Annette Bailey Pavilion. Artwork by Stuart McClean.

Peter Lawson Jones, Karamu President and CEO Tony Sias and Raymond Bobgan

Karamu House hosted a ticketed Homecoming Benefit on its campus July 13, followed by a free Community Day open to the public on July 14. Over $360,000 was raised with over 750 guests in attendance both Saturday and Sunday.

Event organizers celebrated the completion of its $5.2 million Theatre Wing Phase III renovations. Recognized as the oldest, producing African American theatre in the nation, Karamu House is featured (on the 4th floor) in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture in Washington, DC, and listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

A VIP reception kicked off the Saturday event, which included vibrant live performances, tours highlighting the newly renovated spaces, and DJ Candi Fresca spinning dance tunes. Nationally recognized, New

Brian Offutt, Craig Hassall, Celina Cunanan with Richard and Virginia Stewart

Orleans-based visual Artist Stuart McClean exhibited his works, and donated an original piece inspired by the history, hospitality, and community experienced during his recent spring visit. The piece was auctioned during the event.

Since 2017, Karamu has brought new life to its historic home including upgrades to two theaters, interior and exterior renovations, a new marquee, the addition of a bistro and a fully enclosed pavilion.

“We are excited [for the community] to learn more about our bold vision for the future ‘Karamu Next Generation’ as we raise funds for the sustainability of this legacy institution,” said President and CEO, Tony F. Sias.

Three Karamu legends were inducted into the Hall of Fame, recognizing

Michelle Felder, Karamu COO Aseelah Shareef and Meredith Turner

the contributions of Peter Lawson Jones, professional actor, and frequent performer; Reggie Kelly (posthumously) multi-disciplined theatre artist; and Annette Bailey, who served in Administration at Karamu for over 50 years, currently supporting archives. The new Karamu Outdoor Pavilion is named in honor of her service to the organization. The George Gund Foundation supported the construction of the Pavilion with a $1 million grant.

VIP benefit patron Meredith Turner, Cuyahoga County Council Member of District 9, said, “As a supporter, I wanted to make an investment in this historic institution to give youth authentic opportunities to express themselves, just like I had.” Turner grew up in Shaker Heights.

Community Day featured performances of “The Boy Who Kissed the Sky” by Idris Goodwin by the Summer Arts Academy students and the ribbon cutting of the new E. 89th and Quincy Plaza, unveiling the engraved pavers of Karamu friends, stakeholders and supporters.

Visit karamuhouse.org for more information. STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREA C. TURNER