THEATER
‘PROUD!’ at Rep
This week, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre is showcasing “PROUD! Celebrating the African American Journey through an Artistic Lens.” This lively performance celebrates African American history through poetry, music, and dance.
There are three student matinees on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m., along with public shows at 7 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free, but reservations are needed. You can grab your spot at therep.org/proud.
The show is directed by Tamra Patterson Calamese and Ken-Matt Martin, with musical direction from Ricardo Richardson and choreography by Dorse Brown. It features original poetry by CC Mercer Watson and performances from talented artists including Richardson, Brown, and Verda Booher.
This production highlights key moments and impactful figures in Arkansas’s African American history and ties into the AP African American Studies curriculum at Little Rock Central High School, collaborating with the Celebrate Maya Project.
FILM
PT-109 documentary
On Tuesday at 6:30 p.m., head to the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History to watch “The Search for Kennedy’s PT-109.” This National Geographic documentary reveals the true story of Navy Lt. John F. Kennedy’s patrol boat during World War II and the efforts to find its wreck. Enjoy free admission, popcorn, and drinks. For details, call (501) 376-4602.
MUSIC
Percussion performance
The UALR Percussion Ensemble will perform on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in the Stella Boyle Smith Concert Hall. Justin Bunting will conduct the show, and everyone is welcome—admission is free. For info, call (501) 916-3291.
Concert stream
The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra is streaming its children’s concert, “Dance Around the World,” for free on its website. Aimed at grades 3-8, this concert features pianist Thomas Sinclair and covers pieces from famous composers. Teachers can register to stream at tinyurl.com/4eysppz9.
ON THE PODIUM
Author at Hendrix
Caroline Randall Williams, a poet and author, will read from her work on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in Reves Recital Hall at Hendrix College. Following her reading, there will be a reception and book signing in the Trieschmann Gallery. This event is free and hosted by the Hendrix-Murphy Foundation.
Williams has a rich literary background, being the great-granddaughter of Harlem Renaissance poet Arna Bontemps. She also hosts the Discovery+ series “Hungry for Answers,” focusing on Black food culture in America.
ETC.
Museum grants
There’s a spring deadline of April 3 to apply for the Small Museum Grants Program by the Arkansas Heritage division. This program offers grants up to $2,500 for small museums and historical sites in Arkansas. Eligible organizations need an annual budget of $250,000 or less and must be open to the public at least 90 days a year.
Projects can include maintenance, educational materials, exhibit creation, and more. For details and to apply, visit arkansasheritage.com/available-grants/division-of-arkansas-heritage-grants.
‘Sovereign Expressions’
From February 27 to March 2, the University of Arkansas is hosting “Resounding Sovereign Expressions.” This event features a mix of artists, musicians, and scholars discussing Indigenous culture and practices. Admission is free, and the program includes talks, performances, and discussions about important topics like land representation.
Support comes from a $25,000 grant by the Terra Foundation for American Art. For the agenda and to RSVP, visit art.uark.edu/news-events/resounding.php.
Conway arts awards
The Conway Alliance for the Arts is accepting nominations for their annual arts awards until March 28. There are seven categories recognizing student achievement, individual artists, community advocates, and outstanding educators. Prizes range from $25 to $100.
Artists from all mediums can be nominated, including visual art, music, and dance. Nominations are open to anyone connected to Conway through work, learning, or residency. More information can be found at conwayarts.org/artsawards.
