Spirit of Freedom
This weekend's celebrations for Juneteenth include music and poetry in the commununity and a festival in Eden Park.
Nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln emancipated enslaved Africans in America, Union troops arrived in Texas with news of freedom on June 19, 1865. More than 250,000 African Americans embraced freedom by executive decree in what became known as Juneteenth or Freedom Day.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday, providing the opportunity for all Americans to better understand the evolution of our nation and its people, celebrating African American resilience and achievement, and preserving the history of Freedom Day.
The Juneteenth Cincinnati organization has produced an annual Juneteenth Festival in the city since 1988. The festival began at Daniel Drake Park in Kennedy Heights and in the early 1990s moved to Eden Park, in partnership with the Cincinnati Parks.
Juneteenth flag-raising ceremonies will be held on Friday, June 16 at the Hamilton County Courthouse and Cincinnati City Hall, kicking off a weekend of celebration.
Along with a two-day festival in Eden Park, other celebrations will be held over the weekend, leading up to Monday’s holiday.
Cincinnati’s 36th Annual Juneteenth Festival
Saturday, June 17, 12–9 p.m.
Eden Park, 950 Eden Park Drive
juneteenthcincinnati.org
The festival’s diverse, family-friendly, and free activities include traditional storytelling and games in supervised children’s area. Other programs include health screenings, historical re-enactors, and the inaugural Juneteenth Chess Tournament from ChessTime, a new Cincinnati chess club.
With two stages, the day’s entertainment includes music, dance, and poetry performers. Food truck and vendors include Fullman’s Treats, We Do BBQ, Southern Bell, Sundae Skool Bus, and more.
The celebration continues on Sunday, with June Fest: A Father’s Day Concert from 2–6 p.m., featuring a variety of inspirational spiritual music and praise dancing in Seasongood Pavilion.
4th Annual Paloozanoire Juneteenth Block Party
Saturday, June 17, 4–11 p.m.
Freedom Way at The Banks
More information
At this annual Juneteenth Block Party presented by Fifth Third Bank, everyone is invited to celebrate with good vibes and inclusivity.
The JBP is dedicated to the people –i ncluding families, creatives, entrepreneurs and those climbing the corporate ladder.
FREE, registration is required at the link above.
SpeakFreely: Juneteenth Evening at the Museum
Saturday, June 17, 6:30–10 p.m.
Tickets: $10 members, $20 non-members
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, 50 E. Freedom Way
freedomcenter.org/voice/event/speakfreely/
For Juneteenth, the oldest celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States, the Freedom Center has an evening with music, poetry, food and drink sponsored by Western & Southern Financial Group. Playing off the idea of a “speakeasy,” SpeakFreely takes guests back to an era of underground speakeasies that brought people from all backgrounds together in a social setting.
Experience music from Destiny L and Chasing Dreams, ranging from classics to current hits in jazz, R&B and blues. Through the rich history of these musical styles, guests can experience the social connection and artistic expression born in the speakeasy era. In addition to the performances, tickets include access to the museum galleries, light bites and a cash bar.
The evening is a way to celebrate freedom, honor history and create new memories in a spirit of unity and appreciation for the contributions of African-Americans.
Juneteenth Panel Discussion & Tasting Event
Saturday, June 17, 11 a.m.
Sunday, June 18, 5 p.m.
Findlay Market, 1801 Race St.
www.findlaymarket.org/marketevents/juneteenth
Juneteenth at the Market
Participating Merchants
A “Mother's Touch” Cakes – Gourmet Mini Cupcakes
A&D Ernest – Jollof rice (mild, medium/regular and spicy)
Bouchards – Fried Green Tomatoes
Chamaele – Honey Straws
Chico's Cheesecakes v Cheesecake brownies and cheesecake bites
Dat's Ole School Cookin’ – Spicy Cat Fish Bits and Miniature Cajun Corn on Cob or Peach Cobbler Pudding
Flash in the Pan – Corn & Edamame Salad
Flavors of the Isle – Jerk Chicken
Gramma Debbies Kitchen – Collard & Kale Greens with Onions and Smoked Turkey Legs, Paired with a Piece Cornbread.
Honey Child Artisan Pops – Mini Pop
Makers Bakers Co. – Grandmas Original Pound Cake or You Don’t Know Watermelon Salad
Miley Pooh Sweets – Peach Cobbler Cake Babies or Golden Oreo Pound Cake
NayNays – Choice of Jalapeño bread, Cheese and Garlic Bread or Monkey Bread
Head's Up Trading Co. – $1.50 off an item
Creative Candle – $1.50 off an item
Flash in the Pan – Corn & Edamame Salad
Juneteenth at the Market is a two-day event to celebrate and showcase the Black-owned businesses and community partners at Findlay Market.
The weekend will kick off on Saturday, June 17, with a discussion with community leaders and business owners to discuss the history and importance of the Juneteenth. Tickets are free, but reservations are requested. Kara Willis from The Mercantile Library will moderate.
The afternoon includes performances programmed by It’s Commonly Jazz! from Erwin Stuckey and his Omega Band (1–3 p.m.) and Paul Hawthorne & Company (4–6 p.m.)
On Sunday, a ticketed event features Black-owned businesses, with 100% of the ticket proceeds going back to those businesses. Attendees can redeem tickets for small bites at merchants and vendors, with each ticket good for one sample.
Enjoy music performances by Tracy Walker & Friends, Aprina Johnson, and Nick Jackson Speaks.
A limited number of tickets will be for sale on-site at 10 a.m. Pre-purchasing tickets is recommended! Juneteenth at Findlay Market is sponsored by SEI and Pope Financial Planning.
YBG Juneteenth Block Party Vendor Registration
Saturday, June 17, 2–6 p.m.
Ziegler Park, 1322 Sycamore St.
More information
The Young Black Genius (YBG) celebrate the history and culture of the African-American community, with a day of live performances, , games, music and more. Local food trucks and vendors will also be at the park.
The Cincinnati Young Entrepreneurs Market will be onsite with information on youth resources, including job opportunities, sports activities and leadership programs.
State of Affairs
Madness! Betrayal! Love! The Cincinnati Opera brings beloved classics and world premieres to the stage this summer. Evans Mirageas, the Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director, shares more about the upcoming season and the opera's plans for the future.
Cincinnati Opera begins its 103rd season on June 22 at Music Hall. We talk to Evans Mirageas, the Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director, about what to expect onstage and beyond this summer.
Lucia Di Lammermoor
Gaetano Donizetti
June 22 and 24, 7:30 p.m.
In this Victorian-era thriller set in the Scottish Highlands, an age-old family feud thwarts a couple’s secret love affair, with deadly consequences.
Learn More.
The Knock
Aleksandra Vrebalov and Deborah Brevoort
June 23 and 27, July 5and 7, 7:30 p.m.
July 2, 3 p.m.
What must be endured by the loved ones of those who serve? This intimate opera explores the dramatic stories of heroism at home as families await news of their spouses during conflict abroad. Performed in Wilks Studio at Music Hall.
Learn More.
The Barber of Seville
Gioachino Rossini
July 6 and 8, 7:30 p.m.
Supreme silliness ensues when Figaro, Seville’s most beloved barber, plays matchmaker for a lovelorn nobleman and a clever young heiress.
Learn More.
Studio Sessions
July 12 and 19, 8 p.m.
Get ready for two unforgettable nights of sound and splendor with our stars! Cincinnati Opera artists take to the cabaret stage in these intimate, candlelit performances at Music Hall’s Wilks Studio. Each 90-minute performance includes musical selections that span a variety of genres.
Learn more.
Madame Butterfly
Giacomo Puccini
July 22, 27 and 29, 7:30 p.m.
Puccini’s heartrending opera about a young Japanese girl and her tragic love affair with an American serviceman has been reimagined from a groundbreaking new point of view by an all-Japanese and Japanese American design team.
