The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Voices of
Inspiration is preparing to return to the stage in “A musical Journey Through
Time” mega concert to be held on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at 7 p.m. at Island
Center for the Performing Arts on St. Croix.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration "A Musical Journey Through Time" Event Flyer |
The compelling production, billed as a joyful musical concert will feature performances of soulful vocals,
melodious sound and infectious energy.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration performing at Reichold Center for the Performing Arts in 2013 |
This non-denominational choir sings a variety of music
genres such as jazz, blues, negro spirituals, contemporary gospel, classical
and Caribbean music, including reggae and calypso. Known as one of the Virgin Islands premier choirs, Voices of
Inspiration is also known for its unique productions. Always bringing an added
flare, the University’s choir is known for its performances that are enhanced
with creative animation, visual graphics and dance.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration performing in St. Croix |
The renowned choir comprises students, alumni and staff of
the University of the Virgin Islands.
Voices of Inspiration began in 1999 when a group of resident
assistants and residential students sought an outlet to express their musical
talents. They came together to sing and fellowship. They were the first
Residence Hall Choir. This expression of students’ talents, skills, and desires
would later be called the Voices of Inspiration.
As the founding students graduated, the choir became
dormant. However, with “Inspiration,” the group resurfaced to provide comfort
and cause to a group of students who responded to the tragedy which occurred in
Haiti in 2010.
Since its revival, the group has been wowing crowds in
the Virgin Islands and abroad.
 |
| Audience applauding the Voices of Inspiration |
“What I experienced at the Spring concert was something that
was just breathtaking,” Dr. Hall said. “It was one of the most fantastic
performances not only I’ve seen here, but at any university that I have
attended,” he said, speaking of the 2012 Spring concert.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration performing at the Spring 2012 concert |
“It was a combination of drama, music, digital performances
and the Great Hall was transformed into a big theatre and I was just really
blown away.”
Under the tutelage of Josephine Thomas-Lewis, who has
directed the choir since August 2012, the choir’s performances have been exceeding
expectations.
“I am totally pleased with the reception that the choir,
affectionately called VOI has received over the past six years,” said choir
director, Josephine Thomas-Lewis.
“This combined group of students, alumni, and community
members have touched and impacted the lives of many within the Caribbean and
some parts of the mainland.”
In 2013, the choir has performed at the Reichhold Center for
the Arts in St. Thomas.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration performing at Reichold Center for the Performing Arts in 2013 |
In 2016, the choir traveled to St. Kitts and performed
at both the Calvary Baptist Tabernacle Church and the St. Kitts Marriott
Resort.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration performing at the Marriott Resort in St. Kitts |
Also, as recent as March 2018, the choir hosted a concert in Miami,
Florida.
 |
| Voices of Inspiration in Miami |
In 2017, challenges incurred by Hurricanes Irma and Maria
derailed the groups plans to travel to London. The choir was expected to travel
from November 9 – 19, where they would have participated in the 2017 Festival
of Choirs Competition and other musical performances. While there, they would
have hosted two concerts, perform at local churches and other venues, and
conduct workshops. The choir has rescheduled the London trip to summer of 2019.
The UVI Voices of Inspiration suggests that you stay tuned
for more stellar productions in the near future.
“In Lieu of our annual Christmas Production, we are planning
a Gala which is slated for December 3, 2018, in the Great Hall on the Albert A.
Sheen Campus on St. Croix,” said Thomas-Lewis.
“Our fundraising goal for this Gala is $50,000. This will
allow us to produce a CD, to fund our service and annual empowerment
initiatives, and support our travel to London in summer 2019.”
For more information about UVI Voices of Inspiration, contact
Josephine Thomas-Lewis, Voices of Inspiration director at (340) 690-5269 or
email voistx@myuvi.net.
