Queen Latifah coming to Spokane

Queen Latifah will be in Spokane March 22, 2012 in a benefit for the YWCA of Spokane. The news was announced today at the 29th annual Women of Achievement luncheon. Latifah will appear in “A Conversation with the Queen” in the Star Theater at the Spokane Arena. Latifah, singer, actress, author and inspirational speaker, has been involved with the YWCA national organization since 2006 when she partnered with the nonprofit to launch the Curvation Project Confidence YWCA Educational Outreach Program, designed to give women tools to build self-esteem. Latifah, given name Dana Elaine Owens, received an Academy Award nomination for best actress in a supporting role for “Chicago.” Judy Cole, a YWCA Board member, explained that the idea came to her a year ago. “I saw Queen Latifah interviewed on TV and it immediately came to me — she needs to come to Spokane! I read her book, ‘Put on Your Crown’ that evening. Her values and life experience perfectly align with the work of the YWCA.” Tickets will go on sale Monday. Prices range from $50 to $200 and are available at the Spokane Arena box office, all TicketsWest outlets at TicketsWest.com or by phone at (800) 325-SEAT. Discounts are available for groups of 10 and more by calling (509) 777-6253.