that include prostitution, gang violence, substance abuse, domestic violence, and absent fathers, are weaved into an abstract multimedia musical to explore the struggles of several young people as they attempt to rise above the social inequities that have traditionally plagued communities of color. We speak to playwright & actor, Bronche Tayson (Jeremiah), and actors:Deaunte Imani White (Ivan; he’s choreographer too), Donna Marie (Michelle Oday), Denmark Gatewood (Tremain Soulless). Performances: 9/14 @2:30; 9/20 @ 4 p.m.Visit sffringe.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:The SF Fringe Special Con't.

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio SF Fringe Special

Tue, 09 Sep 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Today Bennett Fisher, playwright and Jesca Prudencio, director, join us to talk about the smashing successful run of Campo Maldito at San Francisco Fringe Festival. There are three more performances: 9/12 at 6 p.m., 9/18 at 10:30 p.m., 9/16 at 7 p.m., and 9/20 at 2:30 p.m. at the Exit Theatre, 156 Eddy Street in San Francisco. See http://www.peopleofinterest.org/ (trailer) & http://www.ubuntutheaterproject.com/ Bennett Fisher is company member of Campo Santo, an associate artist with the Cutting Ball Theater, and a co-founder of the San Francisco Theater Pub. His plays include Campo Maldito, Borealis, Pay Dirt, Hermes, Don’t Be Evil, Devil of a Time, and Whoa is Me. Bennett was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is currently pursuing his MFA in playwriting at UC San Diego, class of 2016. Jesca Prudencio is a director, choreographer, and community based artist. She has worked on new plays, musicals, and dance theater works with companies including The Movement Theatre Company, Fresh Ground Pepper, Ingenue Theatre, and the Asian American Arts Alliance. Her site-specific dance pieces include We Walk, We Stop at the Astor Place intersection and Nothing Matters When We’re Dancing in Washington Square Park. As a member of Ping Chong + Company, she has worked as a writer, director, and facilitator on a dozen interdisciplinary and documentary theater projects, and including co-writing and directing Listen To Me: voices of survivors of child sexual abuse and those who help them presented in the Bronx and Manhattan. She recently directed and choreographed a new musicalThe Firebird at NYU's Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program. Jesca has a BFA from NYU Tisch School of the Arts.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Fred Ho Tribute; Shabaka's Mingus Remixed

Fri, 05 Sep 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Crystal L. Bass is an American author, playwright, freelance writer, and motivational speaker. Bass has used her platform to uncover and illuminate issues that are important to young women, to ultimately empower and strengthen them. Her hit stage play titled, "Ain't No Love Like A Mother's Love," opens in Baltimore City Nov. 15. Kehinde Koyejo, Artistic Director, InterACT Works, is curator of the 10-minute one-act play series “Don’t Call Me Crazy: A Glimpse into the World of Mental Illness: An Afternoon of Short Plays and Dialogue at the Joyce Gordon Gallery, 3 p.m. 406 14th Street in Oakland, Sun., Sept. 7, then in a reprise “Through the Eyes of Buddha at SGI-USA, Oakland Buddhist Center, 3834 Opal Street in Oakland, Sept. 14, at 1 p.m. Kehinde (“Next Step”) is joined by participating playwrights: Nathan Yungerberg (“Golden Gate”) and Kineithea Carter (“Depression Daughter”). Visit http://www.interactworks.org/upcoming-interactions.htm Poets Genny Lim and Steve Dickison join us to talk about “Struggle for a New World: Fred Ho Memorial Tribute,” Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014, 2:00-4:30 p.m. at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 2 p.m., 388-9th Street, upstairs Rm. 290, (510) 637-0455. Admission is free. This remarkable landmark gathering of Fred Ho's artistic collaborators, ranging from composers, musicians, poets, singers, storytellers and activists, have come together to pay homage to this great baritone saxophone-composer, cultural activist, teacher, author, pioneer and legend. To listen to Fred Ho http://www.mp3olimp.net/fred-ho/ We close with a conversation with San Francisco native, Barry “Shabaka” Henley, about the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre production of the World Premiere of his Mingus Remixed, directed by Delroy Lindo Sept. 5-6 in San Francisco, www.lhtsf.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The Nelson Mandela Quilt Project

Wed, 03 Sep 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Friday, August 29, we didn't get to complete our conversation with William Rhodes, who is just back from South African with more panels to complete the Nelson Mandela International Quilt Project. We are rebroadcasting the first part of the show; however, stay tuned for a longer conversation with William. Our first guest is: Melinda Holm, director, Middle Passage Pilgrimage, West Coast Premiere, 8/30, 7-9:30 p.m. at the East Bay Meditation Center, 287 17th Street @ Harrison (3 blocks from 19th Street BART). http://www.eastbaymeditation.org 8:30 AM Theodore Lush, Katrina survivor, Maafa Commemoration founder in Montgomery, Alabama 9:00 AM Cast members: Katherine Renee Turner, Eddie Ray Jackson and Roscoe Orman, from Marin Theatre Company's production of Will Power's Fetch Clay, Make Man, a play about a young Muhammad Ali and Stepin Fetchit, based on a true story (through Sept. 7) www.marintheatre.org 9:30 AM William Rhodes, just back from South Africa, where he took quilt pieces from children at the Dr. Charles Drew Elementary School, here in Bayview Hunter's Point to children in the Lalela Project in Cape Town. www.williamrhodes.com Music: Odessa: Home, a Tribute to Lead Belly

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Hurricane Katrina Anniversary

Fri, 29 Aug 2014 15:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the African Diaspora via the writing, performance, both musical and theatrical (film and stage), as well as the visual arts of Africans in the Diaspora and those influenced by these aesthetic forms of expression. I am interested in the political and social ramifications of art on society, specifically movements supported by these artists and their forebearers. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work honest and filled with raw unedited passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Our first guest is: Melinda Holm, director, Middle Passage Pilgrimage, West Coast Premiere, 8/30, 7-9:30 p.m. at the East Bay Meditation Center, 287 17th Street @ Harrison (3 blocks from 19th Street BART). http://www.eastbaymeditation.org 8:30 AM Theodore Lush, Katrina survivor, Maafa Commemoration founder in Montgomery, Alabama 9:00 AM Cast members: Katherine Renee Turner, Eddie Ray Jackson and Roscoe Orman, from Marin Theatre Company's production of Will Power's Fetch Clay, Make Man, a play about a young Muhammad Ali and Stepin Fetchit, based on a true story (through Sept. 7) www.marintheatre.org 9:30 AM William Rhodes, just back from South Africa, where he took quilt pieces from children at the Dr. Charles Drew Elementary School, here in Bayview Hunter's Point to children in the Lalela Project in Cape Town. www.williamrhodes.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 27 Aug 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Multi-Ethnic Theatre presents: August Wilson's Jitney

Fri, 22 Aug 2014 16:00:00 +0000

We open with cast from Multi-Ethnic Theatre's production of August Wilson's Jitney, running through August 31 at the Gough Street Playhouse, 1620 Gough Street (near Bush), in San Francisco. From www.wehavemet.org: "Some of the most talented Bay Area actors are people with day jobs who work in theater for sheer passion and true meaning. Jitney, set in the 'early fall of 1977,' in the Hill District in Pitsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a play about working class men, who provide 'transportation service' to their communities. Then and now, city cabs did not venture into certain communities. This play allows MET actors to bring their real life experience to the stage. The cast is a close knit group passionately dedicated to stories about an important public service: gypsy cab rides to and from African American communities." Joining us are: BENNIE LEWIS as Becker, a well respected man who runs the Jitney Station; VERNON MEDEARIS as Turnbo, a jitney driver who is always interested in the business of others; CHARLES JOHNSON as Doub, a longtime jitney driver and Korean war veteran; CHARLES JOHNSON as Doub, a longtime jitney driver and Korean war veteran; TREVOR LAWRENCE as Fielding, a jitney driver and former tailor with a dependency on alcohol; STUART ELWYN HALL as Shealy, a numbers taker who often uses the jitney station as his base; ANTHONY PRIDE, as Philmore, a hotel doorman and recurring jitney passenger; DAVID STEWART, Becker's son, recently released from prison. We close with a show from the archives (4/3/14) which features Joanna Haigood and cast members, Antoine Hunter and Travis Santell Rowland, speaking about Haigood's piece Dying While Black and Brown.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 19:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Victory Over Slavery, Haiti and Beyond

Fri, 15 Aug 2014 12:00:00 +0000

We rebroadcast an interview with Rodney Leon, architect, African Burial Grounds, and The Ark of Return in New York. First aired Wed., August 13, 2014.

Wanda's Picks: Rodney Leon, Ark of Return

Wed, 13 Aug 2014 11:00:00 +0000

Rodney Leon, founder and principal of Rodney Leon Architects PLLC has an architectural background as a designer on a diversity of building types including housing, churches and transportation projects in the U.S. and abroad. Mr. Leon is the designer of the African Burial Ground Memorial in New York City which is the only National Monument in the United States dedicated to the contributions of people of African descent. Mr. Leon has focused his professional efforts and developed an expertise in modern “Culturally Contextual” design, Master Planning and Mixed Use Housing Development for faith based and international development organizations. Current projects include the Gospel Assembly Church, the King Emmanuel Baptist Church Senior Housing and Community Center and the historic Convent Avenue Baptist Church expansion. In addition, Mr. Leon has developed and is partnering with manufacturers to design and implement sustainable “Green” housing development models for emerging global economies. The first such project is the 24 acre, mixed use “Belle Rive” Residential Development in Jacmel, Haiti. Mr. Leon is also currently developing a Master Planning solution for Haiti centered upon the concept of Memorialization and Re-forestation entitled “The HiBIscus Project.” In addition, Mr. Leon is involved in a professional collaboration with 3 other architects on efforts to provide transitional housing for displaced families in Haiti through an initiative entitled the "Haiti SOFTHOUSE." Mr. Leon received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Pratt Institute School of Architecture in 1992 and his Masters of Architecture from Yale University in 1995. He has also been a Visiting Design professor at Pratt Institute School of Architecture from 1998 to 2003. He has served as 2nd Year Design Coordinator for Pratt in 2003 & is an Adjunct Professor of Advanced Design since 2009. http://www.rodneyleon.com/

Wanda's Picks: Deaf Louder w/Antoine Hunter

Fri, 08 Aug 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We are opening with an interview with Antoine Hunter, Artistic Director and Founder, Urban Jazz Dancechoreographer, teacher, deaf advocate and creative force behind DEAF LOUDER, the Bay Area's 2nd Annual Deaf Dance Festival this weekend at Dance Mission in San Francisco, Fri., AUG 8 &, AUG 9 at 8pm; Sun., AUG 10 at 4 pm. There will be dance, poetry, song and rap by deaf and hearing performers. Starring Def Motion from London, Michelle Banks, Fred Beam, Joey Antonio, Rosa Lee, and Antoine Hunter. Other performers include James L. Taylor the 3rd, CODA Brothas, Sister Master, Half N Half, Deaf ASL singer Tonique Hunter and poet Joy Elan Sledge.Tickets: $25 For a discount use the code: “DeafLouder” (for an $18.00 ticket at Brown Paper Tickets); $12 for children 10 and under). For groups of 5 or more contact Ms. Stella Adelman 415-826-4441 dancemissiontheater@yahoo.com There will be a special workshop Saturday with Michelle Banks at EBCPA in Richmond and Sunday from 12-2 there will be dance workshops at Dance Mission and a conversation with the artists. For all Deaf Louder Festival details visithttp://antoinehunter.blogspot.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio: Antoine Hunter & Deaf Louder Dance Fest

Wed, 06 Aug 2014 19:00:00 +0000

We speak to Antoine Hunter, Artistic Director and Founder, Urban Jazz Dance, about DEAF LOUDER: The 2nd Bay Area Deaf Dance Festival this weekend, Friday, August 8 and Saturday, August 9 at 8pm; Sunday, August 10 at 4 pm at Dance Mission Theatre in San Francisco. DEAF LOUDER proudly presents a festival that celebrates deaf culture. There will be dance, poetry, song and rap by deaf and hearing performers. Starring Def Motion from London, Michelle Banks, Fred Beam, Joey Antonio, Rosa Lee, and Antoine Hunter. Other performers include James L. Taylor the 3rd, CODA Brothas, Sister Master, Half N Half, Deaf ASL singer Tonique Hunter and poet Joy Elan Sledge.Tickets: $25 For a discount use the code: “DeafLouder” (for an $18.00 ticket at Brown Paper Tickets); $12 for children 10 and under). For groups of 5 or more contact Ms. Stella Adelman 415-826-4441 dancemissiontheater@yahoo.com There will be a special workshop Saturday with Michelle Banks at EBCPA in Richmond and Sunday from 12-2 there will be dance workshops at Dance Mission and a conversation witht the artists. Visit http://www.antoinehunter.blogspot.com/ Antoine Hunter is an African American Deaf and Hard of Hearing Choreographer, Dancer, Dance instructor, model, actor and poet. He has performed and taught all over USA and all over the world such as, Rome, London, Cuba, Africa. He also has performed with Savage Jazz Dance Company, as dance artist/performer/jazz instructor. He is a faculty member at EBCPA, Dance-A-Vision, Youth In Arts, Shawl and Anderson Dance Center, Ross Dance Company, just to name a few. We close with an interview with director, Lacey Schwartz whose film Little White Lies closed the SFJFF this Sunday and now is screening a few more times. Visit Aug. 7 (PARK 7 p.m.), Aug. 8 (RAF 3 p.m.): www.thelittlewhiteliethefilm.com or sfjff.org and 415-621-0523.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Paul Robeson, Songs of Freedom

Fri, 01 Aug 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with author, Doris I. Mangrum, whose A Soiled Identity: From Triumph to Tragedy and Back Again, tells the story of Darnell Cookson, former Marine and former felon as he rejoins society. However, this is not a typical rehabilitation story. Told in the protagonist's voice as if we were seated in his home one evening getting to know one another, we meet Darnell just as he arrives home from prison to new wife, new child and many relationships he has to restore, like that between he and his two older daughters by a prior marriage, and his kid brother who is making a bit too much money fast. Darnell tries to hold his head up when applications are rejected and interviews have no follow-up calls, but it is hard. Darnell's reentry is a community venture; each chapter ends with what Mangrum calls, "Choice Moments" where her audience gets to imagine a "what if?" In "Live Your Life," the reader is invited to learn from Darnell's experiences while we also gear up to participate in an "Idea Infusion," which per chapter is a way to make the returning veteran or prisoner feel welcome and supported (171). Visit https://www.facebook.com/LetsSaidiana Musicians Damu Sudii Alii and Paul Tillman Smith join us to talk about the music, of course, but also a wonderful music series in two Oakland resturants. The Wednesday & Sunday, Jazz Jams sessions are free and open to professional musicians to sit in on and play. www.chumpchange.com The Village of Peace (SFJFF 2014) tells the story of the Hebrew Israelites, African Americans who moved from America to establish a home in Israel.Directors and producers join us this morning to close the show: Ben Schuder, Director/Producer and his brother Sam Schuder, Producer. www.villageofpeacemovie.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Special with Amikaeyla Gaston & Kristoff St. John

Sat, 26 Jul 2014 17:00:00 +0000

AmikaeylaGaston is a multiple-award-winning singer, international best-selling recording artist and cultural change catalyst working at the intersection between science and the arts - particularly music. As the Founder and Director of ICAHSI, the International Cultural Arts & Healing Sciences Institute, she travels the world as a cultural ambassador furthering surprising connections in unexpected places through the arts, activism, and advocacy. Her Music As Medicine - Healing with an Artful Purpose programming - a multi-faceted therapeutic approach through music, movement, & theater modalities - has taken her around the world. Special Concert: She is featured in a special performance with John Santos this Sunday, July 27, 2014, in Spirits Lifted:A Musical Celebration featuring John Santos and special guest Amikaeyla Gaston, Sunday, July 27th 3:00pm, EastSide Cultural Center, 2277 East 14th Street, Oakland, $15 at the door. Kristoff St. John is best known for his role on ‘The Young and the Restless’ but the actor has much more than “soap star” on his resume. The NAACP award winner is releasing a new documentary, “A Man Called God” that took 33 years to film. “A Man Called GOD” is a documentary that was written and produced by “The Young and the Restless” star Kristoff St. John. It explores the St. John family traveling from Los Angeles to India in search of God. The documentary itself took place in 1980, and what the family would soon uncover is that their quest would turn into something more devilish than one would think. http://buzzworthyradiocast.com/?p=316 Music: Amikaelya, John Santos, Sweet Honey in the Rock

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Gerald Lenoir passes the BAJI torch

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast from July 23, 2014. We open with an excerpt of a conversation with Professor KC Williams about a Hate Crime she experienced at Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville, North Carolina. To support: www.gofundme.com/Fight-the-Hate-in-NC Gerald Lenoir is the founding Executive Director and currently the Co-director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration founded in Oakland in 2006 to support fair and just immigration reform and to bring African Americans together with immigrant communities to fight for social and economic justice. He is a founding steering committee member of the national Black Immigration Network, a co-founder of the Priority Africa Network in Oakland and a board member of the National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. www.blackalliance.org Martha R. Bireda, Ph.D., is the Founder and Executive Director of the Blanchard House Museum of African American History and Culture of Charlotte County (FL). She is Director of the Museum’s Maroon Study Center, and the New Image Project, a project dedicated to positive identity development of youth of color. She is the author of six books including the recent: Obi: Seminole Maroon Freedom Fighter. Dr. Bireda is also an Alternate Commissioner for the Gullah-Geechee Historical Corridor. Visit http://www.maroonconsciousness.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Seminole Maroon Societies

Wed, 23 Jul 2014 14:00:00 +0000

We open with an excerpt of a conversation with Professor KC Williams about a Hate Crime she experienced at Coastal Carolina Community College in Jacksonville, North Carolina. To support: www.gofundme.com/Fight-the-Hate-in-NC Gerald Lenoir is the founding Executive Director and currently the Co-director of the Black Alliance for Just Immigration founded in Oakland in 2006 to support fair and just immigration reform and to bring African Americans together with immigrant communities to fight for social and economic justice. He is a founding steering committee member of the national Black Immigration Network, a co-founder of the Priority Africa Network in Oakland and a board member of the National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. www.blackalliance.org Martha R. Bireda, Ph.D., is the Founder and Executive Director of the Blanchard House Museum of African American History and Culture of Charlotte County (FL). She is Director of the Museum’s Maroon Study Center, and the New Image Project, a project dedicated to positive identity development of youth of color. She is the author of six books including the recent: Obi: Seminole Maroon Freedom Fighter. Dr. Bireda is also an Alternate Commissioner for the Gullah-Geechee Historical Corridor. Visit http://www.maroonconsciousness.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Hate Crimes

Fri, 18 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today on the 100th Anniversary weekend of the Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey's Universal Negro Improvement Organization (UNIA), Professor Kimberly C. Williams shares with audiences a hate crime whe was subjected to and administrations response and punishment. Professor Williams teaches Sociology at a small, southern U.S. college. She has written about and studied race and gender dynamics throughout her career, including her undergraduate and graduate research on race in education. Her current research focuses include analyzing the portrayal of women and people of color in media and the contrapower harassment dynamic prevalent on college campuses. She is beginning a new career in public speaking and writing on feminism and race. She blogs for the Rebel Researchers Collective http://rebelresearchers.com/ 2014/06/08/death-by-a-million-papercuts-are-prestigious-degrees-really-worth-the-trouble/ on her personal blog, Radicalize Me! (http://wp.me/4cdDt) on Facebook at “Blackademia” (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Blackademia/1388228314732814) and “Welcome to my Post-Racial Life” (https://www.facebook.com/ welcometomypostraciallife). Brother Aliki Nkrumah (Anthony Murphy) is Second 1st Assistance President General for the UNIA-AFL, Executive Director of Town Watch Integrated Services for the City of Philadelphia Neighborhood Organizations and Town Watch Groups. We close with an interview with Thomas Simpson, Artistic Director of AfroSolo and participants this season:Stephanie Anne Johnson who performs Every Twenty Days:Cancer, Yoga and Me, Lance Burton who performs The Irrelevance of Being Relevant and Kurt Lamont Young will perform If God Wanted Me to Fly He Would Have Give Us Wings to Do So.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Madagascar Made Rebroadcast

Wed, 16 Jul 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Madagascar Made

Wed, 09 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

TaSin Sabir joins us to talk about her new book, Madagascar Made. Her artwork can be described as vibrant and full of powerful and emotional messages. Skilled in a range of mediums (including photography, painting, film, web & print design, and screen printing), TaSin uses this love for art making to express topics that are of an importance to her. In 2004 TaSin graduated from California College of the Arts, where she received a BFA in Fine Arts Photography. Born and raised in Oakland, CA, TaSin’s artwork has been exhibited all around the Bay Area and Nation. Such galleries include, The Oakland Museum of California, The African American Historical and Cultural Society Museum, The Richmond Art Center, The Judah Magnes Museum, Pro Arts Gallery, Joyce Gordon Gallery, and the African American Museum in Philadelphia. TaSin has also published another photography book: 100 Families Oakland. In 2007, TaSin took her passion for art and love of her community and opened a galley in Oakland called The Oakpod. During its time The Oakpod was a vital source for art and entertainment in the Bay Area. Since the closure of The Oakpod TaSin has become an independent curator and curated shows for the Joyce Gordon Gallery, Maafa organization and others. Currently TaSin is a freelance photographer and designer specializing in utilizing all her skill sets to create one of a kind projects for her clients.News: TaSin getting an award for photography at the Black Media Appreciation Night this Saturday 7/12/14 at the African American Art & Culture Complex San Francisco. starts at 7pm. TaSin's photographs from book Madagascar Made in this exhibit: The Capture of Life, Absent from Color. Exhibit runs from July 4 – July 26, 2014 at Joyce Gordon Gallery, Oakland.Web link: www.madagascarmade.com Music: Rossy: One Eye on the Future, One Eye on the Past.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Unity

Fri, 04 Jul 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We opened with a prerecorded interview with Nefertina Abrams, Royal House of Makeda Productions, and Melame Gange, ModeAfrika apparel, (first aired 7/2/2014) re: Ubuntu-Faqir Simunye or Pan African Love and Unity Festival on its concluding night, July 4, 2014, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the Humanist Hall on 27th Street, in Oakland. We open with Gange’s “African Suns.” We then play a segment from an interview with Civil Rights Movement architect, Dave Dennis, who is just returning home from a successful 50th Anniversary Conference at Tougaloo College in Mississippi. The goal of the conference was to answer the following questions: What were the lessons learned? How do they apply to today’s challenges? What is the next phrase? How will an appropriate response be developed for the next phase? While speaking to Mr. Dennis about the conference and current issues on the stove top boiling over presently like Voter’s Rights and Educational Opportunity, especially for black youth as access to higher education still is not either the norm or representative of the majority of black families, Mr. Dennis the first in his family to graduate from high school. 50 years later, I meet students in my classroom who are the first to graduate from high school and college. Next steps obviously include access to college education and programs in place to address the attrition rate among black men. Ironically, the issues around voter’s rights are expiring as state’s reevaluate residents’ rights and make certain residents ineligible or make voter registration difficult and access to the polls another hurdle in society where historic memory is a tragedy of youthful ignorance and social apathy. Music: selections from Meklit and Quinn and Melik Hadero; the Nile Project: Salaam Nubia from Aswan and Tezete; Melame Gange's African Suns and Dancing Partner.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Unity

Wed, 02 Jul 2014 14:00:00 +0000

1. Rebroadcast of Ms. Bonnie Boswell, niece of Civil Rights Leader, Whitney Young, Executive Producer and Producer of Power Broker: Whitney Young's Fight for Civil Rights, aired Feb. 6, 2013. http://wandasabir.blogspot.com/search?q=whitney+young 2. Nefertina Abrams and Melame Gange join us to talk about the first annual THE 'UBUNTU-FIQIR SIMUNYE' PAN AFRICAN LOVE & UNITY CONCERT, July 3 nd 4, 2014, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. (both days) at the Humanist Hall in Oakland, CA. Admission is $10 for adults, children are free. 3. We close with part 1 of an interview with Civil Rights Maverickthe Hon. Dave Dennis, Freedom Rider and Co-Director of the Council of Federated Organizations (COFO) in Mississippi. Dennis was the Mississippi director of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), but he worked with SNCC members and other civil rights activists in Mississippi under the COFO umbrella to avoid intra-organizational conflicts. COFO organized activists for a Mississippi voter registration drive during "Freedom Summer." Dennis spoke at the funeral of James Chaney, and he worked closely with both Bob Moses and Medgar Evers. Visit http://freedom50.org/; http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/freedomsummer/ (to watch film on-line)

Wanda’s Picks Special Broadcast

Sat, 28 Jun 2014 14:30:00 +0000

Jed Rothstein, Director/Producer, Before the Spring, After the Fall. Three years before the Arab Spring, a group of young Egyptian rock musicians struggled for freedom amidst the stifling dictatorship of Hosni Mubarak. Two brothers among them, the sons of a dissident political prisoner, would help lead the uprising in Tahrir Square and the struggle for the future of their country. Airs tonight on ITVS. Bio: Academy Award-nominated and Emmy-winning filmmaker Jed Rothstein specializes in hard-to-get stories from around the world that help people understand one another better. Whether seeking out heavy metal musicians who become Arab-Spring revolutionaries (PBS's Before the Spring After the Fall); pioneering doctors (HBO's Coma and Pandemic); Al Qaeda terrorists (The Oscar-nominated HBO documentary Killing in the Name); defenders of free speech (The 2009 Sundance film Shouting Fire); journalists on the front lines (Independent Lens' Democracy on Deadline) or fundamentalist Christian college kids training to take over Washington (God's Next Army), Rothstein works with people to help them tell their own stories in their own words. His films have played in film festivals around the world, enjoyed special screenings at the United Nations, and been broadcast on HBO, PBS, the Discovery Channel, IFC, Channel 4, the BBC, and elsewhere. When not loitering in global hotspots, Rothstein has worked as a senior producer on a weekly television show and a consultant and writer for numerous documentaries. He lives in New York with his wife, the writer Mira Jacob, and their son.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Love Balm for My Spirit Child

