A Valentine’s Celebration with Heart and Soul at GSU’s Center for Performing Arts
Contact:
Sharon Morrissey
Governors State University
708.235.2812
Email: sbanaszak@govst.edu
University Park, IL — Sitting across the table from Brian Owens, one might get the feeling of conversing with — as some say — an old soul. Owens, who has performed at the White House before the First Lady Michelle Obama, dazzles audiences with performances that are full of soul and love well beyond his peers of today.
Now, you can see him live at GSU’s Center for Performing Arts for a pre-Valentine’s weekend celebration on February 9 at 8 p.m., perfect for sweethearts, singles, or soul fans.
At its heart, Owens’ show is about “preservation; it’s a matter of upholding the tradition of true soul music that is so desperately needed in our culture today,” he says. Drawing inspiration from legends Sam Cooke, Curtis Mayfield and Marvin Gaye, this Ferguson, Missouri native knows how to spread his love of soul music. Owens and his father Thomas Owens’ rendition of Sam Cooke's classic, "A Change is Gonna Come” went viral on YouTube and has been seen by over 13 million people. A versatile performer, his latest album, SOUL OF CASH (2017) features Owen performing songs made famous by country music icon Johnny Cash.
Presenter Paul K. Reuter of the Sheldon Arts Foundation said, “Brian Owens is one of the most talented vocalists I know. He has the ability to connect with his audience, bringing everyone together in a deep and personal way. A great musician, a great entertainer and a great person!”
Treat yourself or your date to The Heart and Soul Wine Tasting pre-show from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The tasting includes a sampling of decadent cheese and dessert treats served along with three 2 – ounce tastings of wine and one glass of your favorite wine for $20 per person.
Tickets for Soul Royalty are $35/$30 and can be purchased at CenterTickets.net, at the Box Office, or by phone at 708.235.2222. Discounts are available for students, children, seniors 65+, groups of 10+, and patrons purchasing three or more shows.
The Box Office is located at 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL, and is open Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and two hours prior to all performances.
Like us on Facebook @centeratgsu for updates on events, offers and more. Share your experience at the Center on Instagram #govstatearts. Parking is free. For best GPS directions, use the location search term “Governors State University.” This event made possible by the generous support of First Midwest Bank, and the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.
About Brian Owens
Raised in the St. Louis region, Brian Owens is a Soul man often referred to as the “second coming of Marvin Gaye.” A resident of Ferguson, MO, Owens has a tireless commitment to providing experiences that uplift the community and provide hope through the gift and beauty of music. He is currently Artist in Residence with the Grammy Award-winning St. Louis Symphony where he oversees the IN UNISON Church and Mentoring program. Owens has been married to Amanda for 11 Years, and they have 5 children.
About GSU Center for Performing Arts
Located at Governors State University, Center for Performing arts provides dynamic entertainment and edutainment experiences for all, serving over 50,000 patrons annually.