William “Willie” Riddle, the Founder and Artistic Director of Generation Venetian Arts Society, GENVAS, announced that the organization will debut original programming entitled Café Society Pride Series, on March 24, 2022, at ArtServe. The programming was inspired by the real life “beautiful people” and “bright young things” who gathered in fashionable New York city cafés and restaurants beginning at the end of Prohibition in 1933. This series specifically celebrates members of the LGBTQ community and presents LGBTQ artists whose life and work promotes the beauty and importance of acceptance and inclusion. Riddle said, “With all of the trials and tribulations humanity has endured for the past several years–and especially in this moment of hatred & violence–the communication of peace and kindness that only music can speak is truly needed right now.”
Phillip Dunlap, jazz piano, kicks off the series. He is the Director of Broward County’s Cultural Division, a local arts agency that manages the county’s investment in the arts through grant making, public art initiatives, and arts education. Mr. Dunlap holds Bachelor of Music degrees in jazz performance (piano) and music theory/composition and a Master of Music in jazz performance from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Prior to moving to South Florida, he served for 12-years as Director of Education and Community Engagement for the non-profit organization, Jazz St. Louis.
Phillip Dunlap
Karina Iglesias, soprano, celebrates Pride 2022 Month on June 9th. Known for a style equally informed by rhythm & blues, boleros, gospel and hip-hop Karina delivers her performances with the intimacy of a deep soul crooner. In 2009, the singer-songwriter was chosen by Emilo Estafan as one of an eight-person choir/ensemble hired by the Miami Dolphins (Dolphins Voices). In 2011, Karina sang a duet with Sony Latin Recording Artist, Franco de Vita, who has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. She was featured in his live DVD album, Primera Fila, which won 2 Latin GRAMMY Awards. In 2013, Karina was a contestant on NBC’s #1 Hit TV Show, The Voice.
Katrina Iglesias. Photo courtesy of The Artist
On September 29, 2022 Jason Antone, tenor, will make his GENVAS premier. Jason is a vocalist, songwriter, and producer. A graduate of the DePaul School, Antone gained a double level in vocal research and music administration. Jason has enjoyed enormous success in all aspects of the music industry but particularly in the classical crossover world. He is well-known for his mastery of his craft and his ability to leave an imprint on your soul. This three-time Billboard charting artist is praised by critics for his unique style and stage presence
Jason Antone. Photo courtesy of The Artist
The 2022 Café Society Pride Series closes on December 8th with Tony Award Winner Levi Kreis popular “Home for the Holidays” concert. Levi returns to the GENVAS audience by popular demand. This east Tennessee native is best known for his gospel-rich vocals and church-inspired piano style. He is beloved for his “southern style” which has defined some of his best-known songs. Every stage of Levi’s life has been chronicled through his albums. Each one reveals a new side to this singer/songwriter, taking you through a myriad of genres – piano pop, gospel, country, R&B, and jazz. Levi’s music has been featured in film and television shows including The Vampire Diaries, Sons of Anarchy, and So You Think You Can Dance. Ten albums have afforded Kreis impressive accolades – top ten positions on various charts, #1 music videos, national tours, TV appearances on The View, David Letterman, Jimmy Fallon and a Tony Award for originating the role of Jerry Lee Lewis in Broadway’s Million Dollar Quartet. With a multi-talent like Kreis, it’s no wonder his impact has been broad and varied. Levi has launched a new podcast called “The Church of Kreis,” providing practical spiritual principles to help you get tangible results on your way to radical self-improvement.
Levi Kreis. Photo courtesy of The Artist
Tickets are available on the organization’s website www.GENVAS.org. VIP tickets are $45.00 and include a private table, table service, wine and light appetizers. General admissions tickets are $20.00 and include access to a cash bar All patrons can take complimentary tours of the Stonewall Museum and World AIDS Museum before the concert. Doors open at 6:00 P.M. and the Salons begin at 7:00 P.M. ArtServe is located at 1350 East Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304.