Fri, 27 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0000

1. Ayodele "WordSlanger" Nzinga, Ph.D., joins us to talk about the August Wilson Century Cycle, part 7, Two Trains, which is opening this August, 2014 in Oakland. 2.Arielle Julia Brown (Project Director/Founder)speaks about Love Balm for My Spirit Child--- A choreo-play based on testimonies from Bay Area mothers whose children were lost to gun violence, directed by Edris Cooper-Anifowoshe, opens at Brava! For Women in the Arts, Theatre Center in San Francisco, 2781-24th Street at York, July 11-20, 2014 shows Fri-Sat 8 p.m.; Sun 3 p.m. Tickets are: $10-25. Visit http://www.brava.org/ Actors/Artistic Collaborators Ayodele Nzinga is an Actor/Artistic Collaborator in the work, so she joins us as well. 3. American Experience presents: Stanley Nelson's Freedom Summer. The award-winning director joins us by phone from the largest 50th Anniversary Freedom Summer Conference at Tougaloo College in Jackson, Mississippi: http://freedom50.org/ The film, along with Nelson's earlier, Freedom Riders is up for viewing on the website: http://video.pbs.org/video/2365156751/ 4. Michael Gene Sullivan and Velina Brown speak about the San Francisco Mime Troupe’s 2014 premiere, The Ripple Effect— opening July 4th at San Francisco's Dolores Park. Visit www.sfmt.org & http://www.michaelgenesullivan.com/ Music: Avery Sharpe’s Ain’t I a Woman “Son of Mine;” Keb’mo’s "Someday We’ll All Be Free"; clips from S. Nelson’s Freedom Summer

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:50th Anniv. Freedom Summer

Wed, 25 Jun 2014 14:00:00 +0000

JOHN PIERRE, JD, speaks about MISSISSIPPI FREEDOM SUMMER 50TH ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE Inter-generational Action Agenda at Tougaloo College - Jackson, Mississippi, June 23 - 29, 2014 John K. Pierre has been on the law faculty of the Southern University Law Center since 1990 and was promoted to vice chancellor in 2006. Pierre is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and the Texas Bar Association. He has previous teaching experience as a visiting and adjunct professor at California State University, Southern Methodist University School of Law, Loyola University Law School, Southern University College of Business, Saint Leo's College, Webster University, Louisiana State University, and Baton Rouge Community College. He received the bachelor's degree in accounting from Southern University in 1980, a master's degree in tax accounting from Texas Tech University in 1982, and a juris doctor degree from Southern Methodist University School of Law in 1985. Pierre has published numerous articles on tax law, sales and contracts, real estate and commercial law, ranging from magazine features to legal journal and law review articles. We close with a prerecorded interview with Blair Doroshwalther, dir., Out in the Night (2013) and film subjects, Patreese Johnson and Renata Hill. Out screens June 26, 2014, 9:30 p.m. and June 28, 2014, 1:30 p.m. as a part of Frameline38. Out looks at the case of the New Jersey 4, 4 young Lesbian women arrested, charged and imprisoned when they defended themselves from first verbal then physical attack. The four women who faced the most time were those who maintained their innocence. Patreese and Renata are two of them.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Images in Black

Fri, 20 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with Angelique Kidjo, Grammy award-winning recording artist deemed "Africa's greatest living diva" by NPR. In addition to international touring, she has used her visibility to campaign for women's rights, provide education opportunities for girls, and support environmental initiatives. She performs Sat., June 21, 2014, 8 p.m. at the Nourse Theatre, 275 Hayes Street, San Francisco, CA (415) 392-4400 www.ciis.edu/publicprograms We close with an interview with Thomas Allen Harris, dir., Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photography and the Emergence of a People, which is a part of Frameline38 and scenes June 21, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. at the Victoria Theatre in San Francisco. Visit www.frameline.org Following an award-winning festival run, which saw Through a Lens receive an African Oscar for Best Diasporic Documentary (African Movie Academy Awards,) Social Justice Award (Santa Barbara International Film Festival,) Programmers' Best Documentary Award (Pan African Film Festival,) along with a TEDDY Award nomination (Berlin International Film Festival) and screenings all over the world, the film has its New York theatrical premiere Aug. 27 through Sep. 9 at Film Forum This will be followed by a national theatrical release by First Run Features, See also http://1world1family.me http://chimpanzeeproductions.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast June 13, 2014

Wed, 18 Jun 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda’s Picks Special Broadcast: The New Black

Sun, 15 Jun 2014 14:00:00 +0000

This morning we have a special broadcast featuring awardwinning director, Yoruba Richen, documentary filmmaker who has directed and produced films in the United States, Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. Yoruba’s award-winning film, Promised Land, premiered at the Full Frame Documentary Festival and has screened at numerous festivals around the world. It received a Diverse Voices Co-Production fund award from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and won the Fledgling Fund Award for Social Issue Documentary. Yoruba has produced for the investigative unit of ABC News and the independent news program Democracy Now. In 2007, Yoruba won a Fulbright Award in filmmaking and traveled to Salvador, Brazil, where she began production on Sisters of the Good Death, a documentary about the oldest African women’s association in the Americas and the annual festival they hold celebrating the end of slavery. In 2012, Yoruba won the Tribeca All Access Creative Promise Award and became a Guggenheim fellow. She is a graduate of Brown University and teaches Documentary film at CUNY’s Graduate School of Journalism. She joins us to talk about her recent film, The New Black, which debuts theatrically on Public Broadcasting's POV today. The documentary tells the story of how the African-American community is grappling with the gay rights issue in light of the recent gay marriage movement and the fight over civil rights.The film documents activists, families and clergy on both sides of the campaign to legalize gay marriage and examines homophobia in the black community’s institutional pillar – the black church – and reveals the Christian right wing’s strategy of exploiting this phenomenon in order to pursue an anti-gay political agenda. TNB tells the story of the historic fight to win marriage equality in Maryland. Rebroadcast is an interview with Margo Hall about her musical memoir, Bebop Baby.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 13 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: UNIA Centennial Year; Frameline38;Omnira

Wed, 11 Jun 2014 14:30:00 +0000

Libations for the Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey (8/17/1887-6/10/1940)

Tue, 10 Jun 2014 20:30:00 +0000

"Marcus Garvey was a proponent of the Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism movements, inspiring the Nation of Islam and the Rastafarian movement. Social activist Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Jr. was born on August 17, 1887, in St. Ann's Bay, Jamica. Self-educated, Garvey founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association, dedicated to promoting African-Americans and resettlement in Africa. In the United States he launched several businesses to promote a separate black nation. After he was convicted of mail fraud and deported back to Jamaica, he continued his work for black repatriation to Africa. Marcus Mosiah Garvey was the last of 11 children born to Marcus Garvey, Sr. and Sarah Jane Richards. His father was a stone mason, and his mother a domestic worker and farmer. Garvey, Sr. was a great influence on Marcus, who once described him as "severe, firm, determined, bold, and strong, refusing to yield even to superior forces if he believed he was right." His father was known to have a large library, where young Garvey learned to read" (http://www.biography.com/people/marcus-garvey-9307319#awesm=~oGP6uyhVqG3DuG). UNIA Centennial Home: http://www.unia-centennial.org/ Interested persons can take out ads in the commemorative brochure. Prices are reasonable from $22-up 8 AM: Dr. Oba T'Shaka: Garvey's organization and how this impacted his life and work 8:30: Nefertina Abrams on Marcus Garvey's Legacy and His Wives. there is an event this weekend in FL. 9:00: Sheba Makeda Haven, UNIA Member; Elder Freeman, event in LA, Jabari Aali Shaw re: Marcus Garvey Parade and Event in Oakland, CA, Saturday, August 20, 2011. 9:30: Sundiata Tate (wasn't able to make it, Elder Freeman, Robert King re: Black August and George Jackson. Sheba and Jabari join us as well.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Libations for the Ancestors Special

Fri, 06 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0000

This morning we speak to organizers of the Global Simultaneous Libation for the Ancestors Saturday, June 14, 2014, 9 AM Pacific Time, 12 noon Eastern Time. Osei Terry R. Chandler, native NYer, arts activist, former radio host, father, and social worker, with Deborah Wright, founded the Charleston Remembrance Committee in 1998 for the purpose of honoring our ancestors who perished DURING the Middle Passage; Helen Phillips or “Salako” is the libation pourer at the Charleston Ritual. Chadra Pittman Walke, Hampton, Virginia, Mother, Anthropologist, Writer, Advocate is the Founder & Director of 4 E.V.E.R and The Sankofa Projects. Jerrie Spruce, Hampton, Virginia is also Kemetic Priestess Auset AkuRa; this is Brother Osakumi Jackson, Ayida Wedo Drummers Society, Inc., in Georgetown, South Carolina. For a listing of the 2014 ceremonies: http://maafasfbayarea.com Michael Gene Sullivan, playwright, actor, director, joins us to talk about his new work, fugitive/slave/act, a historical drama based on a true story from the turbulent days before the Civil War staged 6/7 at LHT collaboration: Tangela Large (Ruby) and Tyee Tilghman (Cecil), cast from pen/man/ship, Christina Anderson’s World Premiere at The Magic Theatre in San Francisco through June 15, are next. Regina E. Mason, Oakland native, great-great-great granddaughter of pioneering autobiographer William Grimes who wrote the first fugitive slave narrative in America, Life of William Grimes, the Runaway Slave, joins Michael Lange who portrays Mr. Grimes in The Raw Truth this Sunday, June 8.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: SF Doc Fest

Wed, 04 Jun 2014 15:00:00 +0000

This morning we feature interviews with directors featured in the 13th Annual SF Doc Fest June 5-19, 2014, www.sfindie.com or (415) 552-5580 adv. tickets: N'Jeri Eaton, producer and Mario Furloni, director's "First Friday," Ryan Murdock's "Bronx Obama," and Kevin Gordon's "True Son." We close with a prerecorded interview with director, Chris Mason Johnson, "Test." Test opens theatrically in the Bay Area June 6, 2014. Music: Amikaeyla's Hambone and Dreamer; Meklit Hadero's "Call" and Meklit and Quinn's "This Must Be the Place."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Rafiki Wellness w/Nicholas Bearde;First Edition Encore

Fri, 30 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Our first guest is Joy Elan, poet, writer, activist, from Oakland and Berkeley, CA. She received her undergraduate degree in African American Studies at UC Berkeley and her graduate degree in Education at Stanford University. She has taught at a community college and is currently working with urban youth in the San Francisco Bay Area. http://joyelan.webs.com/ Next we speak to Nicholas Bearde, singer, and Perry L. Lang, Executive Director of Black Coalition on AIDS and Rafiki Wellness about their collaboration this Sunday, June 1, in a new concert series at Rafiki Wellness Center, 601 Cesar Chavez Street, San Francisco, 415-615-9945, http://www.bcoa.org/ and http://www.nicolasbearde.com/ Julia Chigamba and DeLisa Branch-Nealy join us for an encore conversation about Chinyakare's recent performance in Washington DC and the company's upcoming show next week, June, 7, 2014, 9 p.m., at Ashkanaz Music and Dance Center in Berkeley. http://www.chinyakare.com/ We close with First Edition lead musician Damu Sudii Alii and his son, Jabari Alii, featured guest this weekend at an encore performance at thr 57th Street Gallery in Oakland, Sat., May 31, 2014, 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Tickets $15. https://www.facebook.com/FirstEditionTrio and http://www.57thstreetgallery.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 28 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

About the Author and Playwright: Beresford McLean was born in western St. Mary, Jamaica. He attended and taught high school in Kingston. In 1970 McLean emigrated to the United States where he studied physics and subsequently worked in engineering. His current focus is writing. Broken Gourds, his first inspirational folklore, was published to great acclaim in 2003. His second novel, Providence Pond, came three years later. McLean’s third novel, Fish Hook River will be published in the spring of 2015. Beresford McLean’s foray into playwriting is his short play, First Snow. His first full length play The Good Villain will be released in fall 2014. His other unpublished works include Ode to Mali,Walking with Anancy - Book 1 (Jamaica), and Walking with Anancy Book - 2 (New York).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Carnaval in the SFBay

Fri, 23 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Guests: Jubilith Moore, Director & Eugenie Chan, Dramaturg, about Chiori Miyagawa's world premiere, This Lingering Life at Theatre of Yugen in San Francisco at Z Space, 450 Florida Street, June 5-14, 2014. www.theatreofyugen.org Dana Ben-Ari, dir., speaks about Breastmilk, opening at The Roxie 5/23 & The New Parkway in Oakland, breastmilkthemovie.comLaurinda D. Brown, playwright and author's Walk Like a Man, dir, by John Fisher,opens at Theatre Rhinoceros May 28-June 15, 2014,at The Costume Shop in SF., www.therhino.org. We close with a conversation with Queen Regina Califa-Calloway about the 36th Annual SF Carnaval Celebration: May 23rd -25th, www.carnavalsf.com, with free events beginning this evening (5/23) at the DeYoung Museum. Brazilian Nights with SambaDA, 3 p.m. (5/24) on the Carnaval Stage (Harrison at 17th); Oakland Carnival (5/26): Memorial Day-Mosswood Park, MacArthur and Broadway, 10:30a-6:00p. Call Send SMS Add to Skype You'll need Skype CreditFree via Skype

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Liberation Day

Wed, 21 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The Expulsion of MX;Pen/man/ship;SFGreenFilmFest

Fri, 16 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Michael Lange (director and actor, role: Hon. Elijah Muhammad) and Kreshenda Jenkins (Sister Betty X) join us to talk about Larry "Americ" Allen's The Expulsion of Malcolm X, opening March 23 at Laney College in Oakland. Michael Lange, actor, director and filmmaker, is best known for his portrayal as a Malcolm X delineator, having performed the fiery freedom fighter and orator’s speeches nationally on stage since early 1990. He has directed two award-winning plays, ‘Ceremonies in Dark Old Men’ (Best Play Award) and ‘The Old Settler’ (Best Director). As a playwright, he wrote the play ‘Prophet Nat’, a musical docudrama based on the life of slave-prophet Nat turner. Currently, he is on the faculty at San Jose State University, where he has taught since 1998. Lange continues to write and perform for stage and film, and lives in Oakland, California. Kreshenda Jenkins (Sister Betty X), a thespian at heart, has always had a passion for performing arts. She started acting on stage at the age of 15 and although she took a hiatus for some time she is back and ready to play her role as “Betty X” for a second time. We close with a conversation with Rachel Caplan, Founder & Executive Director of the San Francisco Green Film Festival and Bill Morrison, director, The Great Flood, USA, 2013, 80 min, screens Sunday, June 1, at The Little Roxie and Leah Mahan, director, and Derrick Christopher Evans, subject in the film, Come Hell or High Water: The Battle for Turkey Creek, USA, 2013, 56 min., screens Saturday, May 31, at the Roxie Theatre, followed by a panel discussion.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: From the Archives May 2, 2014

Wed, 14 May 2014 19:00:00 +0000

We open the show with an interview with artist, scholar, Jeramy DeCristo whose Document/in the hold opens this evening, May 2, the exhibit up through May 30, with an artist talk Friday, May 16, 2014, at Siete Potencias Africanas Gallery, 777 O'Farrell Street, San Francisco. (415) 323-9 We shift next into a true freedom story as told by Zenobia Powell Perry, in the African America folk opera Tawawa House at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, CA May 2 and May 4, 2014: http://townsendopera.com We close with an interview with Michael Asberry, understudy for the role of Gabriel in Marin Theatre Company's production of August Wilson's Fences. CallSend SMSAdd to SkypeYou'll need Skype CreditFree via Skype

From the Archives May 2, 2014

Tue, 13 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

We open the show with an interview with artist, scholar, Jeramy DeCristo whose Document/in the hold opens this evening, May 2, the exhibit up through May 30, with an artist talk Friday, May 16, 2014, at Siete Potencias Africanas Gallery, 777 O'Farrell Street, San Francisco (415) 323-940415-323-9406. We shift next into a true freedom story as told by Zenobia Powell Perry, in the African America folk opera Tawawa House at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, CA May 2 and May 4, 2014: http://townsendopera.com We close with an interview with Michael Asberry, understudy for the role of Gabriel in Marin Theatre Company's production of August Wilson's Fences.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Incarcerated Mother's Day Special

Fri, 09 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Ramona Africa

Wed, 07 May 2014 14:00:00 +0000

This morning we speak to Ramona Africa, Spokeperson for MOVE about her recent visit to San Francisco Bay Area as a part of the Welcome Home Lynne Stewart, the People's Attorney, May 2-4, 2014. She speaks about the MOVE 9 and the anniversary of the MOVE residence, May 13, 1985 where everyone was killed except Ramona and a child, the late Birdie Africa. On Saturday, May 10, 2014, there will be a Screening of “Let the Fire Burn” at the Rotunda at 40th & Walnut, Philadelphia. Visit http://onamove.com/ On May 13, 1985, by order of local Philadelphia authorities, police dropped military-grade explosives onto a MOVE-occupied rowhouse killing 11 people (including five babies). Watch a new documentary about the event and the struggles to bring Philadelphia officials to justice and free the adult survivors–who are still in jail after 36 years, while their attempted murderers walk free! We close with an interview from the archives with Ericka Huggins about The Black Power Mixtape film.

Wanda's Picks: Black Folk Opera: Tawawa Hse.@Townsend Opera,Modesto,CA

Fri, 02 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We have a really full program; make certain to listen to the archived program which features a special interview and update with spokesperson for MOVE, Ramona Africa. I speak to Ms. Africa the evening before she and Pam Africa get on the plane to visit the Bay Area for the Celebration of Life & Struggle and Welcome Home for Lynn Stewart this weekend in the San Francisco Bay Area, May 2-4, 2014: http://www.worldcantwait.net/index.php/calls-to-action/8513-lynne-stewart-people-s-attorney-speaking-events-in-bay-area We open the show with an interview with artist, scholar, Jeramy DeCristo whose Document/in the hold opens this evening, May 2, the exhibit up through May 30, with an artist talk next week, May 16, 2014, at Siete Potencias Africanas Gallery, 777 O'Farrell Street, San Francisco (415) 323-9406. We shift next into a true freedom story as told by Zenobia Powell Perry, in the opera Tawawa House. We happily welcome into the studio members of the cast: Shawnette Sulker (soprano, as Fanny) & Barry L. Robinson (baritone, as Jake); Janis-Rozena Perry, Zenobia Powell Perry's daughter; Jeannie Pool, the arranger, orchestrator and biographer; and Matthew Buckman, General Director of Townsend Opera to talk about the world premiere of Zenobia Powell Perry’s African American folk opera Tawawa House at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto, CA this weekend, tonight, Friday, May 2 and Sunday, May 4, 2014: http://townsendopera.com/blog/2014/04/03/townsend-opera-announces-cast-tawawa-house/ We close with an interview with Michael Asberry, understudy for the role of Gabriel in Marin Theatre Company's production of August Wilson's Fences, performs this role Sunday, May 4, at 2 and 7 p.m. Visit http://www.marintheatre.org/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:M.L.Vercambre Water for Life & Peace;Shipyard Artists

Wed, 30 Apr 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African American Shakes

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 15:00:00 +0000

1. David Minkus, Ph.D., Graduate Fellows Training Program Coordinator, has been a Research Associate and Coordinator of the Graduate Fellows training program at the Institute for the Study of Social Change, now now the Institute for the Study of Societal Issues) for more than three decades. He joins us with Teresa Córdova, Ph.D., now Director of Great Cities Institute and Professor of Urban Planning and Policy at University of Illinois at Chicago to talk about Breaking Barriers, Building Community: 35 Years of Training Social Change Scholars, Friday, May 2nd, 8:30am-4:30pm. at the Alumnae Hall, 2537 Haste St. (between Telegraph Ave. and Bowditch St.). They speak about the relevance of the academy to achieving social justice then and now. The conference is free. Register by April 27, 2014, and get a free lunch: http://crsc.berkeley.edu/conference 2. Joyce Jenkins is editor of Poetry Flash, Literary Review & Calendar for the West (Poetryflash.org), presenter of the Poetry Flash reading series at Moe’s Books (Berkeley) and Diesel, A Bookstore (Oakland), Watershed Environmental Poetry Festival, and the Northern California Book Awards. She is chair of Northern California Book Reviewers, a volunteer association which has its 33rd Annual Northern California Book Awards this Sunday, April 27, 2014, at the San Francisco Main Library on Larkin Street, 1-2:30; 2:30-4:00 p.m. The event is free. For more information on the awards visit www.poetryflash.org or 510/525-5476. 3. African American Shakespeare Company presents Much Ado About Nothing: L. Peter Calendar, Director; Leontyne Mbele-Mbong as Beatrice, Ryan Vincent Anderson as Benedick. www.african-americanshakes.org .

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Nat'l Vegetarian Week

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 14:00:00 +0000

We open with a conversation with Jasmine Heiss, Senior Campaigner with Amnesty International USA's Individuals and Communities at Risk program. She advocates on behalf of the prisoners of conscience, human rights defenders, communities and other individuals who are at the heart of Amnesty International's work. She is lead on AIUSA's work on behalf of the Angola 3: http://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=6oJCLQPAJiJUG&b=6645049&aid=520358 We then shift to a matter dear to all our hearts, food, healthy food choices this Vegetraian Week in Alameda County. We speak to Veg Week and Meatless Monday Founder, Kristie Middleton, food policy manager for The Humane Society of the United States and the founder of Oakland Veg. She has successfully worked with dozens of corporations, hospitals, and other institutions to improve the plight of farm animals through humane-minded purchasing programs, and has worked with some of the nation’s largest school districts, including Los Angeles Unified School District, Detroit Public Schools, and Broward County Schools, to implement Meatless Monday. Her work has been covered by national media, including The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and CNN. She is joined by Krystil Smith, Food Policy Coordinator at the Humane Society of the United States. She works closely with food and nutrition professionals across the nation to implement Meatless Monday and other healthy, sustainable and humane eating initiatives. She specializes in sustainable food solutions, particularly the environmental impact of modern agricultural practices and food systems. She holds a Juris Doctor and a Masters of Environmental Law &Policy from Vermont Law School.Music:The Angola Project:Amazing Grace, Rise&Fly, No More My Lawd;Fela'sNoMoreWater

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Good Friday

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Dan Hoyle joins us to talk about his new play, written in collaboration with Tony Taccone, Game On, directed by Rick Lombardo, at San Jose Rep through April 19, 2014. https://www.sjrep.com/ Bonnie Boswell joins us via the archives (2012) to talk about The Power Broker: Whitney Young's Fight for Civil Rightshttp://www.pbs.org/independentlens/powerbroker/Carl Lumbly joins us to talk about August Wilson's Fences, directed by Derrick Sanders which opens at Marin Theatre Company April 10, tonight and continues through May 11 (after multiple extensions). www.marintheatre.org 415-388-5208. We close with a conversation about opera and musical theatre with Dr. Lynne Morrow, Musical Director, Oakland Symphony Chorus, conducting Handel's Messiah, this weekend, April 13, 2014, 5:30 p.m.at Cathedral of Christ The Light, Oakland oaklandsymphonychorus.org; joining her are Kelly Gregg (producer) and Sammi Cannold (director) of the Immersive Production of Les Miserables at Stanford University, April 11-12; 17-19 8 p.m. in the University's Memorial Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. http://musical.stanford.edu/tickets.htmlMusic: Anthony Brown's AfroAsian Orchestra's Afro Blue; Abraham Burton's Nebulai.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Dr.Lynne Morrow conducts Handel's OEBS Chorus's Messiah

Fri, 11 Apr 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Dan Hoyle joins us to talk about his new play, written in collabiration with Tony Taccone, Game On, directed by Rick Lombardo, at San Jose Rep through April 19, 2014. https://www.sjrep.com/ Bonnie Boswell joins us via the archives (2012) to talk about The Power Broker: Whitney Young's Fight for Civil Rightshttp://www.pbs.org/independentlens/powerbroker/ Carl Lumbly joins us to talk about August Wilson's Fences, directed by Derrick Sanders which opens at Marin Theatre Company April 10, tonight and continues through May 11 (after multiple extensions). www.marintheatre.org 415-388-5208. We close with a conversation about opera and musical theatre with Dr. Lynne Morrow, Musical Director, Oakland Symphony Chorus, conducting Handel's Messiah, this weekend, April 13, 2014, 5:30 p.m.at Cathedral of Christ The Light, Oakland oaklandsymphonychorus.org; joining her are Kelly Gregg (producer) and Sammi Cannold (director) of the Immersive Production of Les Miserables at Stanford University, April 11-12; 17-19 8 p.m. in the University's Memorial Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. http://musical.stanford.edu/tickets.html Music: Anthony Brown's AfroAsian Orchestra's Afro Blue; Abraham Burton's Nebulai.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Alrick Brown, dir.:Kinyarwanda

Wed, 09 Apr 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Today we honor the lives of the 1 million Rwanda's killed 20 years ago with a rebroadcast of director, Alrick Brown's Kinyarwanda (recorded April 2012). We conclude with an interview with the wonderful artist and humanitarian, Della Reese of Touched by an Angel fame (recorded February 2012). Music: Meklit & Quinn "Tunnels," Thao & the Get Down Stay Down "Human Heart," The Pyramids "They Came from Chicago," Nawal "Hima," Dwight Trible "Little Africa," Donald "Duck" Bailey "Gone Now."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Jazz Heroes Awardee Ms. Faye Carol

Fri, 04 Apr 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today we feature the director and founder of the Oakland International Film Festival, April 3-6, 2014 in multiple venues -- www.filmoakland.com (510) 238-4734, and the kick off of the www.1stSaturdays.com initiative. Williams Rhodes joins us to talk about his latest initiative, The Nelson Mandela Quilt Project, and an Art Open House fundraiser this weekend, Sunday, Apr. 6, 2014. The mission of the project is to create an international exchange – facilitating a dialogue between students of the Bayview Opera House in San Francisco and South Africa. Visit http://www.hatchfund.org/project/the_nelson_mandela_international_quilt We close with a conversation with Ms. Faye Carol who is recipient of the Jazz Hero Award from the Jazz Journalists Association. James Knox, nationally recognized jazz journalist and photographer joins her to talk about the award and the ceremony April 12, 2014, 1-3 p.m. at Yoshis in Oakland, California. Music: boukman eksperyans Gran Bwaile (A Vodou Spirit) & Mandingue Drumming. We close with Ms. Faye Carol's Strange Fruit, A Pyramids Mix and a reprise of Gran Bwaile (A Vodou Spirit).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Cultural Odyssey@35

Wed, 02 Apr 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Today we rebroadcast Friday, March 28, 2014: We celebrate with Founder and Artistic Directorof Cultural Odyssey 35th Year Celebration Apr. 3-5, 2014,Idris Ackamoor & Rhodessa Jones. Mr. Ackamoor is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, tap dancer, actor, director and producer. He is the founder and Executive/Co-Artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey. Idris curates and produces the Cultural Odyssey Performance Festival, and also records and tours with his acclaimed jazz ensemble. http://www.culturaloydssey Ms. Jones is an actress, dancer, singer, writer, and teacher, Ms. Jones is Co-artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey and Founder/Director of the Medea Project: Theater for Incarcerated Women. Rhodessa tours her performances and speaks to "Theater for the 21st Century: art which precipitates community transformation.Lyrika Holmes joins us as featured artist at the 35th Anniversary gala. Ms. Holmes is an International performing artist "Lyrika Holmes" is an African-American recording artist, singer, harpist, songwriter and teacher. Lyrika was born and raised by her parents in St. Louis, MO. Lyrika started playing the piano at the age of 5. In junior high her parents encouraged her to step out of the box, and play something different, this is when she made the switch to harp. Since that day, Lyrika has been showing us just how hot the harp can be. We close with Joanna Haigood, Artistic Director and co-founder of Zaccho Performance Dance Company about Dying While Black and Brown, a performance and panel discussion Friday-Saturday, April 4-5, 2014. Friday evening at 8 (the panel follows) and Saturday at 2 p.m.(performance) at Zaccho Studios, 1777 Yosemite Ave #330, in San Francisco's Bayview Hunter's Point. Visit www.zaccho.org We are also joined by dancers Antoine Hunter and Travis Santell Rowland.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Cultural Odyssey @ 35!

