Erikka Dunn - 2007 Miss Black Missouri Winner

 Erikka was born August 4, 1987 in Kansas City, Kansas to Roy and Dorothy Dunn. As she
grew the Missouri teen found quite a love for performing. Yet it wasn’t until her family moved to
Lee’s Summit, Missouri a suburb of Kansas City, that Erikka’s talents flourished and illuminated!
With the coaching and training of several extraordinary educators, including Theatre Director of
the Year (2003), Ben Martin, and Missouri State Choral Director of the Year (2004), Carla Oliver,
Erikka’s performance achievements should come as no surprise.
      
     The award-winning public speaker, actress, and vocalist has performed along side, and in the
presence of, some of the greatest talents in America; and in, a few well-noted venues. Some of
her solo experiences include the following:•        The Kansas City Symphony
•        Kansas City Starlight Theatre
•        Chiefs Arrowhead Stadium
•        The AND1 Mix Tape Tour
•        A Gospel Praise Break with special guest Dr. Bobby Jones

Erikka has also been recognized in the classical vocal arena with Honor 1 Ratings. In addition to
these honors, in 2004, she was granted several titles in musical theatre, which included both
“Outstanding Featured Performer” and “Outstanding Female Vocalist.” Additionally, she is a proud
member of the renowned Gospel Announcers Guild.
      
    Even though Erikka excels in the art of performing, she is equally accomplished in her academic
and professional pursuits. Just four months into her seventeenth birthday, Erikka’s love of English
planted her in Hallmark Cards Creative Writing Studio and Editorial Community. This remarkable
opportunity was made possible through the nationally recognized INROADS organization, in which
she is Co-Vice President of Communication for the INROADS Student Association (ISA), Kansas
City affiliate.
      
     Erikka’s commitment to involvement and service seamlessly compliment her talents, her
successes, and her vibrant personality. Over the past five years, Erikka has been continuously
involved in various volunteer opportunities, including: blood drives, mentorship, and major
organizations

     Her ultimate dream is to have a full-time career in the gospel music industry. It is there she
believes she can use all of her dynamic talents, ambitious drive, and enthusiastic persona, to
achieve her true purpose in life; a life committed to Jesus Christ. She knows that with the help of
God, and continued love and support from her family and friends…the best of Erikka is yet to come!

Visit her website at:  http://www.erikkaonline.com/about_us.html

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Kansas City Black History Month Events February 2007

Black History Month Event #1: “Dime on the Vine,” a celebration of black film in Kansas City’s historic jazz district The American Jazz Museum in the Historic 18th and Vine district in Kansas City is a true testament to the African American influence on music in this country. In addition to the interactive exhibits that change four times each year and are inspired by jazz, baseball and African American life, the American Jazz Museum has a working jazz club (The Blue Room) and the Gem Theater, a 500-seat performing arts venue that hosts jazz concerts, theater productions and community events. In honor of black history month this year, the American Jazz Museum is sponsoring a film series called “Dime on the Vine” every Sunday at 2 and 4 p.m. When the Gem Theater originally opened in 1913, cost for admission was 10 cents, as it will be for the film series showcasing black films during black history month. For 10 cents, come see such classic films as “Carmen,” “Stormy Weather” and “Watermelon Man.” The double feature includes a “new school” black film as well, such as “Love Jones” and “Piano Blues.” Come experience true African American culture during black history month in the birthplace of American Jazz, Kansas City.

Popularity: 9% [?]