There is no doubt about the fact that Jimmie
Earl Perry, multi-talented performer, has loads of
singing talent. There is also no doubt about him being
an incredibly magnetic performer. This DVD offers
the best of both worlds: Jimmie’s passionate
singing and his powerful performances.
Originally from America and a star performer most
of his life, Jimmie came to South Africa in 2004.
Since his arrival he has played an integral role in
developing educational theatre related to HIV and
AIDS, as director of educational theatre and creative
arts at the Africa Institute. Jimmie’s performance
record includes roles in infamous musicals such as
Jesus Christ Superstar, Cats, Starlight Express and
Miss Saigon, with performances all over the world.
Today, he uses his remarkable talent and performance
career for making a difference to the AIDS pandemic,
changing hearts and minds.
His first locally produced album, Power of the Dream,
is a reflection of his musical roots, which include
R&B, jazz, gospel and contemporary styles. The
lyrics of two tracks on the CD, Destination Africa
and Avalanche, were written by Jimmie, with the music
by Jacques Steyn of DNA Strings. This DVD features
some tracks off the Power of the Dream CD.
The live performances were recorded with the Mike
Campbell Orchestra (MCO), a loyal partner of the Africa
Centre. Mike Campbell, one of South Africa’s
most well-known jazz and popular music writers, has
arranged and conducted Jimmie’s Power of the
Dream CD. He has also done the orchestrations the
Africa Centre’s World AIDS Day gala concerts.
It is therefore only fitting that this DVD includes
performances with the MCO, a perfect complement to
Jimmie’s soulful singing. The MCO comprises
many of Cape Town’s leading classical and jazz
musicians and varies from 45 to 50 players.
This DVD is not about watching an artist sing –
it is about an experience that will undoubtedly touch
your heart, inspire your soul and change your life.
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