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We celebrate with Founder and Artistic Directorof Cultural Odyssey 35th Year Celebration Apr. 3-5, 2014,Idris Ackamoor & Rhodessa Jones. Mr. Ackamoor is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, tapdancer, actor, director and producer. He is the founder and Executive/Co-Artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey. Idris curates and produces the Cultural Odyssey Performance Festival, and also records and tours with his acclaimed jazz ensemble. Ms. Jones is an actress, dancer, singer, writer, and teacher, Ms. Jones is Co-artistic Director of Cultural Odyssey and Founder/Director of the Medea Project: Theater for Incarcerated Women. Rhodessa tours her performances and speaks to "Theater for the 21st Century: art which precipitates community transformation.Lyrika Holmes joins us as featured artist at the 35th Anniversary gala. Ms. Holmes is an International performing artist "Lyrika Holmes" is an African-American recording artist, singer, harpist, songwriter and teacher. Lyrika was born and raised by her parents in St. Louis, MO. Lyrika started playing the piano at the age of 5. In junior high her parents encouraged her to step out of the box, and play something different, this is when she made the switch to harp. Since that day, Lyrika has been showing us just how hot the harp can be. We close with Joanna Haigood, Artistic Director and co-founder of Zaccho Performance Dance Company about Dying While Black and Brown, a performance and panel discussion Friday-Saturday, April 4-5, 2014. Friday evening at 8 (the panel follows) and Saturday at 2 p.m.(performance) at Zaccho Studios in San Francisco Bayview Hunter's Point. We are also joined by dancers Antoine Hunter and Travis Santell Rowland.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 14:00:00 +0000

From March 13, 2014: Michael Morgan, current Music Director of the Oakland East Bay Symphony and the Sacramento Philharmonic, joins us to talk about OEBS's latest world-wandering chapter in their innovative and popular series exploring symphonic music from various world cultures with Notes from India 3/28, at 8 pm at the Paramount Theatre, Oakland, CA, which includes the world premiere of Where Shadow Chases Light, a new work by young Indian composer Juhi Bansal in her OEBS debut. Rev. Edward Pinkney from Benton Harbor, Michigan, founder of the Black Autonomy Network Community Outreach (BANCO), joins us to talk about his work to defend the poor against corporate power, and to reform the court system in Benton Harbor, a town with 70% unemployment and more people in prison per capita than anywhere in the world. He returns to CA for two events, in Los Angeles, Mar. 15, 5-8 p.m. on "Confronting corporate power and the police state." at the Southern California Public Library, 6120 Vermont, with Laura Garcia, editor of the Tribuno Del Pueblo; Sunday, Mar. 16, he will be at the African American Center, 5 p.m., at Sixth & Julian St. in San Jose. Visit http://www.peoplestribune.org/bh/bh.shtml. Aisha Brown, Chair of the 16th Annual Madame CJ Walker Awards Luncheon, Friday, March 14 closes the show. Visit http://www.eventbrite.com/e/16th-annual-madam-cj-walker-business-community-awards-luncheon-tickets-9754256243 Music: From Fela, the Musical, "Water, No Get Enemy" and Gina Breedlove's "The Language of Light."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast World Water Day

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 12:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: World Water Day & Jazz

Thu, 20 Mar 2014 15:00:00 +0000

We will open with Damu Sudi Alii and Jabari Alii, featured artist with First Edition which is performing Sat., March 22, 2014, 8:30 p.m. at the 57th Street Gallery in Oakland. See https://www.facebook.com/FirstEditionTrio/info At 8:30 Danny Nguyen joins us to talk about World Water Day and his composition, “DANCE THE BLEU”, the College of Alameda's Dance Department and Nguyen Dance Company performance, co-sponsored by Oakland Sister Cities International Da Nang, Saturday March 22nd, 7pm. Free Admission in the College of Alameda Dance Studio, G-111. See http://alameda.peralta.edu/danny-nguyen/ At 9 a.m. Scottish playwright Linda McLean joins us to talk about Every Five Minutes which is going up at the Magic Theatre next week 3/26-4/20/2014. See http://www.aoiagency.com/2010/11/mclean-linda/We close at 9:30 a.m. with an interview with Yeye Luisah Teish who will tell us about the Moisture, The Water Cycle Continues. . . A Ritual Theatre Performance, 7-9 p.m. at La Pena Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Avenue, in Berkeley, Sunday, March 23, 2014, (510) 849-2568. Visit http://lapena.org/event/moisture-the-water-cycle-continues-2/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: My Dear Boy, Carrie Hughes's Letters toLangston Hughes

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Dr. Carmaletta M. Williams, professor of English and African American studies at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, Kan., author of Langston Hughes in the Classroom: “Do Nothin’ till You Hear from Me” and Of Two Spirits: American Indian and African American Oral Histories and Dr. John Edgar Tidwell, professor of English at the University of Kansas and author of Montage of a Dream: The Art and Life of Langston Hughes, After Winter: The Art and Life of Sterling A. Brown, and Writings of Frank Marshall Davis: A Voice of the Black Press, join us to talk about My Dear Boy, Carrie Hughes's Letters to Langston Hughes 1926-1938http://news.ku.edu/2014/02/24/project-examines-how-letters-langston-hughes-mother-influenced-his-writings. We close the show with frequent guest Raissa Simpson, choreographer, master teacher and Artistic Director of PUSH Dance Company's premiere of "Point Shipyard," March 29-30, 2014 at MoAD-SF. She is joined by collaborators and performers: Katie Wong and Adriann Ramirez www.pushdance.org Music: Dwight Tribble's "I've Known Rivers" (based on Langston Hughes's poem by same title); soundscape from PUSH Dance Company's collaboration with the 3rd Street Youth Center & Clinic.

Wanda's Picks Radio:Mama C; Barbara Borden&David L. Brown Keeper of the Beat

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Charlotte Hill O'Neal, visual and spoken word artist, musician, filmmaker, long time community activist and co Director of United African Alliance Community Center UAACC based in Tanzania, East Africa, stops by the studio on her Heal the Community Tour 2014. Since we last spoke she has a new CD, a new collection of poetry and a new film. See http://mamacharlottesword2011.wordpress.com/ Tyrone Davis is a Los Angeles based actor, director, teaching artist, TCG Leadership U Grant Finalist (2012) and Resident Education Artist with American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. He proudly serves as an adjunct drama professor at Contra Costa College, where he is now directing Suzan Lori-Parks's In the Blood through this weekend. Keeper of the Beat : A Woman’s Journey into the Heart of Drumming is an hour-long documentary in which Barbara Borden, an acclaimed drummer, composer and teacher tells her story in eloquent words and toe-tapping music. Filmed on four continents, the film is produced and directed by three-time Emmy Award-winner, David L. Brown. We are so happy to have both Barbara and David in the studio with us this morning to talk about this wonderful journey and a special screening next Saturday, March 22 in San Francisco.See http://www.kobmovie.com/ We close with an interview with Raphael Russier, company member of Companhia Urbana de Danca from Rio de Janiero, Brazil at YBCA tonight & tomorrow night. We close with a rebroadcast of the interview Wed., with activists Colette Winlock, Lola Hanif and Lady Sunrise. They are speaking about Fracking and why Oaklanders should get on the bus for Sacramento Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: Maestro Michael Morgan OEBS

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Michael Morgan, current Music Director of the Oakland East Bay Symphony and the Sacramento Philharmonic, joins us to talk about OEBS's latest world-wandering chapter in their innovative and popular series exploring symphonic music from various world cultures with Notes from India 3/28, at 8 pm at the Paramount Theatre, Oakland, CA, which includes the world premiere of Where Shadow Chases Light, a new work by young Indian composer Juhi Bansal in her OEBS debut.Rev. Edward Pinkney from Benton Harbor, Michigan, founder of the Black Autonomy Network Community Outreach (BANCO), joins us to talk about his work to defend the poor against corporate power, and to reform the court system in Benton Harbor, a town with 70% unemployment and more people in prison per capita than anywhere in the world. He returns to CA for two events, in Los Angeles, Mar. 15, 5-8 p.m. on "Confronting corporate power and the police state." at the Southern California Public Library, 6120 Vermont, with Laura Garcia, editor of the Tribuno Del Pueblo; Sunday, Mar. 16, he will be at the African American Center, 5 p.m., at Sixth & Julian St. in San Jose. Visit http://www.peoplestribune.org/bh/bh.shtml. Aisha Brown, Chair of the 16th Annual Madame CJ Walker Awards Luncheon, Friday, March 14 closes the show. Visit http://www.eventbrite.com/e/16th-annual-madam-cj-walker-business-community-awards-luncheon-tickets-9754256243 Music: From Fela, the Musical, "Water, No Get Enemy" and Gina Breedlove's "The Language of Light."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Get on the Bus to Stop Fracking

Wed, 12 Mar 2014 14:30:00 +0000

Colette Winlock, Lola Hanif and Lady Sunrise join us this morning to talk about hydraulic fracturing, the process of breaking up shale underneath the Earth's surface to extract natural gas supplies where a series of holes are drilled into the ground which are then pumped with a water/chemical mix which then forces the natural gas out through the fissures in the shale into previously-built wells for extraction. A.k.a. FRACKING, the impact on human beings, let alone the planet is not known, However, there are recorded medical instances of illness associated with fracking and numerous earthquakes (109) in places like Youngtown, Ohio which sits on the Marcelles Shale where there is no record of such since 1776. Saturday, March 15, 2014 there is a huge demonstration in Sacramento against “fracking”. Health and Human Resource Education Center and Sacred Space Spiritual Support Group have organized a bus for Black folks in Oakland to show their outrage at the total disregard for humanity, Mother Earth, and life itself! This is an opportunity to come together and take a stand. “GET ON THE BUS” this Saturday. The drill sites are being placed in black neighborhoods. There are only 55 seats available on the bus. Please bring family and friends. Don't forget the children. The cost is only a donation ($1 or more). The bus leaves from Acorn Shopping Center (7th and Market in West Oakland) at 9:30 am and returns from Sacramento at 7:30 pm. Please RSVP (510) 834-5990 or colette.winlock@gmail.com Watch: http://youtu.be/omPIWpAwNag Music: Sweet Honey in the Rock: Battered Earth, Greed; WolfHawkJacquer's Every Breath of Life; Babatunde Lea's African Tapestry (Prayer for a Continent). We close with an archival interview with Aisha Brown re: African Americans Making Connections II.

Wanda's Picks: Diamano Coura; Julia Jackson, African American Shakes

Fri, 07 Mar 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Diamano Courais in its 19th year presenting Collage des Cultures Africaines Dance and Drum Concert, March 5-9 in Oakland.Dr. Zakarya S. Diouf the company's Founder and Directorand Naomi Gedo Diouf,Artistic Director, with Dr. Esalima Diouf, doc. filmmaker, and Nimely Napla, guest choreographer join us to talk about this 4-day cultural tour of the Pan African Disapora in Oakland at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts (all classes) with the performance March 8, 2014 (6 doors for African Marketplace; 8 show) at Oakland Tehnical High School. http://www.diamanocoura.org/upcoming-events.htmlJulia Jackson (actor/writer) joins us to talk about her latest show, "Children are Forever (All Sales are Final!)”, at Stage Werx Theatre, 446 Valencia, in San Francisco, Friday-Sat., 8 p.m. Directed by Coke Nakamoto now, the play was developed with original direction in W. Kamau Bell's solo performance workshop a number of years ago. The professional comedian has performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and was a semi-finalist at the San Francisco International Comedy Competition in 2007. www.juliajackson.comLeontyne Mbele-Mbong (Medea) and Dawn Monique Williams (Director) join us to talk about African-American Shakespeare Company's presentation ofMEDEA, Euripides’ tragic tale of Love, Betrayal, and Vengeance, March 8-30, 2014. For tickets visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/531366

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Robert H. King, Free Angola 3

Wed, 05 Mar 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today we look at the US Prison Industrial Complex and its use of solitary confinement. We focus in the first hour on the case of the Angola 3 and Robert H. King, celebrated Humanitarian, Author, Activist and Doctor of Letters, who is the only free member of A3 with the death of Herman Wallace late last year, freed after 42 years in solitary confinement. Albert Woodfox remains inside and Tuesday, March 3, was the launch of Amnesty International's Campaign to free him http://blog.amnestyusa.org/tag/angola-3/ Dr. Angela A. Allen-Bell, Assistant Professor of Legal Analysis & Writing at Southern University Law Center, Baton Rouge, joins us to speak about her paper: Reassessing Solitary Confinement II: The Human Rights, Fiscal, and Public Safety Consequences, Hearing Before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Human Rights -Written Testimony (Feb. 25, 2014). Esther A. Vicente joins us to talk about Caribbean Basin Institute for Education and Culture which is hosting a fundraiser March 6. We close with a prerecorded interview with actresses: Lizan Mitchell, Petronia Paley and Harriett D. Foy about their roles in Marcus Gardley's "The House that Will Not Stand," at Berkeley Rep through March 23, 2014. www.berkeleyrep.org Music: Kim Nalley, "I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free," "Mira Como Te Qui," Avery Sharpe, "Son of Mine (from Ain't I a Woman).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Morehouse College President Dr. Wilson

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Guests: Robert Moses,Choreographer And Founder/artistic Director, Robert Moses’ Kin speaks about his collaboration with Black Choreographers Festival Here and Now, Mar. 6-8, Draft/By Series; Auntie Frances Moore speaks about her third annual program at the 61st & Adeline--Triangular Park in Oakland, March 23, 1-5 p.m.; Emily Pilloton, Designer, Activist, Founder of Proj. H Design; subject in, If You Build It, dir. Patrick Credon; Dr. John Silvanus Wilson Jr., President of Morehouse College speaks about interrupting or dismantaling the Cradle to Prison Pipeline for African American Men: As an advocate for the intrinsic value of education for all, Dr. Wilson Jr. has dedicated more than 25 years to the advancement of socially conscious and purposeful education; student success; and the good that comes from a college education. As a scholar, an educator, a consultant, a strategist and a fundraiser, he has moved universities and organizations forward with his efforts and vision. In January 2013, Dr. Wilson took office as the 11th president of Morehouse College, the nations’ only private, liberal arts institution dedicated to the education of African American males. Prior to that position, Dr. Wilson was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve as the executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a position he held since 2009. He attended Morehouse College, the alma mater of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1979. Dr. Wilson continued his education at Harvard University, where he earned two master’s degrees in theological studies and education, as well as a doctorate in education, with a focus on administration, planning and social policy.

Wanda’s Picks 12 February 2014 Rebroadcast

Wed, 26 Feb 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Maria Moore's sister Kayla Moore was killed by Berkeley police one year ago today at the Gaia Building in Berkeley where Kayla lived at the time of her death. A vigil and speak-out are planned this afternoon and evening to commemorate this tragic injustice. Kayla Moore was a transgender woman of color living with schizophrenia who died when Berkeley police entered her apartment in response to a crisis call and forcefully attempted to arrest her on what they knew to be a false warrant. Maria Moore was born and raised in Berkeley, with her sister Kayla (Xavier) and their father. The women grew up on Dohr St, with their grandparents who lived across the street. Maria just turned 40, and Kayla would have been 42 this year. Kayla had been suffering from mental illness at a very young age, and Maria and her father tried their best to protect her. Currently Maria lives in Oakland, with her boyfriend and daughter. The photos are of Kayla is holding her niece. Info: Berkeley Copwatch at 510-548-0425 or www.berkeleycopwatch.org We open with an interview with Margaret Avery, Academy nominated actress for her role as "Shug" in Speilberg's The Color Purple. She was here @ the Castro Theatre in San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Brazil Fulbright Project

Fri, 21 Feb 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Dr. Siri Brown, Ache Lytle & Mama Naomi Diouf join us to talk about a recent grant the Department of African American Studies at Merritt College received which took them and other educators to Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. There is a reportback tomorrow at Merritt College 10-12 where the educators will share curriculum developed during the intensive month long Fulbright project which looked at, Culture as Power: Teaching Afro-Brazilian History, Politics, and Culture--A Curriculum Development Project for Community College and High School Educators. The project reflects African American Studies’ deep-seated commitment to providing access to a global Pan African education for undeserved, students of color and it offers educators opportunity for professional and curriculum development and consisted of educators. Visit www.merrittafram.com Dr. Eugene B. Redmond, Poet Laureate of East St. Louis, Illinois (ESLI); Emeritus Professor of English, Founding Editor of Drumvoices Revue, and former Chairman of Creative Writing Committee at Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, joins us from ESLI, to talk about the Black Arts Movement at almost 50 years and Malcolm X on the anniversary of his killing in 1965. Visit http://eugenebredmond.com/home/biography/ We close with a conversation about healing with Sister Omitola Akinwunmi, KuumbaKreates, Life By Divine Design - Azikiwe Health. She is a clinician who has completed Level 2 Kemetic Reiki which is being offered once again this weekend by Kajara Nia Yaa Nebthet who arrives this evening for a book talk at Wose House of Amen Ra, http://wosecommunity.org/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Is Orange the New Black --CA Women Prisoners

Wed, 19 Feb 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to prisoner rights organizers Misty Rojo and Samantha Rogers about Justice Now and the California Coalition for Women Prisoners community event Sunday, February 23, 2014, 3-5 p.m., "Is Orange the New Black," with Piper Kerman, activist and author of Orange is the New Black. Joining Piper on the panel are our two guests this morning along with other activists. The panel will be moderated by Shanelle Matthews of ACLU of Northern California. The event is at the Humanist Hall, 390 27th Street, Oakland: http://womenprisoners.org/ We conclude our show with a conversation with The Black Arts Movement & Its Influences conference Feb. 28-Mar. 2, at UC Merced, organizer Kim McMillon and presenter Genny Lim: http://ucmercedbamconference2014.com/ & http://blackbirdpressnews.blogspot.com/2013/09/call-for-papers-university-of.html Music: WolfHawkJaquer's "Cowrie Shell," Eddie Gale's "African Sunrise" featuring Destiny Muhammad on harp; Dwight Tribble's "Little Africa," closing with Billy Harper's "Knowlege of Self" featuring Amiri Baraka.

Wanda's Picks Special: Tania Santiago's Aguas Dance Company

Sat, 15 Feb 2014 18:30:00 +0000

TANIA SANTIAGO, the Artistic Director of Aguas Dance Company in "Movendo com Capoeira" Friday-Sat., Feb. 14-15 at 8pm and Sun., Feb 16 at 7pm. Born and raised in Salvador, Bahia, Tania Santiago grew up in the heart of African Brazil. In Brazil she has taught, danced, and choreographed for many well-known companies including Olodum, an arts group famous for its Carnaval parade performances and credited with developing the music style known as samba reggae. While her specialties are folkloric and contemporary Afro-Brazilian dance, Santiago is also conversant in jazz, ballet, West African, Afro-Cuban and modern dance forms. Santiago has resided in California since 1997, and has taught packed classes regularly at ODC School & Rhythm and Motion Dance Program since 2005. In 2001, Santiago received a three-year grant from the California Arts Council to teach young people throughout the San Francisco Unified School District. In addition, Santiago performs with her own company Aguas (formerly known as Aguas da Bahia), the Ramon Alayo Dance Company, and Deep Waters Dance Company. Santiago's choreography has also been performed by many local groups including Loco Bloco, Axe Abada, Kuumba, Quimbanda Grupo Carnavalesco, and Abada Capoeira. Each year in San Francisco, Santiago teaches a performance workshop in the Bahian Carnaval tradition. The workshop culminates in the annual Carnaval parade in May. Santiago also leads annual dance intensives in Salvador, Bahia as part of her cross-cultural work. Tickets available on line for $23 and at the door for $27 @ http://www.odcdance.org (415) 863-9834.

Wanda's Picks Radio: 1 Billion Rising; Nora Chipaumire's Miriam;Larry Douglas

Fri, 14 Feb 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Today we speak about violence against women and the need to address this in forums like 1 Billion Rising in Oakland tonight and Love Doesn't Hurt, tomorrow afternoon, Friday & Saturday, Feb. 14 and 15, 2014. We are joined in the studio by amazing women creators and organizers: Luisah Teish, Mary Owen, Regina Y. Evans, Regina Jackson, Cheryl Chambers and Vanessa Scott. We open the show with an encore interview with actress and healer, Margaret Avery, Academy Award Nominee for her role as "Shug" in Spielberg's The Color Purple. She's in town as a special screening at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco. Next we have musician/composers Larry Douglas and Jorge Pineda on to talk Latin meets traditional Jazz re-arrangements at the 57th Street Gallery concert tomorrow, Sat., Feb. 15, 8:30 p.m. We close with an extended conversation with Nora Chipaumire's "Miriam," which opened last night at YBCA Forum for two more nights, tonight is an audience conversation following the hour long work. Presented by Black Choreographer's Festival: Here and Now, this work celebrates the tenth anniversary of a wonderful organization as it queries blackness and womaness and otherness as only a Chipaumire work can.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Justice for Kayla Moore

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 15:00:00 +0000

Maria Moore's sister Kayla Moore was killed by Berkeley police one year ago today at the Gaia Building in Berkeley where Kayla lived at the time of her death. A vigil and speak-out are planned this afternoon and evening to commemorate this tragic injustice. Kayla Moore was a transgender woman of color living with schizophrenia who died when Berkeley police entered her apartment in response to a crisis call and forcefully attempted to arrest her on what they knew to be a false warrant. Maria Moore was born and raised in Berkeley, with her sister Kayla (Xavier) and their father. Maria just turned 40, and Kayla would have been 42 this year. Kayla had been suffering from mental illness at a very young age, and Maria and her father tried their best to protect her. Currently Maria lives in Oakland, with her boyfriend and daughter. The photos are of Kayla is holding her niece. The Rally and Vigil are this evening Feb. 12, 2014, at 6 p.m. at the GAIA Building, 2116 Allston Way (above Shattuck). The Speak Out is at 7 p.m. at the Police Review Commission Meeting, South Berkeley Senior Center 2939 Ellis Street (off Ashby). Info: Berkeley Copwatch at 510-548-0425 www.berkeleycopwatch.org We open with an interview with Margaret Avery, Academy nominated actress for her role as "Shug" in Speilberg's The Color Purple screening 2/14, 7:30 p.m. in a special program @ the Castro Theatre in San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks: National Black AIDS Day 7 Feb. 2014

Fri, 07 Feb 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Today is National Black AIDS Day. Our first guest, Dr. Malcolm John, an expert in infectious diseases, is director of the UCSF HIV/AIDS Program at UCSF Medical Center, one of the most comprehensive HIV and AIDS treatment programs in the country. In addition to his work at UCSF, John is an HIV consultant at the Larkin Street Youth Center, SF. See http://blackaidsday.org/ http://nationalblackaidsday.org/ Charles Curtis Blackwell is a poet, playwright, and performance and visual artist. His exhibit THE ART OF CHARLES CURTIS BLACKWELL, African Roots of Jazz Art Exhibition is up February 10 - April 20. Sunday, February 23 is Mr. Blackwell's Artist Talk @ 2PM on the 3rd floor Meeting Room at the Main Library, 2090 Kittredge at Shattuck in downtown Berkeley, (510) 981-6241 www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org Bryant Bolling and Zakiyyah G.G. Capehart Bolling join us to talk about their evening of Creative Jazz mixed with spoken word poetry at 57th Street Gallery in Oakland, Feb. 8, 8-11 p.m. We close with an exended interview with Ms. Margaret Avery, Academy Award Nominee for her role of "Shug" in The Color Purple. She will be at San Francisco's Castro Theatre at 7:30 p.m. 2/14.

