They have performed for presidents, heads of state and a pope.

They have sung with such famous artists as Bono, Sinead O’Connor, Lyle Lovett, Diana Ross, Harry Belafonte and Brooks and Dunn.

At 8 p.m. Saturday, the Harlem Gospel Choir will perform for visitors to the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts in Rocky Mount, said Sheila Martin, executive director.

Martin was so determined to have the choir sing at the center she booked them two years ago. She said she knew a group that has dazzled audiences around the world would do the same here.

“We wanted a very strong Black History Month event both for our students and for the community. We felt this would be something that all of our community would enjoy,” Martin said.

The full choir actually has about 75 people, but it splits up in groups of 12 to 15 to travel, said Allen Bailey, who founded the group in 1986. Harlem churches are renowned for their choirs, and Bailey formed the group in answer to requests for performances worldwide.

“We had wanted to bring a better understanding of the African-American culture, particularly as it relates to the black church. The black church is a very important institution in the black community,” Bailey said.

The choir travels the globe sharing its faith through music, Bailey said. Even in countries where the audience members don’t appear to speak English, such songs as “Amazing Grace,” “Jesus Can Work it Out,” “Celebration” and “Higher Ground” have brought them to tears, he said.

Baily said he expects the same reaction among audience members at the Dunn Center.

“They are going to feel inspired and rejuvenated. They are just going to have a great time,” Bailey said.

Tickets to the show are $20.

For information, call 985-5197.