Learn More.
Making a Stand
Holocaust & Humanity Center hosts inaugural Upstander Weekend.
June 10, 2023: Upstander 5K, 8:30 a.m.
Cincinnati’s community of upstanders take over historic Union Terminal for our Upstander 5K, Family Day & Upstander Volunteer Expo. Kick off your morning with the Upstander 5K, which takes runners and walkers on a scenic route around historic Union Terminal and throughout the West End and Over-the-Rhine. Participants will also enjoy live music, family activities, breakfast, and pick-up pickleball games outside of Union Terminal.
June 10, 2023: Museum Family Day & Upstander Volunteer Expo, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Explore upstander activities and experiences throughout the Children’s Museum, Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science, and the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. Browse our Upstander Volunteer Expo, where dozens of non-profit and mission-driven organizations will be available in the Rotunda to share volunteer opportunities and information with museum goers throughout the day. When you register for any Cincinnati Upstander Weekend event, you receive free admission to all museums.
June 11, 2023: Upstander Awards Featuring Katie Couric, 6 p.m.
The Upstander Awards recognize individuals in the region who use their character strengths to make a difference in the community. Enjoy a gala-style event in historic Union Terminal’s breath-taking rotunda with live music, art experiences, and a moving awards ceremony celebrating Cincinnati’s best and brightest upstanders. Award-winning journalist Katie Couric, founder of Katie Couric Media, will serve as this year’s celebrity master of ceremonies.
Tickets for all events are available at www.upstanderweekend.org.
“‘Upstanders’ were those who stood up to save Jewish lives during the Holocaust,” says Kara Driscoll, director of marketing and events at the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. “Today we use the term to describe someone who uses their character strengths to a make a difference in the world.”
The Holocaust & Humanity Center is partnering with Cincinnati Museum Center to host the inaugural Cohen Family Cincinnati Upstander Weekend, an inspiring two days of events featuring family activities along with an awards ceremony headlined by Katie Couric at historic Union Terminal.
“We did a trial run last with the 5K,” says Driscoll, “and we felt it was a great way to engage the community.”
This year a number of activities are planned, along with the 5K. Saturday’s programs include music, activations from FC Cincinnati, pickleball, and a volunteer expo. Driscoll expects 40 different non-profits, all sharing information about how to get more involved in the community.
Admission to the Holocaust & Humanity Center will be free on Saturday, so people can learn more about the museum, which moved to Union Terminal in 2019.
“It’s the only Holocaust museum in the country that has a direct connection to history,” Driscoll says, as Holocaust survivors traveled through the train station as they made new lives in Cincinnati and beyond.
2023 Upstander Finalists
Out of hundreds of nominees, the finalists were selected for their outstanding contributions to the community.
Mason Bailey
Whitney Blackston
Evin Blomberg
Polly Camrey
Dr. Kate Carlier Currie
David “Tex” Cho
Carlton Collins
LeTecia Cunningham
Suzy DeYoung
Michele Berry Godsey
Brittani Gray
Alethia Finley
Joshua Kayes
Chloe Keil
Tanya Keskar
Jordan Klette-Cusher
Oliver Kroner
Sheryl Long
Imran Malik
Dominque Olbert
Kristin Shrimplin
Krystal Smalley
Scott Smith
Missy Spears
Cass Steiner
Kayelin Tiggs
Joseph Waldon and Abigail Groszkiewic
Learn more about the finalists.
Nominations for the 2024 Upstander Awards open Sunday, June 11.
The weekend concludes with the The Upstander Awards, which recognize individuals in the region who have worked to make a difference in the community. This gala event will celebrate Cincinnati’s upstanders, with an evening that includes powerful stories from Holocaust survivors.
“We want to inspire Cincinnatians with stories of everyday people in their community doing incredible work,” says Driscoll.
Community leaders Kick Lee, Amy Spiller, and Jaipal Singh will receive the 2023 Upstander Leader Awards. These individuals have used their leadership and character strengths to lift up Cincinnati through their work.
“At Cincinnati Museum Center, we know how important the role education has in creating more empathetic, compassionate, and confident people, poised to lead and stand up for their community. We’re proud to partner with the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center on Cincinnati Upstander Weekend as we inspire all Cincinnatians to learn about how they can stand up and make a difference in the world today,” said Elizabeth Pierce, president and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “Whether you run the Upstander 5K or explore upstanders throughout our world-class museums across Union Terminal, we hope you’ll join us in creating a community of upstanders.”
Let's Get Loud
Enjoy your Art Amplified with ArtWorks on Sunday to experience an exciting lineup of multi-disciplinary arts, music, food, and beverage at venues throughout Over-the-Rhine.
“ArtWorks is constantly exploring thoughtful and innovative ways to serve our community, share our mission, and provide programming that is accessible in our ever-growing region,” says Dominique Khoury Sutton, ArtWorks director of development.
ArtBrunch at Somerset, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m., $50
139 E McMicken Ave.
ArtParty at Alice, 1–3 p.m., FREE
1432 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
ArtDinner at Somerhaus, 5–8 p.m, $200
1415 Republic St.
ArtAmplified is a 21+ event.
Details and tickets at www.artworkscincinnati.org/event/artamplified
Working on that principle, Art Amplied was created. This new urban festival in Over-the-Rhine includes three parts, allowing guests to curate their own adventure with creative – and delicious – experiences.
“Each experience vibrantly celebrates ArtWorks’ mission by highlighting our programs in unique ways,” says Sutton.
For the ArtBrunch at Somerset, guests will enjoy complimentary mimosas and pastries, along with yoga, a DJ, and an artist talk with Anissa Pulcheon and Asha White. At the FREE ArtParty at Alice, guests will see enjoy music, a new beer from Rhinegeist, and an immersive mural dance party, Lucid — a living art installation by Brave Berlin.
The day wraps up with a seasonal, three-course dinner by Chef David Jackman at Somerhaus. Along with the meal, the program also includes a Q & A with guest artists Dan Reynolds and Steve McGowan, co-Founders of Brave Berlin and Kim Popa executive director/ co-founder of Pones, with Colleen Houston, ArtWorks CEO and artistic director.
“We are incredibly grateful for the many partnerships, artists, artisans, and organizations that allow ArtWorks to carry out their mission,” says Sutton. “On, Sunday, we celebrate these relationships and their meaning to ArtWorks.
Tickets for the ArtBrunch will be available at the door, however, if you order before Friday, and you will automatically be entered for the chance to help paint on an ArtWorks’ mural this summer! Winner (and three guests of their choice) will receive lunch, behind-the-scenes access to our mural process, and the opportunity to contribute to an ArtWorks public work of art.
“You definitely need to stop by Alice at the ArtParty to help paint the community mural designed specifically for the space,” say Sutton. “End your evening at Somerset for a nightcap, and witness a large-scale, mural-inspired projection in the gorgeous botanical garden – Our murals will come to life at dark and you won’t want to miss it!”
Got Weird?
Feeling a little weird? Cincy Fringe celebrates 20 years.
As a city filled with incredible – and historic – arts organizations, Cincinnati is home to a wealth of artists, actors, and musicians.
Cincy Fringe Festival
June 2–17, venues throughout Over-the-Rhine
Fringe Headquarters – Know Theatre
1120 Jackson St.
Tickets are available at the box office, by phone (513-300-5669), or at cincyfringe.com or by
Find out more about shows at cincyfringe.com/2023-Fringe.
But those performers often use their talent beyond the more familiar stages, creating new works and bold interpretations.
Cincy Fringe, celebrating its 20th anniversary, brings together artists from around the country for experimental or unusual productions.
Like all Fringe Festivals, Cincy Fringe gives artists, especially independent artists, an opportunity to present their work. The freedom artists have to create whatever they want makes Fringes a popular destination for more experimental or unusual productions. But if you think fringe is only outlandish and alternative productions, fringe festivals have launched Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, Stomp, SIX: The Musical, Fleabag, and even a proto-Monty Python.