Wanda's Picks: William Rhodes, Souls of Water-Memories of the African Diaspora

Wed, 05 Feb 2014 15:00:00 +0000

This morning we will be speaking to visual artist William Rhodes, whose exhibit Souls of Water up at th San Francisco Main Library, African American Ctr., 3rd Fl., 100 Larkin Street, through tomorrow, Feb. 6, 2014, 415-557-4277. Rhodes says of his work that it "explores themes of hidden knowledge, iconographic imagery and forms and how they can change meaning in a given cultural context. Explorations into the contrast between these traditional cultures and our modern one have also added depth to the narrative quality to my work." He is a woodworker by trade, an artist by choice. I strive to blend fine craft, sculpture and design with meaning and function. My travels to Africa, Asia, and Central and South America have strongly influenced my work. The people, art and cultures of these societies have inspired me to consider non-traditional approaches to art and sculpture. In every work I choose to start with reclaimed wood as my structural material. I enjoy the process of carving wood into a variety of shapes and sizes. The process of carving drawers and hidden compartments into the wood allows me to incorporate my need for functionality. Each piece can stand on its own as a functional object yet it is art. Mirrors have always been important to my work. I realized how mirrors can draw the viewer directly into the work. Every individual reflection adds to the story of the art. As a child I often asks myself the question of how early Humans saw their reflection? I believed Water gave humans the ability to see themselves. I often think of how water moves and creates circular shapes when I design my sculptures. This organic fluidity is always a part of my wood carving process. We close with a rebraodcast of an interview first taped January 31 with Kendra Kimbrough-Barnes, Laura Elaine Ellis and Gregory Dawson about the 10th Annual Black Choreographers Festival Here and Now, 2/9-3/8/2014.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black Choreographers Festival Here and Now 2014

Fri, 31 Jan 2014 16:00:00 +0000

BCFHN presenters: Laura Elaine Ellis is Executive Director of the African& African American Performing Arts Coalition (AAAPAC), a San Francisco based, non-profit organization, founded in 1995 by a collective of artists who were looking to create better performance opportunities for African and African American performing artists as well as produce shows that reflect the aesthetic and cultural representation of the African and African American experience. Kendra Kimbrough Barnes, Director, holds a BA in Dance, from San Francisco State University and a MA in Arts Administration from Golden Gate University. She graduated with honors and is a recipient of the "Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges" award and as of 2008 the "Who's Who Among American Women". Guest Choreographer: Gregory Dawson, Dawson Dance SF (2007), has premiered From Bruch to Brahms, Bach Goldberg Variations, Were You There?, and On the Way to the 16th St Bart Station at The Lund Dance Theatre, Valencia for the California State Summer School of the Arts (CSSSA). Gregory Dawson began his studies in Chicago at Ruth Page School of Ballet and then left for Southern Illinois to study ballet and Haitian dance with Katherine Dunham. He moved to San Francisco where he studied with Evelyn Schuert at Shawl-Anderson Dance Studios and with Alonzo King at Dance Central. Mr. Dawson left for New York in 1982 to study with The Dance Theatre of Harlem. From 1983-1986 he danced with Theatre Ballet Canadian, returning to the Bay Area to perform with Oakland Ballet, Berkeley Ballet Theater, Sacramento Ballet, and the San Francisco Opera Ballet. Mr. Dawson joined LINES in 1987 and danced for 18 years with the company.We close with an interview with Mr. Henry Delton Williams, designer for Motown who is bringing Martha Reeves to the African American Museum and Library, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: American Promise Directors

Wed, 29 Jan 2014 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Special: Voudou Woman visits Mz Pat's House

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 03:00:00 +0000

Tonight we are at La Peña Cultural Center in Berkeley, California for a special live radio play broadcast of the first epidsode in a series of monthly ritual theatre pieces performances by Jovelyn Richards (Mz Pat's House) and Luisah Teish (Voudou Woman). We have a special guest host, poet, actress and healer, Piet Bereal.In the House of the Mothers : An interactive visit with Mz Pat, and the Voudou Q is January 26 @ 7:00 pm. For One Enchanting Night Only! Mz Pat’s house is occupied by amazing characters with stories of trials and triumphs. The voudou priestess comes to visit Mz.Pat with a bundle of herbs and a pocket full of charms. The audience is invited to interact with these wise women through story-sharing, ritual,movement and song. Live Music, Jazz & Blues. Written and Performed by Jovelyn Richards & Luisah Teish. Directed by Stephanie Anne Johnson. Visit http://lapena.org/event/in-the-house-of-the-mothers-an-interactive-visit-with-mz-pat-and-the-voudou-q-2/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Young Black Scientists; Krissy Keefer

Fri, 24 Jan 2014 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Martin Luther

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 13:00:00 +0000

We rebroadcast an episode featuring Martin Luther, musician, composer, soul singer (smile). I am on my way to New York for Baba Amiri Baraka's funeral this weekend. We'll be back to our regular time next week.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Amiri Baraka on Malcolm X

Wed, 15 Jan 2014 14:00:00 +0000

We honor Amiri Baraka who made his transition this morning with poetry, music and reflection and a rebroadcast of a show where Baraka spoke about Manning Marable's book Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention. Music: Billy Harper, Max Roach with Abbey Lincoln, Donald Bailey, Val Serrant. Poetry: Gha'il Rhodes Benjamin's "U is King of Word cause can’t nobody CHANGE a word u said" (2009); Rafael Jesús González's "After the Lecture,' for Martin Luther King Jr. (2012).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Winter Solstice with Loco Bloco

Fri, 20 Dec 2013 16:00:00 +0000

8 a.m. – Opal Palmer Adisa, Author 8-8:30 a.m. – Pedro Gomez, Musical Director 9-9:30 a.m. – Micia Mosely, Comic 9:40-11:00 a.m. – Juliejean Jordan, Mother of Peace Zimbabwe Rebroadcast from Dec. 6, 2013

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Sweet Dreams; Embodiment Project House of Matter

Fri, 13 Dec 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Lisa Fruchtman, co-director of Sweet Dreams, is an Academy Award winning editor who has worked in both feature film and television. Lisa lives in Berkeley. The film, Sweet Dreams is the story of Ingoma Nshya is Rwanda’s first and only all women’s drumming troupe. Made up of women from both sides of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the troupe offers a place of support, healing and reconciliation. When the group decides to partner with two young American entrepreneurs, Jennie Dundas and Alexis Miesen of Brooklyn’s Blue Marble Ice Cream, and open Rwanda’s first ever ice cream shop, these remarkable Rwandan women embark on a journey of independence, peace and possibility. SWEET DREAMS interweaves intimate, heart-wrenching stories with joyous and powerful music to present a moving portrait of a country in transition. Nicole Klaymoon's Embodiment Project presents House of Matter with co-writer d. Sabela Grimes who joins us this morning. It opens at ODC Theatre in San Francisco Dec. 13-15, 2013 www.odcdance.org/events.php Nicole's partner in this project, d. Sabela grimes aka Ovasoul7 aka Professor G: The Funk-Instructor aka The Guru of Groove aka The Beacon of Boogie, is a multi-hyphenate artist, creative director/consultant and educator whose body of work journeys through the current future of the present past and the corrugated spaces of many incarnations. Each creative offering is a familiar ritual, a conscious spectacle, the stillest rumination.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Mother of Peace Zimbabwe; Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to Juliejean Jordan about Mother of Peace, an orphanage in Zimbabwe. Visit http://www.motherofpeacezimbabwe.org/ From website: "In 1994, a small group of people were led to establish an orphanage in Zimbabwe for children living with or impacted by HIV/AIDS. From humble beginnings in a house for a few children, the Mother of Peace Community, located in Mutoko, Zimbabwe, now offers a loving, stable and secure home environment for more than 108 children. Here, because there is no other place for them, these children find a home, where they receive education, medical treatment and spiritual enrichment and above all, unconditional love. As of November 2013 MOP is building a primary school, The Divine Child. This has been a very costly project that has been delayed due to inflation and lack of funds. Mother of Peace Bay Area Consortium, c/o YA Flunder Foundation, 1271 Washington Ave, Suite 220, San Leandro, CA 94577." Email:mailto:mopconsortium@gmail.com We close with an interview with Albert Mazibuko, Ladysmith Black Mambazo about the importance of women in his life. Music: Judith Sephuma, Chinakare, Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Final Live Episode for 2013

Fri, 06 Dec 2013 16:00:00 +0000

8 a.m. – Opal Palmer Adisa, Author 8-8:30 a.m. – Pedro Gomez, Musical Director 9-9:30 a.m. – Micia Mosely, Comic 9:40-11:00 a.m. – Juliejean Jordan, Mother of Peace Zimbabwe

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Sweet Dreams; House of Matter

Wed, 04 Dec 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Lisa Fruchtman, co-director of Sweet Dreams, is an Academy Award winning editor who has worked in both feature film and television. Her awards and honors include an Oscar for THE RIGHT STUFF, Academy Award and BAFTA Nominations for Best Editing for THE GODFATHER PART III and APOCALYPSE NOW, an Emmy Nomination and a Cable ACE Award for TRUMAN. Lisa lives in Berkeley.The film, Sweet Dreams is the story of Ingoma Nshya is Rwanda’s first and only all women’s drumming troupe. Made up of women from both sides of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the troupe offers a place of support, healing and reconciliation. When the group decides to partner with two young American entrepreneurs, Jennie Dundas and Alexis Miesen of Brooklyn’s Blue Marble Ice Cream, and open Rwanda’s first ever ice cream shop, these remarkable Rwandan women embark on a journey of independence, peace and possibility. SWEET DREAMS interweaves intimate, heart-wrenching stories with joyous and powerful music to present a moving portrait of a country in transition. The film has been held over an additional week in the San Francisco Bay Area. Nicole Klaymoon's Embodiment Project presents House of Matter with co-writer d. Sabela Grimes who joins us this morning. It opens at ODC Theatre in San Francisco Dec. 13-15, 2013 www.odcdance.org/events.php Music: Dwight Tribble, Meklit&Quinn, Gina Breedlove. d. Sabela grimes aka Ovasoul7 aka Professor G: The Funk-Instructor aka The Guru of Groove aka The Beacon of Boogie is a multi-hyphenate artist, creative director and consultant and educator whose body of work journeys through the current future of the present past and the corrugated spaces of many incarnations. Each creative offering is a familiar ritual, a conscious spectacle, the stillest rumination.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: World AIDS Day

Fri, 29 Nov 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Nathaniel Stampley as Porgy

Wed, 27 Nov 2013 14:00:00 +0000

We open with Donald "Duck" Bailey's Gone, followed by a lovely conversation with Nathaniel Stampley as Porgy with Alicia Hall Moran's Bess in SHN's production of The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess with Suzan-Lori Parks's book adaptation, Diedre L. Murray's musical score adaptation, Ronald K. Brown's choreography with director Diane Paulus. The show is up at San Francisco's Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Market Street, Tuesday-Sunday, through Dec. 8, 2013. For a discount enter the code AfroSolo at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/wandas-picks/2013/11/27/wandas-picks-radio-show-nathaniel-stampley-as-porgy

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 22 Nov 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Family Legacies

Wed, 20 Nov 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Today we look at Family Legacies, first in the life of Margo Hall as she pays tribute, in BeBop Baby: A Musical Memoir at Z Space, Nov. 19-23, 2013, to the life of her beloved step-dad, artist and musical ambassador of Detroit, Teddy Harris, Jr. and her biological dad, Armsby Hall. We conclude with an extended conversation with directors, husband and wife team, Joe Brewster and Michelle Stephenson, whose American Promise, covered 13 years of their lives as they document their son, Idris and his best friend, Seun's educational journey kindergarten to high school in one of this nation's most prestigious private schools. What is America's Promise to its citizens and does its educational system uphold this for these families. Opening just a week ago in the San Francisco Bay Area and in Oakland this Friday, Nov. 22 at the New Parkway, American Promise takes this nation to task as it shows how even among the best schools, it is still not doing its best for its black boys.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Healing the Community through Art

Fri, 15 Nov 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Oakland School for the Arts cast and faculty director, join us to talk about A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry's seminal look at a black family moving on up and the impact of this physical relocation on their perspectives and the familial dynamics, 1950s Chicago. The cast is also participating in a community symposium: Healing through Community Change, Families Taking Action at Allen Temple Baptist Church, 8501 International Blvd., Room D 216, 7-9 p.m., Monday, Nov. 18, 2013, donations go to the Mamie Till Mobley Memorial Foundation. Other guests include foundation and Till relatives: Airickca Gordon-Taylor, Executive Dir., her mom, Ollie Gordon, Social Justice Coordinator; Wanda Johnson, Oscar Grant's mother; The Bluford Family; Walter Riley, Oakland based Civil Rights Attorney; George Calvis, Community Organizer, Clarence Thomas, Union organizer, Steve Pitts, UC Berkeley Labor organizer. Julia Chigamba joins us to talk about her family's community center in Harare, Zimbabwe and a fundraiser/concert at Ashkenaz, Sat., Nov. 23, 2013. Visit www.chinyakare.com Jack Bryson, Oscar Grant Foundation, and Marcel Jones, UC Berkeley Black Student Union join us to speak about the forum they organized and are participaing in at Allen Temple 11/18/2013. We close with a conversation with cultural ambassador and educator, Val Serrant, about 2 shows Dec. 13-14 at the Dance Palace & Community Center at Pt. Reys Station & the River Theatre in Guernville & features musicians Val Serrant, Sikiru Adepoju, Saminu Adepoju, Peter Fujii, Deszon Claiborne and Joel Smith in concert. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/512450

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 13 Nov 2013 14:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 08 Nov 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Thu, 07 Nov 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Honoring the Ancestors

Fri, 01 Nov 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Roger Ross Williams

Thu, 31 Oct 2013 01:00:00 +0000

Roger Ross Williams, the director, God Loves Uganda, which opens theatrically Nov. 1 in San Francisco at the Roxie Theatre, joins us for an interview. Roger Ross Williams directed and produced Music by Prudence, winner of the 2010 Academy Award for documentary short subject. He is the first African American to win an Oscar for directing and producing a film. He has produced and directed dozens of hours of non-fiction programming for major television networks and cable channels. Williams has won numerous awards for his work. Currently, Williams has several projects in development, including a feature narrative film about the African American Baptist church titled Black Sheep. Visit http://www.godlovesuganda.com/ We close with a show recorded June 19, which closes with an interview with two directors, KATHERINE FAIRFAX WRIGHT - filmmaker; MALIKA ZOUHALI-WORRALL - filmmaker and LONGJONES - subject from the film, Call Me Kuchu, which screened at Frameline June 19, 2012. The film depicts the last year in the life of David Kato, a courageous, quick-witted and steadfast man whose wisdom and achievements were not fully recognized until after his death. While heartbreaking, the documentary traces a narrative that takes the viewer beyond the chronicle of victimization depicted in international news media: it tells the nuanced story of David and Kampala’s kuchus as they work to change their fate, and that of other kuchus across Africa.depicts the last year in the life of a courageous, quick-witted and steadfast man whose wisdom and achievements were not fully recognized until after his death.

Wanda's Picks: Dr. Theoharis on Mrs. Rosa Parks; UNAFF 2013

Fri, 25 Oct 2013 12:00:00 +0000

Today I will be participating in the Sista-toSista visiting team going to Central California Women's Facility in Chowchilla, California, which means I will be on the road at 6 AM, so we are going on a bit earlier and rebroadcasting a couple of popular shows with one new interview. On the occation of Mrs. Rosa Parks's anniversary of her passing October 24, we rebraodcast an interview with biographer Dr. Jeanne Theoharis, whose The Rebellious Life of Mrs, Rosa Parks dispells myths as it enlightens audiences to a truer picture of this phonomenal woman. We close with an interview with Roger Ross Williams, the director, God Loves Uganda, another wonderful selection at the 2013 UNAFF which continues through Sunday, October 27, 2013. God Loves Uganda opens theatrically Nov. 1 in San Francisco at the Roxie Theatre. Roger Ross Williams directed and produced Music by Prudence, winner of the 2010 Academy Award for documentary short subject. He is the first African American to win an Oscar for directing and producing a film. He has produced and directed dozens of hours of non-fiction programming for major television networks and cable channels. Williams has won numerous awards for his work. Currently, Williams has several projects in development, including a feature narrative film about the African American Baptist church titled Black Sheep. Visit http://www.unaff.org/2013/f_god.html

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: UNAFF 2013

Wed, 23 Oct 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We rebrodcast an interview with subjects of The Revolutionary Optimists, which screens this afternoon at the United Nations Association Film Festival 2013 in East Palo Alto. The film draws us into the world of two 11-year olds with no access to clean drinking water, a girl forced to labor inside a brick kiln, and a teenage dancer on the precipice of choosing child marriage to escape from her abusive family. From these fragile lives, lawyer turned change-agent, Amlan Ganguly mines the strength and vision to build an unlikely revolution. The film follows Ganguly and 4 children from Kolkata's poorest slums on an intimate journey through their adolescence. http://www.unaff.org/2013/f_revolutionary.html Our next guest in the studio is, Ilse van Lamoen, the director of MIND (Media Information & Narrative Development) and producer of the film, Daughters of the Niger Delta http://www.unaff.org/2013/f_daughters.html. Daughters is an intimate film portrait of three heroines who manage to make ends meet against all odds. As their personal stories unfold, we come to see that the widely ignored environmental pollution in their backyard is not the only human rights violation affecting their lives. This documentary tells a different story about the Niger Delta than the usual media reports about oil outputs, conflict and kidnapping. The film also highlights the strength and resilience of ordinary women who have to overcome injustices that we rarely hear about in the news.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 18 Oct 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 16 Oct 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Herman Wallace: Presente!

Fri, 11 Oct 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Andrew Dosunmu, director, joins us to talk about his latest film, Mother of George. We then shift slightly to speak to Idris Akamoor and Kenneth Nash, "Music is the Healing Force" Bay Area Community Orchestra performances this weekend. Artists participating in SomARTs Dia de Los Muertos join us to speak about this year's exhibition opening tonight. We close with a rebroadcast of an interview with Robert H. King and Marina Drummer about Herman Wallace, who made his transition last week after being exonerated. Known at the Angola 3, King, Wallace and Albert Woodfox were targeted by Lousiana prison officials for their membership in the Black Panther Party. Wallace spent 42 years in solitary confinement. Woodfox continues to have his case overturned and then challenged in court by the State Attorney General. Wallace's funeral in New Orleans is Saturday, October 12. His birthday is Sunday, October 13. See angola3.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 04 Oct 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Herman Wallace Angola 3;

Wed, 02 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Herman Wallace, diagnosed with liver cancer is in hospice at Gabriel Hunt Prison in Lousiana. A federal judge reversed his case and had him released from custody Tuesday, however, the state DA appealed the order. He was released this evening. Robert King, our guest today, and present at the prison visiting Herman with Albert Woodfox, the other member of Angola 3, when the order was issued, compared the DA's refusal to let Herman go, to the civil war between the North and the South. In solitary confinement for over 40 years for their political beliefs, the A3 case is an example of judicial babysteps in cases involving poliical prisoners. Marina Drummer and Mwalimu Johnsonwill join Robert H. King to talk about Herman, the case, which includes Albert Woodfox, and breaking news about the federal court decision yesterday. Visit angola3.org We close with an interview with Jeff Hull who speaks about his new film, THE INSTITUTE, dir. Spencer McCall, which chronicles the Jejune Institute, a mind-bending San Francisco phenomenon where 10,000 people became "inducted" without ever quite realizing what they'd signed up for. Counter-culture without the risk, the team at Nonchalance invited a lucky 10,000 eventual friends over to play, the game board the breath of San Francisco & Oakland combined. The joyride took players from busy corporated offices into monsuleums where the lonely made friends and the disenchanted found hope, a place where adults were encouraged to let their child out to play and they did without reigns. We speak to Jeff Hull, direcor of Nonchalance, about the film, the Institute, and what's next. Visit http://www.theinstitutemovie.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio:Prof. Margaret Burnham on CRRJ Proj

Fri, 27 Sep 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Our first guest is Professor Margaret Burnham, director and founder of the Civil Rights and Restorative Project at Northeastern University School of Law which she joined as faculty in 2002. Her fields of expertise are civil and human rights, comparative constitutional rights, and international criminal law. CRRJ engages students in legal matters relating to the 1960s US civil rights movement. A former fellow of the Bunting Institute at Radcliffe College and Harvard University's W.E.B. DuBois Institute for Afro-American Studies, Professor Burnham has written extensively on contemporary legal and political issues. We rebroadcast an interview with Law Professor Angie Bell who spoke to us last year about the cases of Albert Woodfox and Herman Wallace known collectively at the Angola 3. Presently, Wallace is terminally ill and needs to be released. Sign the petition at angola3.org Professor Jason Bell, director of Project Rebound, lecturer at San Francisco State, and this year's recipient of LSPC's John K. Irwin Award, speaks to us about his work in rehabilitation with the formerly incarcerated. He has over 21 years of first-hand knowledge and expertise in working with incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and at-risk populations to promote higher education as a method of reducing recidivism. http://asi.sfsu.edu/asi/programs/proj_rebound/about.htm We close withAli Allie, co-director of Garifuna in Peril. As he drove up from Southern California to Oakland this morning he speaks to us about his latest film about a topic and a people dear to his heart. The film is a part of Cine Acion, the Latino Film Festival closing this weekend. The screening is at EastSide Arts Alliance, 2277 International Blvd. in Oakland. ESAA has a free Final Fridays screening each month.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: On Holy Ground. . .

Wed, 25 Sep 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Today's show features an interview with authors: Luisah Teish and Lelani Birely about their book: On Holy Ground: Commitment and Devotion yo Sacred Lands.Luisah Teish is a writer, performance artist and ritual events consultant. Her writing credits include several plays (“Rice and Revolution”, ”The Division of the Cowries”, “The Rise and Fall of Sam DeClaws Or How DeClaws Got Clipped” and “ The Deer Woman of Owo), She is also the author of several books on African and African American Spiritual Culture. They include “Jambalaya: The Natural Woman’s Book of Personal Charms and Practical Rituals” a women’s spirituality classic. “ Carnival of the Spirit: Seasonal Celebrations and Rites of Passage “, Jump Up: Good Times Throughout the Seasons with Celebrations from Around the World”, and “What Don’t Kill Is Fattening Revisited: Twenty Years of Poetry, Prose, and Myth. She has contributions to thirteen anthologies and has written numerous movie, play and book reviews. She has published articles and interviews in magazines such as Essence, Ms., Shaman’s Drum, and the Yoga Journal (http://noetic.org/directory/person/luisah-teish/). Visit http://www.luisahteish.com/ Leilani Birely is a Hawaiian Kahuna, Ordained Dianic High Priestess and ceremonialist brings ancient Hawaiian healing and Goddess wisdom to the community. She has a M.A. (Women’s Spirituality), New College of California, 2000 and a B.S. (Business and Finance), George Mason University, 1986. Visit http://www.daughtersofthegoddess.com/leilani.htmlTo purchase the book: http://www.daughtersofthegoddess.com/Shop/books.html

Wanda's Picks:24 Angry Jurors@OSA;PoemsforTrayvonMartin. . .

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with a conversation with Oakland School od the Arts directors and cast from 24 Angry Jurors, an adaptation of Reginald Roses's classic Twelve Angry Men, which opened Sept. 19 and continues tonight, Sept. 20, 7 p.m. with performances tomorrow and Sunday. Guests include: Jeremy Brandt: Assistant Director, Robert Cornn: Foreman (men side), Hunter Milano Juror 8 (men side), Kreona Turner Foreman (women side), Nia Lunkvist Juror 4 (women side), Nhiah Young Juror 7 (women side), Emily Cooper, Juror 6 (women side), and Eleanor Maples Juror 8 (women side). Visit www.oakarts.org Ann-Marie Davis joins us to talk about East Bay Meditaion Center's 3rd Annual Dhamathon, 24 hour fundraiser, Sat., Sept. 21-Sun., Sept. 22, 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. Visit Ewuare X. Osayande, editor of the collection Stand Our Ground: Poems for Trayvon Martin & Marissa Alexander, is next. This collection, which is a fundraising tool for the families of both victims, one still alive behind bars, features international writers, as the ripple of these two recent travesties in the US injustice system rings loudly in our collective ears. Support http://osayande.org/category/books/ We close with a conversation with Sistah Q, researcher, whose primary area of research is how the legal and financial systems influence the dis-ease management system, about her latest work: Maintaining Our Temples. Visit www.whattheproblemis.com

Wanda's Picks Radio:Haifaa A Mansour;Tiffany Mann,Blueswoman

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 19:30:00 +0000

Today we play a couple of interviews, one from the archives. We start with an interview with Haifaa Al Mansour, first female director in Saudi Arabia about her first feature length film, Wadjda, opening in the theatres Sept. 20 and Sept. 27, 2013. We conclude with an interview with Tiffany Mann, Blueswoman in San Jose Rep's production, up through October 6, 2013, One Night with Janis Joplin.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Writers for Literacy in San Mateo

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 15:00:00 +0000

This morning we open with an interview with one of our favorite writers, Michael Warr, who with Luis Rodriquez will be speaking on Art as Healing in a free lecture at the Koret Audiotirum, de Young Museum in San Francisco, 3-4:30 p.m. Visit http://deyoung.famsf.org/deyoung/calendar/conversation-authors-luis-rodriguez-and-michael-warr Michael Warr is author of The Armageddon of Funk, We Are All The Black Boy, and co-editor of Power Lines: A Decade of Poetry From Chicago’s Guild Complex, all from Tia Chucha Press. Valerie Cooper, vocalist/writer, who joins us next to talk about her sneak preview at the African Museum and Library, Oakland, Sept. 14, 2013, 7-9 p.m. Visit http://expressmoments.com We close with a conversation with three writers: The Hon. Claire Mack, former mayor of San Mateo, Rafael Jesus Gonzalez, poet, teacher, humanitarian, and Nadia Lataillade, writer, attorney, and Mrs. Mack's granddaughter. The topic is 100 Authors for Literacy, a free event, Sat., Sept. 21, 2013, at the Martin Luther King Center, 725 Mt. Diablo Ave., San Mateo, CA. http://northcentralneighborhoodassociation.org/100-authors-for-literacy-event.htmlSpecial guests include: Belva Davis and Dr. Joy DeGruy. Music: Michael Warr; Michael White; Meklit Hadero

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast

Wed, 11 Sep 2013 19:30:00 +0000

1. Melvin Brown: Movin’ Melvin will take you on a musical journey of his life through Black Music history from 50’s to 90’s…Singing,Tap-dancing and Clogging, Storytelling, and Comedy. Covering everything from Gospel, Soul and Rhythm & Blues, Jazz, the infectious song and dance show has the audience movin' and groovin' along, with songs of Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, James Brown, Jackie Wilson and more, as well as his original songs. Melvin tap-dances from Bo Jangles to Gregory Hines styles in his unique way and he clogs to Texas music. The 22nd Annual San Francisco Fringe Festival runs for 14 days, September 6-21, 2013, at the EXIT Theatreplex, 156 Eddy Street, in downtown San Francisco. This year, the run is longer (14, rather than 12 days) and extended to include three weekends. The only days the theatre is dark are Mondays. Tickets for the 14-day San Francisco Fringe Festival, Sept. 6-21, are $10 (or less) at the door (cash only) and $12.99 (or less) online. The ten-show Frequent Fringer pass is $75, and a five-show pass is $45. The EXIT Theatreplex is within walking distance of Union Square and the Powell Street BART station. For complete listings of venues, shows and times, go to www.sffringe.org. Or call the fringe hotline at (415) 673-3847. 2. JIHAN SABIR (Ensemble/Judge/ Paulette Understudy) is super stoked to be doing Legally Blonde at Woodminster Amphitheatre! Originally from the East Bay, Jihan studied musical theatre at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles. Credits include: Rent, Hairspray, Once on this Island, Legally Blonde, Parade, Finian’s Rainbow and 9 to 5. She wants to thank all her family and friends who supported her. This her second time doing Legally Blonde! She can’t wait to “Go be Legally Blonde again!”

