Cliffe College Performing Arts Series
Cliffe College Performing Arts Series
The Cliffe College Performing Arts Series features diverse international artists whose astounding performances inspire audience members of all ages. Artists such as Dance Theatre of Harlem, Huber Marionettes, Cuarteto Latinoamericano, Karim Sulayman, Du Yun, René Izquierdo, Ailey II, Tyshawn Sorey, American Brass Quintet, and the Harlem Quartet have graced stages throughout our community. The series brings to Youngstown the types of cultural opportunities usually found only in large metropolitan areas. YSU believes that the arts are vital to the university, our community, and region, and we invite you to join us for as many of our exceptional performances as possible.
Nobuntu
October 27, 2024, 7:30 PM
Ford Family Recital Hall, DeYor Performing Arts Center
Nobuntu, a female a cappella quartet from Zimbabwe, has drawn international acclaim for its inventive performances that range from traditional Zimbabwean songs to Afro Jazz to Gospel. The ensemble’s concerts are performed with pure voices, augmented by minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as the Mbira (thumb piano), and organic, authentic dance movements.
Alla Boara's Serata Italiana
A Night of Italian Music and Cuisine
January 31, 2025, 7:00 PM
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Basilica, Youngstown
Dinner by Station Square Ristorante
Join the Cliffe Performing Arts Series for its special event of Italian music, cuisine, and culture at our Serata Italiana:A Night of Italian Music and Cuisine special event!
Enjoy the rich traditions of Italy as we welcome Alla Boara, a vibrant six-piece Italian folk group—founded by Dana School of Music alumnus Anthony Taddeo—that seeks to bring recognition and new life to Italy's diverse history of regional folk music. With modern arrangements that are variously surprising, playful, mournful, tender, and bewitching, Alla Boara’s dynamic songs move audiences of all ethnic heritages to treasure their musical roots and consider historical songs’ contemporary cultural relevance.
This special event will feature an Italian dinner catered by Chef Ottavio Musumeci of Station Square Ristorante, with a menu created to celebrate the authentic flavors of Italy. Whether you're a lover of Italian culture, a foodie, or simply looking for a delightful night out, this event promises an unforgettable experience filled with joy, tradition, and the spirit of Italy.
Harlem Quartet
February 22, 2025, 7:00 PM
St. John's Episcopal Church, Youngstown
Co-sponsored by 88.5 WYSU-FM
Harlem Quartet is a New York-based string quartet that advances diversity in classical music with varied repertoire, including works by minority composers. Since its public debut at Carnegie Hall in 2006, the quartet has appeared throughout the U.S. as well as in Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Ethiopia, France, Panama, South Africa, Venezuela, and the U.K. The quartet has performed on chamber series across the country; engaged in numerous educational residencies and masterclasses; and collaborated with other talented artists, including violinist Itzhak Perlman, cellist Carter Brey, clarinetist Paquito D’Rivera, saxophonist and composer Tim Garland, and jazz artists Chick Corea, Gary Burton, and John Patitucci.
Imani Winds
April 4, 2025, 7:00 PM
YSU Ford Theater, Bliss Hall
Imani Winds was named the 2024 GRAMMY® Award winner in the Classical Compendium category for Jeff Scott’s “Passion for Bach and Coltrane,” released on their recently formed record label, Imani Winds Media. Celebrating over a quarter century of music making, the three time GRAMMY® nominated group has led both a revolution and evolution of the wind quintet through their dynamic playing, adventurous programming, imaginative collaborations, and outreach endeavors that have inspired audiences of all ages and backgrounds. About Imani Winds, Gramophone wrote, “the ensemble’s hot rapport churns with conviction throughout.”
Thank you to our supporters!
This series is presented by the Cliffe College of Creative Arts, which wishes to thank these terrific supporters!
