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Hailed as one of the most inspiring women of our time, musician and activist Angélique Kidjo shares the story of her world in the memoir, Spirit Rising: from the communist regime of her native Benin to her work as a UNICEF Ambassador and activist promoting education for all girls in Africa. Kidjo’s GRAMMY-Award winning music, rich with African rhythms, speaks to her own vibrancy, resilience, and to the hope she carries for the world’s spirit rising. Kidjo brings her electrifying presence to the Library in a special evening of conversation, story and song, where she will perform excerpts from her new CD Eve, before embarking on a world tour.

Angélique Kidjo

Singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo has been recognized as one of Africa’s “50 most iconic figures” (the BBC) and one of the world’s “100 most inspiring women” (The Guardian). Among the many honors she’s received was her June 2103 appointment as vice-president of CISAC, the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers. She now makes her home in Brooklyn, New York, with her family. In 2014, she will follow up the release of her memoir with the release of a new album of original songs, distributed by Savoy Records, and a world tour.


Lorraine Ali

Lorraine Ali

Lorraine Ali is a writer and journalist who is currently serving as Music Editor for the Los Angeles Times. She was previously a Senior Writer with Newsweek where she covered culture, music and the Middle East. Lorraine has written for publications such as the New York Times, Rolling Stone and GQ and is currently working on a book about the plight of her Iraqi family following the 2003 invasion.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why do programs fill so quickly?

    ALOUD provides a unique experience for the public to engage with scholars, authors, and artists in the intimate 235-seat Mark Taper Auditorium. Library Foundation Members have the benefit of reserving for programs in advance of the public. Consider joining as a Member to receive this benefit, and check the website on an on-going basis for program availability. Be sure to subscribe to our email alerts, and visit our Media Archive for podcasts and other items from our recent programs.

  • Where does ALOUD take place?

    Unless otherwise noted, ALOUD programs are held at the downtown Central Library’s Mark Taper Auditorium.

  • Where should I park?

    We recommend taking public transportation. Parking for the Central Library is at the Westlawn Garage at 524 S. Flower Street. For more information, visit the Library’s website.

  • Should I purchase the author’s book in advance?

    We encourage you to purchase books from the Library Store. All proceeds benefit the Los Angeles Public Library. Books are made available for purchase when you reserve for a program online, and are also on sale at programs. In order to participate in the book signing, you must purchase at least one book from The Library Store. Members receive discounts on purchases.

  • Where can I find podcasts and videos of ALOUD programs?

    Podcasts and videos from our programs are available free online at our growing Media Archive. Visit the archive at lfla.org/media-archive to explore hundreds of podcasts and videos spanning 20+ years of ALOUD’s history bringing authors, artists, and t thinkers to the Los Angeles Public Library.