Make the invitation.
20+ years of doing CoolCleveland, and those in control of the gates are still wondering why more marginalized people are not knocking down their doors. It doesn’t work that way. Like a garden, you have to create an environment for things to grow. Invite the next generation in, hold the door open for people you don’t know.
Here’s how it works: Superstars percussionist Jamey Haddad, sax player Bobby Selvaggio and bassist Kip Reed are promoting young pianist & Oberlin Conservatory grad Sullivan Fortner at BOP STOP. In the same vein, Cleveland sax legend Joe Lovano returns from his world travels to work with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra twice this week: at the Maltz Performing Arts Center, and at Selvaggio’s new space in Akron, the Highland Square Universal Gathering Space (see our video with Bobby at HÜG).
The Bal: Biotique previews the theme of this year’s Ingenuity, “Biologies & Geologies,” exploring nature’s resources and how we interact with them. Bowling For Equality is the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benefit to help the LGBTQ+ advocacy group fight the Ohio legislature’s despicable politicization of gender and human sexuality. Let’s include everyone, because we’re going to need everyone’s help.
Cuyahoga Valley Farmer’s Market opens outdoors at Howe Meadow this week. Beck Center hosts a free comic book day for all ages. BW Music Theatre seniors present the showcase they’ve produced to wow NYC agents. Displaced Artcraft artists are holding an open house at their new studios at the Twist.
David Bowie defined fluid sexuality in the 70s and became an icon for unapologetic outness. He has a huge Cleveland connection, and he dealt positively with his mental health concerns, topics explored at both the Bowie Brunch on 5/13 (with food by Larder) and at The Strand Theatre on 5/6. Needless to say, all are welcome.
–Thomas Mulready