Praise Out Cancer 2018: A Concert Review

Praise Out Cancer 2018 brought another spirit – filled evening, on September 29, 2018, to St. George, SC’s historic Lourie Theater. As you may already know, Praise Out Cancer’s mission is to provide help and inspire hope to those affected by breast cancer through education, and support to awareness programs. The Praise Out Cancer (POC) Family’s combination of committed volunteers, talented artist and loyal sponsors feels that this benefit concert provides a special and unique way to spread awareness about breast health and breast cancer prevention in our community. The evening’s goal was to raise awareness, raise money and raise spirit. 

And that is exactly what happened, everyone Praised Out Cancer!!

We cannot thank God enough for making this year’s event a huge success. The Praise Out Cancer Family raised $5000 for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NCBF) and the Vance-Providence Elementary School’s Cancer Awareness Committee (VPE). In addition, the POC Family was able to give to special individuals, who are cancer patients and survivors, a tangible expression of hope in the form of HOPE Kits that were provided by NBCF. Each kit contained some thoughtful items that will be a comfort and encouragement to those undergoing cancer treatment and recovery.

On the Playbill was a remarkable group of artist who gave of their time and talent for the event, in order of appearance, were Elder Roger Elmore and Amazing Grace, Praise Dancer Elder Angela Brown, The Men of Praise, 11 year old sensation – Jalya Jackson, young upcoming singers – J. A. M., sketch comedy actors – Voices, the House of Glam Couture, Atlanta, GA, fashion show, The Gospel Lioness, Michella Young, and Algeron Wright and Triumphant Praise.

Each artist performed high spirited tributes to cancer patients and survivors that was greatly received by the audience as witnessed by their standing on their feet through the evening. I cannot begin to tell you how much we enjoyed each and every act. The show was reminiscent of the old Ed Sullivan Variety Show. The POC Master of Ceremonies, Elder Roger Elmore presented each act and kept the show moving along smoothly. The entertainment was made up of a variety of acts, including musical performances, sketch comedy, fashion show, and praise dancing. In addition, in the Louire Theater Annex there were a variety of vendors who displayed their merchandise.

An informative message was given by POC spokesperson, Malqueen Rivers. She brought to the stage some very moving reminders about why we were at the Lourie and the reason that this benefit was happening. She related a heart touching story about a friend of hers who was undergoing cancer treatment. She told everyone that this is a continuing battle that everyone, working together, can and will win. She reminded everyone that with the power of God and the combined efforts of our community, we can overcome anything. We have always faced huge battles and have always triumphed in the end and that this battle against cancer is no different.

It was so incredible to be a part of the crowd that was fortunate enough to see all of these great acts in one venue. I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed every single one. But, I can say that having Algeron Wright and Triumphant Praise as the headliner and final act in this lineup was the highlight for me. All I can say is, “You should have been there”.

And as I walked away from the Louire Theater at the end of the evening, I felt a renewed spirit and renewed sense of the power of God that anoints us when we all work together as a team, we can do anything. We thank the artist, the vendors, and the sponsorship of our community’s businesses, the POC Generous Patrons, The POC Pink Heart Volunteer Workers and most of all you – the people of our community. Without you, none of this would be possible. We thank you for your support and commitment.

I can’t wait until next year. I hope to see you there.