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Melvin Brown; Jihan Sabir

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Nelson Bell Nat'l Brotherhood of Cyclists

Wed, 04 Sep 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast of interview with Nelson Bell--re: National Brotherhood of Cyclists Confernece in Oakland, CA, August 2011, with organizational chair.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Wisdom Arc Time Machine

Fri, 30 Aug 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Chris Johnson studied photography with Ansel Adams, Imogen Cunningham and Wynn Bullock and has been the recipient of grants from the Rockefeller Foundation (w/Hank Willis Thomas); In 1994, he co-produced and directed “The Roof is on Fire” with Suzanne Lacy, which was broadcast on KRON. His fine art photography has been widely exhibited and published. Johnson is a full Professor of Photography at the California College of the Arts http://www.chrisjohnsonphotographer.com/Eric Doversberger is a manager and technology strategist on Google’s People Analytics team, with deep specialization in interactive data visualization.Outside of Google, Eric is a technology advisor for social change organizations and co-creator (with Wendy Levy and Tomorrow Partners) of Sparkwise: an open source and online, social change impact reporting platform. Before joining Google in 2007, Eric was a NSF-funded researcher at the Mathematics Department of Brown University: www.ericdoversberger.com To participate visit: http://bit.ly/174fXVL An interview with acress/singer Tiffany Mann follows. She is "Blues Woman" in San Jose Rep's "One Night with Janis Joplin" (9/5-29). We close with an interview with artist/entrepreneur Martin Luther, with music of: Meklit Hadero "Walls," and Meklit & Quinn "Light"; Damu Sudii Ali's "Blessings" from UMOJA. Tracks from Question Bridge soundtrack: http://questionbridge.com/

Wanda's Pick's 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington

Wed, 28 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Today on the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Economic Opportunities for Black Americans, we speak to director, Noel Calloway, whose film, Life, Love, Soul is a pause in the narrative that is America today. If 1 and 3 children are living in homes without their fathers, then what does that say about our collective sense of family and the role men play in the lives of their children. When we look at men like Martin King and at his family, the sacrifice they made for the nation and world, when their father was absent from home too many times to count, before he was killed. How many important engagements did he miss? How many goodnight kisses were imagined in phone calls home? In Life, Love, Soul Calloway's character, Roosevelt, raised by a single mom, doesn't know his father and perhaps thinks he doesn't need to know him when the two lives collide in catastrophy when his mother and younger sibling are killed and he has to spend his senior year in high school with dad. Don't expect a cliche here. the director's story which plays quite close to home, is anything but what one expects. it is perhaps this unexpected tale that keeps one engaged and then delighted enough to want to see it again. I think I watched it a total of 5-6 times (smile). A graduate of Clark Atlanta University, the native NYer, Calloway's first feature sets a high bar in story and cast with many box office headliners like Terri J Vaughn, Jamie Hector, Chad Coleman and new actors, like Valerie Simpson and lead actor,

Wanda'sPicks:AfroSolo;First Editionw/DamuSudiAlii;WillHarris

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with a conversation with director,Noel Calloway, director of the film, Life, Love, Soul. This debut feature looks at the important role a father is in his child's life and about choices adults make, some irreversible (interview rescheduled). Thomas Simpson, director/founder with Destiny Muhammad, harpist, will join us to talk about AfroSolo which will celebrate its monumental 20th season with an all star AfroSolo Alumni performance extravaganza. The event will take place on Monday, August 26th at 7:30 pm at the African American Arts and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street in San Francisco. AfroSolo is dedicated to nurturing, promoting and presenting art and culture of African American sand the larger African Diaspora through solo performances and the visual and literary arts. Next Damu Sudi Alii , pianist and composer, and Tonye Scott, singer/composer join us to talk about First Edition, which is performing tonight at the 57th Street Gallery at 5701 Telegraph Avenue in Oakland, (510) 654-6974 or www.the57thstreetgallery.com We close with a conversation with motivational speaker and author, Will Harris, about the new film, Lee Daniels's The Butler starring Forrest Whitaker and Oprah Winfrey. Visit http://www.willpowernow.com/ Music from "I Am tonyeSCOTT," and "Umoja: Dance of the Kalahari In Memoriam," selections from Dwight Tribble's Cosmic.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 21 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Aug 2013 15:00:00 +0000

First guest: Byb Chanel Bibene, San Francisco, CA Artistic Director and Choreographer for his company Kiandanda Dance Theatre. He was born and raised in the Republic of Congo where his technical and aesthetic sensibility is rooted. As a survivor of the civil wars that tore apart the Congo in the 1990’s, Bibene is creating a theater piece titled, Taboo and Heroes, that explores the subject of victims of war and the lack of freedom of expression due to irresponsible dictatorial powers and the neo-colonial influences of western powers. The point of this project, combining dance, theater, music and video, is intended to lead people to pay more attention to what is going on in the world because a collective effort can help find solutions and lead to a better life on earth, ecologically, socially, politically and humanly. Guest 2: Muisi-kongo Malonga - Oakland, CA Solo Performance, is a talented dancer, choreographer and instructor deeply rooted in the traditions of Central Africa. As one of the next generation’s foremost keepers of Congolese cultural arts forms, she has passionately sought to preserve Congolese culture through her leadership of Fua Dia Congo, a 35-year old performing arts organization. Her writing, singing, original compositions and choreography have all converged in the telling of the tale of Kimpa Vita, a 17th century Kongolese prophet and martyr. “Kimpa Vita!”, Malonga’s first solo work, is described as a chore-opera, where music and movement merge to convey the powerful story of a woman often described as the Kongolese Joan of Arc. Both choreographers are a part of CulturePulse Dancing Diaspora in San Francisco this weekend (Thursday-Sunday) and next, Byb this weekend, and Muisi-kongo next. We close with an interview with one of our favorite guests Jovelyn Richards, who will tell us about her latest Ms. Pat stories.

Wanda's Picks Rebroadcast from May 2013

Wed, 14 Aug 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Fela, the musical is coming to town, Oakland, to be exact, June 4-9. Today we speak to Melanie Marshall, who is wonderful in her depiction of "Funmilayo," Fela Kuti's mother. Ann Chinn joins us once again to update us on The Middle Passage Ceremonies and Port Markers Project which is hosting an ancestral remembrance ceremony in Yorktown, VA on Memorial Day, May 27, 2013 8:00-9:30am on the waterfront. During this event the first marker associated with its efforts to mark Middle Passage arrival ports in the US will be unveiled. The organization is formally honoring and remembering more than 31,500 Africans who arrived in the York River District between 1698-1771 and the contributions of their descendants in creating this nation. We also are honoring the approximately 4,000 Africans who perished during these ocean voyages to the York River. Steven Anthony Jones, artistic director of Lorraine Hansberry Theatre in San Francisco, joins us to discuss the 1-Voice 1-Play 1-Day 1 Fundraiser for 27 black theatres nationwide & Port Elizabeth, South Africa, June 17. In this year's reading of A Soldier's Play by Charles Fuller, Jones is National Artistic Director, and appears in his original role as Private James Wilkie. Visit lht-sf.org We close with a conversation with artist and visionary Mario Chiodo, whose historic monument Remember Them: Champions for Humanity, depicting 25 civil rights activists like Rosa Parks & Cesar Chavez, peacemakers like Martin Luther King Jr. and revolutionaries like Ruby Bridges. Its official unveling is next Friday, May 31, 2013, 3 p.m. at the Henry J. Kaiser Memorial Park (19th Street and Rashidah Muhammad). Special guests at the event include the local honorees depicted in the sculpture along with Ambassador Shabazz, Ms. Juliana Roosevelt and Ms. Ruby Bridges. Visit http://oaklandwiki.org/Remember_Them%3A_Champions_For_Humanity_Monument

Jinna Mutane dir Leo at ZIFF 2013

Mon, 08 Jul 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Sunday afternoon, July 7, 2013, I was with journalists at the Zanzibar international Film Festival where the Dhow countries are celebrated and its people united in a shared legacy connected by land and more importantly sea, the Indian Ocean. We spoke about journalism in the region and specifically new media, such as Internet radio and social networking media like Twitter and Facebook, Linkedin and so on. The workshop went well, but there was no Internet so I was unable to broadcast live that day as planned. I am uploading the interview with Screen Writer & Director: Jinna Mutune whose film LEO screened yesterday afternoon. Tonight is closing night at ZIFF. Believe it or not, the sun is setting and it is almost 7 p.m. (obviously written that day.) LEO is a charming and beguiling adult fairy-tale set in Nairobi, a Metropolitan City in Kenya that is a melting pot of East African culture, art, politics and commerce. It is a story about Maasai boy, raised in a low-income home, achieving his dream against all odds. LEO is a simple story that captures the essence of a child’s heart still open to all the posssibilities of achieving his dream in “Kenya” Africa. Executive Producers are: Chris Kirubi, Bernard Wambugu; Julian Kyula, Donald Gichane; Producer: Paul Masinde.

Wanda's Picks: MarcusShelby;The Piper; 35thSFEthnicDanceFest

Fri, 31 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open today with a conversation with Marcus Shelby, an award-winning musician and composer, is highly renowned and sought after for his discography, his theatrical and film scoring, and his music for ballet and dance. His empathy as a human being who understands the impact of social justice for all Americans will propel the writing of original music for Gwah Guy:Crossing the Street.Gwah Guywill musically explore poignant memories from Edward K. Wong aka Baby Jack, Flo Oy Wong’s husband. Ed Wong lived in Augusta, Georgia at the time of segregation when Chinese Americans were identified as "honorary whites." The June 7 and 8 performances at ODC Dance Center in San Francisco, will also include memories of Flo Oy Wong's childhood in Oakland California's Chinatown near West Oakland, the historical district where many African Americans resided. Marcus will compose original music inspired by Flo Oy Wong's literary re-imagining of her husband's Southern childhood experiences and actor Peter Macon will narrate. We are then joined by Jinho Ferreira or The Piper is a rapper, actor, and screenwriter from Oakland, California. In 2009, Piper won the best screenwriter award at the Tribeca Film Festival for his CIA thriller: Walter’s Boys. Piper’s latest effort, and first venture into theater, is entitled Cops & Robbers. It is a revolutionary look into the relationship between Law Enforcement, the media, and the Black community. We close with a conversation with Antoine Hunter,Urban Jazz Dance Company; Colette Ewoi, El Wah Movement Theatre and Julie Mushet, Executive Director of the 35th Anniversary of the Ethnic Dance Festival, June 7-30, 2013, about this year's program.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 29 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with Bay Area playwright and activist, Regina Evans. Ms. Evans speaks to us about her one woman show at DivaFest in San Francisco June 1, 8 p.m. and later in the year the full production is a part of the San Francisco Fringe Festival. Bio: Regina Y. Evans is a Poet, Playwright and Social Justice Performer. She volunteers as a Modern Day Abolitionist in the fight against Sex Trafficking. Ms. Evans is a published Writer, and the Author of the poetry books Nonnie and The Butterfly, Unlatched Mosaic, and Nothing Cool About Ten. She is the writer of Echo: A Poetic Journey into Justice, a stage play bringing awareness to the issue of trafficking. Echo has played to sold out performances in Berkeley and San Francisco, Ca. The play caught the notice of President Barack Obama who confirmed his support of the effort through a personal White House phone call in 2011. http://www.divafest.info/ June 1, 2013, 8 p.m.; Fringe Festival Sept. 6-21, 2013 http://www.sffringe.org/wordpress/52-2/ SF Green Festival which opens in San Francisco with San Francisco Bay Area director, Nancy Kelly's wonderful film, Rebels with a Cause, about the San Francisco Bay Area Green Movement veterans who are central to the preservation of open spaces especially the coastal areas, beginning with the Point Reyes National Seashore, and more recently the Golden Gate Recreation Area. We close the show with a rebroadcast of artist Mario Chiodo speaking about the completion of Remember Them: Champions for Humanity, which is having its opening reception Friday, May 31, 3 p.m. at the Henry J.Kaiser Memorial Park (19th & Rashidah Muhammad Streets) in Oakland. Music: Victoria Theodore; Meklit Hadero; Regina Carter; Vjay Iyer

Wanda's Picks:Mario Chiodo,artist, Remembering Them

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks:Monica Anderson Domestic Violence in theGLBTQ

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

This is a black arts and culture site. We will be exploring the writing, visual and performing arts of African people in the Diaspora. It is my claim that the artists are the true revolutionaries, their work filled with raw unfettered passion. They are our true heroes. Ashay! Remember to tune in on Wednesdays from 6 AM PST to 7 or 8 AM and on Fridays from 8 AM to 10 AM. We also host special broadcasts from time to time.

Charity Water Benefit with Meklit Hadero

Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 +0000

We are joined in the studio for a special broadcast this afternoon to speak to Jenna Kozel, consumer security advocate at Lookout, a security technology company located in San Francisco and Anbu Anbalagapandian, Senior Software Engineer at Lookout, to talk about Charity:water is a non-profit organization that's been bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations since 2006. Lookout is a company of hackers who create software that protects people and their most sensitive data from mobile threats. Lookout believes in "Hacking for Good" and is committed to supporting charitable projects, like Charity:Water that use technology to have an impact on the world. On Wed., May 22 at 9:00PM, Lookout is hosting a benefit concert for Charity:Water featuring Meklit Hadero. All proceeds will go to a Charity:Water project in Ethiopia. About Melkit Hadero: Born in Ethiopia and raised in San Francisco, Meklit's music influences range wide — from the jazz and soul favorites she grew up on; to the hip-hop and art-rock she loves; to folk traditions from the Americas to East Africa. Named a 2012 TED Senior Fellow, Meklit has served as an artist-in-residence at De Young Museum, New York University and Red Poppy Art House. The event will feature a live set from Meklit and her band, along with a full bar.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Shakespeare @ San Quentin

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Quinn DeVeaux, from Gary, Indiana, has packed houses and astounded audiences in the bay area for years with his smooth and dirty spank you voice and cool melodic songwriting. First he started an early Chicago Blues band and then a New Orleans soul and gospel band. Both groups had audiences clamoring for more. Now he has combined it all in the Blue Beat Review a self-styled crossroads of his many musical roots.Next Marin Shakespeare Company's Lesley Schisgall Currier joins us to talk about inmates at San Quentin State Prison who will have the rare opportunity to see fifteen of their peers performing in Shakespeare's problematic comedy "The Merchant of Venice," a play about commerce, love, revenge, and mercy. Under the direction of Currier and Suraya Keating, the actors have been studying the play, creating characters, learning lines, practicing fight choreography, and preparing for the performance for the past 8 months. The lead role of Shylock will be undertaken by inmate Luke Padgett, who has appeared in previous S@SQ productions as Hamlet, Malvolio, Lysander, Mercutio, Don Pedro etc. Padgett is serving a life sentence for murder, arson and robbery. She is joined by former company member, Johnathan Wilson (JW) who speaks about the transformative power of art now that he is on the other side of the prison walls. Music: Nina Simone, Leon Thomas, Meklit & Quinn.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: 2010 Malcolm X Tribute

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Today we celebrate the life and legacy ofEl Hajj Malik El Shabazz with muscian, Steve Wilson, activist and MOVE member Ramona Africa with poet/teacher, Malcolm Shabazz Hoover; filmmaker, writer, educator, Chike Nwoffiah; and professor, historican, Manu Ampim. We feature the music of Soulfege. The event honoring Judi Bari, that Ramona Africa speaks of in her interview is Sunday, May 23, 7 PM at La Peña Cultural Center, 3105 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705 USA. The event is hosted by Revolutionary Ecology Earth First! and Headwaters Coalition and is free though donations are accepted. It is in recognition of the 20th anniversary of the bomb atack on Earth First! activist Judi Bari with speakers, music & film. Sponsored by Earth First and Headwaters coalition. For more info: 510-548-3113.. We open with music from Meklit & Quinn's Bring it Home to Me and Robert Glasper's Double Booked/Butterfly.

Wanda's Picks: Black Angels;The Nile Project

Fri, 10 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with Dr. Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, author, visual artist, drummer, and Zen Buddhist priest, lives in Oakland, CA where she teaches at The East Bay Meditation Center and leads a small practice group in her home. She was ordained by Blanche Hartman and her priest training is being guided by Abbess Kiku Christina Lehnherr. Her book Tell Me Something About Buddhism (Hampton Roads Publishing, 2011) includes a foreword written by Thich Nhat Hanh, with poetry and illustrations by Zenju Earthlyn. She is also the author of the Black Angels Cards. Monica Anderson, the founder and owner of Sankofa Events Project Management. www.SankofaEvents.com joins us to celebrate the successful Oakland premiere of Shola Lynch's Free Angela Davis and All Political Prisoners, this past Tuesday. Our next guest Mia Pascal is a woman with many talents. She joins us to talk about her 30 minute solo piece, "Heartbreak Velocity", in two group shows, one at DIVAFest in San Francisco, week 2, May 18, 8 p.m. at the Exit Theatre on Eddy, and the second performance, at The Marsh in Berkeley in its Tell It on Tuesdays solo performances, May 28, 7 (music, 7:30 (show). We close with Meklit Hadero is two parts, with Quinn DeVeaux. The two perform tonight at Davies After Hours Concert bringing an original take on Beethoven's Missa Solemis. Mina Girgis, Executive Dir. and co-founder with Meklit of The Nile Project, close the morning show. It is, as is said, all the way LIVE (smile). Visit thenileproject.org

Wanda's Picks: Wadada Leo Smith

Wed, 08 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We rebroadcast an archival interview with Wadada Leo Smith speaking about 10 Freedom Summers, a musical survey of the Civil Rights Movement. At the time of the interview it wasn't available. Now it is. Rene Marie speaks about Voices of My Beautiful County from an interview broadcast taped on June 29, 2011. Music: Wadada Leo Smith's "Spirtual Light," "Don't You Remember"; The Pyramids's "What the World Needs Now"; Robert Glasper's "Butterfly" from Double Booked; Rene Marie selections from Voices of My Beautiful Country.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Rachelle Ferrell; Beverly Brown

Fri, 03 May 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with an archived interview from two years ago with Rachelle Farrell, who is in town this weekend, May 3-5 on both sides of the bay. Visit yoshis.com Today we speak to playwright Beverly Brown about the encore production this weekend at El Cerrito Theatre of her fourth gospel play For Every Mountain. The play features talented Bay Area actors, musicians and vocalists in her depiction of a modern day "Job" who is facing mental and emotional issues in today’s society. Job was a man in the bible who faced tremendous loss and a great trying of his faith. Through an unimaginable mental and emotional journey with his Maker, Job emerged stronger and with everything in his life multiplied. He is often credited with teaching us the patience. For Every Mountain is edgy, provocative and sometimes humorous with dialogue that addresses the serious issues of mental and emotional disorders. Visit www.totallyled.org Music: Rachelle Ferrell's "I Can Explain" ;Victoria Theodore's title track from her Grafeful CD; Amikaeyla's "Dreamer," from Being in Love; Lloyd Gregory's "Desert Wind" from his Gentle Warrior.

Wanda's Picks Radio: dir. Kalyanee Mam: SFIFF

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We had a conversation with dir. Kalyanee Mam about her latest film, A River Changes Course, screening at the 56th Annual SFIFF this year. The film won the World Doc Award this year and is up for a Golden Gate Award as well.

Wanda's Picks:Jacque Barnes; Dr.GabrielaLenaFrank &Nilo Cruz

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with Gina Breedlove, who will talk about her new CD and concert, Sunday, May 5, 2013, in Berkeley at Freight and Salvage. Visit http://www.ginabreedlove.com/ ; next we speak to Jacque Barnes, a Bay Area Keeper of the Culture AfroBrazialian style who is recovering from open heart surgery. There is a benefit for her medical expenses Sat., April 27, 7-9 show; 10-2 party, at BrasArte Casa de Cultura, 1901 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley: ww.brasarte.com We then shift to speak to Dr. Gabriela Lena Frank (composer) and Nilo Cruz (Pulitzer Prize winning playwright) about the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra performance of the World Premiere of Journey of the Shadow, Friday, April 26-Sunday, April 28 in various venues, the first, Herbst Theatre, 401 Van Ness Ave., 8 p.m. Visit www.sfchamberorchestra.org We close with a prerecorded conversation with Victoria Theodore, pianist, composer, who is featured with her trio at the Oakland Public Conservatory's Music SHE Wrote benefit for OPC's youth who also perform, Friday, April 26, 2013, 8 p.m. at OPC 1616 Franklin Street, Oakland, 510.836-4649, $15 advance tickets, $20 at the door. Visit http://www.opcmusic.org/. We open the last segment with a conversation with beloved composer and pianist/organist Tammy Hall.

Wanda's Picks: 56th Annual SFIFF

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +0000

It's all about the 56th San Francisco International Film Festival April 25-May 9, 2013. We speak to director of programming Rachel Rosen and a new director, Jeremy Teicher about his first feature: Tall as the Baobab Tree. Jeremy Teicher, Director / Co-Producer / Co-writer, is a Student Academy Award-nominated director whose first feature film, Tall as the Baobab Tree (Grand comme le Baobab) (2012), is garnering acclaim from festivals around the world. Tall as the Baobab Tree won the “Best Feature Narrative” award from the Doha-Giffoni jury at Doha-Tribeca Film Festival and was ranked in the top 20 out of over 170 feature films by audience vote at International Film Festival Rotterdam. Tall as the Baobab Tree is inspired by Jeremy’s ground breaking documentary short, This is Us (2011), which was awarded a prestigious Lombard Public Service Fellowship, supported by Kodak, and earned Jeremy a nomination for a Student Academy Award. Rachel Rosen is the director of programming for the San Francisco Film Society. She was director of programming for Film Independent and the Los Angeles Film Festival for eight years. Previously, Rosen was associate director of programming for the San Francisco International Film Festival where she programmed for seven years. She has worked in various capacities for the New York Film Festival, New York’s Film Forum, and Tri-Star Pictures. A graduate of Stanford University’s Master of Arts program in Documentary Film, Rosen directed Serious Weather, a short documentary that was shown at the Vancouver and San Francisco International Film Festivals, and the British Short Film Festival. She is an occasional contributor on the subject of documentary film to Film Comment magazine. Music: Meklit Hadero's "Soleil Soliel."

Wanda's Picks Happy Birthday Mother Earth Special

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with a rebroadcast of our interview with Keith Josef Adkins on his latest play, The Patron Saint of Peanuts, which honors George Washington Carver; we then shift to an interview airedd two years ago with Camille T. Dungy, editor of black nature: Four Centuries of African Nature Poetry. We then celebrate with author Judy Juanita the publication of her forst novel, Virgin Soul. The novel is a tour de force featuring Geneice Hightower who takes us on a journey through the Black Arts & Revolutionary Movements of the '60s, most notably the Black Panther Party for Self Defense. Up close and personal, this old soul in a young body, smart and cute and hip, when she needs to be, innocent and fierce yet always honest is a for real foot soldier movement woman, who attends Oakland City College, hosts Stokely Carmichael (Kwame Ture) at her flat, which becomes a SafeHouse, learns to clean and assemble guns, dodges police bullets, graduates from SF State, feeds kids breakfast, tutors in Bayview Hunter's Point, recites poetry, gets laid, and ultimately finds herself (smile). Yes, it's that exciting. We close, if there is time, with an interview with Rachel Rosen, Program Dir. for the San Francisco Film Society, presenter of the 56th Annual San Francisco International Film Festival which begins April 25-May 9, 2013 http://www.sffs.org/ See http://sf.funcheap.com/ for information about Earth Day Activities Friday-Monday, April 19-22, 2013.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: GeorgeWashingtonCarver BlackNature

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Keith Josef Adkins' joins us to talk about a reading Monday, April 15, 2013, at LaMama Theatre of his The Patron Saint of Peanuts, first produced a play based on the life of George Washington Carver, commissioned and produced at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival's Southern Writer's Project 2004). Other plays include Farewell Miss Cotton (Black Dahlia Theater February 2006), Crossing America (Mark Taper's New Works Festival 2005), Wilberforce (National Black Theater Festival 2005, Cleveland Public Theatre New Plays Festival, Hartford Stage New Voices). Honors include: Alliance Theater's August Wilsom Memorial Commission, Mark Taper Forum's Richard Sherwood Distinguished Emerging Theater Artist Award, two Best Play Awards at the Cleveland Public Theatre New Plays Festival (Wilberforce and On the Hills of Black America), a Van Lier Fellowship (New York Theater Workshop), and an EST/Sloan Science Foundation playwriting grant. http://www.playscripts.com/author?authorid=348#playdetails We close with cast and the director of The Expulsion of Malcolm X, Americ's world premiere at Southside Theatre in Ft. Mason Center, in San Francisco: DeJuan Conner (Malcolm X), Abbie Rhone (Elijah Muhammad), Michael Lange (director).

Wanda's Picks:The Rebellious Life of Mrs.RosaParks

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:00:00 +0000

We open the show today, which is dedicated to freedom fighter, Mrs. Rosa Louise McCauley Parks (Feb. 4, 1913-Oct. 24, 2006) with an interview with scholar and Parks biographer, Jeanne Theoharis, Ph.D., a professor at Brooklyn College, CUNY NY. Her new book, The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks, comes on the 100th year of Mrs. Parks's life. Dr. Theoharis is the author and coauthor of six books and numerous articles on the black freedom struggle and the contemporary politics of race in the United States. We open with Lift Ev'ry Voice/Star Spangled Banner by Rene Marie and Rosa Parks speaking Oct. 16, 1995 at the Million Man March. Note the interesting coincidence of her departure from this realm is also in October. We close the program with an interview with Larry Americ Allen, playwright whose The Expulsion of Malcolm X opens this evening at the Southside Theatre at Ft. Mason Ctr., Bldg. D, 3rd Floor, for a month long run Friday-Saturday, 8 p.m., Sundays, 3 p.m. April 12-May 5, 2013. Call (510) 213-0401 or brownpapertickets.com

Wanda's Picks: Larry Americ Allen'sThe Expulsion of MalcolmX

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with Larry Americ Allen re: the World Premiere of "The Expulsion of Malcolm X," which opens in San Francisco at the Southside Theatre in Ft. Mason Center, Bldg. D., 3rd floor, (510) 213-0401. Directed by Michael Lange, the play runs F-Sat. 8 p.m., Sun., 3 p.m. April 12-May 5, 2013, browntickets. The next interview is with the subjects: Amlan Ganguly, Salim Shekh, and Sikha Patra, in Nicole Newnham and Maren Granger-Monsen's film, which opened in SF Bay Area theatres, April 5, 2013, The Revolutionary Optimists: How Far Would You Go to Change Your World? Amlan Ganguly empowers children to become activists and educators, with powerful results. The Revolutionary Optimists follows him as he attempts to replicate his work in the brick fields outside the city, where children live and work in unimaginable conditions.Using street theater, puppetry, and dance as their weapons, the children in Calcutta's slums have cut their neighborhoods' malaria and diarrhea rates in half, and turned former garbage dumps into playing fields. Now, pushing at the limits of optimism, Amlan is attempting to take his work into the brickfields outside Calcutta, where spend their days making and carrying bricks using methods unchanged by centuries. The Revolutionary Optimists proposes a workable solution to intractable problems associated with poverty, including preventable diseases and ineffectual governance. Ganguly's story suggests that education and child empowerment are crucial keys to lifting entire societies out of hopelessness. Visit http://revolutionaryoptimists.org/ The film airs in June 17, 2013 on http://www.itvs.org/films/revolutionary-optimists

Wanda's Picks:Sugaree Rising;OIFF;KLYMAXX

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with Bay Area author, journalist and political columnist J. Douglas Allen-Taylor about his first novel, Sugaree Rising, set in the South Carolina coastal area Lowcountry in the late Depression years and discuss his well-crafted female characters like narrator Yally, Aunt Soo, Na'Risa, Nana'Timbi, Eshy. . . to hold the bridge between the past and the present as this community of Gullah people face an enemy threatening to end their collective lives. They resist while Yally feet in the middle of the path finds no rest, as her beloved community seems to be unraveling and withit her identity. Sugaree shows there are many ways to die, some more painful than others. And what do we do with the dead who refuse burial? http://www.sugareerising.com/ Our next guest, David Roach is the founder of the Oakland International Film Festival, Apr. 4-7, 2013 http://www.oaklandinternationalfilmfestival.com/film-schedule/ We close with an interview with Bernadette Cooper her DIVA AND A TURNTABLE TOUR, Saturday, April 13, 2013, 8pm $29 & 10pm $27, open dance floor for 10pm show at Yoshi's in Oakland, CA. KLYMAXX, the legendary platinum-selling all female band, is synonymous with such chart hits as “The Men All Pause,” “Meeting in the Ladies Room,” “Sexy,” “I'd Still Say Yes,” “Divas Need Love Too,” and the band's biggest hit, the top five Billboard single, “I Miss You." And when you think of the groundbreaking Pop/R&B funk unit, you can't help but also think of its founding leader, musician, writer and producer, Bernadette Cooper.