This 14-day celebration of theatre, art, music, film, dance, and everything between offers 31 productions, with venues the Know Theatre MainStage, the Art Academy of Cincinnati, Gabriel’s Corner, and at a Main Street storefront. The lineup includes new work from 15 local creators, 14 productions from across the country, and two international artists from Japan and Australia.
After an evening of inspiring, unusual, and provocative entertainment, unwind at Fringe After Hours in Know Theatre’s Underground Bar and Lounge.
What to Watch
Get a sense of what Cincy Fringe is all about from these performance, then dig in to find more!
Anchorette
Jane Carver, Cincinnati
An abandoned baby, a ship’s crew, and an ancient superstition…
A baby is left by strangers on a dock. The crew, afraid to bring her on board because of an ancient superstition, decide to hitch a tiny boat to their ship and steer her through the wild seas. Anchorette is a poetic recitation with musical interludes for voice and concertina.
Venue: 1316 Main St.
Bloodline
Paris Crayton III, Los Angeles
The multi-generational love story of three men with the same name.
Bloodline is a one-man, semi-autobiographical love story told from the perspectives of three generations of men with the same name. Paris Sr., a sharecropper in Mississippi, meets the beautiful Ruth one night at a juke joint and goes on a relentless pursuit to make her fall in love with him. Paris Jr., an animal technician, welcomes his new son into the world and navigates love and life as he struggles with his new fatherly duties and second thoughts about his marriage. Paris III, a starving artist, searches for love in multiple relationships and cities.
Venue: Know Theatre
Gentrification: The Musical!
Doin’ Too Much Productions, Cincinnati
Definitely not a musical about OTR or 3CDC.
Opportunities abound in the city of [redacted], where the United Community Development Consortium is hosting their first-ever Big Pitch Event! The lucky winner decides what occupies one of the Consortium’s recently vacated lots. This musical satire is definitely not about OTR or 3CDC.
Venue: Art Academy 404
Made in America
Teruko Nakajima, Los Angeles
Teruko and Titi’s Triumph over Tragedy!
Made in America is a brutally honest, surprisingly entertaining, and heartbreakingly life-affirming love letter to the human experience. It’s a story for women, Asians, first-generation immigrants, and anyone who is fighting to make their dreams come true. Her dog Titi performs, too.
Venue: 1316 Main St
Trolls! Trolls! Trolls!
Autumn Kaleidoscope, Cincinnati
There’s a TROLL in my suitcase!
The last thing that you would expect to find in your suitcase is a troll. Using puppets and folk tales from around the world, Silas G. Thistlewig shows a downhearted young troll that there is more to life than living under bridges…or in suitcases. All-ages.
Venue: 1316 Main St
Who’s Afraid of Winnie the Pooh?
Clevername Theatre, St. Paul, MN
It’s Edward Albee, but Winnie the Pooh.
Winnie and Piglet invite the new couple over for drinks. A night of bitter, sadomasochistic mind games ensues. Witness the dramatic triumph of the year, nestled in the unassuming heart of The Hundred Acre Wood.
Venue: Art Academy 404
Hitting a Wall
Warmer weather brings the return of ArtWorks' public mural tours! Explore the larger-than-life works of art in downtown, Over-the-Rhine, and Pendleton.
Artworks Summer Mural Tours
Public tours of murals in downtown, OTR, and Pendleton are available on the weekends.
See the summer mural tour schedule.
Private tours are also available!
For more information, visit www.artworkscincinnati.org.
We’ll say it. If you’re looking for a city with beautiful, awe-inspiring murals, Cincinnati is it!
And we have to agree with ArtWorks who who belies “Our city is an art gallery”! You can see it in all of the murals that adorn buildings, alleyways, and wall throughout the Queen City.
And if it’s been a minute since you took a stroll through the city center admiring the murals, you’re in luck! The Summer mural tour schedule is now live!
The Best of the Best: The Downtown mural tour is ArtWorks’ most popular tour. You’ll explore 13 of ArtWorks’ fan-favorite murals, including a few “Best of Cincinnati” winners!
Not the walk everywhere type? That’s cool. Pedal Wagon tours, where you can kick back (sorta) and breeze by murals with friends, are also available.
Curious about the more than 230 murals Artworks has created around the region? See a full list and a map!
Want a peek at the mural projects scheduled for this summer? Check out the list below!
Divisions Maintenance Group Mural (Interior)
505 Vine St., Fourth Floor, Divisions Maintenance Group Headquarters
Number of Apprentices Employed: 8
In partnership with Divisions Maintenance Group (DMG), ArtWorks is creating one interior mural within DMG’s new offices located at The Foundry building. The mural, designed by local artist Joe Walsh, features an illustrative watercolor landscape of Kentucky overlooking the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline. A truck loaded with whiskey barrels faces the path leading to Cincinnati, representing Divisions Maintenance Group's move from Newport and into the Foundry building located in Downtown Cincinnati. The red-winged black bird flying over the river echoes this symbolism being a bird found in both states and inspiring the thought that wherever you migrate to, you'll always know where home is. ArtWorks is excited to host community paint days with the artistic team and DMG staff to drum up excitement and inspire the staff as they transition into their new home in downtown Cincinnati.
SHP Mural
315 E. Seventh St., Sycamore Place
Number of Apprentices Employed: 12
ArtWorks and SHP, a firm of architects, designers and engineers who maximize the utility, beauty and wonder of space, are partnering to create a mural that celebrates SHP's long-standing commitment to improving the lives of community members through education, employment, and community engagement.
The mural draws inspiration from architecture and nature and features a colorful, bold, abstract, and lively composition. This mural serves as a lasting tribute to SHP's unwavering dedication to creating positive change in the community, inspiring hope and progress for generations to come.
Cincinnati Pride Mural
222 W. 12th St., Queen City Radio
Number of Apprentices Employed: 12
ArtWorks is partnering with Pride Cincinnati to create a mural that celebrates the 50th anniversary of Pride in Cincinnati. The Mural was designed by local artist Mathew Dayler and illustrates the theme of unity and inclusivity. Drawing inspiration from Cincinnati Pride’s history of protest for equity, the mural features a colorful and dynamic composition that celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout the mural, viewers can see depictions of protesting and celebrations that encourage the community to embrace love, acceptance, and equality. The mural serves as a powerful symbol of Pride in Cincinnati, inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of unity and belonging for all.
County Garage Mural
815 Logan St.
Number of Apprentices Employed: 10
Hamilton County is partnering with ArtWorks to produce a mural that speaks to the history, progress, and enduring qualities of Cincinnati's historic Findlay Market area and market house. The mural design will be the result of a months-long international Call to Artists that yielded interest from 136 artists located across the globe, as well as community engagement conducted at Findlay Market. The designer, Greta McLain from Minneapolis, MN, was selected as the Call to Artists finalist and will create a unique and site-specific design that celebrates the people and dynamic energy that have helped to make Findlay Market Ohio's oldest continuously operated public market. With the guidance of McLain and Teaching Artists, the apprentices on this project will support creating a new landmark for the Findlay Market area that aims to represent the neighborhood and its residents while also welcoming visitors and tourists.
Rookwood Commons Mural
3505 Edwards Road, Rookwood Commons Pavilion
Number of Apprentices Employed: 18
Hines, one of the largest privately held real estate investors and managers in the world, is partnering with ArtWorks to produce four murals that embrace the community spirit of the Rookwood Commons and Pavilion. The murals designed by Kruti Mehta, a local designer, celebrate the diversity of Norwood and the energy surrounding the Wasson Way bike path. The four exterior murals each feature a fresh and energetic design that incorporates a bright, eye-catching color palette. This partnership and project will transform a previously overlooked area along the Common's back drive nearest Madison Road into a contemporary and inviting space.
