1. Crosstown Arts

If you haven’t stopped by the gallery on the second floor at Crosstown Concourse, listened to a show  in the Green Room at Crosstown Arts, or taken in a film at Crosstown Theater, this summer is the perfect time to do so! Crosstown Arts is in the heart of the Crosstown Concourse and programs many of the events, performances, and gallery exhibitions. Their commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement makes them a cornerstone of the Memphis arts scene!

2. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art

As the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee, the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is a cultural gem. The museum hosts a diverse collection of art spanning various periods and styles, along with rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. Take in the exhibits before the move to the riverfront and get ready for even more art displays when the beautiful

3. The Metal Museum

The Metal Museum is dedicated exclusively to the art and craft of fine metalwork. Located on the Mississippi River, the museum features exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programs focused on metalworking techniques. It’s tucked away location makes it the perfect way to take in the beautiful scenery and artwork!

4. Hattiloo Theatre

Hattiloo Theatre is the only freestanding, Black repertory theater in the area and produces plays reflecting the Black experience. Located in right in the heart of Overton Square, Hattiloo offers performances, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.

5. Indie Memphis

Indie Memphis is best known for its annual Indie Memphis Film Festival, which celebrates independent films and filmmakers. Beyond the festival, the organization hosts year-round screenings, workshops, and community programs aimed at nurturing local talent and promoting the art of filmmaking.

Supporting these arts organizations not only sustains their important work but also contributes to the vibrant cultural fabric of Memphis. Whether through attending events, making donations, or spreading the word, your involvement can make a significant impact! For even more inspiration, check out Shelby County Art for All – including a free programming map, calendar of upcoming arts events, and much more.

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From fostering artistic expression to preserving cultural heritage, these leaders leave an undeniable mark on Memphis’ creative landscape. So, grab your beret and prepare to be inspired by these Memphis muses! Curious about what’s going on at all of these organizations? Be sure to check out the Art for All Art Hub for events and more!

Metalmorphosis at the Metal Museum: Executive Director Carissa Hussong oversees the Metal Museum, a haven for all things metal. Under her leadership, the museum offers captivating exhibitions, educational programs, and artist residencies, nurturing the next generation of metal artists.

Blooming with Inspiration at the Carpenter Art Garden: Executive Director Jazmin Miller oversees the Carpenter Art Garden, a unique urban oasis where art and nature converge. Committed to fostering a creative community, Miller spearheads innovative programs and exhibitions, making art accessible to all.

A Canvas of Possibility at Crosstown Arts: Crosstown Arts, a revitalized Sears Crosstown building transformed into a thriving arts center, is led by Stacy Wright. Wright’s vision has created a vibrant hub for artists, fostering collaboration, experimentation, and artistic expression.

Preserving Legacies at the Brooks Museum: Founded in 1844, the Brooks Museum is Memphis’ oldest and largest art museum. Executive Director Zoe Kahr ensures the museum continues to inspire by stewarding its vast collection and presenting thought-provoking exhibitions that celebrate art history and ignite contemporary conversations.

Amplifying Diverse Voices with Indie Memphis: Indie Memphis, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Memphis’ independent film scene, is led by Executive Director Kimel Fryer. Indie Memphis supports local filmmakers, with a focus on creating an intersectional and racially equitable independent film community that nurtures the growth of filmmakers through five pillars: year-round screenings, an annual film festival, artist development programs, Black creators forums, and youth programming.

Celebrating Black Excellence with the Memphis Black Arts Alliance: Executive Director  Lar’Juanette Williams is at the helm of the Memphis Black Arts Alliance, a cornerstone of Memphis’ cultural landscape. The Alliance, under Williams’ leadership, celebrates Black art, history, and culture through exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives.

A Symphony of Storytelling with Tone: Tone, a multi-disciplinary arts organization, ignites artistic expression through innovative storytelling. Executive Director Victoria Jones leads the organization, fostering a platform for artists to explore new formats and engage audiences in meaningful ways.

Going Curtain-up on Creativity with Theatre Memphis: The magic of live performance thrives under the leadership of Executive Producer Debbie Litch. Theatre Memphis offers a diverse range of productions, from classic plays to innovative new works, ensuring there’s something for every theatregoer.

