Soulful performances planned for the Center 

Published 6:27 pm Tuesday, January 25, 2022

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Suffolk will have a chance to experience “The Magic of Motown” at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts next month.

Folks can see Masters of Soul at 8 p.m. Feb. 5, in the Birdsong Theater.

Masters of Soul is a tribute to Motown, a popular genre of music originating from Motor City — Detroit, Michigan — in the 1960s. Not only does the band play songs from many well-known artists of the time, but also the entire performance is choreographed with costume changes and dancing to fully immerse the audience in the decade.

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When performing, John Hodges, leader of the group, likes to choose one person in the audience to set his sights on and make sure they have a good time. Knowing that people who come can be dealing with heavy things in their life, he wants to give the audience a song to hear and a performance to watch to give them a good time. He encourages the audience to sing along, clap, tap their feet to the music and have a fun night.

“The show has a great energy,” he said. “We want the audience to sing along and enjoy the mix of music. It’s a great time.”

Even though these hit songs will be reminiscent for many folks in the audience, this performance is something all ages can enjoy, and in fact, the group has performed at elementary and middle schools before. Those familiar with the decade can take a trip down memory lane while listening to popular hits from The Temptations, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, The Four Tops, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin.

“We always have a great time in Suffolk,” said Hodges. “Bring your dancing shoes and be ready for a good time.”

Reserved seating tickets are available for $25, $28, $35 and $40. To purchase tickets, call the box office at 757-923-2900, stop by the Center at 110 W. Finney Ave. or visit suffolkcenter.org/mastersofsoul. Masks are recommended for this performance.