From an "oops" to an "oh, my!"
About a week ago, Arnold’s Bar & Grill shared a post on social media about their beloved Czarface mural created world famous street artist L’amour Supreme.
From Lemons to Lemonade
It was accidentally removed by DCI’s Graffiti Removal team.
But those lemons quickly turned to lemonade as 3CDC stepped in with a fix. And a great one, at that!
“3CDC stepped in and immediately agreed to commission him to put up a brand new bigger and better one in two weeks!” a spokesperson from Arnolds said. “Then L’amour decided he wanted to stay a full week to do several murals around town!”
“Maker's Mark stepped in to sponsor a bunch of events for him at Shake It Records and Earth To Kentucky! Then 16 Lots Brewing Company decided to brew a collaboration beer with him. It's gonna be an awesome week,” Arnold’s spokesperson continued.
But the good news doesn’t stop there.
Arnold’s is inviting the entire city to watch L’amour create these murals.
“L’amour Supreme’s Love Letter to Cincinnati” Schedule
Tuesday, May 30 – Live mural painting at The Path to the Taft between Third Street and Pete Rose Way.
Wednesday, May 31 – Afternoon: Continued live mural painting
6 p.m.: Record signing at Shake It Records
Thursday, June 1 – Afternoon: Mural Painting at undisclosed location
6 p.m.: Toy release and Meet and Greet at Earth 2 Kentucky
Friday, June 2 – Live mural Painting at Arnold's Bar and Grill
Saturday, June 3 – Lamour’s Farewell Party at Arnold’s with mural unveiling, print release, and first official beer tapping.
Last year L’amour was commissioned to create 50-foot mural in Over-the-Rhine for BLINK. He fell in love with the city and was trying to find a way to get back.
The new mural at Arnold’s offered that chance, which developed into the partership with with Maker’s Mark and some iconic businesses, including Arnold’s, to create a letter to the city.
L’amour plans a week-long show full of outdoor art, appearances, and entertainment, in partnership with Maker’s Mark, 3CDC, Arnold’s Bar and Grill, Shake It Records, 16 Lots Brewery, Earth to Kentucky Toy Store, and Otto’s printing.
This is The Way
Along The Way with Emilios Estevez, Martin Sheen, and Rick Steves for a a re-release of the film.
“The Way,” Emilio Estevez’s most personal, explores his walk along the Camino de Santiago with his father, Martin Sheen.
Originally released in 2011, “The Way,” is back in theaters one-day-only on May 16, with bonus content from travel icon Rick Steves. Tickets are available through Fathom Events.
Just as the Camino pilgrimage has been followed for a millennium to reveal some deeper revelation in one’s life — “The Way” also carries a similar impact for all who have seen it. Now, a new generation who is embracing this film.
“The Way” is Estevez’s seventh film as writer/director and marks the fourth collaboration with his actor/father. A Cincinnati resident, Estevez has established himself not only as an accomplished actor, but also as a talented writer, director, and producer.
Since its theatrical release in 2011, Emilio Estevez’s film “The Way” has been “running a quiet marathon” garnering millions of fans across all generations; widely admired by those who see the film as a rare work of art, uniquely balancing faith and doubt; sorrow and joy.
As Spring arrives, those yearning to travel after years of chaos are expressing their desire to begin their own personal “Caminos.” The opportunity to sit in a theater and virtually travel to Spain,"with friends, loved ones (and strangers) is what “The Way” is about, perhaps above all else.
Band Together
Vote now for CincyJams, ArtsWave's corporate battle of the bands.
Cincinnati has an incredible history of great singers and musicians. That tradition is carried on today through indie bands, local choirs, and maybe even your co-workers.
Through CincyJams, musicians at companies and organizations around the region can show-off their hidden talents, at the same time raising money for ArtsWave and the thousands of performances, arts education programs, exhibitions, festivals and more the organization funds.
A workplace battle of the bands, the winners of CincyJams are chosen by the audience. The bands play at Hard Rock Cafe on May 18 at 7 p.m. The free-admission event (for 21 and over) is designed to engage the community through bringing various companies together for an evening, while raising essential funds for the arts.
But you don’t need to wait until the show to cast your vote! The “Fan Funded” award will go to the band that raises the most money through this voting process.
Bands vying for this prize are
Sugar Daddy from Jake Sweeney Automotive
THE Polka Warriors from Great American Insurance
The Other Band from Procter & Gamble
The altafibers from altafiber
The Bad Boyz from The Chambers Group
Highway to Health from TriHealth, Inc.
Cincy Chops from Great American Insurance
Eleven Arrows from GE Aerospace
The MRC Band from Music Resource Center of the YMCA
Title 14 from GE Aerospace
The Pacemakers from The Christ Hospital Health
Voting is hosted by media sponsor Cincinnati Enquirer and Cincinnati.com, and all votes can be cast at artswave.org/vote.
All proceeds from the “Fan Funded” competition will go to the annual ArtsWave Campaign. Band members winning this prize will receive pairs of tickets to the 2023 Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G, headlined in 2023 by Snoop Dogg and Al Green, compliments of the “Fan Funded Prize Sponsor,” Cincinnati Music Festival presented by P&G.
Unsung Hero
The Contemporary Arts Center explores community unknown heroes in two new exhibitions.
If You Go
CAC Opening Reception
Robert O’Neal: Open to All
Luis Camnitzer: Monuments to Unknown Heroes
April 28, 8 p.m.
Contemporary Arts Center, 44 E. Sixth St.
Cash bar, music, photo booth, and the opportunity to contribute to a graffiti art mural facilitated by ArtWorks as part of their New Monuments initiative.
More information.
Robert O’Neal, a fixture of the region’s local arts community for more than 50 years, influenced countless artists during his lifetime. The first museum retrospective of this Cincinnati-based painter and activist, opening Friday at the Contemporary Arts Center, explores Cincinnati’s Black communities.
Throughout his career, O’Neal created works that represent the joys, struggles, and rich histories of Cincinnati’s Black neighborhoods. His practice merged art and activism, advocating for civil rights through socially engaged art and grassroots organizing that supported Black artists, fought for disability rights, and advocated for the unhoused.
He has left a long-lasting impression on the community, earning him the unofficial title of “Over-the-Rhine Mayor.” As the first major survey on the artist, Robert O’Neal: Open to All highlights his vast body of work. Featuring paintings, drawings, prints, and photographs that he produced between the 1960s-2010s, along with a collection of archival materials, this long overdue retrospective examines O’Neal’s critical contributions to the city of Cincinnati.
Featuring more than 30 paintings, alongside drawings, prints, and photo collages, this exhibition is the first museum retrospective to explore the work of Cincinnati-based painter and activist Robert O’Neal, sometimes known as the unofficial “Mayor of Over-the-Rhine.” It highlights O’Neal’s longstanding interest in portraiture and documenting Black community life in Cincinnati’s West End.
Also opening Friday is Luis Camnitzer: Monuments to Unknown Heroes. Camnitzer, a conceptual artist and pedagogue, presents a series of posters by more than 100 artists depicting proposals for monuments to under-recognized heroes.
Originally organized in the days following the pandemic, this visual archive captures various perspectives on the ways in which we memorialize, while raising questions about the socio-political and economic underpinnings that typically accompany the production of public monuments. Participating artists include Erika NJ Allen, Michael Coppage, Jesse Ly, and Sara Torgison, among others.
The opening reception invites guest to take part in ArtWorks’ New Monuments initiative, which aims to reimagine and rebuild commemorative spaces that celebrate and affirm the historical contributions of the many diverse communities that make up Cincinnati and the United States.
Take A Bow
The Taft Museum of Art names cellisst Anita Graef as the 36th Duncanson Artist-in-Residence, with performances that mix works from the classical canon with underrepresented voices.
Since 1986, the Taft Museum of Art and and the Robert S. Duncanson Society have annually honored the achievements of contemporary Black artists working in a variety of disciplines.