Giving New Life to Historic Clayborn Temple: At the helm of the historic Clayborn Temple, a cornerstone of the civil rights movement, is Executive Director Anasa Troutman. Troutman leads the organization in preserving this cultural landmark and fostering community engagement through educational programs and artistic events.

Turning Up Local Music with Memphis Music Initiative: Leading the way in music education and artist development is President and CEO Amber Hamilton at the Memphis Music Initiative. This organization empowers musicians of all ages and backgrounds, ensuring the legacy of Memphis music continues to grow.

Education On Pointe at New Ballet Ensemble: Offering a diverse array of multicultural dance genres and after-school programming, New Ballet Ensemble is committed to whole child development. The creative youth and arts education organization, founded by CEO and artistic director Katie Smythe, immerses students in high-quality, equitable dance training through scholarships and free programs in 10 public schools across the Mid-South.

Curating Community at Overton Park Shell: Memphis’ iconic outdoor amphitheater, the Overton Park Shell, comes alive under the leadership of Executive Director Natalie Wilson. Wilson curates a diverse season of concerts and events, ensuring the Shell remains a vibrant hub for all things music in Memphis.

Showcasing Stories at Blues City Cultural Center: For more than 40 years, BCCC has implemented quality programs and services through a cohort of professional artists and other creatives, numerous collaborations, and stakeholders who support their mission and understand the passion for the arts. The BCCC produces original works that use the Arts to address social issues and to tell stories of the people. The Blues City Cultural Center is led by Executive Director Anaya C. Williams.

These are just a few of the remarkable women shaping Memphis’ arts and culture scene, which is the soul and heartbeat of modern Memphis. By supporting these organizations, we empower these leaders to continue nurturing creativity, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring Memphis remains a vibrant hub for artistic expression. So, explore these institutions, celebrate these leaders, and let Memphis’ creative spirit inspire you!

For even more inspiration, check out Shelby County Art for All – including a free programming map, calendar of upcoming arts events, and much more.

The post Memphis Muses: A Celebration of Women-Led Arts and Culture appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Hattiloo Theatre: Where Stories Come to Life

Hattiloo Theatre stands as a beacon of Black artistic expression in Memphis, nestled in the heart of Midtown. Founded by Ekundayo Bandele in 2006, Hattiloo has been dedicated to producing works that celebrate the Black experience. From thought-provoking dramas to vibrant musicals, Hattiloo provides a platform for both established and emerging Black playwrights and performers to showcase their talent. With its commitment to intricate Black storytelling, Hattiloo Theatre continues to be a vital part of Memphis’s cultural landscape.

Memphis Black Arts Alliance: Fostering Creativity and Collaboration

The Memphis Black Arts Alliance (MBAA) serves as a catalyst for creativity and collaboration within the local Black arts community. Through its diverse programming, including exhibitions, workshops, and performances, MBAA provides a platform for artists of all disciplines to showcase their work. Right by the Stax Museum in Soulsville, MBAA is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Memphis’ Black cultural heritage. Whether it’s visual arts, theater, music, or literature, MBAA plays a crucial role in amplifying Black voices and nurturing artistic talent across the city.

Collage Dance Collective: Elevating the Art of Dance

Collage Dance Collective, founded by Kevin Thomas and Marcellus Harper, is renowned for its dynamic blend of classical ballet and contemporary dance styles. Based in Binghampton and close to Broad Avenue, Collage is dedicated to promoting diversity and accessibility in the world of dance. Through its professional performances, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives, Collage Dance Collective empowers young dancers of color to pursue their passion and realize their potential. With its innovative approach to dance and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, Collage continues to inspire audiences both locally and nationally.

From the historic streets of Soulsville to the eclectic vibe of Cooper-Young, Memphis is a city alive with the spirit of Black creativity. Through institutions like Hattiloo Theatre, Collage Dance Collective, and the Memphis Black Arts Alliance, the city’s vibrant theater and performance arts scene continues to thrive! Looking for more ways to connect with Shelby County’s arts and culture community? Explore the Art for All arts hub!

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Get to Know ArtsMemphis!

ArsMemphis serves as a vital support system for local artists and cultural institutions. Their mission revolves around ensuring that Memphis remains a dynamic hub for artistic expression. Their commitment goes beyond financial support–they’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive, creative environment accessible to all.

