Foluké Cultural Arts Center

What started out in 1996 as a dance ministry in Lane Metropolitan CME Church, a church in Cleveland Ohio^s Cedar/Central Area, has evolved into the community-based Foluké Cultural Arts Center, a haven for at-risk youth. Youth who have never participated in the performing arts have suddenly experienced the thrill, excitement, and sense of accomplishment, leading up to performance day. For many, it has become a turning point in their lives. Art as a weapon against poverty, racism and discrimination is the concept that the Foluké Cultural Arts Center is based upon. It is a godsend for youth who have limited opportunity for expression and inquiry, and offers startling results for those considered at-risk.

The Components of the Foluké Cultural Arts Center are Dance, Drama, African Drumming, Music Classes (vocal and instrumental), and Stage Production and Management. These arts disciplines are combined and presented by the Foluké Cultural Arts Center participants, in semi-annual productions at Cuyahoga Community College. The dance, drama and music activities are designed to allow youth to express their inner most feelings through creative and expressive interpretation. The Stage Production/Management activity is geared to exposing youth and teens to performing arts trades, and giving them a practical "hands-on" experience by working closely with union trade workers and theatre management.