In partnership with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s distinguished Diversity Fellowship program, the Taft Museum of Art welcomes cellist Anita Graef, as the 36th Duncanson Artist-in-Residence.
Finale Concert: Duncanson Artist-in-Residence
Saturday, April 29, 7–9 p.m.
The Carnegie Arts Center
1028 Scott Street, Covington, KY 41011
Celebrate the conclusion of the 2023 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence with cellist Anita Graef. Graef will grace audiences with a solo performance as well as share the stage with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra’s Nouveau Chamber players and special guests for a night of harmony.
FREE. Registration is recommended.
Graef’s notable appearances include Strings magazine’s “Sessions” video performance series, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall, the Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert series, and “Concerts from the Library of Congress.” She has performed as a guest on radio stations WQXR, WFMT, WGTE, WUOL, WOSU, and WVPB, among others, and on NPR. Graef has performed with orchestras across the United States. As 36th Duncanson Artist-in-Residence, she hold workshops, classes, and performances from April 16 to 30.
The Duncanson program honors the relationship between Black American painter Robert S. Duncanson and his patron, Nicholas Longworth, who commissioned Duncanson to paint landscape murals in the foyer of his home, now the Taft Museum of Art.
Special Arrangement
Cincinnati Opera's tribute to the artists of the Warsaw Ghetto, Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941, makes its premiere on CET this Sunday, April 16.
Featured artists from Cincinnati Opera’s Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 include: (L to R) Matthew Umphreys, Victoria Okafor, Christina Haan, Sarah Folsom, Polina Bespalko, Thomas Dreeze, and Simon Barrad.
Photo by Philip Groshong
Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941
Sunday, April 16, 2 p.m.
CET 48.1
Also available as a live stream via the PBS app
The Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 broadcast premiere coincides with the community-wide Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) commemoration, which takes place April 16, 2–3 p.m., at the Mayerson Jewish Community Center (8485 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45236) and via Zoom live stream.
More information can be found at holocaustandhumanity.org.
Monday, April 17, 8 p.m.
Tuesday, April 18, 8 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5 p.m.
Wednesday, April 19, 10 a.m., 3 p.m., and 10 p.m.
CET Arts 48.3
Additional airings will take place on CET Arts 48.3 in May and June 2023. Visit cetconnect.org for full schedule.
“Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 originated in the imagination of Cincinnati’s Rabbi Abie Ingber, says Evans Mirageas, the Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director at Cincinnati Opera. “In 1994, Abie created a program with students from Hebrew Union College and UC’s College-Conservatory of Music. It combined Warsaw Ghetto diary excerpts, poetry, and music.”
Developed by Cincinnati Opera in celebration of the creativity that flourished within the Warsaw Ghetto, Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 features songs and poetry from the era.
Partnering with CET, Cincinnati’s PBS member station, the an hour-long televised program will premiere on CET 48 on Sunday, April 16, in recognition of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day).
The Sunday event will also be live-streamed on the PBS app, and have additional airings on CET Arts through June 2023.
In 1941 in Warsaw, Poland, more than 400,000 Jews were held captive in a cordoned-off area known as the Warsaw Ghetto. Nevertheless, nightlife continued to thrive, with cafés and restaurants offering entertainment and a temporary respite for residents. Perhaps the most famous was the Café Sztuka, where renowned poets, singers, and musicians appeared regularly, performing classical music and new songs by George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, and Kurt Weill, among others. Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 is a recreation of this cabaret experience, serving as both a remembrance and a celebration of the creativity that flourished amid extraordinary oppression.
“A few years ago, pianist Polina Bespalko shared some of the original materials with me. She is a good friend of Abie’s, and they have served on the faculty at Xavier University together,” says Mirageas. “This led to meetings with Abie, and the idea of mounting a professional version of the 1994 project was born. COVID-19 stalled our progress. But, last April, as part of the community-wide celebration of the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial, our project came to life, culminating in two sold-out performances at Music Hall.”
Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 was captured live during a public performance at Cincinnati Music Hall’s Wilks Studio in April 2022, with performances by vocalist Sarah Folsom, soprano Victoria Okafor, baritones Simon Barrad and Thomas Dreeze, pianists Polina Bespalko and Matthew Umphreys, and accordionist Christina Haan.
Cabaret of Hope: Warsaw 1941 was originally presented in partnership with the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, and the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center to commemorate the Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial.
Brewing Some Fun
Summerfair says "Cheers" to this year's event! Along with the unveiling of its 2023 collectible poster tonight, Summerfair offers the debut of a new beer created by High Grain Brewery. Get the details before you go!
If You Go
Summerfair Poster Reveal
Thursday, April 13, 6-8 p.m.
HighGrain Brewery & Kitchen
6860 Plainfield Road
More info at summerfair.org.
For the first time in Cincinnati, you'll be able to buy event tickets via a QR on a can of beer.
Summerfair has teamed with HighGrain Brewery to create a new citrus wheat beer, with each can featuring a QR code to buy tickets to the event this June.
The beer, with the QR code, makes its debut on Thursday, April 13. Along with the new beer, the collectible 2023 Summerfair poster will be revealed in celebration of Summerfair’s 56th anniversary.
This year’s poster was designed by local illustrator Danny Caro, who has more than a decade of experience in motion graphics, graphic design, animation and video editing.
“Within the poster, a captivating butterfly takes center stage composed of a multitude of smaller butterflies, as well as various art tools arranged to symbolize the creative diversity that will be showcased by the talented artists at Summerfair this year,” says Caro.
Caro will be signing copies of the poster during the event.
He is looking forward to seeing his artwork around the region, with the image used on billboards, Summerfair merchandise, and the beer label. The beer will be available on tap at HighGrain and in cans at HighGrain and select Kroger stores.
Summerfair 2023 will be held at Coney Island Friday, June 2 through Sunday, June 4. Tickets to Summerfair are $10 (cash only at the gate), with children 12 and under admitted free. Advance one-day or multi-day tickets are $15 and available online at summerfair.org.
The annual fine arts fair is Summerfair Cincinnati’s the primary fundraiser for this non-profit 501(c)3 organization and consistently ranks among the top 100 art shows in the nation. Proceeds from Summerfair Cincinnati provide award, scholarship and exhibit opportunities to a variety of emerging (high school and college), individual (working professional) artists and local/regional small and mid-sized arts organizations throughout the year.
The Bloom of Youth
Children's Theatre of Cincinnati returns home to Emery Theater.
The Children's Theatre of Cincinnati is going back in time and moving into the future with their plans to rescue, renovate, and reimagine the iconic Emery Theater.
“This project is of vital importance to our community for so many reasons,” says Kim Kern, Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s managing director and CEO. “First, providing a permanent home for the nation's oldest professional theatre for young audiences, but also restoring an iconic venue while honoring Mary Emery’s wishes of keeping it a place of gathering and education. TCT’s future home will continue to revitalize our city’s core – keeping Cincinnati a place where people wish to live, work, and play.”
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) is planning to purchase the Emery Theater and, using 21st century technology, transform it into a unique venue that will make a lasting impact on more than 100,000 children and families who attend their MainStage productions each year.
What TCT envisions is not simply a restoration, but a reinvention of the theater into a modern and memorable venue equipped with the latest technology that inspires and teaches diverse audiences. TCT’s plans to incorporate the most modern technology, stage lifts and projection mapping will enliven the audience experience and overcome backstage and wing limitations. Through this remarkable technology and planned expanded programming, TCT will revitalize an icon, return to its original home, and put Cincinnati on the map as a family theatrical destination.
TCT 2023–24 Season
The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition
Oct. 14–23
The stakes are higher than ever in this dynamic stage musical, as SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world.
NARNIA The Musical
Dec. 9 - 18,
Narnia The Musical tells of four English schoolchildren – brothers and sisters – sent away from London during World War II to stay in the manor house of their uncle – who stumble upon (and through) a wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia, held in the power of the White Witch, whose evil spell has frozen the land, so that it is “always winter – and never Christmas.”
