Lavenia Nesmith

Performing Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM — Bijou Stage

Get ready for a deeply moving and spiritually rich performance as acclaimed vocalist Lavenia Nesmith brings “A Tribute to Mahalia Jackson: Her Story Told in Dialogue and Song” to life on the Bijou Stage. In this heartfelt production, Nesmith honors the legacy of Mahalia Jackson, one of the most beloved and influential voices in gospel music, through a powerful blend of song and narrative that celebrates both the artist and the woman behind the music.

In her tribute, Nesmith performs many of Mahalia Jackson’s signature songs, breathing new life into classics that helped shape the sound of gospel and inspired generations of listeners. Alongside the music, she interweaves spoken dialogue that tells Jackson’s life story — from her early years steeped in church and tradition, through her rise to national prominence, to her role as a cultural force during the Civil Rights Movement. Through song and storytelling, Nesmith captures Jackson’s deep faith, soulful expression, and the historical impact of her work.

Audiences will experience not only the musical brilliance that made Mahalia Jackson a legend but also the personal narrative that made her an enduring symbol of courage and hope. Backed by a responsive jazz and gospel-infused ensemble, Nesmith’s performance is both an emotional tribute and a celebration of Jackson’s timeless contributions to American music.

Don’t miss this unique performance — an artistic homage that honors Mahalia Jackson’s voice, her spirit, and her story through Lavenia Nesmith’s captivating interpretation.