Gill Sotu presents: Black Voices – Spoken Word: 7PM Sunday, February 23, 2025

Gill Sotu presents: Black Voices – Spoken Word

Tickets are Complimentary; Visit the Live & Up Close Box Office Window

Gill Sotu

Gill Sotu is a Navy veteran, poet, playwright, DJ, and performing artist. He is a 2x Grand Slam Poetry Champion, 2x Raw Performing Artist of the Year, and 5x TEDx San Diego presenter. Currently, he is a teaching artist and a commissioned playwright with The Old Globe Theatre & La Jolla Playhouse, and the official Poet in Residence for the San Diego Writer’s Festival. He has over 10yrs of experience teaching written and performing arts within the penal system, working directly with incarcerated persons & in recovery settings, as well as with veterans and students from junior high to college.

Jonnae Thompson (Comedy)

As the daughter of a pastor, Jonnae Thompson grew up singing in the choir. She went on to study theater throughout high school and college.
Her career in stand-up comedy began by accident at Cal State Northridge, after placing in a national competition that she entered on impulse, with no prior experience. She has now been writing and producing her own comedy shows since 2009. According to Jonnae, ordinary life is full of humor. From socio-economic conditions to body image obsession, she speaks from personal experience about real issues faced by real people. She offers a voice of empowerment and healing through her body of work. Jonnae’s soulful delivery matched with her quick wit take you to a world that is reminiscent of legendary entertainers such as: Sammy Davis, Jr., Pearl Bailey, and Barbara Streisand. “One of the reasons why I am drawn to music and comedy is the beauty of sharing a message,” Jonnae says. She is passionate about artists’ ability to create as a means of voicing internal revolutions. Her comedy influences come from the likes of Dave Chapelle, George Carlin, and Wanda Sykes and the late Patrice O’Neal. She has toured nationally and internationally as well as been seen on TruTv, Amazon and a part of the notable “Netflix Is A Joke Festival”.

Rudy Francisco (Poetry)

Rudy Francisco is one of the most recognizable names in Spoken Word Poetry. Rudy Francisco has shared stages with prominent artists such as Gladys Knight, Jordin Sparks, Musiq Soul Child, and Jill Scott. Ultimately, Rudy’s goal is to continue to assist others in harnessing their creativity while cultivating his own. Rudy Francisco is the author of “Helium.” He is also an Individual World Poetry Slam Champion, a National Poetry Slam Champion and has appeared on NBC’s “The Tonight Show” starring Jimmy Fallon and “The Bachelorette”

Dina Maeva (R&B)

Nadine Maeva Randrianarivelo, better known as Dina Maeva, is a 24-year-old professional singer, songwriter, and music manager whose artistry reflects resilience and creativity. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, with deep family roots in Madagascar, Dina’s musical journey began at just three years old. By 14, she was teaching herself entrepreneurship, managing her solo artistry and her band, BeMaeva, while pursuing four years of classical vocal training at the Baltimore School for the Arts.
Dina’s music is deeply rooted in her life experiences, drawing inspiration from her family’s legacy of promoting Malagasy culture and her own journey of growth. She has performed in a variety of cities and countries, sharing her unique blend of tradition and innovation with diverse audiences. Through her art, Dina celebrates her Malagasy heritage, uplifts underrepresented voices, and inspires listeners to embrace their identities, overcome challenges, and strive for greatness.

Joe Mac (Poet)

Joe McClain Jr. is a creative artist specializing in spoken word poetry and creative writing. He is the author of 13 books and a nationally recognized spoken word poet who has performed in over 20 states. Additionally, he served 20 years in the United States Navy and is nearing the completion of his Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communications.

FRE3STY13 (Song/Dance/Hip-hop)

4 the past 6 years Yvonne Brown has surrendered her GIFTS 2 “Freestyle ”
“Freestyle” is spelled f r e 3 s t y 1 3.
Fre3sty13 is a conscious Hip Hop movement dedicated 2 the recovery, reconciliation, and rehabilitation of God’s people.
This music ministry administers a supernatural sound vibration directly 2 individuals on the street corners this nation.

Shawn Christopher (Soul/Gospel)

Shawn Christopher Moore, born in Brazoria, TX, has been immersed in music his whole life. A soulful singer with a distinctive sound, Shawn blends diverse genres, crafting remixes with innovative melodies and harmonies that captivate his audience. His deep love for God and worship infuses his music, making each performance a powerful, heart-connecting experience. Shawn is the co-visionary and host of Sessions at the Shop and brings soulful vibes as the host of Neo Soul Tuesdays in downtown San Diego. His experience, charisma, and unique artistry make him an unforgettable talent, both on stage and behind the mic.

Ticket Distribution: 5PM
Doors: 6PM
Showtime: 7PM

Must be 21+ to attend shows.