BélO to bring unique Haitian sound to Squitieri Studio Theatre Nov. 13-14

November 8, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Haiti’s outspoken “groove innovator,” BélO, will bring his Ragganga musical style – which combines reggae, jazz, rock, worldbeat and rara – to Gainesville for a pair of 7:30 p.m. performances at Squitieri Studio Theatre Tuesday and Wednesday.

Long before an earthquake ravaged his homeland, BélO was dedicated to improving the life of his fellow Haitians through a variety of philanthropic causes. The singer/guitarist/writer/composer was recently the subject of a Time magazine video feature titled BélO: Singing for Haiti, which can be viewed by visiting http://bit.ly/Szxq53.

BélO will perform for U.S. audiences thanks to his participation in Center StageSM – an initiative of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs that brings compelling contemporary artists from Haiti, Indonesia and Pakistan to the U.S to engage the American people in cultural diplomacy as a way to create opportunities for greater understanding.

“With the love I have for my country, I can only give back,” BélO said. “I make music because I really want things to change, and I believe in the power of music to do that. For that reason, Center Stage is very important to me as an artist. Not only will I be able to learn more about the American culture, but I can also share my culture with a broader audience and show the good side of Haiti.”

Tickets are $25 for the general public and $10 for students. Call 352-392-ARTS (2787) or 800-905-ARTS (toll free within Florida), or visit www.performingarts.ufl.edu for more information.