Black Arts MKE

When Milwaukee's King Center opened almost 50 years ago, it was designed to serve the entire community. And for so long it has. But the narrative around the center changed a few months ago with a police killing.

This year marks the ten year anniversary of Black Arts MKE, a non-profit aimed at increasing the availability and quality of African American arts and culture.

Since 2014, Black Lens has worked to bring films and documentaries to the festival that spotlight emerging and established Black storytellers.

A new original musical from the Bronzeville Arts Ensemble called Zuri’s Crown celebrates Black women, their hair, and the power of self-expression and love. It tells the story of a young Black girl on a journey to find and live as her authentic self.

In celebration of Black History Month, Black Arts MKE is presenting a theatrical production of the Harlem Renaissance by local playwright Malaina Moore.

More than 40 artists will come together Saturday, Oct. 1 for a live exploration of the influences that make up hip-hop, from medleys of soul and funk to West African rhythms.

The festival, presented by Black Arts MKE, is a celebration of storytelling from an African Diasporic perspective. It features the voices of the young people and the elders.