With the semester in full swing, an opportunity to relax and forget about stress-filled days is right around the corner.
Imagine sitting under the stars listening to the sultry voice of India Arie while the cool evening breeze blows away all anxiety.
On Friday, Sept. 25, the R&B singer is set to perform at CSUN.
Hamid Jahangard, program coordinator for Major Events from the University Student Union, said the free concert is geared toward students and faculty but added that guests would be welcomed at no charge.
“We truly want to produce an unforgettable event,” Jahangard said.
The concert, which was made possible through a joint collaboration between the Residential Hall Association, Associated Students S.P.A.C.E. and the Union Program Council (UPC), will start at 8 p.m. Tickets will not be required.
Jahangard said that although Arie’s followers are not prone to disruptive behavior, CSUN police and security will be present.
Captain Alfredo Fernandez of the CSUN police department said he cannot discuss the security measures being taken with the public, but students can rest assured that things will turn out peacefully.
Jahangard added that different venues around campus were considered but ultimately, organizers settled for the front lawn of the Oviatt Library because it is the heart of the campus and it is the “most beautiful part of campus at night.”
He said the large venue would provide the right setting for the “festival-like atmosphere” the organizers are hoping to create.
“We are going for a Hollywood Bowl type of vibe,” Fernandez said.
Although some seats will be provided, those attending are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on the grass as they enjoy the performances.
As of now, the opening act for Arie is unknown. But Jahangard said it would be two lucky CSUN students who may get the opportunity to perform spoken word pieces.
Students interested in becoming Arie’s opening act will have to audition at the UPC Espressions event, which will take place at the USU’s Games Room today at 7 p.m.
The students will not only get bragging rights for opening for Arie, said Jahangard, but they will also get VIP seats to enjoy the concert.
Freshman interior design major Gabrielle McKelley, 19, said she knew about the event because she had seen a couple of posters around campus.
Although she likes Arie’s music because “her songs have a meaning behind them,” she will not be attending.
“The time is inconvenient for me because I don’t live on campus and have no transportation,” she said.