The second annual Louder Than Stigma Fest will return to The Kessler Theater on Sept. 19, bringing together Dallas musicians and visual artists for an event benefiting free mental health services in Texas.
Presented by nonprofit Amplified Minds, the festival will feature performances by Oak Cliff artist Tye Harris, the Cayuga All Stars and singer-songwriter Courtney Hart. The event is being held during Suicide Prevention Month and will raise money for Amplified Minds’ mental health programs for Texas residents ages 18 and older.
Harris will headline the event, bringing a mix of classical, hip-hop and soul influences. A classically trained opera singer, pianist and rapper, Harris is also known for his Pushing Keys EP series and TyeLand Music platform.
Dallas-based Latin ensemble Cayuga All Stars will also perform. The eight-piece group was founded by Cesar Vargas with Champ Cantu and Jorge Salas and includes musicians from across the Dallas-Fort Worth music community.
Before the indoor performances, Hart will play an outdoor acoustic set presented in partnership with the Dallas Music Office. Her music draws from indie, blues and singer-songwriter traditions.
The festival will extend beyond music with an exhibition and auction featuring clothing transformed into original artwork by Dallas-area artists. Participating artists include Kaia Beggs, Izk Davies, Bubba Flint, Michelle Dekkers, Christie Meril, Jennifer Monet Cowley, Lauren Lewchuk, Hatziel Flores, Victoria Jackson and Jack Daw Folk Art.
A Mental Health Activation Space will also connect attendees with local organizations and available resources.
Proceeds will support Amplified Minds programs, including weekly peer support groups, art therapy and music therapy for creatives and underserved communities across Texas.
—
