COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — From the McConnell Arts Center and the Ohio History Center to the King Arts Complex and Drexel Theatre, many organizations are hosting events celebrating Black History Month. Find an event near you below.
Kaleidoscope Youth Center
603 E. Town St. from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 8 and 22
- The center is hosting activities through its Queer People of Color group for youth ages 12 to 20. The discussion and peer group is a space for queer and trans youth of color to gather and share in the experience.
Black Joy Film Series
The McConnell Arts Center at 2 p.m. on Feb. 10
- The center is presenting several movies as part of its Black Joy Film Series. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” will be screened on Feb. 10 and “The Princess and the Frog” on March 9. All screenings are free, but a reservation is required online.
‘The Color Purple’
Short North Stage through Feb. 18
- Spotlight on Celie, a downtrodden young woman whose personal awakening over the course of 40 years forms the arc of this story. With a score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, African music and blues, “The Color Purple” is a story of hope, a testament to the healing power of love, and a celebration of life.
Columbus Cultural Orchestra pop-up concerts
Various locations through Feb. 29
- The orchestra is performing throughout Black History Month as part of its “Black Bevy” tour. The group is performing at the King Arts Complex and Columbus Museum of Art on Feb. 10, Flavor 91 Bistro on Feb. 16, Boys and Girls Club of Columbus on Feb. 23 and Kipp Columbus High School on Feb. 29.
Black History Month Celebration and Poindexter Award
Lincoln Theatre 10 a.m. on Feb. 16
- This year’s theme will be African Americans and the Arts, including musical and dance performances as well as a panel discussion on the past, present and future of arts in Columbus. The event is free and open to the public.
The Tea Room
Ohio History Center from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 17
- The Tea Room is a contemporary look at an African American Tea Ceremony that began in the mid-19th century. Designed to create an environment of unity and empowerment, the Tea Room will be a forum to learn about African American culture.
Aminah Robinson Day: All Arts Day
King Arts Complex from noon to 4 p.m. on Feb. 17
- Local artists are leading free workshops, activities and projects relating to Aminah Robinson, a multimedia artist, teacher and storyteller who was known for her work within the African-American community of Poindexter Village on Columbus’ Near East Side.
‘Malcolm X’ film screening
Drexel Theatre at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 27
- Biographical epic of the influential Black leader, from his early life and career. to his ministry as a member of the Nation of Islam and his eventual assassination.
Ohio Statehouse Programs
1 Capital Square through Feb. 27
- The Ohio Statehouse celebrates Black History Month with public events on Tuesdays. The 45-minute live performances start at noon, and will be followed by 15 minutes for Q&A. The events are free and open to the public.
Columbus Metropolitan Libraries
Various libraries through Feb. 29
- Celebrate Black history with in-person and virtual programs, including a the Urban Strings Columbus Youth Orchestra’s performance of inspiring music from popular African American composers and arrangers.