Let’s face it: being forced to think about the end of summer in the middle of July is downright cruel. But like all things, summer 2014 must pass, even though it feels like it started a week ago. Happily, there’s Alverno Presents’ annual Global Union festival to make the end of the season go down a little easier. For nearly 10 years, the world-music fest has set up shop in Bay View’s Humboldt Park and given Milwaukee a diverse, eclectic, and dance-happy farewell to summer. Far from Enya and those “Jazz Loon” CDs they used to sell at Natural Wonders in the mall, Global Union is vital, crowd-pleasing, and bursting with life. And best of all, it’s free.
Of course, putting on a free fest that brings in acts from places like Argentina, China, Appalachia, Trinidad and Sierra Leone ain’t exactly cheap. That’s why Alverno Presents has launched a campaign to raise $15,000 in 15 days to help keep Global Union free, fun, and awesome. From now until July 31, Global Union supporters can make a donation here, with BMO Harris Bank and the Helen Bader Foundation matching each gift dollar for dollar, up to $15,000.
The ninth annual Global Union will take place Saturday, September 13, from noon until 6 p.m., in Humboldt Park. Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, Calypso Rose with Kobo Town, Abigail Washburn’s Wu-Force, and Argentine’s La Yegros will perform. Look for a more in-depth piece on Global Union—and Alverno Presents’ 2014-15 season—next week.