Niagara University will host a “Sing for Somalia” benefit concert on April 13 in the Gallagher Center from 4 to 10 p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.
The event was planned by NU junior Jeannine Alsous to raise money for aid in Somalia. In 2011, Dr. Abdiweli Ali, a professor in Niagara University’s College of Business Administration, accepted a position as prime minister of Somalia. Alsous is one of several students who are part of NU’s “Mission: Somalia” campaign, an operation that seeks to assist Ali by raising awareness and financial aid for Somalia. Alsous commented, “We want to support Dr. Ali as much as we can in his strive to make Somalia a better place.”
Alsous has worked on the event since December and has crafted a concert that will showcase professional artists alongside local musicians and NU students. Headlining the show is hip-hop comedy sensation, Turquoise Jeep. Other national artists include Jay Vado, Farahri, Tuzzy and Tatayana D’Voce. Many of the artists agreed to waive their performance fee or perform at a reduced cost.
Additional performers include Buffalo’s David Nolf and Niagara Falls’ Danny Bax. NU students performing are Tavon “Faze” Rowe, Billy McKnight, Anthony “M.Mason” Mason, Nick “Nick Mano” Manobianco, Glenn Papp, Myles Yates and Latasha Young.
According to Alsous, enabling NU students to perform beside these renowned artists provides an “inspiration to our upcoming artists on campus.” At its core, the benefit “is allowing students and the local community to perform on the same stage as professionals and they are all fighting for the same cause,” Alsous says.
“Sing for Somalia” is made possible by a group of 50 Niagara student volunteers. The benefit is sponsored by several university departments and local businesses.
The event will allow the Western New York community to help Ali in his fight to regain stability in Somalia. Alsous says, “This concert is very important because it is doing good for something greater than the community. We are showcasing talent and helping our local community and students, but in the end we are saving lives in the country of Somalia.”
Food will be provided by the Lewiston Village Pub, St. Angelo’s Pizzeria, DiCamillo’s Bakery and Buffalo Wild Wings. There will also be a basket auction and 50/50 drawing. KISS 98.5 disc jockey Tony Mamaluke will emcee the event.
Tickets for Niagara University students, faculty and staff are $5. The general public may purchase tickets for $15 on www.ticketmaster.com, or at the door.
All proceeds for the concert go to OXFAM to benefit Somalia. To make a donation for “Mission: Somalia,” go to www.oxfamamerica.org/SomaliaRelief.