Wanda's Picks: Martin King's Beloved Community

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda Sabir welcomes Simone Missick, (Camae) in Katori Hall's TheMountaintop at TheatreWorks Silicon Valley at the Lucie Stern Theatre in Palo Alto, CA, through Apr. 7, 2013 with performances Thursday, Friday and Sunday afternoon. Visit www.theatreworks.org Wanda's Picks is a black arts and culture show. Mountaintop looks at the evening before Martin Luther King is killed. The one act play takes place at the Lorraine Motel the night before. King and Camae, a maid, spend the night together in conversation, comradery and comfort. We meet a King who smokes Pall Malls, is honest about his fears, loves his family, and is a devoted servant to his creator even when the two disagree. Visit http://www.theatreworks.org/ Our next guest Jovelyn Richards joins us as scheduled to speak about her Nappy Hair Love Stories and the kickstarter campaign to mount them all (4) this summer. Ms. Richards joins us to talk about her Nappy Headed Love Stories Series kickstarter campaign. We close with Konda Mason who speaks about the benefit program she is hosting for East Bay Meditation Center: The Dream Never Dies at UC Berkeley's Zellerbach Hall, Thursday, April 4, 2013, 7 p.m. Visit http://www.eastbaymeditation.org/ Music: Rene Marie's Just My Imagination; Sweet Honey's Hope; Sowethu Gospel Choir's Grace.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Ain't I a Woman

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:00:00 +0000

We close our March celebration of women with a look at the legacy of Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman. We start with a conversation with Avery Sharpe, a visionary composer, educator and musician whose work “Ain’t I a Woman” consists of compositions based on formerly enslaved abolitionist and women’s rights advocate, Sojourner Truth’s life, the title of the project taking its title from a speech she made for woman suffrage in Seneca Falls, NY, in 1851. See http://www.averysharpe.com/ Later in the show we continue this conversation with Paula M. Kimper, composer of “Truth, a New Folk Opera about Sojourner Truth, the ex-slave, fiery abolitionist and women’s rights pioneer, Linda McInerney, director/co-creator and co-conceiver, is also founder and Artistic Director of Old Deerfield Productions; and Mari-Yan Pringle, who sings the lead. Visit http://truthopera.com/Between the two Truth conversations is a prerecorded interview with scholar and author, Dr. Jeanne Theoharis about her latest book: "The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks." The full interview will be broadcast April 3, 2013, 6 AM PT here on this dial. We close with a conversation about the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument as the 399th unit of the National Park System (to open in 2015) with Robert G. Stanton, former Director of the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, Senior Adviser to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, Washington, D.C. Visit www.nps.gov/hatu

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Spring Break Hours

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Women's History Month is closing with a bang in Berkeley with "Just Like a Woman," a concert featuring an all-star line up of women vocalists and musicians among them Rhonda Benin, the show's producer, with Paula Harris, Terrie Odabi, Kellye Gray and the Lillian Armstrong Tribute Band with musicial director Tammy Hall, at the Freight and Salvage. Visit http://www.thefreight.org/event We close with an interview with Tobie Windham, a regular guest who joins us to talk about his latest role, "John," in Matthew Lopez's The Whipping Man opening at Marin Theatre Company March 28-April 21, 2013. Visit www.marintheatre.org (415) 388-5200. Music: Kim Nalley's "I Wish I Knew How It Felt to Be Free"; Keb'Mo's "Wake Up Everybody"; Karrin Allyson's "Spring Can Really Hang You Up," and Paula West's "Rolling Stone" (an excerpt).

Wanda's Picks: The Black Woman is God

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 15:00:00 +0000

"The Black Woman Is God," curated by Karen Seneferu is at the Sargent Johnson Gallery in SF, CA through May 30, 2013. A self-taught artist that grew up in Oakland, California, receiving her BA in English from University of California, Berkeley she will speak about her interest in how individuals can be a part of mainstream society and maintain cultural integrity. In her academic hat Karen created a program that removed fear and anxiety for Foundational students called Take Flight at Berkeley City College. At the center of the program was the idea that narrative is art and art is narrative. Senferu's artwork is also a cross section of her teaching. She uses various mediums, such as installation, mix media sculpture, painting, and video to reveal the process of self empowerment and self- transformation. Zena Carlota Pearl Allen is a self-trained artist who uses the mediums of collage, painting, sculpture, and installation. In her art, which is currently a part of a number of exhibitions: Joyce Gordon Gallery in Oakland and One Life Institute at Studio One in Oakland, she explores universal themes of matriarchy, cultural knowledge and preservation that are cross-cultural in their significance. Her subjects are often women, relatives, and Indigenous deities of the African and Asian Diaspora. Velina Brown (Miss Flora in "A Lady and A Woman" at Theatre Rhino) is an award-winning actress, singer/songwriter, and director whose artistic home for several years has been the San Francisco Mime Troupe. She performs regularly at several Bay Area Theatre companies and was just seen this week in the Magic Theatre's staged reading ofPEN/MAN/SHIP by Christina Anderson. Velina is also a coach and writes a monthly column for Theatre Bay Area Magazine called “The Business of Show Biz.”

Wanda's Picks: Jacquie Jones; Clarence R. Cuthberson

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Jacquie Jones joins us to speak about 180 Days: A Year inside an American High School, airing nationally on PBS March 25-26, 2015. The film follows a high five students at DC Met. Jones is the Executive Director of the National Black Programming Consortium (NBPC) and the Executive Producer of DC MET. Since taking over leadership of NBPC, Jacquie has established herself as a leader in the evolving next-media landscape through innovative partnerships and initiatives such as the Katrina Project, the ground-breaking New Media Institute, the Public Media Corps and blackpublicmedia.org. She was previously the Executive Vice President of ROJA Productions in New York City, a producer of high impact media for public television and museums. Jacquie is also a Peabody Award-winning producer and director of documentary films. Her credits include “Africans in America” and “Matters of Race” for PBS, “Behind Closed Doors: Sex in the 20th Century” for Showtime, and “The World Before Us,” for the History Channel. She has a BA in English from Howard University and an MA from Stanford University’s documentary filmmaking program. She has been a Revson Fellow at Columbia University and a scholar-in-residence at American University in Washington, DC. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Integrated Media Association (iMA) board and on the Community Advisory Board of WHUT Howard University Television. Clarence R. Cuthbertson, Ph.D., playwright, joins us to talk about "Tituba" and "Nat," which are at Black Repretory Group in Berkeley, CA, this Sunday, 8 p.m. The native New Yorker, is both an accomplished playwright as well as a percussionist. He has written over 19 plays of which 16 have been produced professionally. With an MFA in Dramatic Writing from N.Y.U., he has taught and directed theater throughout the United States and in the Caribbean.Music: Robert Glasper

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:00:00 +0000

We speak to Albert Mazibuko about Ladysmith Black Mambazo – led by founder and leader Joseph Shabalala – which this year celebrates over fifty years of joyous and uplifting music that marries the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. In those years, the a cappella vocal group has created a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience representing every corner of the religious, cultural and ethnic landscape. Their musical efforts over the past five decades have garnered praise and accolades within the recording industry, but also solidified their identity as a cultural force to be reckoned with. Assembled in the early 1960s in South Africa by Shabalala – then a young farmboy turned factory worker – the group took the name Ladysmith Black Mambazo – Ladysmith being the name of Shabalala’s rural hometown; Black being a reference to oxen, the strongest of all farm animals; and Mambazo being the Zulu word for axe, a symbol of the group’s ability to “chop down” any singing rival who might challenge them. In late 2013, the group will release "Stories and Songs From A Zulu Farm" in which they've created a narrative story to join with their recent songs for children to better understand life on a Zulu Farm. This will be their first children's cd since the 1990's. They will also release a Live cd called "Singing For Peace Around The World" in early 2013. Later they will release a new traditional Zulu cd in 2014 and an all English American Gospel recording with a famous American singer. From http://www.mambazo.com/

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Deepa Dhanraj; Prof Bill Bell

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Deepa Dhanraj is a writer, director, and producer living in Bangalore, South India. She has produced and directed numerous an award-winning documentaries such as her latest film, Invoking Justice, which is a part of CAAM Film Festival 2013. Other films are: Something Like a War (Channel 4); The Legacy of Malthus (BBC 2); Sudesha (Faust Film/ARD); Nari Adalat/Women's Courts; and What Has Happened to This City? Her films have been screened on BBC, ARTE, ZDF, CBC, and SBS. Her films have been invited to festivals such as IDFA, Berlinale, Leipzig, Oberhausen, Films deFemmes, Creteil France,Tampere, Vancouver, and Chicago. She has a special interest in education and has created video materials to address challenges faced by first generation learners. Bill Bell, jazz pianist, composer, arranger has earned the title "Jazz Professor" for completing over 30 years of successful University and College jazz teaching. He joins us to talk about his Spring concert Sunday, March 17, 2013 in Oakland. Before retiring in 2001, he was chairman of the music department at the College of Alameda for the last twenty years of his tenure there. He was widely known for directing award winning jazz bands and small ensembles at both the College of Alameda and at Stanford. He also held an adjunct position in jazz improvisation at the University of California, Berkeley. He was awarded the Beacon Award from the San Francisco Jazz for outstanding contribution to jazz education and performance in 2005. With a proven background in jazz education, he maintains a busy schedule of workshops and lecture demonstrations with his trio and quartet “The Jazz Connection”. We close with an interview with Albert Mazibuko of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, celebrating its 50th Anniversary year with a live CD "Singing for Peace Around the World."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: International Woman's Day

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to Jennifer Phang about her futuristic thriller, Advantageous, which is screening with Mekong Hotel as a part of CAAM Festival Sat., March 16, 4 p.m. at PFA and Sun., Mar. 17, at 2:10 p.m.. at New People. In the film, Gwen is the spokesperson for a radical technology allowing people to overcome their natural disadvantages and begin life anew. But when her job and family are in crisis, will she undergo the procedure herself? Phang's presents an interesting premise. What will a mother sacrifice for her daughter’s future? Advantageous is an amazing playing out of the patriarchal system—and the look, a woman's look, "more universal" which means ethnic erasure. A true melting pot with benefits for the most visually assimilated. Gwen, a single mom, with school fees to pay, is suddenly too old to advance in her company and too Asian looking for that universal face caamedia.org Stephen Vittoria, director of "Long Distance Revolutionary: A Journey with Mumia Abu Jamal," opens at the New Parkway today (3/8-14/2013) with screenings at 4 and 7:30 p.m.. thenewparkway.com We have a chance interview with Rachel West from "Global Women Strike" who tells about "The RISE out of Poverty Act" reintroduced last month by Congresswoman Gwen Moore (Wisconsin). There is an International Women's Day event planned in LA to stop the construction of a new women's prison http://www.globalwomenstrike.net/Emory Douglas, Revolutionary Artist and former Min. of Culture for the Black Panther Party speaks about his travels and work, women and civil action. He is giving an artist talk at the Harvey Milk Photo Center, 50 Dubose Street, in San Francisco, Sat., March 9, 2013, 1-4 p.m.. (415) 554-9522.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Rhodessa Jones speaks of SHE

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Rhodessa Jones joins us to talk about her latest work, The Resurrection of SHE opening at Brava Theatre where she is the current Artist in Residence March 28-April 7, 2013. Ms. Jones is Co-Artistic Director of the critically acclaimed San Francisco performance company Cultural Odyssey. An actress, teacher, singer, and writer, Jones is also the founder and director of the Medea Project: Theater for Incarcerated Women. On January 29, 2013 San Francisco Mayor Lee presented the 2013 Mayor's Art Award to Rhodessa Jones for her “lifetime of artistic achievement and enduring commitment to the role of the arts in civic life”. Rhodessa was selected as an "ARTS ENVOY" by the U.S. Department of State, Educational and Cultural Affairs Bureau in June/July 2012. She received grant support to journey to South Africa to continue her work in collaboration with Urban Voices Festival inside the Naturena Women's Prison in Johannesburg, South Africa and then journey on to participate in the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, South Africa. She has received many awards for her work including a United States Artist Fellowship to support her work in 2007, an Honorary Doctorate from California College of the Arts, a San Francisco Bay Guardian GOLDIE Lifetime Achievement Award, an Otto Rene Castillo Award for Political Theater, and a San Francisco Foundation Community Leadership Award. Visit www.brava.org Music: Meklit Hadero's Walls, Ruthie Foster's Truth; Rene Marie's Just My Imagination.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black Power Flower Power

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We open with a rebroadcast of an interview with Joanna Haigood re: Sailing Away Sept. 13-16, 2012 on Market Street in San Francisco. Out & Equal at Work edited by Selisse Berry contributor:Christie Hardwick has more than thirty years of experience with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations and grassroots organizing efforts. She is also past president of the National Board of Directors for GLSEN: Gay, Lesbian, & Straight Education Network. She provides strategic thinking and personal guidance services to clients across the United States. Christie has facilitated the Out & Equal Executive Forum since 2008. Shirlene Holmes, playwright's work "A Lady and A Woman" is having its West coast debut next week, March 7-24 at the Eureka Theatre in SF. Dr. Holmes is an Associate Professor at Georgia State University presently. Her dramas are rooted in the African American experience and give voice to the marginalized in society and celebrate the profundity of the common person. www.TheRhino.org Dave Christensen, dir. The Harvey Milk Photo Center, a San Francisco Recreation and Park facility, and Jennifer McFarland, dir., The Pirkle Jones Foundation join us to speak about artists Pirkle Jones and Ruth-Marion Baruch's Black Power/Flower Power an exhibit currently up through March 23 at the Havey Milk Photo Center in San Francisco, 50 Scott Street at Duboce in San Francisco. Visit http://www.pirklejones.com/ and harveymilkphotocenter.org Music: Abraham Burton's Amina and Judith Sephuma's LeTshephile Mang.

Wanda's Picks: Robert H. King on A3; Black Healthcare

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Jerri Lange & Belva Davis

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:00:00 +0000

The continuing story of Jerri Lange, a former Chronicle reporter; SFSU professor and longtime television host whose groundbreaking broadcasting career spanned several decades. Now in her late 80s, Jerri is still exploring, most recently becoming the student of a Master Zen Buddhist priest. This exhibit follows not only her past work but focuses on her love for Japan and her ongoing spiritual journey. Meet Ms. Lange, Sunday, February 24, 2013, 2 PM in the Koret Auditorium, Lower Level, Main Library. http://sfpl.org/index.php?pg=1012883001 Belva Davis has been a fixture in Bay Area journalism for more than five decades. Since becoming the first black female television journalist in the West in 1964, she has covered events of local, national, and international scope. Her tribute, hosted by former SF Mayor Willie Brown is Feb. 23, 7 p.m. is at YBCA's Forum. Visit http://ybca.org/belvadavis Teri Simmons pops into the studio to talk about the big free gospel concert this weekend, Sunday, Feb. 24, 4 p.m. at St. Paul's AME Church in Berkeley, CA http://www.stpaulberkeley.com concert this weekend Black Choreographers Festival Here and Now 9 concludes this weekend with Next Wave, new, seasoned and up and coming artists. We are joined by Serenity, Afia Thompson and Nafi Watson-Thompson, featured choreographers this weekend. Visitwww.bcfhereandnow.com Music arranged by Teri Simmons, "His Eye is on the Sparrow/It is well with my Lord."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Healing the Community

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Ms. Aisha Brown who joins us to talk about African American Organizations Making Connections 2, this Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013, at Laney College in Oakland, CA, works as a Senior Legislative Aide for Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson in the Fifth District. For over ten years, Aisha has worked for Supervisor Carson on policy in the areas of workforce and economic development, STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math), social services, early care and education, and housing. Ms. Brown is a native of Oakland, CA, graduating from Skyline High School. She attended San Francisco State University where she received a Bachelors of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology and a Master’s degree in Organizational Management. Ms. Brown is the President of Black Women Organized For Political Action (BWOPA), the Oakland/Berkeley Chapter, one of the oldest women’s political organizations in the state of California. To register visit: http://aamakingconnections2013.eventbrite.com/#Omitola Toluwalase Akinwunmi, MA, psychology, MS, counseling, certificated/credentialed Professional counselor, Master Herbalist, student of life. She says her purpose in this life is to each day "learn a lesson and to teach a lesson and love herself so that she knows how to love others as she participates fully in the life experience. Kajara Nia Yaa Nebthet, founder of RA SEKHI ARTS TEMPLE OF HEALING, is a Heal Thyself Ambassador of Wellness, Natural Healer, Priestess, Community Activist, Afrikan Holistic Health Consultant, Spiritual Warrior, Sacred Woman, Educator, Mother, Tree hugger and Nature lover who has dedicated her life to promote health, wellness and natural living to our community. They speak about the annual Whole Healing Arts, Feb. 22-24, 2013. Visit http://rasekhi.webs.com/aboutus.htm

Wanda's Picks:MAMA C's HealingtheCommunity Tour;Rev.Dr.White

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We open with an interview with Mama Charlotte Hill O'Neal about her "Heal the Community Tour 2013"; We then shift into a conversation with Rev. Dr. Leslie White, senior pastor of St. Paul AME Church, 2420 Ashby Ave., Berkeley, CA, about the Second Annual Voices of Healing Concert, Feb. 24, 2013, 4 p.m. Admission is free. We close with a rebroadcast of an interview with Whitney Young's neice, Bonnie Boswell, about her film Power Broker:Whitney Young's Fight for Civl Rights, which airs Feb. 18, 2013 on ITVS.

Wanda's Picks: 1Billion Rising 2/14/2013; SF Silent FilmFest

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:00:00 +0000

This is a rebroadcast of the June 22, 2012 show: Gina Breedlove speaks about the community healing:One Billion Rising Bay Area, 6/24/12, at Civic Center Park (MLK At Allston Way, across from Berkeley High). http://www.bayarearising We close with an interview with San Francisco Silent Film Festival director, Anita Monga about "Silent Winter," a day long series of wonderful film classics with live musical performances this Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, 10 am until. The festival takes place at the Castro theatre in San Francisco. Visit www.silentfilm.org for all day passes and information on programming.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Black Choreographers Here & Now

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Bryant Bolling, speaks to us about TuBeNu Productions "Black Like Me in America: A Musical Journey through Slavery, at Joyce Gordon Gallery, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013, 4-6 p.m. It is a free event. He was joined by Derek "Mac Quan," a wonderful poet who will share the program with Bryant. Next in the studio is Kim McMillon playwright who drops in to talk about her latest work, "Black Heaven" and a staged reading at The Frank Bette Center, 7-9 p.m., 1601 Paru Street (at Lincoln) in Alameda, CA, (510) 523-6957. This is another free event (smile). Victor Lawhorn was commissioned to write a play about aviator, Bessie Coleman, 12 years ago. "A Shadow in the Clouds: The Story of Bessie Coleman," which opens tonight at Black Rep in Berkeley. He is joined by actress Nathalie Autumn Bennett, who plays Queen Bessie. We close with our annual conversation with Laura Elaine Ellis with special guests, among them Latanya Tigner and Deborah Vaughn to talk about this years celebration of Dimensions Dance Theatre and "The 9th Anniversary of Black Choreographers Here and Now" opening at Laney College Theatre, Feb. 9, 2013, 8 p.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Bonnie Boswell, neice, WhitneyYoung

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 15:00:00 +0000

Today we interview Ms. Bonnie Boswell, niece of Civil Rights Leader, Whitney Young. Young is the subject of a new film, Power Broker, airing on ITVS this month, Feb. 18. Executive Producer and Producer of Power Broker: Whitney Young's Fight for Civil Rights, Ms. Boswell, is an award-winning reporter, producer, commentator and talk show host. A graduate of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boswell won a Golden Mike Award for a one-hour news program she created for NBC. Mrs. Boswell has been a news reporter for NBC-TV, Los Angeles, the co-host of a national cable television news talk show and and an associate producer for ABC’s 20/20.

Wanda's Picks: SFIndie;JoyElan;GuettyFelin;BAJABA;Pyramids

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We kicked off the show with a broadcast of an interview looking at the musicality of Langston Hughes's poetry. On what would have been the poet's 111 birthday. When the Weary Blues Met Jazz, Langston Hughes's collaboration with Charles Mingus and Leonard Feather, is a part of the wonderful Poetry Foundation--audioitem/713. We follow this recording with a live interview with narrative features programmer for SF Indie Fest, Holly Roach, who will speak to us about this 15th Anniversary. Visit http://sfindie.com/ There is a special Superbowl event on Sunday, Feb. 3, at the Roxie Theatre. Joy Elan, poet, teacher, writer, scholar, whose book Signs of Life, Past, Present, and Future (2011), is next. I first met Joy at the Empowering Women of Color Conference March 2012 at UC Berkeley. Visit http://www.joyelan.webs.com/ Guetty Felin, joins us to talk about her latest film, Broken Stones, which creatively uses an edifice to depict the tragic events and her people's resilience during and since the earthquake three years ago, concludes, the African Film Festival at UC Berkeley's Pacific Film Archive, Feb. 5, 2013, 7 p.m. Afrikahn Jahmal Dayvs, BAJABA Showcase & Idris Akamoor, Cultural Odyssey, join us to update the Street Gallery, on current programs, one tonight, a tribute to Billy Higgins, at the 57th Street Gallery. Idris gives us an update on The Pyramid's European Tour and the release of the boxed set of music and six concerts which lead up to the formation of a community ensemble begin Feb. 10, 2013 at Floyd Pellom’s 57th Street Gallery, 5701 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland. The other concerts at SF State Knuth Hall Creative Arts Bldg. (2/13, 1 p.m.), the Jazz Heritage Center (2/15-16, 8 p.m., 1330 Fillmore), and the AAACC (2/21 8 p.m.) and Brava (2/22 8 p.m.) are free. Music: Dwight Tribble's "I've Known Rivers"; Donald Duck Bailey

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: African Film Festival Inc. at PFA

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 14:00:00 +0000

We have Mahen Bonetti, director, African Film Festival, Inc. on the air this morning to talk about the African Film Festival tour at the Pacific Film Archive at UC Berkeley, Jan. 23-Feb. 5, 2013. The PFA series, curated by Kathy Geritz, offers a wonderful opportunity to audiences to see Africa through African eyes, most of the directors young and for this series, women. The concerns of African filmmakers are often aesthetic and political—the desire to depict the realities of their everyday lives and to interpret their history from their own perspective. A number of the featured documentaries look to the past to examine forces that continue to influence the present. Our Beloved Sudan traces the complex history leading to the partition of Sudan; The Unbroken Spirit focuses on the courageous fight for a multiparty democracy in Kenya; and the arc of Black Africa, White Marble moves from colonial-era to present-day Republic of Congo. All three take the vantage point of one individual in order to bring to life a larger history. Other documentaries observe life as it unfolds and portray collective experience: the poetic Broken Stones depicts Port-au- Prince, Haiti after the earthquake and Africa Shafted focuses on Johannesburg, South Africa as it absorbs immigrants from all over Africa. Microphone celebrates Egypt’s vibrant youth culture of hip-hop and graffiti art, while How to Steal 2 Million, a stylish noir, and a number of short films highlight the creative spirit of younger filmmakers.Visit http://www.bampfa.berkeley.edu/tickets/ and http://www.africanfilmny.org/ Music: Wolf Hawk Jaguar "Esu Exit;" Leon Thomas's "The Creator Has a Master Plan."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We open with the second part of a series of conversations, with returning guest, Ayotunde A. Akindele, Sacramento, CA and his partner and our special guest Claude Maredza, who is joining us from Harare, ZM, to talk about the Chapwati Great Zimbabwe Leisure Resort project, he heads, but more importantly what the continued effect US sanctions is having on Zimbabwean people and these unauthorized sanctions need to be lifted. Visit change.org For info: uni_tees@hotmail.com & maredzac@yahoo.com 2. Steven Anthony Jones, Artistic Director, Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, pops in to talk about LHT newest initiative and the staged reading of The Jamaican Wash, a revisioning of Philip Kan Gotanda's work with Carl Lumbley and Edris Cooper-Anifososhe, this weekend tonight, 7 p.m. and tomorrow, Sat., Jan. 12, 2 p.m. at The Costume Shop, A.C.T.'s newest performance venue 1117 Market, SF (Civic Center BART, 7th St. exit. 1/2 block walk nr. UN Plaza). Visit lhtsf.org We close with a conversation between two of the San Francisco Bay Area's stunning creative art mavens: Halifu Osumare and Denise Pate. Dr. Osumare is being honored at Unity Day at the Community Dance event and arts showcase, Sun., Jan. 13, 9-5 at the Malonga Casquelourde Center for the Arts, 1428 Alice Street, Oakland. Ms. Pate, currently Cultural Arts Funding Director for the City of Oakland, will facilitate a conversation which looks at Oakland and the Arts, specific to the synergy and the definition of place, held by its Pan African citizens, especially artists. Dr. Osumare, founder of Everybody's Creative Art Ctr. (later Citidance, which Ms. Pate was executive diretor of), an honoree this Sunday, will talk about this dance center's history. This comes at a time when Oakland is being hailed as an arts destination by ArtsPlace.org, named, No. 5 re: NYtimes Top 45 Places to Go in 2012.Music: WolfHawkJaguer's Cowrie Shell, Amikaeyla's Lovely Day.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast from the Archives

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Mother's Day 2012 Rebroadcast

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 16:30:00 +0000

We devote the first hour to a Shout out to the Black Mother. Guests are asked to tell us their mom's name. Question: Is she still alive? What do you love most about her? What lessons are you still living by? What is she most proud of that you have done? Moms you can give a shout out to yourselves too (smile). Count your blessings on the air. You have only a minute or two though, depending on the response (smile). We are then joined by Jennifer Baichwal, director, Payback, based on Margaret Atwood's visionary work, Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth. The film opens May 18, 2012 at Landmark's Lumiere in San Francisco and Landmark's Shattuck Cinemas in Berkeley. We close with a conversation with Eleanor Jacobs, Lena in Lorraine Hansberry's Raisin in the Sun, directed by L. Peter Callender, Artistic Director, African American Shakespeare Company in San Francisco at the Burial Clay Theater at the African American Art and Culture Complex, 762 Fulton Street, San Francisco. Visit www.african-americanshakes.org or call (800) 838-3006.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast Dec. 28, 2012 UJIMA

