Denmark, S.C. – Anita Singleton-Prather, better known as “Aunt Pearlie Sue,” brought a touch of Gullah Geechee to Voorhees University when she served as guest speaker for the University’s Lyceum Series on March 23, in Massachusetts Hall. A native of the Sea Islands in Beaufort, South Carolina, she is the founder and executive artistic director of the musical performance group, Gullah Kinfolk Traveling Theater.
Labeling herself as the “Keeper of the Culture,” the storyteller continues to provide and avenue of expression for the African race, especially young adults. “You were created with greatness in you. You’re not going to be great; you already are. I don’t care how hard you try to live beneath your potential, it does not lessen the greatness already in you.,” she encouraged the audience.
Prather is the writer and co-producer of “Tales from the Land of Gullah” and “Circle Unbroken: Gullah Journey from Africa to America.” Broadcasted nationwide on the PBS network, the award winning creative was later able to produce a multitude of other plays. She partnered with South Carolina Educational Television (SCETV) to create an award-winning interactive children’s website, featuring her animated character, Aunt Pearlie Sue.
One of the highlights on her journey thus far was being featured on CNN’s “United Shades of America” and the “Cooking Channel” for sharing Gullah Recipes. Mrs. Prather holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Howard University, a master’s from the University of South Carolina and continues her doctoral research in educational administration and curriculum design.
