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Karamu: 100 Years in the House

Karamu: 100 Years in the House chronicles the incredible story of the oldest African-American performing arts theater in America, the Karamu House in the historic Fairfax neighborhood of Cleveland. This documentary highlights the key players, productions and claims to fame over the 100-year history of Karamu House.

Hosted by Karamu House alum and “Grey’s Anatomy” cast member James Pickens Jr., a Cleveland native, this program illustrates the significance of this African-American cultural landmark.

Named for a Swahili word meaning “a place of joyful gatherings,” Karamu House was established as a community cultural center and was the first interracial theater in the U.S.—and it continues to be a respected training ground for performers and directors.

Generous support for this ideastream prod­uction is provided by KeyBank and contributors to the ideastream Campaign for Community.