* See a replay of Radical Elite’s performance on PBS.ORG through Feb 4th! See the replay at pbs.org/video/dave-chappelle-the-kennedy-center-mark-twain-prize-qbmxgn/
It was truly an honor for Radical Elite to be asked to perform at the Kennedy Center’s Mark Twain Award for American Humor Ceremony, honoring Dave Chappelle. Radical Elite, under the direction of Head Band Director, Kieron Irvine, and Assistant Band Director, Tyra Flotte, worked diligently to pull together an aesthetically and musically engaging performance in very short order. In less than a week, the Show Band, Mr. Irvine and Ms. Flotte went from invite to performance!
You should note that Radical Elite’s performance was a historic first! This was the first time a show band/marching band had performed at the Mark Twain Award for American Humor Ceremony! Beyond being trailblazers, the students were exposed to the inner-workings of a major television production with a national and international audience. The experience of working with the production team and staff at the Kennedy Center were certainly unique and enlightening for these Instrumental Music Department students.
When you see the members of the Radical Elite Show Band, Mr. Irvine and or Ms. Flotte, be sure to give them the attaboys, attagirls and accolades they deserve. Their tireless and relentless determination to put on an exceptionally executed performance, highlighting Ellington’s Excellence and in support of one of DESA’s most supportive alumni, Mr. Dave Chappelle, with very very little practice time is beyond commendable; its awe-inspiring!
