Weekend Warriors: Viva las Artes!
11/14/18
By Jenica Richards
The year may be winding down, but to my delight, the arts are turning up. This time of year generally brings about holiday-themed events (and trust me, there are many to choose from), but what fills me with glee is Columbus’ dedication to supporting arts of all shapes and sizes regardless of the season. Here’s what ColumbusMakesArt.com has to say about this weekend’s energy-filled arts offerings.
I used to be a singer myself, but I’m sure I couldn’t hold a candle to Opera Columbus presenting their high-voltage Voice of Freedom. Their second free performance will fill the Main Library this Thursday with a wall of sound, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Harlem Renassiance. If you’re able to witness this powerful piece, don’t forget to walk down the hall and behold How Beautiful Am I one last time; the similarly Harlem Renaissance-themed exhibition, curated by April Sunami, closes on Friday. To continue the commemoration of the Harlem Renaissance, CAPA will host the electrifying Dance Theatre of Harlem on its Palace Theatre stage this Friday.
Just around the corner from the Palace, TEDxColumbus 2018: On the Edge speakers like Scott Woods will stimulate thinking caps at the Davidson Theatre in the Riffe Center, Friday as well. Scott’s lecture will explore the effect of social issues on poetry, so ready your mind for awakening. At the Wexner Center for the Arts, Lars Jan’s Early Morning Opera, a theatrical adaptation of Joan Didion’s essay The White Album, will satisfy your thirst for rebellion. Join actress Mia Barron Friday and Saturday as she performs the provocative essay while accompanied by a well-choreographed house party onstage.
Of course, this weekend would be incomplete without a little spark of holiday cheer. Hammond Harkins’ annual wintertime tradition Small & Wonderful, opening Friday, will feature artists like Dennison Griffith and Laura Alexander. Step up your gift game with wares from Gifts of the Craftsmen, now open at the Ohio Craft Museum. This Thursday, Shadowbox Live will kick off their spicy seasonal favorite Holiday Hoopla, and it’s sure to add a pep to your step. Finally, children and adults alike can marvel at Think Outside the Brick, Columbus Museum of Art’s annual LEGO exhibition. Is that a twinkle in your eye I see?
With these arts tips in hand, you can live your best life this weekend. Add some zest to your holiday, and remember to tag #artmakescbus!
Jenica Richards is the festival and events coordinator at the Greater Columbus Arts Council, whose husband brought home three containers of LEGOs just last night.









