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CAPE FEAR MEMORIAL BRIDGE CLOSURE: UPDATES, RESOURCES, AND CONTEXT

Itzhak Perlman cancels Raleigh concert over HB2

Kenneth C. Zirkel / Wikimedia Commons
Itzhak Perlman in 1984

One more high-profile performer has cancelled plans to appear in North Carolina due to the controversial new HB2 law – otherwise known as the “Bathroom Bill”.

Itzhak Perlman was scheduled to perform with the North Carolina Symphony in Raleigh on May 18th.  But in a personal statement, the internationally renowned violinist said he has spent a lifetime advocating against discrimination towards those with physical disabilities.  Perlman said he’s been a vocal advocate for treating all people equally.  Only after much deliberation, according to the statement, did he decide to cancel the concert in North Carolina as a stand against HB2. 

In its own statement, the North Carolina Symphony said it welcomes all people and will also not perform May 18th at the Meymandi Concert Hall in Raleigh. 

Read the statement in full here:  http://www.ncsymphony.org/events/index.cfm?view=details&detailid=1180&eid=2105

Rachel hosts and produces CoastLine, an award-winning hourlong conversation featuring artists, humanitarians, scholars, and innovators in North Carolina. The show airs Wednesdays at noon and Sundays at 4 pm on 91.3 FM WHQR Public Media. It's also available as a podcast; just search CoastLine WHQR. You can reach her at rachellh@whqr.org.