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella: Youth Edition
Feb. 17–26, 2024
The timeless enchantment of a magical fairy tale is reborn with the Rodgers & Hammerstein hallmarks of originality, charm, and elegance. As adapted for the stage, with great warmth and more than a touch of hilarity, this enthralling fairy tale still warms the hearts of children and adults alike.
Disney’s Finding Nemo JR.
April 20–29, 2024
Explore the big blue world with this lively new stage musical based on the beloved Pixar film! This 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 movie features new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.
Tickets and information at thechildrenstheatre.com/future-shows.
This move will allow TCT to expand its annual production schedule beyond the 40 days currently allowed within their home in the Taft Theatre, enabling the theater to expand their programming and produce more original works.
“Restoring the Emery for theatrical use has long been a challenge,” says GBBN associate principal, Steve Karoly. “Because the size and configuration of the stage was originally designed for an orchestra, it did not have the depth or wing space of a traditional theatrical stage. We had to develop some innovative solutions—such as using a large video screen at the back of the stage to create depth and using a large lift to access the basement for quick scene changes—to overcome that challenge.”
It will also preserve a rare, theater-style, symphonic concert hall – one of only four in the United States – that has hosted the likes of George Gershwin, Bette Davis, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Working within the constraints of a historic theater like this has been really rewarding,” says GBBN Director of Arts, Marcene Kinney. “This will not only be a space that weaves together different historical moments, but it will also be a space that welcomes children. So, the design is really embracing whimsy and illusion as we create a fully immersive environment that brings the magic of the theater beyond the bounds of the stage.”
Celebrating 103 years this season, TCT is the only professional theater in the region that devotes its entire MainStage season to children. Its mission is to educate, entertain and engage audiences of all ages through professional theatrical productions and arts education programming. Its vision is to awaken a lifelong love of theater in children and the young at heart.
Learn more at https://thechildrenstheatre.com/the-emery/
Silence Is Golden
Laurel and Hardy are on the bill, as the Friends of Music Hall present a five of their beloved comedies for Silent Movies Made Musical with the Mighty Wurlitzer.
Silent Movies Made Musical
Thursday, April 13, 7 p.m.
Tickets are $32, with discounts for groups of 10 or more.
All seats are reserved and can be purchased online here.
Call 513.621.ARTS or online at CincinnatiArts.org.
Transport yourself back in time on Thursday, April 13 as The Friends of Music Hall present silent films accompanied by the Mighty Wurlitzer organ live, in person in the Music Hall Ballroom.
Renowned organist and arranger Clark Wilson will accompany a collection of short silent films by Laurel and Hardy for Silent Movies Made Musical.
Joe Horine, a film historian will host the program and lead a Q & A after the screenings.
“When these movies premiered in the 20th century, they had live accompaniment on the piano, depending on the type of theater. So, with this (The Wurlitzer or similar organ) playing while silent movies played, it’s the experience times 10 that people were able to enjoy in the silent film era,” says Horine.
Horine adds, this is the way films were meant to be watched…
“In an auditorium like this as opposed to…most people are watching movies on their phones, TVs, laptops, and really seeing it on a big screen with big sound is the way movies were meant to be seen,” Horine says.
Laurel & Hardy classics on the bill:
Putting Pants on Phillip (1927)
Leave ‘Em Laughing (1928)
Habeas Corpus (1928)
The Finishing Touch (1928)
That’s My Wife (1929)
Starting their career as a duo in the silent film era, Laurel and Hardy were a British-American comedy duo who successfully transitioned to “talkies.”
From the late 1920s to the mid-1950s, they were internationally famous for their slapstick comedy, with Englishman Stan Laurel playing the clumsy, childlike friend to Oliver Hardy's pompous bully.
The season sponsor for the Mighty Wurlitzer concerts is Bahl & Gaynor Investment Counsel.
American Girl
The Women in Baseball exhibit at the Reds Hall of Fame offers a walk through baseball – and American – history and takes a look at the pivotal role women have played in the sport.
If You Go
Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
100 Joe Nuxhall Way
Non-Game Days
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Game Days
6:40 Games: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Afternoon games: 10 a.m. until 2 hours after the game ends
If you truly believe “There’s no crying in baseball!” the Women in Baseball exhibit at the Reds Hall of Fame might make you question that stance.
The exhibit traces the history of women in the sport, from 19th-century sheet music for The Baseball Waltz, written by Hattie A. Brooks, to contemporary magazine covers of women playing today. Along the way it explores the many contributions women and girls have made – and continue to make – to America’s pastime as players, fans, broadcasters, writers, coaches, managers, owners and executives.
The groundbreaking individuals and their achievements serve as inspiration to all those striving to make a dream come true. You’ll see a uniform and memorabilia from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League as well as a poster for the movie they inspired, A League of Their Own.
Photos by Shae Combs
Did you know Rosie, as in Rosie Reds, is an acronym?
You could look it up.
Or we could just tell you: Rooters Organized to Stimulate Interest and Enthusiasm.
Since 1964, the Rosie Reds, a philanthropic and social organization, have had enthusiasm and dedication not only to the Cincinnati Reds but to local baseball and softball communities. Each year the Rosie Reds raise more $30,000 to support those communities, from events, trips, raffles and donations. It was a natural fit to team up for Women in Baseball, especially during Women’s History Month.
“With Women in Baseball, this was an area we just hadn’t ventured into that seemed relevant to the current times,” said Rick Walls, executive director of the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. “What’s nice about this exhibit is we’re learning things that we didn’t know about baseball. It’s about the game and how it has evolved into what we call America’s pastime. But I think what’s called into question sometimes, is why is it called America’s pastime. Women in Baseball provides some of those answers.”
As with all its exhibits, the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum was not alone in its efforts to bring Women in Baseball to the public.
“We are fortunate to have a great relationship with the Hall of Fame,” Rosie Reds president Sara Matthews said. “They helped create a display to honor our 50th Anniversary. We also became a Legacy Champions donor when they underwent their renovation, and we have a permanent display case in the Reds Timeline gallery. Thus, broadening the reach to include Women in Baseball was an easy choice. It’s the perfect exhibit for our Hall of Fame to showcase and one we are thrilled to be a part of.”
By Design
Another unique element of the exhibit was the influence of women in the design process. Members of the Reds Creative Services team work hard on the rotating exhibits every winter, and this year, senior design manager Sara Green and graphic designer Caitlin Schulte were tasked with bringing vision for Women in Baseball to life.
They began the process with extensive research, followed by highlighting key ideas and deciding which to showcase in the exhibit’s prominent design elements. Green and Schulte created a mood board to visually capture all the elements so they could begin incorporating their research and ideas into the overall look of the exhibit.
One of the biggest decisions was developing a logo that encapsulated everything Women in Baseball was about. Schulte experimented with a number of options and had several meetings with Hall of Fame staff before settling on the final product, which features a balanced combination of past and present.
“To represent the past, I replicated the way baseball teams have historically treated their logos with a cursive, handwritten look and a swash underneath the letterforms,” she said. “This treatment gives it a handmade, detailed quality that lends itself to the way women used to hand-make their own baseball uniforms. And to represent the present, the letters are clean, streamlined and smooth, contrasting with sharp edges which gives it a modern feel. The solid red drop shadow also gives it a contemporary look, while representing how women in baseball had to be bold because they were doing something that was not considered to be ‘normal’ or ‘culturally in line’ with their role as women at the time.”
Schulte and Green also learned more than they ever imagined about the subject matter. Absorbing all the content during the early stages of planning helped shape the final product that fans will see when touring the exhibit.
