At 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, the Kennett High School Auditorium will host “Stars in the Sky: A Musical Remembrance,” a special tribute concert in honor of the late Kelendria Johnson, a local singer who passed away in October 2023.
This event, part of the KAFTA Fall into Arts program, is free to the public, with donations accepted for the Kelendria Johnson Scholarship Fund.
The tribute, organized by Kennett native and tenor Limmie Pulliam, will feature performances by Broadway actress and singer Jenny Powers, along with local talents Misty McDowell Rhine, Jacob Deck, Josh Pemberton, Meg Mobley, Michael Cates, Matt Jackson, Krisie Holmes, and the Ever Voices quintet.
Pulliam, known for his powerful performances in opera houses across the nation, including the Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall, felt a deep connection to Johnson’s legacy. “Kelendria had a spirit that was larger than life, not just because of her incredible talent but also because of her warmth, generosity, and the way she volunteered her time to so many causes,” said Pulliam.
“Her dream of becoming the next Audra McDonald inspired everyone who knew her, and her loss is felt across all segments of our community. This tribute is a way to celebrate her immense talent, her giving spirit, and to keep her memory alive through the music she loved.”
Pulliam headlines the talented roster with his powerful tenor. In reviewing his Otello performance, The San Francisco Classical Voice declared that “Pulliam can roar, he can sing sweetly, and he can simmer, all the while creating a dramatically believable character.”
“Kelendria was a gift to this community, and we want to honor that gift by bringing together artists who knew and loved her,” Pulliam added. “This evening is not just about remembering; it’s about celebrating her life and the impact she had on so many.”
The concert will take place at the Kennett High School Auditorium, located at 1400 W. Washington St. Although admission is free, attendees are encouraged to make donations to the Kelendria Johnson Scholarship Fund, ensuring that her passion for music lives on in future generations.
For more information on the KAFTA Fall into Arts program and other events, visit KAFTA.org.