BALTIMORE,Md. — In June 2015, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture turns 10 and celebrates the milestone throughout the month with music, dance and a focus on its core service of education. The museum was founded on June 25, 2005. Anniversary events take place from June 18 through 25, commemorating the founding date with a spirit of celebration and purpose:
A Night with Maysa
Special 10th Anniversary Concert
Thursday, June 18, 7:00 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
In line with the museum’s mission to promote Maryland African American culture makers, Baltimore-born songstress Maysa provides a 10th anniversary performance. Her album Blue Velvet Soul was nominated for a Grammy in seven categories. She has sung in Stevie Wonder’s backup band and has appeared on Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever soundtrack. Maysa has toured as a solo artist and internationally with Incognito. Tickets are available for $35-45. Museum member discounts available.
For more information: http://bit.ly/1FqF7Cu
Dance Theatre of Harlem Performance
Co-presented with Murphy Fine Arts Center at Morgan State University
Saturday, June 20, 8:00 p.m.
Arthur Mitchell founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem in response to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to ignite positive social change. Its purpose is still poignantly relevant today. The company shares a connection with Maryland. Ballet Master Keith Saunders is from Baltimore and three current members hail from the free state. This performance is in conjunction with the museum’s current exhibition Dance Theatre of Harlem: 40 Years of Firsts. Tickets are available for $40-52. Museum members may purchase $60 package for performance and a reception with the dancers.
For more information: http://bit.ly/1JE7ZKu
Celebrating Educators of an African American Journey
Thursday, June 25, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
The museum presents a program to recognize the individuals who conceived, developed and implemented the curriculum An African American Journey: A Resource for Learning the History of African Americans in Maryland and the United States. The curriculum, a teacher’s resource guide for grades 4-12, provides educational lessons and activities about African American history as a vital and integral part of American history. It is the result of a unique partnership between the museum and the Maryland State Department of Education. The recognition program includes living history performances and musical performances by the Western High School Concert Choir and the Dunbar Jazz Ensemble.
For more information: http://bit.ly/1FFdKYB
10th Birthday Open House
Free admission
Thursday, June 25, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
In celebration of the museum’s 10th birthday on June 25, 2015, free admission is offered all day with a birthday cake served at noon.