CHICAGO – August 20, 2009 – L’Evated Marketing and Media Entertainment will team up with Africa International House to bring Chicago’s hippest, hottest young talent to the stage at the L’Evated Pre-Show as a part of the Chrysler Financial 20^th Annual African Festival of the Arts. The four-day celebration of African art and culture will be held Labor Day weekend, September 4 through 7, in Washington Park at 51^st & Cottage Grove. L’Evated Pre-Show co-sponsors include Donski Ent, Oregano Studios, Track-N-Feel Productions, Dt Studios and Exedus II.

The L’Evated Pre-Show will provide local artists with the opportunity to perform as the opening act for Festival music and dance performers including Ahmad Jamal, Latin Street Dancing and the Kenya Safari Acrobats. To do so, the L’Evated Pre-Show will hold auditions for festival performers on Friday, Aug. 28, at Africa International House at 6200 South Drexel Ave. from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. For information, e-mail phalair7@sbcglobal.net.

“The L’Evated Pre-Show will reveal the raw, natural talent that grows right here within our community. It will provide a chance for local artists to express their passions and experience the stage while showcasing just a taste of our city’s untapped abilities,” said Phalair Carter, CEO of L’Evated Marketing and Media Entertainment, who developed the concept for the show,

Carter said he believes in using music as a vehicle to attract and unite people. As a performing artist himself, he has become an ambassador for local performers. Every week you can find him at reggae music venue Exedus II hosting Mixtape Mondays, Chicago’s only hip-hop and R&B paid open mic competition. The event brings local artists together to perform their tightest selections and consistently draws an audience of loyal supporters who have become a community that continues to grow.

Carter has continued to generate local awareness and community appeal at the ground level through his grassroots approach. His strategy is creative and personal; he creates the opportunity for people to be involved and perform, building excitement and commitment from both artists and audiences. Carter believes participation is the ultimate pull.

Festival tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate, $5 for seniors over 65 and children under 12. Family and weekend passes are available.Exclusive VIP main stage seating is available every night of the festival from 5 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. The VIP package includes cabaret seating for four guests, one bottle of The Wine Cellars preferred red or white wine, a six-pack of African Festival of the Arts preferred beer, festival linens and lighting and a private entrance.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and information, call (773) 955-ARTS (2787) or visit www.africanfestivalchicago.com.