Ani DiFranco still percussive, socially conscious

(this piece was published by Planet JH Weekly)Though lifestyle has drastically changed for Grammy-winning folk singer Ani DiFranco, becoming a parent has not changed her outlook as a politically charged, socially conscious lyricist. Now forty-five, DiFranco won a Grammy for 2003's Evolve and published a book of poems and paintings, Verses, in 2007. Her lyrics tend to tackle topics like war, corporate greed, sexual assault and gun control, and she’s back that further by founding the Righteous Babe Foundation, which has supported various causes, including aid for victims of Hurricane Katrina, abortion rights, and gay equality. DiFranco received the Woman of Courage Award at the National Organization of Women Conference in 2006.Opening the show is Brooklyn trio Pearl and the Beard, which passionately intertwine three distinct voices amidst a powerfully delicate orchestra of cello, guitars, keyboard, bells, and percussion, offering songs that speak to joy and sorrow, love and loss. Ani DiFranco with Pearl and the Beard, 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Center Theatre. $47-$52. JHCenterForTheArts.org.