Black History experience in Bronzeville with a New Orleans flavor

Sam Thousand and YumDiva, Chicago based artists, are curating a Fat Tuesday themed event in the neighborhood of Bronzeville that will celebrate the cuisine, music, culture, and magic of New Orleans. This event will take place at 4622 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60653 in the Grand Ballroom of  Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church on February 10, 2024 from 7pm to 12am. 

Bronzeville is often admired from a lens of what was. Sam Thousand & YumDiva are reimagining what Bronzeville could look like today. With a historical blend of artistic culture and community, the city of New Orleans bears great similarities to Bronzeville’s rich history. Both destinations celebrate  cultural icons, black music and distinctive soul food. During Black History Month, what better way to highlight the rituals of both cities than to combine their cultural heritage, celebrate the great legacy of Black innovation, and proclaim who we are today?.

This event will bring together the spirit of Black gathering, old school romance and classic architecture of Bronzeville, and tie it in a lil old bow with the savory bites, lively libations, a variety performers, and that electrifying bounce music New Orleans is known for.

Did we mention there will be a second line band in tow? This will be a unique destination for Fat Tuesday, Valentine’s, Galentine’s and Black History jubilation.

About Sam Thousand

Sam Thousand is a multifaceted musician/singer and a 3Arts recipient, with sixteen years experience in live performance art, curation, and management. Since picking up the trumpet at age seven, his artistry has brought him to stages in all corners of North America as well as overseas. Sam Thousand has become a fixture in Chicago’s music scene and has been recognized for his excellence in live event curation and social entrepreneurship through his brand ChiBrations. Everywhere he goes, he brings a sophistication that engages & uplifts. 

Meeting Chef Erika heightened his level of appreciation and respect for the culinary artist and the experience they create through food, beverage, and aesthetic.

About YumDiva

Chef Erika Durham, otherwise known as The YumDiva has dedicated her career to creating “All Things Delicious”. She has worked as an Executive Chef for over twenty years while also becoming a Wine and Spirits Scholar. The last several years have been spent collaborating with Restaurateurs to expand their business concepts. She met Sam while working together to create fully realized cultural experiences in Bronzeville.