September 2006

Multicultural Cleveland

Cleveland's cultural diversity can be celebrated throughout the city.

Through October 22, The Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage is presenting a rare glimpse of the "Cradle of Christianity: Treasures from the Holy Land," featuring some of the most significant biblical artifacts ever found, including The Temple Scroll, one of the most historically important of the Dead Sea Scrolls; the burial ossuary of Caiaphas the High Priest; and mementos from early Christian pilgrimages to the Holy Land.

Cleveland's Karamu House is the nation's oldest African-American cultural arts institution. This season's schedule of performances includes the world premiere of "Gospel! Gospel! Gospel!" saluting one of America's greatest music genres October 6 through November 5; and "Permanent Collection," January 19 through February 11, Thomas Gibbons' exploration of racial politics in the art world. "Black Nativity," the Langston Hughes holiday classic, recounts the religious and spiritual aspects of the Christmas story through music, dance and soul-stirring gospel December 8 through 31.

The accomplishments of former Cleveland mayor Carl Stokes and his brother, retired Ohio Congressman Louis Stokes, are celebrated at the Western Reserve Historical Society November 18 through July 2008, in "Carl & Louis Stokes: From the Projectsto Politics." The exhibit examines thepivotal role the duo played in the Civil Rights movement and the legacies they helped create. February 23 through June 10, the historical society will celebrate the life of Diana, the late Princess of Wales, in a poignant exhibit of more than 150 objects, including childhood home movies, her wedding gown and condolence books from her funeral.

Each January, the life of Martin LutherKing Jr. is commemorated throughout the city. On January 14, the world-renowned Cleveland Orchestra, conducted by Chelsea Tipton, will present a concert at Severance Hall celebrating the spirit of King's work. Featured performers include the Central State University Chorus and The Martin Lu-ther King Community Chorus.

On January 15, the International House of Blues Foundation will present "The 2007 Voices Ring Out Poetry Event: A Celebration of the Life and Work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.," spotlighting poetry written by students from the Greater Cleveland area. Local arts and cultural organizations will also present musical and dance performances. Also on that day, the Cleveland Public Library will present a program honoring Dr. King.

When You go

-> Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood. 216/593-0575, www.MaltzJewishMuseum.org.
-> Karamu House, 2355 East 89th St., Cleveland. 216/795-7070, www.karamu.com.
-> Western Reserve Historical Society, 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland. 216/721-5722, www.wrhs.org.
-> The Cleveland Orchestra, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 216/231-1111, www.clevelandorchestra.com.
-> House of Blues, 308 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 216/274-3380, www.ihobf.org.
-> Cleveland Public Library, Martin Luther King Jr. Branch, 1962 Stokes Blvd., Cleveland. 216/623-2822, www.cpl.org.