“At ARTSmemphis, our purpose as a granting organization is to grow the foundation of art for our city with diligent, thoughtful, diverse, and intentional support. While we have distributed over $94 million since 1963 to artists and arts organizations, our support is not simply through good stewardship of donor dollars but also by providing financial guidance, organizational advice, marketing support, and networking opportunities and connections. 

Whether a donor, educator, artist, stagehand, or an audience member, together, we are all contributors to the arts.”

Dive into the Calendar

The ArtsMemphis Event Calendar isn’t just a list of dates and openings. It’s a guide into a variety of ways that our city expresses itself through the arts. From funky gallery exhibits in South Main and mind-blowing public art displays in Overton Park to interactive events, markets, and more.

Live it up with Performing Arts

We know you love a good show (so do we).  The calendar compiles some of the best performances in Memphis. Whether you’re into plays at a local theater, dance showcases, or a symphony under the stars at the Levitt Shell, this calendar has your entertainment needs covered.

Get Connected to Community

ArtsMemphis doesn’t stop at just giving you the details on some of the city’s most anticipated arts events; it’s all about building a community. ArtsMemphis actively promotes collaboration among artists, arts organizations, businesses, and the community. By facilitating partnerships and connections, the organization aims to enhance the overall impact and reach of the arts in Memphis. The organization encourages innovation and creativity within the arts community. This may involve supporting new and experimental projects, as well as providing resources for artists to explore and push the boundaries of their craft.

So, as you click through the ArtsMemphis Event Calendar, you’re not just planning your week; you’re diving headfirst into the heart of Memphis’ soul. It’s not just a calendar; it’s a roadmap to the way creativity defines our amazing city. ArtsMemphis said it best: “Arts are the foundation of our culture. They speak to our past, our present, and our future with authenticity and integrity that ultimately create the voice of our community.”

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When you think of Memphis, what comes to mind first? Is it the blues? The barbecue? The history that stretches out from Beale and beyond? One of the amazing things about Memphis is that there’s not just one defining feature or trait. It’s filled to the brim with life, art, historic landmarks, and iconic buildings. The soul of Memphis can be defined in many ways, but one crucial element of this city’s beating heart is the arts. Dance, music, theatre – the people of Memphis come alive through the performing arts. And while we’re all familiar with the Orpheum, what about the local spots where Memphians get to direct, produce, and star? If you want to immerse yourself into the soul of this corner in Tennessee, here’s where you can go for local talent and one-of-a-kind stories, all told through performance.

Theatre Memphis

This community theater has been producing live productions for over 100 years, as well as educational workshops and volunteer opportunities. Their upcoming events for the 2022-2023 season include classics such as Guys and Dolls and their annual production of A Christmas Carol. Check their site for volunteer opportunities or to donate.

Memphis Youth Arts Initiative

This performing arts center is focused on accessible experiences for school-aged children around Memphis. Their programs include free and affordably priced life skill workshops, instrumental and vocal teaching, drama, varied dance instruction, year-round academic enhancement, mentoring, performing arts productions, community events, and more. You can offer your support through monthly donations or through their fundraiser events. 

Collage Dance Collective

Collage Dance Collective had its beginnings in New York, before moving to Memphis in 2009 to inspire the growth and diversity of ballet. Their conservatory trains dancers between the ages of 2 to 18, while the continuum seeks to promote dancing and movement for all ages and abilities. They offer many programs, classes, and concerts for their students, and you can donate to assist students to receive scholarships and funding.

Hatiloo Theatre

Hatiloo Theatre is the only freestanding Black repertory theatre in five surrounding states, offering high-quality, free programming and performances. Their upcoming season includes Broadway plays and modern spins on classic musicals. You can also sponsor them through a donation.

Ballet Memphis

Ballet Memphis is a company with the mission to inspire dance and movement while offering an inclusive space for all. Their space includes a ballet school, pilates and wellness center, and a performance venue. You can check their events page for upcoming performances and donate to support their endeavors.

New Moon Theatre

This theater aims to “entertain with challenging and provocative works, classic and contemporary, which are not often produced on the mainstages of Memphis.” Their upcoming season includes an Evil Dead musical and Stephen King’s classic, Misery.

