Niagara University presents 'Sing for Somalia' benefit concert

by Emily Kaufman

Niagara University will host the "Sing for Somalia" benefit concert on April 13 at NU's Gallagher Center from 4 to 10 p.m.

The event was planned by NU junior, Jeannine Alsous, to raise money for aid in Somalia. In 2011, NU College of Business professor Dr. Abdiweli Ali accepted a position as prime minister in Somalia. Alsous is one of several students who are part of NU's "Mission-Somalia" campaign, an operation that seeks to assist Ali by raising awareness and financial aid for Somalia. Alsous commented, "We want to support Dr. Ali as much as we can in his strive to make Somalia a better place."

Alsous has worked on the event since December and has crafted a concert that will showcase professional artists alongside local musicians and NU students. Headlining the show is Turquoise Jeep. Other national artists include Jay Vado, Farahri, Paul Lizzi, Tuzzy, and Tatayana D'Voce. Many of the artists agreed to perform at a reduced price or for free. 

Also performing is Buffalo's indie/pop/rock sensation David Nolf. NU students performing are Danny Bax, Nick Manobianco, Billy McKnight, Mason Anthony and Tavon Rowe.

According to Alsous, enabling NU students to perform beside these renowned artists provides an "inspiration to our upcoming artists on campus in the community." At its core, the benefit "is allowing students and the local community to perform on the same stage as professionals and they are all fighting for the same cause," Alsous says.

"Sing for Somalia" is made possible by a group of 50 NU student volunteers inspired to aid Alsous and her campaign. The benefit is sponsored by different university outlets and companies throughout the community.

The event will allow the Western New York community to help Ali in his fight to regain stability in Somalia. Alsous says, "This concert is very important because it is doing good for something greater than the community.  We are showcasing talent and helping our local community and students, but in the end we are saving lives in the country of Somalia."

Tickets for the concert will go on sale next week. Presale tickets for NU students and faculty are $5. At the door, tickets for students and staff are $10. The general public may purchase tickets for $15 on www.ticketmaster.com. All proceeds for the concert go to OXFAM to benefit Somalia.

For more information, check out "Sing for Somalia" on Facebook.

To make a donation for "Mission Somalia," go to www.oxfamamerica.org/SomaliaRelief.