SummerStage shows soul in New York

New York's free performing arts festival SummerStage marks its 26^th anniversary this summer and includes performances by Indomitable James Brown, Tye Tibbett and SummerStage Kids, presented by Disney.

SummerStage is New York's biggest art and music festival and is scheduled to have over 100 performances in 18 parks from now until September 2.

2011 keeps the tradition going, as it marks its 26^th year in the celebration of outdoor musical and theater performances. The concerts take place throughout New York's five boroughs and best of all - it's free.

The selection of performances reflect the multiculturalism and creativity New York has to offer. Gospel Singer Tye Tribbett takes center stage tonight featuring a variety of uplifting songs including his single Fresh.

According to SummerStage.com, Tribbett spreads the goodness of God through his music. Tribbett's has also debuted at number 1 on the Billboard Gospel Chart and has performed with famous artists such as Justin Timberlake, Faith Hill, Elton John, Tim McGraw and Whitney Houston.

This week, SummerStage presents Motown Meets NYC, hip-hop duo Greg Nice & Smooth B, Jon B/Olivia, and The Indomitable: James Brown. Sunday is Brooklyn Teen Family Day, as part of SummerStage Kids.

The Indomitable: James Brown, which features Burnt Sugar the Arkestra Chamber and Brandon Victor Dixon, pays musical homage to the legendary James Brown through singing, dancing, and videography.

The concert is designed to depict and capture the essence of Brown, as both a musical icon and a person. The Indomitable: James Brown will be making the crowd 'feel nice like sugar and spice' on Friday evening, and again on Saturday.

SummerStage Kids will showcase dancing, music, and speeches all designed for teens. The set includes performances by Black Girls Rock!, Phony Ppl, The Bed Stuy Veterans, Urban Word NYC, and The Brooklyn Steppers.

The performances are designed to enhance the power of youth, through jazz, alternative rock, Afro-Caribbean freestyle dances, poetry, and a marching band.

SummerStage is a presentation from City Parks Foundation. It was in part created for the growth of artistic and musical appreciation, by all ages and cultures.

For a complete list of scheduled performers, please visit the SummerStage offical webpage.