Bowie State University (BSU) has honored the iconic multi-Grammy award-winning black singer Dionne Warwick by naming its performance arts theatre after her.
“Music icon Dionne Warwick will be honored with the unveiling and naming the Dionne Warwick Theater (main stage) at Bowie State University’s Fine and Performing Arts Center on Saturday, April 1, at 11:00 a.m. It will be the first performing venue named in her honor,” BSU said in a statement on its website.
The 82-year-old pop star has an illustrious career that spans almost 60 years. She was elated to receive the news.
“I really don’t have the proper words, I really don’t. It is quite overwhelming to be worthy enough of something of this nature to happen,” Warwick told WJLA news.
The decision marks the first time a performance art theatre anywhere in the country was named after the veteran singer.
“I said you have got to be kidding me, why would they want to do that. The explanation was you deserve it, so here I am…I certainly hope that after we cut that ribbon, I am able to live up to the expectations that are put on me now…Not only is it keeping my name alive, but it is keeping my music alive— which is very important,” she said.
A ceremony was heldat the theatre to mark the occasion.
“Doug E. Fresh and BeBeWinans are among a Who’s Who of music celebrities, corporate leaders, politicians, and other officials from across the nation who will attend. The program includes Ms. Warwick and Bowie State President Aminta Breaux cutting a ribbon to reveal the Dionne Warwick Theater at Bowie State University. The tribute will solidify the university’s relationship with one of the world’s renowned female vocalists and honor her revered career,“ the University website notes.
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