Jimmie Earl Perry as the driving force

The Africa Centre’s Director of Educational Theatre and Creative Arts, Professor Jimmie Earl Perry, is a multi-talented singer, dancer and all-round performer who grew up in Alabama in the United States. He received classical, theatrical and gospel training.

Jimmie is a well-known stage performer and has travelled the world while starring in countless international productions, such as Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Miss Saigon and Starlight Express . His soothing, soulful voice, full of wisdom and musicality, is undeniably a joy to listen to.

Jimmie came to South Africa in 2004 and has since made Stellenbosch his home. Today he uses his talent and experience to make a difference in the battle against HIV and AIDS through the creative arts. He creates productions to educate people of all races, creeds and cultures in the prevention of HIV infection through testing and knowing one’s HIV status, as well as managing one’s health.

In 2006 he released his first South African produced CD, Power of the dream. The album showcases the vast range of his musical repertoire and includes ballads from well-known artists as well as Jimmie’s original compositions.

Jimmie’s vision is to produce more shows and recordings to spread the message that education, especially to the youth, is the key in lowering HIV infection rates, and to teach people to manage their lives with the virus

For more information, visit his website.

Jimmie using his musical expertise to operate the soundboard at a performance of the mini-musical Lucky the Hero!
 
In commemoration of World AIDS Day, Jimmie performed at the World AIDS Day gala concert on 1 December 2007, along with several other performers.
 
 
Scenes from the Africa Institute
for HIV/AIDS Management's highly successful educational theatre play Lucky the Hero!