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 17:00:00 +0000

Ayotunde A. Akindele, business man, activist, Pan African speaks about Chapwati Great Zimbabwe Leisure Resort and a petition on Change.org to remove the United States sanctions on Zimbabwe;Bill Doggett, a is respected and experienced Exhibitions Curator and independent archivist based in Oakland. Doggett’s goal is to create a educational outreach resource with his archive of rare ephemera and recordings.Doggett has curated three well received exhibitions in San Francisco: The African American Concert Singer 1900-1963, Porgy and Bess: From Broadway to San Francisco for San Francisco Opera; The Underground Railroad: Songs of Hope and Freedom, The Civil War@150 years and now a historic exhibit commemorating the 150 anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Jan. 1, 1863-Jan.1, 2013--The Journey To Freedom: Emancipation Proclamation@150 Years.The exhibit covers The Transatlantic Slave Trade, Slavery in the US and The Emancipation Proclamation (Jan.-Feb. 2013) at the Bay View Opera House in San Francisco, with an artist reception Feb. 2.Larry Vann, drummer has been performing professionally since 15. He draws from a deep well of musical influence, including gospel, blues, funk, jazz and soul and has toured and recorded with a medley of celebrated artists, including THE WHISPERS, ELVIN BISHOP, MARTHA REEVES, THE MARVALETTES, BUFFY SAINT-MARIE and many more. Honors & awards include: The Blues Society’s West Coast Hall of Fame, “Blues Drummer of the Year ” and The Jazz Institute’s “Man of the Year” award. He is also a Governor on the governing board of the San Francisco chapter of The Recording Academy. Visit http://www.larryvann.com/We close with an interview with Vixen Noir aka Veronica Combs about her reinvention as a vocalist with an EP dropping, "Dangerous," Jan. 29, 2013.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: Habari Gani? Imani & Freedom

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 17:30:00 +0000

Our first guest isAundre The Wonder Woman. She is featured tonight at BRAVA THEATRE, in San Francisco along with other funny women (smile). Visit brava.org Brava Theater Center is located at 2781 24th Street, San Francisco.Call (415) 647-2822. She began her comedy career at Steve harvey's Comedy House in Dallas, TX. Steve described the defense attorney as “A new comic with a funny way of saying things." Since that time, she has been named Oakland's Funniest Comic on the Strip, the Funniest Woman in Half Moon Bay. . . In 2008, she received the "Stand-up for Justice" Award from Death Penalty Focus, for her work against the death penalty. Guest: Theresa Shoatz, daughter of Russell "Maroon" Shoatz, who has a new book out on PM Press early 2013. Ms. Shoatz has been a community organizer for over 20 years. Donating her time to the Human Rights Coalition of Philadelphia (HRC FED UP!), Decarcerate Pennsylvania and Scientific Soul Sessions, she has fought tirelessly for her father’s freedom during his two decades in solitary confinement. She has been a pillar of support to the families of incarcerated men and women in her community, organizing and executing trips to prisons for relatives to meet their loved ones and exercising an “open-door” policy in order to counsel community members on the traumas brought about by mass incarceration. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Graterford Prison Chapter recently honored her dedication to families and communities throughout Philadelphia. More at: www.russellmaroonshoatz.wordpress.com

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Ayotunde A. Akindele, business man, activist, Pan African speaks about Chapwati Great Zimbabwe Leisure Resort; Bill Doggett, a is respected and experienced Exhibitions Curator and independent archivist based in Oakland is inspired by the life work of the legendary archivist and curator, Arthur Schomburg, whose collection established New York’s Schomburg Center Doggett’s goal is to create a educational outreach resource with his archive of rare ephemera and recordings.Doggett has curated three well received exhibitions in San Francisco: The African American Concert Singer 1900-1963,Porgy and Bess: From Broadway to San Francisco for San Francisco Opera; The Underground Railroad: Songs of Hope and Freedom, The Civil War@150 years and now a historic exhibit commemorating the 150 anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Jan. 1, 1863-Jan.1, 2013--The Journey To Freedom: Emancipation Proclamation@150 Years.The exhibit covers The Transatlantic Slave Trade, Slavery in the US and The Emancipation Proclamation (Jan.-Feb. 2013) at the Bay View Opera House in San Francisco, with an artist reception Feb. 2. Larry Vann, drummer has been performing professionally since 15. He draws from a deep well of musical influence, including gospel, blues, funk, jazz and soul and has toured and recorded with a medley of celebrated artists. Honors & awards include: The Blues Society’s West Coast Hall of Fame, “Blues Drummer of the Year ” and The Jazz Institute’s “Man of the Year” award. He has also been honored to serve as a Governor on the governing board of the San Francisco chapter of The Recording Academy. He celebrates his birthday tonight with a CD Release and Concert at the 57th Street Gallery in Oakland. We close with an interview with Vixen Noir aka Veronica Combs about her reinvention as a vocalist with an EP dropping, "Dangerous," Jan. 29, 2013.

Wanda's Picks Kwanzaa 2012 Special

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 17:00:00 +0000

We open the show with Ann Chinn, Executive Director of Middle Passage Ceremonies and Port Markers (MPP), an organization that began this year to Commemorate the nearly 2 million Africans who perished in the Middle Passage of the transatlantic human trade; Research and identify all ports of entry for Africans during the 350 years of the transatlantic human trade and then Sponsor remembrance ceremonies at each of more than 175 middle passage ports in 50 nations of North, Central, and South America, the Caribbean, and Europe; Plan final ceremonies on the east and west coasts of Africa by 2020; Baba Achebe Hoskins, member, The Brotherhood of Elders Council speaks about Kujichagulia or Self-Determination, Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012, at the Malonga Center, 1428 Alice Street, Oakland. He is a 2011 City of Oakland Humanitarian Award Winner, a father, cultural worker and playwright. Baba Achebe currently facilitates a Transformative Manhood Group which is made up of fifteen elders who conduct a weekly, multi-ethnic intergenerational “Critical Thinking” session for between ten and twenty youth, thirteen to twenty five years old. Artist, Activists: Malik Seneferu and Brotha Clint join us to talk about the Kwanzaa 2012 kick-off in San Francisco today at 12 noon at City Hall. Visit www.thevillageprojectsf.org We close with a conversation with Adimu Madyun and Ayodele Nzinga Ph.D. who talk about Warrior Spirit Art Experience this Saturday, UJAMAA or Cooperative Economics. The evening features: "WolfHawkJaguars: A Band of Hunters" at the 57th Street Gallery, 5701 Telegraph. The Cleansing starts at 5 p.m., show 8:30-11 p.m.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special with Taiwo& Kehinde Kujichagulia

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 17:00:00 +0000

I interview Taiwo & Kehinde Kujichagulia-Seitu, about Taiwo's work: Go Tell It!An original musical drama woven around Negro Spirituals.This musical journey with Harriet Tubman & family along the Underground Railroad shows us how Spirituals helped guide the way! The play is up this Fri. Dec. 21& Sat. 22 at 7pm. at Kids N’Dance, 3840 MacArthur Blvd. (at 38 Ave). Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Purchase tickets online at: gotellit.eventbrite.com brownpapertickets.com/event/294057 To find out more about the show, visit: gotellit2012.wix.com/gotellit The musical is narrated by Griot Phavia Kujichagulia and features a cast of singers, dancers, drummers and actors numbering about 40! The choir includes: Marilyn Reynolds, Brenda Savage, Andrea Turner, Thomas McKennie, Alex & Harriet Bagwell, and Pat Jameson-Amwele from Vukani Mawethu Choir, along with Taiwo & Kehinde Kujichagulia-Seitu, Nyeta Byrd, Six and Dan. We close with an archived interview with Georgia Horton, whom,is currently incarcerated in Chowchilla, CA at CWF.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special: A New Beginning

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to several artists about the New Beginning heralded by the end of the Mayan calendar, Dec. 21, 2012. First we speak to Dance Brigade founder, Krissy Keefer, musician/educator, Carolyn Brandy and poet/activist, MamaCoatl about "Voluspa: A Ghost Dance for 2012" A two-night ritual dance performance that pays tribute to past and present struggles and works towards renewal. Featuring work by Dance Brigade, Grrrl Brigade, NAKA Dance Theater, Danza Xitlalli, John Jota Leaños and others. Each evening ends with a healing circle, December 19-20, 2012; Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30pm at Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th Street, San Francisco CA 94110, (415) 826-4441; www.dancemission.com We then speak to Ahkeel Mestayer, who is 17 years old and a Senior at School of the Arts High School in San Francisco where he studies Percussion. Ahkeel has been playing music with Loco Bloco since he was in 1st grade. Currently Ahkeel is a member of Loco Bloco's Youth Apprentice Program, a performer in our Performing Ensemble and has served as the Assistant Musical Director for Night Wakes Dawn.Edris Anifowoshe Cooper is artistic director for the play which looks at is a musical, theatrical exploration of the beliefs and prophecies initiated by the Mayan culture surrounding December 21, 2012 and a questioning of the New Age controversy over its meaning. Night Wakes Dawn focuses on reuniting with our ancestors and reconnecting with ancient wisdom to guide us in making life decisions and affecting positive change. We close with a conversation with frequent guest Michael Gene Sullivan who is "Freddie Fillmore" in Marin Theatre Company's "It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play" through Dec. 23, 2012, adapted by Joe Landry and directed by Jon Tracy, from Frank Capra's film starring James Stewart (1946). Visit

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rebroadcast of 13 Dec. 2012 show

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Rebroadcast of 13 Dec. 2012 show: Dominic D’Andrea is the founder and producing artistic director of the One-Minute Play Festival (OMPF), where he has led close to 30 national festivals in partnerships with many theatres throughout the country. He was a 2012 NewYorkTheatre.com person of the year. Elizabeth Gjelten's previous full-length plays include What the Birds Carry (at The Pear Avenue Theater) and Dance Lessons (at the Working Women Festival and Venue 9). She received her MFA in playwriting from San Francisco State University, taught writing for performance at New College, and continues to teach as an artist/mentor to graduate students and incarcerated youth. An award-winning dancer, international choreographer, and accomplished playwright, Robert Henry Johnson has enjoyed the support of the San Francisco Bay Area black arts community since he was very young.He is the recipient of the 2001 Bay Area Critics Circle Award for his choreography in Thick House's production of The Seven written by Will Power, the 1998 Union Bank's Citizen of the Year Award. Rafael Jesús González, award winning poets and teacher, educator and activist, joins us to talk about "A new beginning" or the end of one eraand the start of another. Grammy-nominated Jazz vocalist, MARIA MULDAUR featuring her A-team of top-notch Jazz players, the Christmas Jazz All-Stars, in celebration of their new CD “Christmas at the Oasis” – recorded last year at The RRazz Room – present no overdone, pedestrian Christmas tunes here folks- only her special collection of swingin', rockin', hip, rare gems in the Blues and Jazz idioms! The show will run for two nights only Dec 15-16. Music: Selections from Christmas at the Oasis.

Wanda's Picks:Dominic D'Andrea;RafaelJ.Gonzalez;MariaMuldaur

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Dominic D’Andrea is the founder and producing artistic director of the One-Minute Play Festival (OMPF), where he has led close to 30 national festivals in partnerships with many theatres throughout the country. He was a 2012 NewYorkTheatre.com person of the year. Elizabeth Gjelten's previous full-length plays include What the Birds Carry (at The Pear Avenue Theater) and Dance Lessons (at the Working Women Festival and Venue 9). She received her MFA in playwriting from San Francisco State University, taught writing for performance at New College, and continues to teach as an artist/mentor to graduate students and incarcerated youth. An award-winning dancer, international choreographer, and accomplished playwright, Robert Henry Johnson has enjoyed the support of the San Francisco Bay Area black arts community since he was very young.He is the recipient of the 2001 Bay Area Critics Circle Award for his choreography in Thick House's production of The Seven written by Will Power, the 1998 Union Bank's Citizen of the Year Award. Rafael Jesús González, award winning poets and teacher, educator and activist, joins us to talk about "A new beginning" or the end of one eraand the start of another. Grammy-nominated Jazz vocalist, MARIA MULDAUR featuring her A-team of top-notch Jazz players, the Christmas Jazz All-Stars, in celebration of their new CD “Christmas at the Oasis” – recorded last year at The RRazz Room – present no overdone, pedestrian Christmas tunes here folks- only her special collection of swingin', rockin', hip, rare gems in the Blues and Jazz idioms! The show will run for two nights only Dec 15-16. Music: Alan Kimara Dixon's Appreciation & selections from Christmas at the Oasis.

Wanda's Picks Radio: AliahTomlinson & TerrenceKelly, OIFGC

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Today the plan was to speak to Byron Hurt about his latest film: SOUL FOOD JUNKIES, airing on PBS Independent Lens, Jan. 14, 2013. We'll have to reschedule for another date, so stay tuned. The conversation then shifts to Litha-Aliah “Aliah” Tomlinson, new intern director for the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir (OIYC) and Terrence Kelly, director of Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, for a discussion about MUSIC FOR THE SOUL. Just recently OIGC featured OIYC at its annual concert, and this weekend is the Youth Choir's Holiday Concert, Sun., Dec. 16, 7 p.m. at Imani Community Church. Visit http://www.oigc.org/ Aliah has sung alto in OIYC and Imani Community Church choir, under the direction of Terrance Kelly, since 2009. Aliah loves to sing and began doing so at an early age – whether singing with her great-aunt, reciting Oakland Freedom School chants, or singing with her church’s children’s choir, directed by her mother. She and her sisters share the gift of song each month at Bellaken Gardens Nursing Center, where she has volunteered since she was in the 2nd grade. For the past two summers, Aliah participated in the Costa Rica Mission trip to Puerto Limon, where she assisted in teaching the art of gospel music to newfoundAfro-Caribbean friends. In addition to singing, Aliah enjoys playing the guitar and piano under the tutelage of Bryan Dyer. Aliah attends KIPP King Collegiate High School where she is co-president of her sophomore class. She is inspired by the positive women in her family and the positive men in her community. She aspires to study chemistry and music at Howard University, and to make a meaningful impact in her community. Visit

Wanda's Picks Radio: Kimara Means Love; SanDeiJun Publishing

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Today we speak live with Alan Kimara Dixon about his latest release "intro to modern," released a month ago to date: Nov. 7-Dec. 7. It features: Bobby Bradford: cornet, Bennie Maupin: bass clarinet and alto flute and Alan Kimara Dixon: composer / guitars, basses, keyboards and drums. Visit http://introtomodern.com/album/intro-to-modern Kimara says it is his hope that his art moves his audience to "transcend circumstance or culture and broaden perspectives" http://www.alankimaradixon.com We then listen to two recorded interviews. The first is with publishers: Sandra Redmond, her big brother, Willie F. Redmond or "June," and Deirdra Wilson, together: San'Dei'Jun Publishing, "an independent publishing house based in California that provides "space for creativity to spring forth from grass-roots of our communities and fertilize our collective soil of mind and heart." http://www.sandeijun.com/about/ Music: From intro to modern "tech rehearsal" and "appreciation." We also play KebMo's "Imagine" and Chinakare's "Tanzania."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dr. Robert H. King; Buika

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 14:00:00 +0000

We have an extended conversation with activist and writer, Robert Hillary King, Ph.D. His book From the Bottom of the Heap: The Autobiography of Black Panther Robert Hillary King Expanded and Updated, with a new forward by Mumia Abu Jamal. Visit www.Angola3.org We close with a special interview with Buika on Connecting the Dots, broadcast 15 Nov. 2012 on KPOO.org 89.5 FM, produced by Safi wa Nairobi. Music from Luther Vandross: The Classic Christmas Album: "My Favorite Things;" "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" (Live, Teddy & Chaka Khan duet).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick on AIDS

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 14:00:00 +0000

We interview Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick about AIDS in the Black Communityand the film ENDGAME: AIDS in the Black Community. Watch ENDGAME at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/endgame-aids-in-black-america/ For San Francisco Bay Area Events visit http://www.aidsmemorial.org/events/19th-annual-world-aids-day-observance and http://www.sanfranciscosentinel.com/?p=169132

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 16:00:00 +0000

The African Showboyzcombine drumming, dance, magic, and adrenaline in spectacular performances that have taken them around the world. The Showboyz’ five Sabbah brothers – Napoleon, Joseph, Isaac, Moses, and JJ – grew up in Binaba, a tiny village in the bush country of northeast Ghana without electricity or schools. When the Showboyz took their show on the road to the rest of Africa, aided in their early years by Babatunde Olatunji, the “father of world music” their music and messages of peace and unity connected with audiences everywhere. We are joined by Elder brother/father Napoleon with special guest, musician educator Val Serrant. The show opens with an archival interview with Joanna Haigood and visual artist Charles Tapolin who collaborate in Zaccho Dance Company's The Monkey and The Devil (2011). We close the show with a special interview with writer, visual artist and educator, Opal Palmer Adisa and her two daughters: Teju and Shola Adisa Farrar. Teju Adisa Farrar will graduate from Wesleyan University SPR '13. Teju’s main area of study is Sociology and Political, Critical, Cultural, and Social Theory, but social justice and global awareness are two of her main passions. Opal Palmer Adisa is a writer, photographer and full professor at CCA teaching in the MFA program and undergraduate Writing and literature programs. Her latest, novel is Painting Away Regrets. Shola Adisa-Farrar hails from Oakland, CA. A trained Singer and Actress, Shola Adisa Farrar has studied at Fordham University, where she earned a BA degree in Music.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Tim Wise;Sam Pollard

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 14:00:00 +0000

We open with two songs: Odetta singing Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child followed by Fire from Liz Wright's Salt. The first archived interview with Tim Wise re: Dear White America; Sam Pollard speaks about his film Slavery by Another Name. We interject Sweet Honey in the Rock's Motherless Child between the two interviews. When I cannot find the interview (smile) we are able to enjoy music from Meklit Hadero's Abbay Mado from On a Day like Today; Barbara Hunter's Sarah.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Guests: 1. Destiny Muhammad is Recording/ Performing Artist in Singer-Songwriter fashion on Harp. Her genre ‘Celtic to Coltrane’ is cool and eclectic with a feel of Jazz & storytelling to round out the sonic experience.Destiny is expanding her musical ideals with her project(s) S.O.N.G/ Strings of a Nubian Groove Nubian string ensemble,The Destiny Muhammad Project, & The Richard Howell Quintet (RHQ) Destiny is Governor Emeritus and Educational Chair Emeritus of the Recording Academy, San Francisco Chapter, Jazz Heritage Center of San Francisco Jazz Ambassador and an ASCAP Songwriter Awardee. 3. Ben Vereen archival interview from June 2012. 4. We close with director Greg Kappy, whose film, Shooting for Home, screens in the San Francisco Doc Fest Sun., Nov. 18 at the Roxie and Mon., Nov. 19, 9:30 PM at the Roxie.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Kelly J. Richardson

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 17:30:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio: Kelly J Richardson, dir. Without a Net

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Take 2: Kelly J Richardson, Director | Producer | Cinematographer | Co-Editor of Without a Net, opening at Doc Fest this weekend, Nov. 10 at the Roxie Theatre in San Francisco. On the show last week, we decided to extend the conversation today on her project which lives off the screen as well as on (smile). A graduate from Berkeley High School, Kelly J Richardson is the founder and executive director of Live Wired Productions, based in San Francisco, California. Her passions in performance art and social justice are expressed through her film work. She has directed and produced several short student films and Without A Net is her feature-directing debut. She has received numerous grants and awards from government agencies and private foundations, including a Fulbright scholarship for the production of Without A Net. She holds a B.A. from U.C. Berkeley. Visithttp://www.withoutanetfilm.com/ STORY: Djeferson, Bárbara, Rayana and Platini live in a drug controlled slum of Rio de Janeiro. Their families are struggling, their homes are physically unstable, and everyone they know has dropped out of school. When a big-top circus tent suddenly appears in a nearby parking lot, they decide to take a chance. They learn trapeze, acrobatics, juggling and contortion, then audition for the end-of-year show, rehearse and prepare for the curtains to part on opening night. Along the way, WITHOUT A NET explores the connections between risk, desire, poverty and circus and celebrates the perseverance and resilience of youth in the face of tremendous odds. We close with an interview with Ava DuVernay, director of I Will Follow which opens nationally this month.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Dwight Trible;Michele Rosewoman

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Dwight Trible joins us to talk about his latest project: Cosmic and his concert Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, 7 PM at Yoshi's in SF. Dwight Trible is a singer who combines the best of vocal virtuosity with musicianship and improvisational skills to the delight of audiences and musicians alike. In addition to performing with his own group, the Dwight Trible Ensemble, Dwight is the vocalist with the Pharaoh Sanders Quartet and is also the vocal director for the Horace Tapscott Pan Afrikan Peoples’ Arkestra. Not a newcomer to the music scene, Dwight has worked with such notables as Oscar Brown Jr., Charles Lloyd, Billy Childs, Kenny Burrell, Kenny Garrett, Steve Turre, Harold Land, Harry Belafonte, Della Reese and Norman Conners, John Beasley, Patrice Rushen, Babatunde Lea, Ernie Watts, Kahlil El Zabar, as well as contemporary soul artist like LA Reid and DJ Rogers. Dwight’s collaborations with Horace Tapscott, Billy Higgins, Kamau Daaood and others have produced some of the finest musical moments in Los Angeles in recent years - and his best is yet to come! Like his mentors, Dwight is not content to use his music just to entertain people, although he is quite a dynamic performer. He uses his music to bring people together, to bridge the gap between the races, and to heal the human heart. He has received numerous awards for his humanitarian efforts: http://www.dwighttrible.com/ We rebroadcast an interview with Michele Rosewoman, pianist, composer, bandleader, who is in town to celebrate the life and legacy of Ed Kelly, who is honored tonight at the Oakland Public Conservatory, 1616 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA, 7-9 PM: http://www.reverbnation.com/michelerosewoman

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Doc Fest Special

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 23:00:00 +0000

CRUEL AND UNUSUAL, Director Sam Banning; Fay Dearborn, Assistant Director of the San Francisco Independent Film Festival (also known as SF IndieFest), and the Programming Director of the San Francisco Documentary Film Festival (known as SF DocFest); Kelly J. Richardson, Director, Without a Net: http://www.withoutanetfilm.com/trailer.htmlWe open with an interview with Michele Rosewoman who is performing at the OPC tribute to Oakland Legendary composer and musician, Ed Kelly: opcmusic.org

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Special w/ Ava DuVernay; AmaraTaborSmith

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 23:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to maverick media worker and artist, Ava DuVernay whose latest film Middle of Nowhere is hitting US theatres by storm after DuVernay won the 2012 Sundance Best Director Award. The film looks at a woman whose husband is incarcerated after a life together on the outside and how that affects not just the wife but all those connected to her. The film is opening in San Francisco at Stonestone this weekend. We close with a conversation with Amara Tabour Smith who is bring her Our Daily Bread back to CounterPulse next month, Nov. 15-18, 2012. vAfter a run of 8 sold-out shows and 8 standing ovations in the spring of 2011, CounterPULSE is bringing back the community building, body nourishing, heartwarming performance — Our Daily Bread. A collaboration between Amara Tabour-Smith's Deep Waters Dance Theater, director Ellen Sebastian Chang and visual artist Laura Diamondstone, Our Daily Bread delivers a thoughtful message and a powerful experience. The production is made rich with music by Ajayi Jackson and Guy de Chalus, costumes by Dana Kawano, and performers Eyla Moore, Stephanie Bastos, Melanie Cutchon, Alicia Walters, Pippa Flemming, Tossie Long, Fe Bongolan, and Zakiya Harris. The performance is a visual and visceral feast, in what Hyphen Magazine calls “an explosive, multi-disciplinary (dance, multi-media, theater, live music, song) whole body exploration about what it means for human beings to eat.”

Wanda's Picks Special:In-Sight and Sound: Live De(a)f Poetry

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

The broadcast will feature actress and producer, Michelle Banks and her partner, Richard Graham. They are producing an event which is bringing together deaf and hearing artists in Washington, D.C. for the first time called In-Sight and Sound: Live De(a)f Poetry, Nov. 11, from 8 PM to 10 Pm at Busboy and Poets in Hyattsville, MD. They have a kickstarter campaign we want to help them raise $3000.00 by Nov. 1 which means we don't have time to think, we just need to give. No amount is too small, because if they do not raise the minimum, which is $3000, they get nothing and this show next month sounds off the chart. Visit http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1460383050/in-sight-and-sound-live-deaf-poetry?ref=email The $3,000 will help cover production costs and artists' fees. For tickets: insightandsoundpoetry@yahoo.com for tickets which are $15 dollars in advance, $20 at door, and half price for Veterans. The show is on Veterans Day.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: The Fountain Proj. Benefit

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

A Benefit for The Fountain Project: Cure the Blues III with Lloyd Gregory and Lena Sunday is Monday, Oct. 29, 2012, 7 PM at Yoshi's in Oakland. This morning we speak to Ms. Sunday and Mr. Gregory as well as Dr. Erlene Chiang who is one of the founders of The Fountain Project, an organization that offers free medical care from both homeopathic, Chinese as well as Western or allopathic modalities ten times a year. The next session is in El Cerrito on Nov. 17. Phone registration is Nov. 16 (510) 524-1057. Visit http://fountainproject.org For tickets: info@thefountainproject.org or (510) 524-1057. We close with an interview with playwright, Christopher Chen and director, Desdemona Chiang re: Chen's The Hundred Flowers Project which is in previews tonight (pay what you can), opening Monday and continuing Wed.-Sat. at 8 PM Nov. 1-17, 2012 at The Thick House, 1695 18th Street, in San Francisco. Visit www.crowdedfire.org or call (415) 746-9238. Music: Lloyd Gregory's A Moment in Time; Gentle Warrior and a smidgeon of Haiti (smile).

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Rescheduled

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:30:00 +0000

We'd hoped to catch up with Kendra Kimbrough, whose dance company is celebrating its 15th Anniversary this weekend (smile), but we were not. Winou Wakayo, director, Rehoboth Economic Development for Women and Children or "REDWC," whose organization just had its first graduation of its first cohort of women entrepreneurs. Visit http://www.wredwc.com/about-us The fundraiser this weekend is a way for the director to support the next class, expand the project and pay for the on-going support for the children whom she is supporting financially. The fundraiser to support these tenacious women is Saturday Oct 27th the Fund Raiser will be at 2525 8th St (at Dwight) in Studio 12 (the "Sawtooth Building") at 6:30pm EDWC will have a fundraiser for low income women and children in Ethiopia. All proceeds will go directly to the women, and their children, whose tenacity and hope in the face of great adversity is tremendous. Ms. Wakeyo is cooking delicious Ethiopian Cuisine for her guests (smile). Unique and beautiful quilted hot-pads, made by the REDWC women will be for sale. The event is for all ages. We close with an interview with Grace C. Stanislaus, Exceutive Driector, Museum of the African Disapora. She speaks about the current exhibitions: Desert Jewels: North African Jewelry and Photography from the Xavier Guerrand-Hermès Collection and Tuareg and Anima: Photographs of GRACE by Elisabeth Sunday through Jan. 21, 2013. We close with a short interview with director Ken Burns and subject in Burn's latest doc. The Central Park 5, Raymond Santana. The film is in theatres Dec. 14, 2012. Music: Amikaeyla's "Dreamer" and "Being in Love."

