Majyck Radio-Kalamazoo, MI- In 1986, three community members, Gail Sydnor, Lois Jackson and James C. Palmore agreed that something sustainable was needed to maintain community engagement after the first Black Arts Festival held the same year in August. For the years to come, the Black Arts Festival is a way to keep African American art and culture in the forefront year round. Their brainstorming actions resulting in the founding of the BACC (Black Arts & Cultural Center).
Historically located at Bronson Park and recent years, occupying Arcadia Festival Site in downtown Kalamazoo, the 29th annual Black Arts Festival will operate out of LaCrone Park, located in the heart of Kalamazoo. This years theme, Ignite the Community has themes for programs throughout the week. There will be events everyday for everyone to enjoy and share July 13-19, 2015.
See list of scheduled events: Monday July 13th Theme: Inspiring Education (Through the Arts) Location: Epic Center Theater and Atrium South Kalamazoo Mall, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm Details: Arts workshops, including poetry, dance, vocal performance, visual art and theater, instrument testing and demonstrations for the whole family. $5 suggested donation, FREE for BACC members.
Tuesday July 14th Theme: Going Back in Time Location: Douglass Community Association 1000 W Paterson St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 11am-8pm Details: The Black history of Kalamazoo, Michigan on display. All artifacts and antiques from local artist, Mr. Murphy Darden’s personal collection. $5/person, $2 for students & seniors, $10 for families of 3 or more, FREE for BACC members.
Wednesday July 15th Theme: Next Generation Empowerment (Youth Health Day) Location: Bible Baptist Church 1700 N Drake Rd, Kalamazoo, MI 49006 Time: 11am-2pm Details: Youth Day with a focus on health will include community partners who focus on health and youth development, cooking demos, exercise demos, youth talent showcase, basketball tournaments, arts & crafts activities and more. FREE for youth!
Thursday July 16th Theme: Increasing Economic Empowerment Location: Epic Center Theater and Atrium South Kalamazoo Mall, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 5:30pm-9pm Details: Film screening of “Resurrecting Black Wall Street” by Dr. Boyce Watkins followed by networking. Local businesses may purchase information tables for $25. Business cards will be drawn for a 90 second pitch to be made by a local business at the event. FREE to the community!
Friday July 17th Theme: Transcending Talent (Arts Exhibition & Showcase) Location: Epic Center Theater and Atrium South Kalamazoo Mall, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 6pm-7:45pm Details: Live art, poetry and music followed by the debut of BACC’s Face Off Theatre Company and the premiere of “Been Loving You-An Exploration in Black Love Through August Wilson”. $10 admission fee, FREE for BACC members.
Saturday July 18th Theme: Engaging & Empowering Weekend Location: La Crone Park 535 W. Paterson St. Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 11am-8pm Details: Vendors, food, entertainment, activities, culture and fun for the whole family. FREE to the community!
Saturday July 18th Summer Black Party Theme: Engaging & Empowering Weekend Location: Epic Center Theater and Atrium South Kalamazoo Mall, 359 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 9pm-1am Details: Live music by DJ Chuck and DJ Conscious, food, drinks, red carpet photos by Steele Candy Photography, Age 21+, $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $10 in advance for groups of 10.
Sunday July 19th Theme: Engaging & Empowering Weekend Location: La Crone Park 535 W. Paterson St. Kalamazoo, MI 49007 Time: 11am-8pm Details: Vendors, food, entertainment, activities, culture and fun for the whole family. FREE to the community!
Majyck Radio-Kalamazoo, MI- In 1986, three community members, Gail Sydnor, Lois Jackson and James C. Palmore agreed that something sustainable was needed to maintain community engagement after the first Black Arts Festival held the same year in August. For the years to come, the Black Arts Festival is a way to keep African American art and culture in the forefront year round. Their brainstorming actions resulting in the founding of the BACC (Black Arts & Cultural Center).