In honor of Juneteenth, join Monticello for an unforgettable evening of storytelling and music that delves into the heart of the Underground Railroad, the fight for freedom, and the enduring human spirit. This compelling program features acclaimed storyteller Sheila Arnold alongside renowned vocalist Dr. Kathy Bullock and singers from the Jubalo Choir. Together, they weave a powerful tapestry of narratives and melodies rooted in the history of enslaved people’s journey to freedom and the abolitionist movement.
Voices of Freedom invites audiences of all ages to connect with the voices of the past and reflect on the enduring quest for freedom and justice. Through the combined artistry of Sheila Arnold’s storytelling and Dr. Kathy Bullock’s musical direction, “Voices of Freedom” immerses participants in the bravery, struggles, and triumphs of the Underground Railroad era.
Prepare to laugh, cry, and leave inspired as this program reveals the human stories behind the history and highlights the timeless power of community, hope, and perseverance. "Voices of Freedom" is more than a performance; it is a call to remember, reflect, and act in the spirit of liberation and unity.
About the Speakers
Sheila Arnold
Storytelling by Sheila Arnold
Master Storyteller Sheila Arnold brings her acclaimed "Locks Opened" series to life with captivating tales of courage, resilience, and the longing for freedom. Drawing from historical accounts, including William Still's 1870s records of over 500 fugitive slaves, Sheila illuminates stories of daring escapes through waterways, canals, and locks integral to the Underground Railroad. Audiences will be transported through vivid narratives such as "Waterways to Freedom," exploring the role of local rivers in liberation, and "Left Behind," which poignantly examines the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom. Other highlights include "Extra Ordinary," a thrilling recount of extraordinary escape efforts, and "Caught!" a multimedia presentation on those who faced capture and its consequences.
Sheila’s storytelling is interactive, thought-provoking, and deeply human, blending humor, reflection, and audience participation. Her stories invite listeners to consider the profound choices enslaved people made in their pursuit of liberty and to discover how these narratives resonate in today's world.
Kathy BullockMusic by Dr. Kathy Bullock and the Jubalo Choir
Dr. Kathy Bullock, an internationally recognized scholar and performer of African American sacred music, enriches the evening with powerful songs from the abolitionist era and the "Songs of Slavery and Emancipation" multimedia project. These selections, rooted in the voices of enslaved people and freedom fighters, evoke sorrow, resistance, and revolution. The music includes spirituals, gospel, and songs of hope and defiance, demonstrating how music served as both a tool of protest and a source of solace.
Joined by members of the Jubalo Choir, Dr. Bullock’s performances bring these historic songs to life with vibrancy and depth. Her ability to connect audiences with the transformative power of music ensures an inspiring and joyous experience.
