The Black Academy of Arts and Letters

The Black Academy of Arts and Letters Concert & Tour Photos

Fan Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Breesbrew18

The ladies were as diverse as their poetry styles, but ALL of them brought their best!!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Still8Laughing

Soul purpose was real. It was funny. It was inspiring. Roni Rodgers was superb as Tamara! I hear it s going on the road. You don t want to miss it when it comes to your city!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

GHARRIS817

This Was The Best Stage Play I ve Seen In Years Hands Down This Should Become A Global Tour\u203c️

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Teddy53

This was one of the best concerts that I have attended in a long time. Please bring those ladies back real real soon.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

ReeRee3806

What an awesome display of amazingly gifted jazz artists ! Jazz in Pink was an elegant & capable ensemble. Gail Jhonson has gained a new fan in me, Althea Rene was a BEAST on that flute & a great entertainer as well, Karen Briggs was a force to be reckoned with, & Maysa turned the place OUT !! This was truly a great show ! Thank you, TBAAL !

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Clifton Davis put on a wonderful event for TBAAL. All of the Pastor were sincere as they lifted up the name of Jesus. We were all BLESSED for our attendance.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

ReggieF

This was my first time seeing Kenny Howell live. He had me dying laughing...even while he cracked on my home town!!! So much so I bought his DVD. Will DEFINITELY see him next time I have a chance.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

LadyYvette

Soul Purpose was an outstanding play with great acting and fabulous live music! The cast was exceptional. Started promptly and kept you engaged and anticipating every act. Easy access venue that was very comfortable to be in.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Teembabs

This was a amazing play. It was very heart warming when the writer and director inform us that both his parents past away and he had two beautiful bundles of flowers on the first two seats in the front row. I loved it and I hug him after the show.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

TheEmpriss

I bought these tickets to take my mom. She is a huge Will Downing fan, and I had only heard bits of his music via her. I was pleasantly surprised. I liked the first half of the show best, as it was more upbeat and Will Downing was so funny and witty. He had the crowd singing along. It was awesome. The second half got into painfully long love songs that I couldn't relate to, and I was not nearly as engaged. Overall a good show, but still not my particular taste in music.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 12, 2016

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

JDarnell

It was great to see a side of Erykah that we so rarely get to see, I hope this is the first of many ...

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

DTHogan1032

Amazing, eye opening, educational, conscious, beautiful

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

This at was wonderful! I would definitely see more of her plays.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Jazzigurl0513

I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth voice of Rashaan Patterson but was not all that impressed with his stage presence. In all fairness, I came to see Maysa!! Her voice was absolutely amazing!!! She rocked the house!!! I loved her performance and can't wait to see her again!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

360Junkie

I found out about his event a few hours before show time. Not only was I able to purchase tickets but I also sat in the first seat of my section in the front row. Things couldn't get any better than that. Rahsaan and his background singers were phenomenal. I was more than elated to not only meet him but to take a selfie as well. He was a doll! I'd never heard of Maysa until this nite. She is wonderful singer who created a more intimate atmosphere with her soothing jazzy tone. Maysa is now on repeat in my car. She has gained a new fan, me. I really enjoyed myself. Glad I was able to have the experience.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

MizVicki

Actor Kim Coles' Oh But Wait...There's More provided my daughter and me with a perfect mother/daughter night out! Her ridiculously funny one woman show had just the right mix of hilarity and pathos as Kim Coles took us on a journey through her life as an actor in Hollywood. We loved how honest the dialogue was, no punches pulled, no sugar coating. Coles shared her deepest pain at being cast aside by Hollywood after her hit show Living Single ended, her bout with depression and her humiliation at being financially busted. The audience gave Kim Coles a standing ovation and I was the first to leap to my feet at the end of Oh Wait...There's More! I loved her in all her television roles but loved her more on stage in her one woman show because this was the "real" Kim Coles and she kept it real! If the show comes to you city, I'd make sure I reserve my tickets quickly!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Hankster3

I really enjoyed the play, thoughtfully entertaining and the singing was incredible!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Darbalily

Dana Harper was our favorite singer, and the piano player was amazing!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

N2HighIntegrity

In one word, the play was relatable . My life experiences were displayed as an open book through many scenes in Soul Purpose. It was captivating in so many ways from beginning to the end. Awesome and talented cast!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

OmarieB

Loved this play. The story line touched everyone there. The singing was amazing.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sun, Apr 29, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Thought provoking and totally entertaining. The music and songs were incredible.

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

KCMO68

Soul Purpose was amazing. All the ladies were great at the craft of acting and singing. The story line was crystal clear to everyone; we all have a "soul" purpose from God. What's your Soul Purpose?

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

MKendrick

EXTRAORDINARY rewarding today's life experience but through it all you must have JESUS!!!

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

NealRe

This was a great show and needs to be on the road!

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Oooop

Amazing play and story plot. Looking forward to seeing more plays directed by Chericia Curtis!!!

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

ILOVETBAALL

I loved the Soul Purpose Play. It was mind provoking, funny and inspirational.

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Dinerman

What a refreshing look at life and how we need God to guide us through it. Skillfully written and performed. The vocals were amazing. I left know there is hope for any problems I might have.

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

TheOtherLarry

My wife and I absolutely loved it! What a great balance of reality, joy, humor and presentation of God s Plan and Purpose (we laughed half the way home re-visiting the humorous parts!) LB & RB

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Great show! The performances were really good! Great message! I would definitely recommend to others!

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

TGMoney

Excellent event. Very informative. Clear concise and to the point. Great food!

