Cleveland Council approves youth theater arts program with Karamu House

Cleveland's Health, Human Services & the Arts Committee meeting on May 19, 2025, spotlighted a transformative initiative aimed at empowering local youth through the arts. The committee discussed a new contract with Karamu House to provide an out-of-school theater arts program, emphasizing its potential to enrich the lives of young people in the community.

The program, which spans 12 months with options for renewal, is designed to engage students in grades 6 through 12 in various artistic disciplines, including dance, drama, and technical theater. Participants will not only perform but also learn essential behind-the-scenes skills, such as set design and stage management. This dual focus aims to address the significant demand for diverse talent in the technical theater sector, which currently lacks representation from certain populations.

Committee members highlighted the importance of experiential learning, with plans for students to visit local institutions like Tri-C Community College to explore career opportunities in marketing and other fields. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students with hands-on experiences that could lead to future careers in the arts and beyond.

Karamu House representatives shared their commitment to fostering a supportive environment for participants, emphasizing the program's focus on social-emotional learning and community engagement. They reported high satisfaction rates among students and families, showcasing the program's success in building trust and encouraging participation.

As the committee approved the ordinance, the excitement was palpable. This initiative not only promises to enhance the artistic skills of Cleveland's youth but also aims to cultivate the next generation of arts supporters, ensuring the longevity of cultural institutions in the community. The program is set to kick off this summer, with hopes of making a lasting impact on the lives of young Clevelanders.