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.

Join us for a conversation with artists who are confronting the most important issues of our day.

Photo: (L to R) Bobby Bermea*+, Hannah Treuhaft+, La'Tevin Alexander, Andy Haftkowycz, Rebecca Martinez*+, Emma Bridges and Jake Simonds in the Regional Premiere of Sojourn's HOW TO END POVERTY at Portland Playhouse. Photo by Brud Giles. *Actor appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.