Adjectives like powerful, inspiring, joyous and quicksilver barely capture the full measure that is the Tour of Light 2002, performed by the Children of Uganda. Pioneer Valley audiences will have the opportunity to share in their light on Wednesday, February 27 at 7:30pm in the Concert Hall. They will also perform for area school children the following day in two sold-out performances as part of the Performances Plus! program.

Transcending generations and borders, this dance troupe shares and preserves their culture using traditional tribal and royal dances and song from across Uganda and neighboring Zaire. Powerful, rhythmic motion and joyful voices in English, Swahili and Ugandan dialects combine with vibrantly colored costumes to create a rich performance made all the more moving by its mission.

These young people are outstanding examples of hope — and what the human spirit can overcome. By performing traditional dance and song, they are re-forging a cultural link threatened by an AIDS and war related crisis in Africa that has rendered 1.4 million children parentless. Eighty percent of what is raised is donated to the Daughters of Charity Orphanage in Uganda's capital of Kampala.

Originally formed as a way to raise the children's spirits, the potential for sharing their courage and hope, as they raised AIDS awareness, was realized by Sister Rose, a Ugandan nun who founded the orphanage in 1972. Now, the award winning Children of Uganda is an ongoing troupe of 30 children aged 4 though 17, who have lost one or both parents; of these, eighteen tour serving as ambassadors to the world. From coast to coast, their performances have earned standing ovations and accolades in places that include the National Summit on Africa at the Kennedy Center, Stanford University and the David Letterman Show. Don't miss this joyous experience!

The Children of Uganda, Wednesday, February 27 at 7:30pm in the Concert Hall. For tickets and information, call the Box Office at 545-2511 or 1-800-999-UMAS, or go to our web site at www.fineartscenter.com.