February in Chicago always brings a host of cultural selections, and the choices are even richer to honor Black History Month. Most of the city's museums, libraries and theaters showcase aspects of black culture for the month with engaging events. From galleries to orchestras, enjoy the legacy of black creativity with these upcoming highlights.
Celebrating Our Cultural Giants and Ancestors
February 11–April 15
FREE ADMISSION
This historic Bronzeville gallery space honors Black History Month with the exhibit Celebrating Our Cultural Giants and Ancestors. Curator Dorian Sylvain has organized over a dozen local artists for a display of the cultural icons that personally inspired them.
The show includes mixed media pieces and portraits of famous figures including Duke Ellington, Langston Hughes, Harriet Tubman and James Baldwin. Entrance to the South Side Community Art Center is free.
WHERE: South Side Community Art Center | 3831 S. Michigan Avenue | 773-373-1026
HOURS: Wed-Fri, Noon–5 p.m.; Saturday 9–5 p.m.; Sunday 1–5 p.m.
Perle Noire: Meditations on Josephine
February 20, 6 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Declared "one of the best classical music concerts of 2016" by the New York Times, Perle Noire: Meditations on Josephine re-imagines the music of legendary singer and dancer Josephine Baker. The International Contemporary Ensemble's Julia Bullock plays Josephine. With music by Tyshawn Sorey and texts by Claudia Rankine. The concert is free, reserve tickets here.
WHERE: Stony Island Arts Bank | 6760 S. Stony Island Avenue | 312-857-5561
Voice of Chicago Concert
February 22–23, 10:45 a.m.
FREE ADMISSION
The Chicago Children's Choir and the world-renowned Voice of Chicago perform at Symphony Center Chicago for their Black History Month concert series. Experience the vocal beauty of 3,000 school-aged singers performing at the Symphony Center. Both concerts are free and begin at 10:45 am.
WHERE: Symphony Center | 220 S. Michigan Avenue | 312-294-3000
Celebrate Black History Month with events across Chicago all month. Check out our Black History Month guide for more places and events around the city.