Playhouse on the Square

Playhouse on the Square also includes The Circuit Playhouse and TheaterWorks @ The Square. These 3 theaters showcase productions from Broadway musicals to plays written by locals to Memphis. They also offer programs for adults, Teens in Theatre, and Queer and Allied Theatre Troupe. Their upcoming events showcase productions from all of their theaters and their educational programs. You can donate or volunteer to support their efforts. 

Tennessee Shakespeare Company

The Tennessee Shakespeare Company is the “first and only professional, not-for-profit theatre and education organization in Memphis dedicated to live, diverse performances of William Shakespeare’s plays, as well as works of social significance by classical, Southern, and modern playwrights/composers.” Their focus is on providing education, training, and outreach programs. You can purchase tickets for their upcoming shows or support them through a donation. 

​​New Spark Performing Arts

This center offers a space for youth to discover performing arts and gain confidence through creative expression. New Spark has camps, a junior theater festival, and youth leadership opportunities along with their theatre productions. You can donate and help keep their programs available for students across the city.

Ready to learn more about what “soul” means to Memphis? From performing arts to entrepreneurship, music, food, and so much more, Memphis’ soul is something special. Follow along as we share the city’s soul!

you might also be interested in: Memphis Arts | Memphis Arts Scene 

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Yet the World of Dance is more than a television show, it’s a global brand of dance competitions and dance lifestyle events that take place all around the world from Europe to South America, to Asia and the United States. Videos from these events have been shared more than a billion times across social media platforms.

All that excitement is coming to Central Memphis with the launch event of World of Dance in Memphis on Nov. 10. The showstopping evening is a live tour of the World of Dance brand. It acts as a live dance showcase highlighting the pure talent, hard work, and dedication to absolutely incredible and awe-inspiring choreography.

Some of the hottest dancers from the World of Dance television show and other dance celebrities will touch down at Memphis’ Graceland Soundstage to offer an intimate, high octane concert for the audience.

At Elvis Presley’s former home, the Graceland Soundstage is an incredible venue for music performances, film screenings, and video filming. Aside from ticketed public events such as World of Dance, it has also been used to host private events, conferences, corporate meetings, and trade shows.

This is all a part of Memphis’ deep, rich history in music. The city has often been the center of rock and roll history. From Elvis to Johnny Cash to W.C. Handy, Memphis boasts an amazing musical pedigree for all audiences to enjoy.

You also might be interested in: Meet Memphis: A City of Welcoming People – We Are Memphis

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Africa in April

While February is African American heritage month around the country, Africa in April is unique to Memphis as the city looks to shine a light on the important influence African Americans have played in the overall cultural history of Memphis. You will find celebrations of African history, art and culture taking place throughout the city, with many vendors offering special products. There is also a Blues music showcase during the month.

Memphis in May

Throughout the entire month of May, there is an entire series dedicated to showing off the incredible heritage of the city. During the month, some of the most important cultural events take place including the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, Great American River Run, International Week and, of course, the Beale Street Music Festival.

Memphis Italian Festival

Whether you’re Italian or simply craving Italian food, the Memphis Italian Festival takes place every year sometime during late May or early June (this also depends on the Memphis in May celebration, as the Memphis Italian Festival will adjust accordingly, typically taking place the weekend after the Memphis in May celebration has finished). The Memphis Italian Festival occurs at Marquette Park and brings in Italian cooking competitions, musical activities, and local artists. There is also a 5K run, pizza tossing demonstrations, Galtelli Cup Recreational Bocce Tournament, and so much more going on with this festival.

Music

Outside of major festivals and events, music is as much a part of the city as anything else. Some of the biggest names in gospel, blues, rock and roll, country and others stem from Memphis. While you may already know Elvis and B.B. King are important musicians from Memphis, performers such as Johnny Cash, Aretha Franklin, Roy Orbison, Isaac Hayes, and others all either were born in Memphis or spent a part of their career in the city. Beale Street and Stax Records are two important destinations for anyone looking to discover Memphis music.

Get Out and Experience Memphis Culture

These are just a few examples of Memphis culture. From art around the city to culturally significant events, it doesn’t matter if you’ve called Memphis home your entire life or if you are a recent transplant, now is the perfect time to get out and take in the incredible Memphis culture available to you.

Additional Reading:

We Are Memphis

Greater Memphis Chamber

You might also be interested in: Memphis Arts | Memphis Arts Scene

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