2/14/02

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:

Jessica Murphy , public relations assistant/house manager, Interpreters Theatre, (319) 266-1844

Gwenne Culpepper, University Marketing & Public Relations, (319) 273-2761

UNI show explores experiences of Afro-Caribbean immigrants

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa --As part of the University of Northern Iowa's observation of Black History Month, the UNI Interpreters Theatre will present, "Safe Passage," Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 21-23, in Lang Hall Room 40, at 7:30 p.m.

The presentation combines poetry, music, dance and narratives to tell the story of Afro-Caribbean women who have moved to the United States.

"I hope to provide a glimpse of the experiences that have been a part of my life and those that represent the lives of other Afro-Caribbean women," explained Elvinet Wilson, author of the performance and one of the primary performers. Wilson is a graduate student in UNI's Communication Studies Department. She was born in the Bahamas, and came to the United States in 1995. "Safe Passage" combines Wilson's experiences and those of other Afro-Caribbean women she has interviewed.

"My goal is to spark an interest in the audience so they can make steps toward understanding people who are different from themselves," she said.

Admission to the performance is free.