“When I first heard about the Women In Baseball exhibit, I thought, like I’m sure many others do, about the movie A League of Their Own, but it’s so much more than that,” Green said. “To be a woman working in baseball and be a part of telling this story from start to finish through creativity and design is an honor. The future is still unwritten for women in baseball and I look forward to helping continue that narrative.”
Another unique element of this year’s exhibit was the female influence from a design perspective. Members of the in-house Reds Creative Services team work hard on the rotating exhibits every winter, and this year, senior design manager Sara Green and graphic designer Caitlin Schulte were tasked with bringing the Hall of Fame’s visions for Women in Baseball to life.
The exhibit will remain open throughout 2023. With school groups, camps, families, and baseball fans visiting the Hall of Fame, thousands of girls and women of all ages will have the opportunity to see themselves represented in the game of baseball like never before.
“When you walk in the room, you see all the images on the wall, large pictures of females playing baseball going back to the 1860s when the Red Stockings were becoming America’s first professional baseball team,” Walls said. “I think girls are going to come in here and say, ‘Whoa, what’s that?’ And that’s what it’s all about, seeing and understanding that they can be whatever they want to be and not what they’ve been told they should be. The door is wide open now and people are understanding that baseball is better when more people all involved.”
A wall in the exhibit offers a quote from Babe Ruth:
“I don't know what’s going to happen if they begin to let women in baseball.”
He might have said the because one of the only women to pitch in Major League Baseball, Jackie Mitchell, struck him out, on April 2, 1931. The 17-year-old then struck out Lou Gehrig for good measure.
Women, in one way or another, have always been a part of baseball. Now we’re celebrating it.
– Tricia Suit
A Class Act
See works by students with Taft's Artist Reaching Classrooms exhibitio
If You Go
Expression
Opens Thursday, March 23
5–7 p.m.
The Annex Gallery
1310 Pendleton Street
Open through April 28,
Wednesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.,
Extended Final Fridays, 12–9 p.m.
on March 31 and April 28.
For more information about visit taftmuseum.org/Teachers-Schools.
For more than 30 years, the Taft Museum of Art has celebrated students and their artwork with the annual program and exhibition, Artists Reaching Classrooms (ARC).
The Taft’s ARC program immerses high school art students in Cincinnati’s visual arts community and exposes them to careers in the arts. Through this award-winning program, the Taft provides educational outreach and supports career opportunities in the creative sector for high school students across Greater Cincinnati.
“I enjoy working with these high schoolers, teaching them about what a career is really like on a day-to-day basis,”” says teaching artist Kay Hurley. Seeing the hard work these kids put in to create the beautiful pieces that are eventually displayed is a wonderful experience. I love seeing the excitement that their displayed art brings.”
This year’s student participants show their artwork in an exhibition called Expression at The Annex Gallery Expression, where the community can share in celebrating their achievements. Awards will be announced at the opening event.
This year’s participating schools are Anderson High School, Hughes Stem High School, Lakota East High School, Princeton High School, School for the Creative and Performing Arts, The Summit Country Day School, Spencer Center for Gifted and Exceptional Students, Western Hills University High School, and Woodward Career and Technical High School.
The teaching artists his year are are Anthony Becker, Debbie Brod, Rebeca Calderón Pittman, Cedric Cox, Saad Ghosn, Michael Hoeting, M. Katherine Hurley, Adoria Maxberry, Kevin Muente, Anissa Pulcheon, Marlene Steele, Brenda Tarbell, and Mark Wiesner.
All aspects of the ARC program, including buses for field trips, are offered to participating schools free of charge. Each year, the Taft Museum of Art enrolls 12 schools in this program.
The Play's the Thing
After two years of construction, Playhouse in the Park opens the new Mainstage Theatre Complex, featuring Moe and Jack’s Place — The Rouse Theatre, with the quintessential backstage musical, "A Chorus Line." Take a look!
(L to R) Jack Rouse, Managing Director Abby Marcus, Osborn Family Producing Artistic Director Blake Robison, Moe Rouse, Board Chair Ellen van der Horst and the Playhouse staff at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the all-new mainstage theatre complex, featuring Moe and Jack's Place - The Rouse Theatre. Photo by Mikki Schaffner.
If You Go
A Chorus Line
March 16 – April 15
Moe and Jack’s Place — The Rouse Theatre
962 Mt. Adams Circle
To purchase tickets or for more information, or visit www.cincyplay.com.
Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park celebrated the completion of its capital campaign this week, with a ribbon cutting for its new Mainstage Theatre Complex, featuring Moe and Jack’s Place — The Rouse Theatre. The $50 million project began construction in 2021.
With its new Rouse Theatre comes a re-imagining of A Chorus Line that adds a contemporary vantage point to the classic musical and considers how dancers audition today, and how they dance differently now than they did in 1975.
This new production of the Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning A Chorus Line features choreography by Alex Sanchez (Paradise Square on Broadway). Sanchez won the SDC Joe A. Calloway Award for best choreography and was recognized as one of Dance Magazine's “25 to watch.”
“It’s a musical about theatre and the artists who make it,” explains Osborn Family Producing Artistic Director Blake Robison, who is directing the production “It's also of the moment. We're emerging from a pandemic in which there was literally no work for actors for nearly two years. When they sing, ‘God, I hope I get it...I really need this job,’ that sentiment is raw and real.”
The musical features a cast of young New York City dancers led by Shiloh Goodin (Paradise Square) as Cassie and Cincinnati-native Drew Lachey (from the band 98 Degrees, Dancing with the Stars) as Zach. Also featured are Courtney Arango as Diana Morales and Diego Guevara as Paul. Set Designer Tim Mackabee, who designed The Elephant Man on Broadway, has envisioned a stage that transforms from a rehearsal/audition studio into a more traditional theatre stage as the story unfolds
“When I was talking to Blake about the show, he expressed wanting to do a new take on A Chorus Line and how it could be accomplished choreographically,” says Sanchez. “At the time, I had just worked on creating new choreography for a production of West Side Story in Chicago. The way that I approached both iconic works is by diving into the narrative, intention and event of the moment. Capturing the spirit and being true to the story is what will make the creation of new movement feel like it's part of the original story.”
Though the musical was contemporary to the 1970s, it still authentically reflects a love for the art form that feels timeless — it’s part of what makes A Chorus Line so beloved, no matter the generation of the audience. Robison aims to find that same cadence through his directorial approach.
“We haven't changed a single word or lyric in this production,” Robison explains. “But I think that audiences will see the characters responding to the situation in a more contemporary way. Auditions don't happen the way they did in 1975 anymore. And so we set our production in an audition studio, not on a mythic empty stage. Today's dancers are much more athletic. You'll see that in Alex Sanchez's superb new choreography. And I hope you'll get a sense that our dancers endure this unusually grueling audition process with more personal agency.”
The Rouse Theatre and Schueler Lobby officially opens March 16 with A Chorus Line. The new facility features expanded comfort and accessibility for patrons and enables the Playhouse to host Pre-Broadway productions, which means a production that premieres in Cincinnati could go straight to Broadway for the first time ever, further solidifying Cincinnati’s reputation as a city with a thriving arts scene.
Enhancements to outdoor features and landscaping this spring will connect the Playhouse to the Cincinnati Ballet and Cincinnati Art Museum in the emerging Eden Park/Walnut Hills arts corridor. New design elements also deepen the Playhouse’s roots in its Eden Park home.
While the opening of A Chorus Line in many ways celebrates a resurgence of live theatre after work slowed down or stopped for many theatres across the world, the Playhouse spent the pandemic ramping up its work to finance and build its new theatre. It turbocharged fundraising efforts and locked in the GMP (guaranteed maximum price) of the project before the pandemic-influenced supply chain and labor issues inflated construction costs, and the opening remains on time and on budget.
Lessons Learned
The work of artist and teacher Stewart Goldman featured at the Art Academy of Cincinnati.
Pulse, 2007, 64” x 64”, oil on linen, Image credit: Howard Wells.
