Voices of Fire
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Voices of Fire
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Voices of Fire is an unscripted series about amateur singers from all walks of life auditioning for a gospel choir. The overall series is a positive one, and diversity is celebrated throughout. There are some conversations and stories about the contestants' life challenges, including the death of a parent, being born with a disability, mental illness, and engaging in risky behaviors like excessive drinking. If you enjoy gospel music and culture, chances are you'll enjoy this musical treat.
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What's the Story?
VOICES OF FIRE is an unscripted series about the creation of a nontraditional gospel choir headed up by Bishop Ezekiel Williams. Bishop Williams, the pastor of the Virginia-based Faith World Ministries, wants to build the world's most diverse and inspirational choir comprised of 75 people from all walks of life. After going through a pool of more than 1000 applicants, 300 are invited back to audition at the church to sing in front of Williams, musical director Larry George, choir director Patrick Riddick, and local gospel legend Peggy Britt. Also listening during finals is the Bishop's nephew, international superstar Pharrell. Those who make the cut are excited, but they have to work hard to be ready to perform in the debut concert, or risk being asked to leave.
Is It Any Good?
Executive produced by Pharrell Williams, this series features talented people from different backgrounds and lived experiences vying for a chance to sing in a gospel choir. Bishop Williams and his choir staff openly talk about how this choir is designed to inspire people from all over the world to believe in God. But it is clear that many who audition view the opportunity as a way to rebuild faith in themselves.
There's lots of talk about God and faith, which makes sense given the subject matter of the music. he overall audition process reminds you of secular singing competitions, like American Idol and The Voice. But the most entertaining part of the series is listening to the talented singers' performances, and the judges' reactions to them. If you enjoy gospel music and culture, chances are you'll enjoy this musical treat.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about diversity. Is it just about racial and ethnic inclusion? What other things do Bishop William and the judges evaluate when considering the different contributions people can potentially make to this gospel choir?
What are the different ways that Voices of Fire addresses faith? What does faith mean to you and your family?
TV Details
- Premiere date: November 20, 2020
- Cast: Ezekiel Williams, Pharrell Williams, Peggy Britt, Larry George
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Friendship, Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Communication, Compassion, Empathy, Gratitude, Humility, Perseverance
- TV rating: TV-G
- Last updated: February 28, 2022
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