For Jodine Dorce, the good news from Haiti came three days after the earthquake struck. The East Point resident was elated that her family was safe.
“My brother got the call as he was driving to my house,” recalls Dorce. “He couldn’t focus at work and was coming to pick me up for breakfast. He called me immediately and screamed, ‘I heard from Dad.’"
The Haiti call dropped moments later but Dorce’s father, who lived there with his wife and 8-year-old daughter, assured his son that they were safe. Ten days later Dorce’s little sister Prisca flew to Atlanta through the American Embassy.
Dorce will share her family’s story during a Haiti benefit concert at Center Stage on Friday. The show, “Let the Music Play,” is hosted by jazz violinist Ken Ford and features trumpeters Joey Sommerville and Melvin Miller, Spanish guitarist Rouzbeh, alternative R&B singers Heratio and Phillippia, and World Music vocalist Omega Bugembe Okell.
“We want people to know that this is affecting Atlantans and it’s as real as it gets. It was very emotional to see [Prisca]… and know that she is well,” Dorce said.
Sommerville promises a sizzling show with jam sessions and individual performances. Concert proceeds will benefit Jean Marc Desire-Haiti Missionary, an affiliate of Elizabeth Baptist Church in southwest Atlanta. The missionary group has been in Haiti since 2006.
“The church has already sent $50,000 to Haiti since the earthquake,” said Lyschel Hicks, a member of Elizabeth Baptist and Girlfriends of Atlanta, which is co-hosting the event.
Michael Barketey is the event's sponsor. A New York filmmaker and native of Ghana, Barketey said he has worked to raise money, clothing and food items for Haiti since the news aired on TV.
"I was a victim of famine in 1983 in my country," he said. "I went without food for days, so I know how it is."
Haiti’s tragedy has also struck a chord for Atlanta musicians eager to do their part by performing for free at Friday’s show, said Ford, who brought the performers together.
“We all do this [as a profession] for the love of the music,” adds Sommerville. “Here’s a thing where we are able to go and do something real and tangible to help. It’s a great thing.”
Benefit for Haiti
"Let the Music Play." Hosted by jazz violinist Ken Ford and friends. 8 p.m., Friday. Doors open at 7 p.m. $35. Center Stage, 1374 West Peachtree, N.W., Atlanta. 404-885-1365, www.centerstage-atlanta.com
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