If You Go
Cross Currents: Stewart Goldman
Opens March 31, 5–8 p.m.
SITE1212, 1212 Jackson St.
Public reception and artist talk
Exhibition continues through April 24. More information at artacademy.edu/exhibitions.
Stewart Goldman taught hundreds of students at the Art Academy of Cincinnati during his more than 30 years with the school.
Works by the longtime AAC educator and mentor will be featured in an upcoming exhibition at the AAC.
The exhibition is accompanied by a catalogue that includes writings from Sue Spaid and an interview with exhibition organizer Joe Girandola, Art Academy of Cincinnati President, and Kristi Nelson, former provost at the University of Cincinnati.
Goldman taught at the Art Academy of Cincinnati from 1968 to 2001. In both his teaching and his visual production, he has shown profound concern for human rights, social justice, and the global implications of genocide in Germany and elsewhere. An enduring presence in the Ohio art world, he has curated shows on printmaking and the visual aesthetics of opera, lectured on the long-term influence of the Renaissance, and headed up the Cincinnati Sculpture Council.
Goldman is one of the state’s best-known and highly respected artist/educators. His works have been reviewed by Art Forum, and in 1988 he was awarded the Cincinnati Post-Corbett Award for Outstanding Individual Artist.
Spaid teaches philosophy at Northern Kentucky University and the University of Dayton. She recently published The Philosophy of Curatorial Practice: Between Work and World (2020), which reflects over 35 years of experience as a curator, critic, gallerist, and museum director.
Nelson recently retired from the University of Cincinnati where she served for more than 40 years in a number of roles, most recently as Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. She served as the co-curator for Paintings, Politics and the Monuments Men: The Berlin Masterpieces in America which was exhibited at the Cincinnati Art Museum Summer 2021. She also taught in the College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning for many years as Professor of Art History. She led many study abroad trips to Italy with UC students.
Girandola is the 18th leader and president of the Art Academy of Cincinnati. He is an internationally exhibited artist and is a classically trained stone carver from his studies in Florence, Italy. Girandola is the recipient of numerous grants including the 2017 and 2019 BLINK Artist Grant, 21C Pitch Night ArtPrize Grant, 3rd Century University of Cincinnati Studio and materials Grant, Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant, Adolph and Esther Gottlieb Foundation Grant, and a Change Inc. Grant.
Best Pictures
The Oscars are this Sunday! From Hollywood classics to this year's blockbusters, we asked some of our favorite Cincinnati People about their favorite movies. See if your picks made the list!
As Hollywood gets ready to pick its Best Picture at the Oscars this Sunday, we thought we’d get into the spirit of things, movie-wise.
We were curious about what locals thought was the best movie of the year. But realizing that not every movie is a classic, but that doesn’t stop it from being a guilty pleasure or a comfort watch, we also wanted to know about their all time faves.
We asked two questions
What movie have you probably seen the most?
What was your favorite movie of 2022?
Check out this year’s Academy Award nominees for Best Picture, and more importantly, see how your favorites stack up against other Cincinnati People.
– Tricia Suit
Justin Brookhart, executive director, BLINK
I’ve definitely seen Jurassic Park the most times in my life. It was the first film I saw in a movie theater and the movie I re-watch most often.
My favorite film of 2022 was Tár. I loved Cate Blanchett'‘s performance but especially loved that the film is about interpretation. There is intentional ambiguity and lots of visuals/themes that are left up to the audience to unpack. It's also very funny. And the beautiful shots of Berlin don't hurt.
Julie Calvert, CEO Visit Cincy
Urban Cowboy, The Intern, The Firm
Top Gun Maverick, Whitney Houston
Hillary Copsey, book adviser, Mercantile Library
Clueless, which I maintain is the best adaptation of a Jane Austen novel. (It’s a 1990s update of Emma.)
I saw it first as a teenager, and it’s a joy to see my own teenagers discovering it now.
Everything Everywhere All At Once ... though, I have to say, watching Daniel Radcliffe delight in being the villain in The Lost City was a treat. (Editor’s note: The Lost City is a delight!)
Kathy Debrosse, vice president marketing and engagement, ArtsWave
The movie I’ve seen the most, I think is Elf – it’s my favorite Christmas movie and favorite Will Ferrell movie as well. I have vivid memories of embarrassing my teenage kids at the theater when it first came out, many moons ago.
I don’t have a favorite full-run movie. However, I was moved by Stranger at the Gate, which is a documentary up for the best film shorts (documentary). It provides scary insight into how prejudice and extreme duress/PRSD from military service can mix, with the potential to inflict malice on others as a byproduct. At the same time, it’s hopeful, with love and acceptance ultimately winning out.
Eric Kearney
Rocky Horror Picture Show
King Richard
Nicholas Korn, AAC marketing, author Wild Sonnets
We rewatch a vast number of movies at our house, so an accurate count is in no way possible. But I am going to go with A Night at The Opera featuring the Marx Brothers. One of the most hilarious movies ever. Still. (Editor’s note: Facts.)
My favorite movie of 2022 was Everything Everywhere All at Once. Mainly because, much to my shame, it was really the only new movie I saw last year, but also because I’m a goon for anything with Michelle Yeoh.
Cincinnati People’s Picks
Megan Coffey, Cincinnati People videographer
One movie I’ve seen the most is either Elf or Pretty Woman. It’s a tie between the two for sure. Elf is a Christmas classic and Pretty Woman is just iconic. I love Julia Roberts and love how she turns her life around.
My favorite movie of 2022 was Top Gun Maverick! Saw it in theatre and it was incredible
Jackie Reau, CEO, Game Day Communications
Anytime I am flipping through TV stations, and I see Shawshank Redemption on, it’s all over. Andy Dufresne pulls me in every time and I have to watch it.
Fun fact: D Lynn Meyers, producing artistic director of the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, was the casting director of Shawshank Redemption.
Tricia Suit, editor, Cincinnati People
Bringing Up Baby – Any time it is on, I will watch it. The madcap heiress, the overlapping dialogue, pratfalls, a leopard, and Skippy the dog – What’s not to love!
My favorites movies of 2022 could not be more different.
As a fan of the TV show, I loved Downton Abbey: A New Era, from the incredible fashion to the gorgeous setting in the South of France. It was the ultimate comfort (re)watch.
The innovative Everything Everywhere All at Once maintains an exquisite humanity despite the amazing effects and convoluted storyline. The cast is incredible!
Courtney Tomasetti, client strategy director, Game Day Communications
Seen most and all-time favorite: Forrest Gump.
Favorite of 2022: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness // Runner up: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (Because I’m 7 years old!) (Editor’s note: She in fact has a 6-year-old at home.)
Marcus Margerum, interim director, Contemporary Arts Center
Harlem Nights
Fun fact: Parts of the movie were filmed here! See a full list of movies shot in Greater Cincinnati, including a Best Picture winner!)
Nope
Mindy Rosen, executive director, Friends of Music Hall
Cabaret with Liza Minnelli because it’s still so daring to tell the tale of the evil Nazis with fabulous music and dancing.
EO about a wandering donkey in Poland who makes his way from a circus act through Poland to Italy. It’s up for Best International Feature Film. It’s visually stunning and shows the human bond to animals (even donkeys) can be super strong.
Cincinnati Fear E-sports Team
Tim David, manager, Cincinnati Fear
Deadpool
The Batman
Chase Capello
Jujutsu Kaisen 0
Bullet Train – I went to watch it with my friends I hadn't seen in many years and we all thought it was gonna be bad but it was really entertaining nonstop action.
Trevor Roy
1. Casino Royale
2. The Batman
Xavier Vaillancourt
Angels and Doom
Mingshui Zhang
Battle Los Angeles, I watched it 10 times with my dad as a kid, it was a new movie with guns soldiers and I loved those kind of movies so my dad would take me to the theater to watch it.
2. Turning Red