Wanda's Picks Special: October 22 Movement;Stole Lives Proj.

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Noche Diaz is a young revolutionary who faces years in jail if convicted on unjust charges. He has been arrested five times since October 2011 and has had 11 charges piled on him in four New York City boroughs, all for observing and protesting the illegitimate actions of the NYPD. Noche was one of the first members of the Stop Mass Incarceration Network and helped organize protests that kicked off a citywide struggle against stop-and-frisk. He is well known to the people—and to the NYPD—for being a member of the People’s Neighborhood Patrol of Harlem. Noche joins us to talk about the October 22nd Coalition to Stop Police Brutality, Repression and the Criminalization of a Generation. People are asked to wear black in solidarity and/or a black arm band with the name of a friend or loved one killed by police. Call Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance (212) 335-9000 to protest charges against Noche Diaz and the Queens District Attorney, Richard Brown, starting at 9:00 am. at 718 286 6000. Tell the DA to drop charges from November 19, 2011 on Carl Dix, Jamel Mims, Robert Parsons, and Morgan Rhodewalt and of course, Noche Diaz. Visit http://www.october22.org/Assembly.html and to learn more about Noche's case visit http://revcom.us/a/272/drop-the-prejudicial-prosecution-of-noche-diaz-en.html Music: Hunter Poetry: Breath of Life, Leon Williams: The Creator Has a Master Plan.

Wanda's Picks: Fired Up! Anniversary; Black Cinema at PFA

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

We speak to formerly incarcerated woman prisoners, Samantha Rogers and Deirdre Wilson. Joanna Sokolowski, filmmaker, joins us as well to talk about the 1 year anniversary celebration, Sat., Oct. 20, 2012, of Fired Up! a network of people who have been or are currently behind the walls of San Francisco county jail building community with others who are committed to breaking down the barriers those walls produce. For information visit http://firedupsf.wordpress.com/ At the event Sokolowski will screen Still Time, a short film chronicling the life of the first juvenile given a life sentence in CA, LaKeisha Burton, who will also be present at the event. Incarcerated at the age of 15 and released at 35, LaKeisha must start from scratch to rebuild her life, discovering that although being out of prison can be just as unpredictable as life inside, she can still find her way back home. The event tomorrow is from 6-8 p.m. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. The Clean Lounge is located at 1641 LaSalle Avenue, Bayview Hunters Point, San Francisco. There is a $5-20 donation; however, no one will be turned away. The Clean Lounge is ADA accessible.If anyone needs a ride call (408) 386-8955. We close with an extended interview with director, Zeinabu irene Davis, one of the directors showcased in the film program currently at UC Berkeley's Pacific Film Archive, LA Rebellion: Creating a New Black Cinema Sept. 6-Oct. 30. Compensation, Davis's film, screens Tues., Oct. 23, 7 PM. Her feature is proceeded by Iverson White's Dark Exodus. The independent filmmaker and full Professor of Communication at University of California, San Diego. A veteran of independent film and video, her vision is passionately focused on the depiction of African American women - their hopes, dreams, past and future. Visit bampfa.berkeley.edu or (510) 642-5249.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 20:00:00 +0000

We are broadcasting at 1 PM to accomodate special guests: Biko Eisen-Martin and Bowman Wright as Booth and Lincoln respectively in Suzan-Lori Parks's Topdog/Underdog directed by Timothy Douglas at the Marin Theatre Company which has been extended to October 28. Biko Eisen-Martin (Booth) makes his MTC debut with Topdog/Underdog. Originally from San Francisco, he has appeared in the Bay Area in Fuku Americanus at Intersection for the Arts, Radio Golf at TheatreWorks, 365 Plays/365 Days at Z Space, Patricide Revisited at SF Theatre Fest, Clockwork Orange at Renegade Theatre, All God Chillun Got Wings at the Eugene O’Neill Festival and Basha at Brookside Repertory Theatre. He has also appeared in the film Poetic License. Eisen-Martin is a graduate of the National Theatre Conservatory (MFA) and Brown University (BA/MAT). Bowman Wright (Lincoln) makes his MTC debut in Topdog/Underdog. He was last seen in A Raisin in the Sun at the Geva Theatre Center in Rochester, New York. His other regional credits include A Midsummer Night’s Dream at La Jolla Playhouse, The Dreamer Examines His Pillow at Shakespeare & Company in Massachusetts, The Piano Lesson at Virginia Stage Company, Since Africa and A House With No Walls at InterAct Theatre Company in Philadelphia and Fences at Actors Theatre of Louisville. He is a graduate of the University of California, San Diego, (MFA) and the University of the Arts (BFA). We have two prerecored interviews one withPeter Nicks, an Emmy Award winning documentary filmmaker about his film, The Waiting Room, opening Friday, Oct. 19, 7 PM at the Grand Lake Theatre followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker moderated by N'Jeri Eaton (ITVS). We are looking to close with Grace Stanislaus, Executive Director, MoAD about Desert Jewels: North African Jewelry and Photography from the Xavier Guerrand-Hermès Collection.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special with Brad Lichtenstein

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Though PBS'sIndependent Lens aired Brad Lichtenstein's film As Goes Janesville last week, ITVS is hosting a free screening/discussion at the San Francisco Main Library tomorrow, Tues., Oct. 16, 5:30-6:30 PM. Join us this morning in conversation with director and filmmaker to talk about "Janesville, Wisconsin: Paul Ryan's hometown." President of 371 Productions, a Milwaukee-based independent production company that makes documentaries, commercial work, technology projects and community engagement campaigns, the director has produced for FRONTLINE and Bill Moyers and the PBS series Local News. With New York based Lumiere Productions, he produced With God on Our Side: The History of the Religious Right; André's Lives, a portrait of the "Jewish Schindler"; The Discovery Channel's Safe, about domestic violence; PBS's Caught in the Crossfire, about three Arab New Yorkers after 9/11and the BBC/Court TV co-production of Ghosts of Attica, for which he was awarded a duPont. He made the ITVS film Almost Home, a PBS Independent Lens documentary about people who live and work in a elder-care community.His current projects include What We Got: DJ Spooky's Journey Through the Commons, a documentary/fiction/transmedia enterprise about the over-privatization of what belongs to all of us.Brad has taught documentary film production at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee,where he also founded docUWM, a documentary center that provides students an opportunity to learn by making professional films.he is a father & husband. Before you watch the 2nd Presidential Debate on PBS,share in a riveting Community Cinema experience. Visit http://itvs.org/films/as-goes-janesville Music:Archie Shepp's "Cousin Mary."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Deborah Vaughn, Latanya Tigner of Dimensions Dance Theatre, and choreographer, Herve Makaya, special guest choreographer, speak about Down the Congo Line II, Sat., Oct. 13, 2012, 8 p.m. at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts in Oakland, (510) 465-3363. Feasts of Words artists and programers, Anna Pulley (artist) & Lex Leifheist (host); Muisi-kongo Malonga joins us to talk about Congo Week; we close with feminist critic and writer, Silvia Federici who is in town this weekend in San Francisco.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show Special

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 13:30:00 +0000

Today we feature interviews with two artists: Billy Woodberry, director, Bless Their Little Hearts; The Pocketbook, both screening as a part of LA Rebellion at UC Berkeley Pacific Film Archivein Berkeley tonight at 7 PM. Visit bampfa.edu for tickets and information about the series which continues through Oct. 31. The director is flying up from Los Angeles and will be at the screenings. Billy Woodberry is an independent filmmaker who graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles Film/Television Department with an MFA in production. He has appeared in several films by Charles Burnett, Thom Anderson and James Benning. His works have screened at the Camera Austria Symposium, Harvard Film Archive, Human Rights Watch Film Festival and Museum of Modern Art. He has taught in the Art School and the Film/Video School at CalArts since 1989 and has been a member of the Board of the Film Forum, Los Angeles since 1998. Our first interview is with Navarasa Founder and Artistic Director: Dr. Aparna Sindhoor. Navarasa is at La Pena Cultural Center in Berkeley for two nights, Thursday-Friday, Oct. 11-12, 8 PM, presenting their work: Encounters. Dr. Sindhoor is a choreographer, director, actor and singer. Critics have hailed Sindhoor as a powerful voice for creating contemporary works of extraordinary artistry and works that challenge the boundaries of traditional Indian dance, yet contribute to strengthening that tradition. We feature music from the company repertoire. Music: Luisa Maita: Amour & Peace; Archie Shepp: "Arrival [Horace Parlan]."

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

We open the show with a conversation with Khary L. Moye, Michael Lange, Gift Harris, all cast from "A Soldier's Play," Charles Fuller's Pulitzer Prize for Drama (1982). (Fuller also founded the founder of the Afro-American Arts Theatre in Philadelphia, 1967). Directed by Abbie Rhone, the play, which opened Sept. 28 continues Friday-Sat., 8 PM, Sun. 3 PM in San Francisco at the Southside Theatre, Bldg. For tickets and information call: (510) 213-0401. We then shift to an archival interview with director, Robin Fryday, who speaks in Feb. 22, this year about "Barber of Birmingham," nominated for a Grammy. We close with an interview with Professor Manu Ampim about The Save Nubia Project. The classical African civilizations of ancient Kush and Nubia are in jeopardy of being permanently flooded by a series of dams along the Nile River in northern and central Sudan. Time is limited for Prof. Manu Ampim and his research team to document the remaining archaeological evidence before the flooding begins. The mission will require $50,000 to complete and help convince UNESCO to begin protection of the sites. The fundraiser is Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Linen Life Gallery, 770 E 14th St., San Leandro, CA 94577, (510) 273-2456.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Radio Show

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda'sPicks Radio Show:Silicon Valley African Film Festival

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:30:00 +0000

The third annual African Film Festival is almost upon us. Today we speak to Festival founder and Artistic Director, Chike Nwoffiah. Set in beautiful Silicon Valley, California – the high-tech capital of the world, the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) provides audiences a lens to the real Africa.The mission of the Festival is to promote an understanding and appreciation of Africa and Africans through moving images. The Festival promises "an enchanting journey across the continent in a historic showcase of feature films, shorts and animations from Africa’s seasoned and emerging first-voice filmmakers. Visit http://www.svaff.org 30+ films16 countries1 Weekend We close with an interview with Carolyn Butts, Director & Founder, Reel Sisters Film Festival & Lecture Series in Brooklyn, Oct. 13-14, 2012. In its 15th year, we are happy to speak to the director. Visit http://reelsisters.com/

Wanda's Picks:James Kilgore;Halifu Osumare;The Pyramids

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Author, James Kilgore joins us to talk about his latest book, murder mystery set in Oakland and Zimbabwe, Prudence Couldn’t Swim. He is in town for an author event at Freedom Archives: From Fugitive to Fiction: The Literary and Political Odyssey of James Kilgore, Sunday September 30, 2012: 4-6pm, 518 Valencia Street - San Francisco. From the Archives: Abigail Disney speaks about the Women and Girls Lead Initiative launched in Oct. 2011 on PBS. Halifu Osumare, Ph.D. Black Popular Culture and Dance Studies Scholar, joins us to speak about her latest book: The Hiplife in Ghana: West African Indigenization of Hip-Hop & the reading at Underground Books in Sacramento, Sat., Sept. 29, 2-4 p.m. Visit http://www.halifuosumare.com/ Professor Halifu Osumare is currently Associate Professor and Director of African American and African Studies at University of California, Davis. She has been a dancer, choreographer, arts administrator, and scholar of black popular culture for over thirty years in the US & in Ghana, Nigeria, Malawi &Kenya. Her teaching and writing spans the traditional African to the contemporary African American. She holds a M.A. in Dance Ethnology from San Francisco State University and a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Hawai`i at Manoa.Members of The Pyramids:Idris Ackamoor, Kenneth Nash & Kimathi Asante, on the occasion of their 40 Anniversary release: “Otherworldly” join us to talk about The Underground Jazz Cabaret performance Nov. 1-3 at The African American Art and Culture Complex Burial Clay Theater, 762 Fulton Street, in San Francisco. Visit www.culturalodyssey.org/season or (415) 292-1850 for tickets.

Wanda'sPicks:DagmarSchultz;AyodeleNzinga;Nubia/SudanFlooding

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Dagmar Schultz, director, speaks about her new film: AUDRE LORDE - THE BERLIN YEARS 1984 to 1992 explores a little-known chapter of the writer’s prolific life, a period in which she helped ignite the Afro-German Movement and made lasting contributions to the German political and cultural scene before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the German reunification. Her film screens as a part of Berlin and Beyond:http://www.goethe.de/ins/us/saf/prj/bby/enindex.htm Director Ayodele Wordslanger Nzinga, MA, MFA, PhD, is a writer, educator, playwright, director and performance artist who uses art as a medium of conversation within marginalized populations. Saturday, September 29, 2012, and October 20, 2012: 3 performances, 4:00PM, 5:00PM, & 6:30PM showings. Theater, Poetry & Bar-b-Q performances of Rag Doll Lullaby, by William Crossman, a new one-act play about a Black mother’s and daughter’s inseparable bond of love and courage in the face of racism present and past. Directed by Ayodele Wordslanger Nzinga the work is performed by The Lower Bottom Playaz www.lowerbottomplayaz.com The classical African civilizations of ancient Kush and Nubia are in jeopardy of being permanently flooded by a series of dams along the Nile River in northern and central Sudan. Time is limited for Prof. Manu Ampim, our guest, along with Ammnah Babikir, whose people are being threatened, the professor's research team to document the remaining archaeological evidence before the flooding begins. The mission will require $50,000 to complete and help convince UNESCO to begin protection of the sites. The fundraiser is Sat., Oct. 13, 2012 from 3-6 PM at savenubia.org

Wanda'sPicks:Amit Ashraf&JacobYoffe; Race:Art Before Answers

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to Amit Ashraf, director of Runaway (Udhao) and composer, Jacob Yoffee, who are in town for the screening this evening at 3rdi South Asian Film Festival, Bollywood and Beyond, 7:15 PM at the Roxie Theatre. Visit thirdi.org/festival A graduate of NYU’s film and dramatic writing program, Amit is an award-winning film director. Passionate about storytelling, filmmaking and animation, he has been making movies for over ten years. The true stories of runaways in Bangladesh inspired Amit to write and direct Runaway, which will be his first feature. He has several projects in the works already, both in Bangladesh and outside. Jacob Yoffee: With a jazz background, Jacob graduated from NYU’s film scoring program where he met Amit. He worked on Amit’s thesis film and was later hired for Runaway. His versatility and orchestral composition is what drew Amit to him. Jacob is now working in LA on several studio pictures. We close with an interview with Michael Ross, curator & artists: Stephanie Ann Johnson, Patricia A. Montgomery, Lisa Ramos, re:the exhibit Race: Art Before Answers in the African American Center at the San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin Street, through Oct. 18, 2012. This exhibit is a part of AfroSolo Festival 19. Visit afrosolo.org The reception and artist talk is Sunday, Sept. 23, 2-4 in the Latino Heritage Room, lower level. Visit sfpl.org (415) 557-4277. Music: from Huun Huur Tu: Prayer & Ancestors; Avery Sharpe's Ain't I a Woman; MoRockin Project's Tajine; Ben Vereen's Defying Gravity.

Wanda's Picks: Anthony Brooks Harold Melvin's Blue Notes

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks Special: Monterey Jazz @55; Free the Cuban 5

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 22:30:00 +0000

Today we feature the Artistic Director of the Monterey Jazz Festival, Tim Jackson and one of this year's featured artists: Tammi Jackson. We close with an interview with Alicia Jrapko - Committee to Free the Cuban 5.

Wanda's Picks:Maro Chermayeff;WayneHarris;3 DrummersConverse

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Maro Chermayeff, Half the Sky Executive Producer and Director, which launces on PBS Oct. 1-2, 2012. She is the founder and chair of the MFA program in Social Documentary Film at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. She is also an executive producer of the Facebook game and the 3x Mobile games for Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide with Games for Change. Locally, there is a community screening Sept. 18, 2012, 5:15 at the San Francisco Main Library, 100 Larkin Street, in the Koret Auditorium. The event is free and is followed by a panel discussion. Visit http://communitycinema.org/Wayne Harris is the consummate storyteller. His Tyrone "Shortleg" Johnson & Some White Boys has one more performance at Club Solo, 50 Mason St., SF, 7 PM, a part of http://www.sffringe.org/wordpress/tyrone-3/ We close with a dynamic conversation with three drummers at the top of their craft: Marshall Trammell, (http://www.mutualaidproject.com/bios.html); Don Robinson (http://www.bayimproviser.com/artistdetail.asp?artist_id=14) and Vijay Anderson (http://vijayanderson.com/bio.html), on the importance of a "solo vernacular and/or voice" in their craft.This is a prelude to an event: Self Respect & Self Defense in a Land of Endless Racial Profiling –A People’s Forum, Sept. 22: http://peopleshearing.wordpress.com/ Music: "Waldron" by Vijay Anderson.

Wanda's Picks:Joanna Haigood;Jorge Argueta; Lucho Ramirez

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:00:00 +0000

This morning we played excerpts from a few achived interviews: Joanna Haigood, co-founder of Zaccho Dance Theatre speaks about Sailing Away, which opens at Market Street & Powell, Sept. 13 and continues through Sept. 16, with free performances at 12noon, 1:30pm and 3 pm. Follow the dancers along Market from Powell to Battery Streets as they illuminate the lives of selected historic characters who tell the story of a black migration 150 years ago from San Francisco to Victoria, British Columbia. These prominent citizens charter a ship and literally sail away. There is a free reception following a panel discussion Thursday, Sept. 13, at 5 p.m. at the CA Historical Society, 678 Mission Street. Visit zaccho.org Jorge Argueta joins us live in the studio to talk about a wonderful children's poetry and music festival in El Salvador Nov. 14-16, and the first annual Flor y Canto this weekend, Sept. 15, 9 AM to 12 noon at Brava Theater Center, 2781 24th Street in San Francisco. The event, which is for children, is a prelude to the reception at 5 p.m. which will feature food, rides by low riders and Aztec dancers. That evening at 7, is the poetry reading and fundraiser for the El Salvador event hosted by Jorge Argueta, Talleres de Poesia founder, children's author and poet. Talleres is the group that hosts the event in El Salvador. We close with a few minutes of a longer interview with Jacqueline Stewart about LA Rebellion: Creating a New Black Cinema at Pacific Film Archive. Haile Gerima's Bush Woman screens Sept. 13, 7 p.m. with an introduction by Cornelius Moore, CA Newsreel. This really short clip is followed by an excerpt of the interview with SF Latino Film Festival Director, Lucho Ramirez and directors: Kimberly Baustista and Catherine Murphy.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: 2012 SF Latino Film Festival

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 22:30:00 +0000

The 4th Annual Cine+Mas 2012 San Francisco Latino Film Festival kicks off Sept. 13 to 28 with films from 14 countries including the United States. We speak to Festival Director Lucho Ramirez who took the helm three years ago, because he loves independent cinema. The Festival begins with a concert and preview Sept. 13 with two events one at 5:30 and the other at 8 PM. Visit www.sflatinofilmfestival.org or call 800-838-3006 and for tickets visit http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/16776 We also speak to directors Catherine Murphy, Maestra, the story of the Cuban Literary Campaign in 1961, where the goal was 100 percent literary for its citizens. This is also the same year the US started the Bay of Pigs assault. We conclude with a talk with Kimberly Baustista, whose film Justice for My Sister is also a movement to stop assault against women in Guatamala and elsewhere in the Latin Disapora.

Wanda's Picks Special with Joanna Haigood re: Sailing Away

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 02:00:00 +0000

It is sometimes referred to as the “San Francisco Exodus of 1858” a little-known part of the City’s history in which hundreds of African Americans fled discrimination and the threat of slavery for the safety of a Canadian exile. Choreographer Joanna Haigood and her Zaccho Dance Theatre (www.zaccho.org) are marking the iconic event with free public performances of her powerful work Sailing Away. Performances will be given in three continuous cycles, September 13, 14, 15, and 16 at 12noon, 1:30pm and 3pm daily starting at Market Street and Powell. Tuesday, School Assembly with performance at Bayview Opera House, 4705 Third Street, San Francisco, Tuesday, September 11, 10:30 a.m. The artists from Sailing Away will perform excerpts, joined by a lively discussion, and a performance from Dr. Susheel Bibbs’ one woman performance portraying 19th Century civil rights activist, Mary Ellen Pleasant. Panel Discussion at California Historical Society, 678 Mission Street (at 3rd Street), san Francisco. Thursday, September 13 at 5 p.m; post event reception, 6 p.m. Music: Meklit Hadero's A Day Like This: "Walk Up" and "Call."

Wanda's Picks:Byb Chanel Bibene;Amikaeyla;Paul S. Flores

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Today we speak to Byb Chanel Bibene about Skin Talk Skin Mood as a part of AfroSolo's Black Voices Performance Series beginning tonight, Friday, Sept. 7, continuing through Sunday, Sept. 10. Performances are at 8 Friday & Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at the African American Art and Culture Complex in the Burial Clay Theater, 762 Fulton Street in San Francisco. Visit www.afrosolo.org Our next guest is the lovely singer, songwriter, Amikaeyla who joins us to talk about her recent release: Being in Love. Visit RootsJazzMusic.com We close with an interview with playwright, poet, Paul S. Flores, whose work Placas: The Most Dangerous Tattoo opened Sept. 6 and continues at the Lorraine Hansberry Theatre, 450 Post, Thursdays through Sundays, Sept. 6-16. There are special programs or community conversations connected to the work, which is about decriminalizing youth and healing the streets. Visit sfiaf.org or call 1-800-838-3006. Music: Babatunde Lea's African Tapestry, Amikaeyla's Hambone & Lovely Day, and Soji and The Afrobeat Band's Sorrow Today, Joy Tomorrow.

Wanda's Picks: Anthony Brooks, Harold Melvin's Blue Notes

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Anthony Brooks, known as Tony, hails from our nation’s capitol. Tony, as the late legendary Harold Melvin, keeps the smoothness there. His smooth dance style and voice complements the Baritone vocals of Donnell. Tony, along with Donnell Gillespie, Rufus Thorne, Jr., & John Morris will perform Wed., Sept.19-Sun., Sept. 23, at the Rrazz Room at Hotel Nikko in San Francisco. He says about special moments on stage, that a recent one was when Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes performed at President’s Obama’s Red, White and Blue Inaugural Ball in Washington, DC in January 2009! His favorite Blue Note song is the group's signature work, the song used in President’s Obama’s campaign, “Wake Up Everybody.” "My favorite time of the year is spring; it reminds me of the new beginnings and the work of the One who created the earth. Besides singing, I frequently workout. I love performing with the Blue Notes and working out keeps me in tune with the group. Given the opportunity to make a change in this world, I would change the education system and make it possible for everyone to get a good education. At no cost to the student, it would also include a minimum of four years of college."We close with storyteller Carolyn Alexander, who will share a story about Haiti. We had to reschedule for another time. Instead we play an interview from Nov. 2010 with Rev. Liza Rankow, One Life Institute & Rev. Dorsey Blake, pastor at the Church for the Fellowship of All People, the Howard Thurman Church in San Franscisco.They talk about a new compilation of a CD set of Dr. Thurman's work.

Wanda's Picks:Karrin Allyson's'RoundMidnight;LARebellion@PFA

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 11:00:00 +0000

The show aired at 4 a.m. Friday morning. As guests I featured Karrin Allyson, 'Round Midnight, appearing at the Rrazz Room at Hotel Nikko in San Francisco, August 31-Sept. 2, 2012 and Jacqueline Stewart, co-curator of LA Rebellion: Creating a New Black Cinema, opening at UC Berkeley's Pacific Film Archive Sept. 6-October 30. I had a lot of technical difficulties getting started on time, but eventually they were ironed out and I was able to play the prerecorded interviews as planned.

Wanda's Picks Radio Special: 7 Years After Katrina ISAAC

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 12:00:00 +0000

This is our annual tribute to the resiliency of black people, who continue to rise despite both natural and manmade obstacles. On the seventh anniversary of the Great Flood, another hurricane loams close to New Orleans. A category 1, it nonetheless has folks evacuating, those who can. Others are staying tight to "ride it out." We will speak to as many on the ground as we can, depending on the phone connections. Electricity is out in many places. Malik Rahim, Commonground co-founder, said from Algiers that the electricity was out, and they were using a generator. We will speak to Mwalimu, Robert King and Parnell Herbert. All are Katrina survivors. We will close the tribute with a conversation with Kimberly Rivers-Rogers who is one of the directors and subject in the film, Trouble the Waters, which was nominated for a Grammy: Best Documentary.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show:Muziki Roberson;Derek Ting;Dinizulu

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks:AnnL.Chinn;Kamala Damaris;Anita ShontelWoodley

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Wanda's Picks: Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey Special

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Today we will honor the legacy of the one of Pan Africa's hero's who did much to further African self-determination. Programming details will be forthcoming.

Wanda's Picks Radio Show: Sacred Space

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Sister Lola Hanif joins us to speak about Sacred Space, which meets second Thursdays each month. This is the last month at the East Bay Meditation Center, Thursday, August 16, 4pm – 6pm at the East Bay Meditation Center, 2147 Broadway, Oakland. This month Sister DJENNE BA will lead the workshop. She is dedicated to raising the consciousness of the planet through a Spiritual understanding of the Universe.She is available for private consultations, lectures and hands-on workshops. Visit http://ageofuranus.com/biography.html Lola Hanif is a humanitarian and community activist. She is founder and director of Lola’s Light; an organization established to promote good personal and community mental, spiritual and physical health.She holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Education with an emphasis in health issues in the African American community and a master’s degree from the University of Creation Spirituality. Ms. Hanif established Sacred Space Spiritual Support Group in 2007. Space is a spiritually-based, emotionally safe and supportive environment for African American women to gather, network, experience a sense of community support and is a means of advocating healthy, peaceful African American families. CHANNING COOK-HOLMES joins us to talk with us about Stepology 2012 in San Francisco at the Herbst Theatre where Mr. Cook-Holmes is Music, Director/Dancer/Drums. We speak to Jaime Silva about a POLICE RAID PEOPLE'S LIBRARY IN EAST OAKLAND the Biblioteca Popular Victor Martinez, a community library activists opened earlier in the morning in a derelict building at a former public library, and a Carneigie bldg., 1449 Miller Ave., martinezlibrary@gmail.com