Students from Destrehan and Hahnville High School choirs will join CeCe Teneal, a Gospel and R&B vocalist, on stage to sing “Bridge Over Trouble Water” during Teneal’s concert at the Lafon Performing Arts Center Feb. 28 at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $45.
Ned Moore, director of the Lafon Arts Center, said having students perform alongside Teneal’s talent makes the show particularly meaningful.
“It’s performances like these that turn a spark into a fire for our students,” Moore said. “We cannot wait for our students to experience her powerful voice and learn from a globally recognized artist.”
Teneal’s “Divas of Soul” concert features the music of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston. Teneal, who is from Orlando, headlined the 2019 Citrus Bowl and she has won titles for Best Gospel Song, Best R&B Album and Best Soul/Funk/Fusion Song at the Independent Music Awards.
Students participating in the performance are members of the choir, show choir and Talented Music programs at Destrehan and Hahnville high schools.
“Lafon worked closely with the choir and Talented Music teachers at these schools to identify students who were excited to take on this opportunity to perform with a world-class artist,” Moore said. “These students are developing their performing arts skills through the educational programs at their school sites and at Lafon.”
The students will first attend an “Artsperience” performance on Friday Feb. 27, followed by a workshop and rehearsal with Teneal and her band later that day. The students have also been preparing in their choir and show choir programs to ensure they are performance ready.
“This process provides hands-on learning and valuable direct interaction with a professional artist ahead of the Main Stage performance,” Moore said.
Moore said Teneal’s arrangement of “Bridge Over Trouble Water” is fresh, soulful and ideal for students of all music abilities.
“It’s a song with an inspiring message of hope, comfort and resilience,” he said.
The “Divas of Soul” concert is a family-friendly event, featuring well-known, multigenerational songs that appeal to audiences of all ages. The concert also includes a horn section featuring New Orleans musicians.
“The inclusion of students from Destrehan and Hahnville high schools performing on stage also makes it an accessible, community-centered event for families,” Moore said. “Local students who attend the show may see a friendly face on stage.”
The concert is Teneal’s tribute to the legacy of iconic female artists. The concert highlights songs that shaped the genre and reflect Teneal’s focus on honoring musical legacy while connecting it to today’s audiences, Moore said.
“Audiences can expect powerful vocals, recognizable hits and a high-energy production built around classic songs by legendary performers,” he said.
Moore said Teneal is deeply invested in mentoring young performers and is passionate about featuring students in her work.
“Bringing her to Lafon not only allows the center to present a high-quality, professional arts experience for the community but also creates meaningful opportunities for students to perform alongside a nationally recognized artist,” Moore said. “Her commitment to mentorship and collaboration aligns closely with Lafon’s mission.”
