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Art Weighs In

Throughout human history, artists are often the vanguard of social commentary, helping us see the narratives of our communities in new ways (think Gilgamesh, Frida Kahlo, Aeschylus or Toni Morrison). Whether on the stage, on the page, or elsewhere, artists shape the conversations we have about social and political issues. Sometimes they do this quietly and sometimes they work with explicitly provocative intentions.

This season, Cleveland Public Theatre brings to Cleveland two important, civically and politically engaged works-- How to End Poverty in 90 Minutes (with 119 People You May or May Not Know) and  American Dreams--challenging the audience to rethink their perceptions on issues of poverty and immigration. Meanwhile, local artist  Donald Black Jr. has contributed murals and public art around Greater Cleveland, forcing us to re-think our relationships to one another.

Donald Black, Jr., Artist and Educator

Leila Buck, Author, "American Dreams"

Rebecca Martinez,  Ensemble Member, Sojourn Theatre

Tamilla Woodard, Director, Producer, and Co-Founder, Popup Theatrics

Jennifer Coleman, Senior Program Officer for the Arts at The George Gund Foundation

Jean-Marie Papoi is a digital producer for the arts & culture team at Ideastream Public Media.