The Majestic Theater overflowed with energy and anticipation on Thursday evening as Grammy-nominated artist Valerie June closed her three-day artist residency at Gettysburg College with a soul-stirring performance to a packed house.
June, known for her genre-blending sound of blues, country, R&B, and indie, delivered a show that not only highlighted her musical brilliance but also the deep connections she built with the Gettysburg community during her stay.
“I thought she was great,” said local resident Mark Purdy. “The crowd was very receptive to her upbeat and hopeful message. She’s unique.” Purdy noted June’s new single “Joy, Joy!”—which is currently getting airplay on University of Pennsylvania public radio station WXPN—was among the early highlights of the night, while her signature song “Astral Plane” was saved for later in the set.
The performance marked the finale of June’s residency, funded through the Ann McIlhenny Harward Interdisciplinary Fund for Culture and Music. During her time on campus, she taught classes, held discussions, and shared the stories behind her music with students and faculty.
“Valerie June’s residency and concert are a testament to the immense impact of the Harward Program,” said Majestic Theater Director Brett Messenger. “Opportunities like this bring campus and community together for meaningful and memorable experiences in the arts.”
Africana Studies Professor Scott Hancock praised June’s preparation and generosity: “She worked with students to explore how joy, community, and history influence her music. Her presence was deeply inspiring.”
June’s set featured several new songs from her forthcoming album Owls, Omens and Oracles, which drops in two weeks. But perhaps the most powerful moment came in the encore, when she took the stage alone for a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “What a Wonderful World,” leaving the audience in awe.
As June joked about hearing trains at night — “You can probably guess where I’m staying,” she said — she reminded everyone of the warmth, wit, and wisdom that define her artistry. And for Gettysburg, it was a night to remember.
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.
Completely blown away by her performance. The Majestic has had an amazing season.
The headline is no exaggeration, what an amazing show. Thanks to everyone who put this together. I was absolutely blown away.
Thank you if you know Bob McIlhenny, it was his sister’s Endowment.