Tbaal Room T 314 - Dallas, TX - Sat, Apr 21, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Iamalutherfan

Danny Clay had an incredible performance with his tribute to Luther Vandross. I would recommend anyone who likes Luther Vandross to go see the One Shining Moment Concert.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Ladybugabrams

Nice outing, good time, nice music. Nice service, good

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

FontellaB

This show was very entertaining. My daughter absolutely loved it and now want to pledge, she's only 11.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

lashonda40

the acoustics were off (the mc's were extremely loud) gave me a headache and made it hard to enjoy the show. the additional mc was unneccessary and not as funny as he thought he was. having 2 mc's drug things out because they were doing way too much talking. i have attended this event for 3 consective years and was very disappointed this year. there was too much talk time in between acts but more importantly the 2 mc's were just a bore!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

OldSchoolRandB

Everything about this show was beyond words. The atmosphere, the ambiance and the soft was awesome. And the POETS.....OMG, both of them were inspiring, deep and very very entertaining. I can't wait for the next show!!!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Meb4jesus

The show was great. I enjoy the asphere and the music

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

SeaBrooks

I was pleasantly surprised when I entered the event room for poets n jazz. The tables were nicely lit with tea candles, the stage was very intimate, and the poets were amazing. Tro Juan and Mr. Henderson were Fantastic. I would definitely visit again.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Stephannie45

Each artist had their own style. Great music and great price too. Very good performances, money well spent.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Parkerqb

I had never heard of any of the artist so this was my first time seeing any of them perform. we were not disappointed! Truly enjoyed their performances, Each artist was wonderful in their own right. When Clifton played you could feel your soul moving. The blues guy Xavier? Had us wanting to dance in our seats and mr.martin was incredible to watch, his hands moved so quickly over those keys each note just precise. I only wish there was better time management, as the finale was not as polished as the individual performances but overall, I definitely recommend.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Keeshia

I had a marvelous time at the event. I had came with my mom as a birthday gift to her and she raved about it. I think each artist has extraordinary talent, and also, the band members as well. My mom and I was entertained from beginning to the end!! Loved it! And I will be back!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Mar 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

ActivistOne

SNCC & NextGen coming together to learn from each other. Why reinvent the wheel? Those who have gone before us, have vast amounts of wisdom to share. Very respectful discussion!

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Anonymous

This was worst play I've ever attended. Sound was horrible. Could not hear characters. Poor set design. Most of the audience agree with me. They should have done dress reheasal and sound check before show. People come to a Saturday night sbow all drezsed up to see WHAT?? A FIASCO!! We deserve a refund or at least partial refund.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Equinox10

Luckly we bought front seats to this show because I believe if we hadn't, we would of not heard what was being said from the actors. I think the tickets were over priced because the sound system was not all that! Too many empty seats.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

MrsLuck2

It was very tacky. Couldn't hear what the cast was saying. It had no meaning. Just boring.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Ostreet5

The play was horrible. You could barely hear the actors. I would not recommend. Also do not get the parking pass that is offered. It is no where close to the event.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ☆ ☆ ☆

Prescher

The sounds was horrible we couldn't hear. It started at the beginning they could have stop got the sounds right then start it over. It would have been a good show.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Anonymous

Poetry and Jazz was more than awesome with Ms Viki and Shug Avery. These ladies put on an amazing show.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

FriscoKid1

It's a quaint venue, but they must not have paid their electric bill since there was no AC. Even the comedian complained about it being hot. They have a small bar with a very limited selection. I only counted about 5 liquor choices. No lemons or limes. Only one slow bartender, which made the wait for a drink in the 20 min range as you stood in line. They need to add to their liquor inventory, as well as get a second bartender to help speed up the wait time.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Robynsworld411

The event was great and the greet and meet the entertainers was outstanding. Mr. King is a visionary of this time.

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Meb4jesus

I would recommend everyone to go TBAAL, it is very educational for all African American's to see and be enlighten about the gifts and talents

Bruton Theatre - Dallas, TX - Sat, Feb 10, 2018

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Pinkiepinkie

Good poetry, nice venue. Ran into issues with the lighting that made it a little awkward at times

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Jevewill

Would not attend again. This event does not represent Dr King

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

GCoope

One of the best comedy experience I have ever been a part of. An unbelievable performance by an unbelievable comedian. A show for all adult ages without profanity. Kim Coles rocks!!!!!!

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Mrira

The night was a cozy warm night. The jazz and poetry made it that much better. The artists were heartfelt and spoke loud and confident.

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Queen51RI

It was great especially it's the first. Great job..Work on the Acoustic.

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Riverfrontreally

I have been to free jazz concerts in much better locations. Advice, don't use riverfront in your event title if there is no riverfront visable. This was a very low budget event. The artist selections seemed ok, but for $50 a ticket. Was more equivalent to $25 . Without a better venue, I will pass on the second annual.

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Toodoo

Superb lineup of tremendous talent. Excellently organized. Good Food. My only complaint is that the time schedule was not available in advance of entry to event. Attendees could not schedule arrival and departure depending on performances they preferred.

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

FrederickB

First time this happened in Dallas and this festival was wonderful! I had a great time and will definitely go again! All of the Artists were great all "heavy hitters." The kids from TBBAL were also great as well, very talented! Very deversed crowd, I met so many people that loved Jazz! Can't wait for the next one!

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

SJH2000

Love the festival! Some down sides - no onsite parking, sound problems throughout weekend, no identification of vendor area - but overall it was REALLY great! Lots of great talent. Looking forward to next year! PS. Hit me up for sound companies - they won't let you down like Zafari.

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Anonymous

Enjoyed the performance options. Up and coming artists were really good! Looking forward to next year!

Texas Horse Park - Dallas, TX - Sat, Sep 2, 2017

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

rodneyrlegend

Covered pavilion was great to keep the sun/heat in check! Artist lineup was great. Really came to see Rahsaan Patterson and got so much more than I was expecting!