A Short Sketch of Arts in Columbus

From Greek Revival state buildings, a collection of American and European art at Wexner Center, the headquarters of the Ohio Historical Society, and a Victorian museum Columbus arts are a focus for Ohio’s capital. More contemporary examples of the arts may be found at the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, BalletMet Columbus, Broadway Across America, Actors’ Theatre, and Columbus Museum of Art. Each of these justifies the visitor’s return on time devoted.

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, established in 1951, presents 14 classical and nine pops programs a season. The summer portion is dedicated to outdoor pops performances; the winter segment offers symphony in its home venue at the Ohio Theatre, a historic national landmark renovated from a splendid old 1928 movie palace.

BalletMet Columbus, innovative and versatile, also lives at the Ohio Theatre where a 21 foot chandelier and Spanish-Baroque design contribute to its opulence. One of the largest dance companies in the United States, BalletMet Columbus tenders dance entertainment for all audiences as well as providing accessible dance education and outreach programs for the community.

Another happy resident of the Ohio Theatre in Columbus is Broadway Across America, producer of live theatrical events presented across North America. Nearly all of these venues are Broadway hits on tour bringing the New York and London stage to over 40 cities throughout the US and Canada. “West Side Story” and “Memphis” are two of the spring 2012 offerings in Columbus. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ohio_Theatre_(Columbus,_Ohio))

Actors’ Theatre presents the traditional theater of Shakespeare and other playwrights to an outdoor audience from Memorial Day to Labor Day in German Village at Schiller Park. This acting troupe, with its 30 year history, began on a wooden stage but, progressed to a permanent performance site in 1995. Outdoor shows are free; however, donations are encouraged. The 31st season, beginning in May of 2012, will include Hickman’s “Robin Hood”, “The Merchant of Venice” and Goldoni’s “The Servant of Two Masters”.

And finally, The Columbus Museum of Art, which is located downtown, is on the National Register of Historic Places, and presents both early modern European and American art as well as contemporary art and photography. Interestingly, those rooms where pre-19th century paintings are hung use the salon style where art is hung above and next to each other. No stark white cubes in these galleries; instead, walls of various and intense colors are used to clarify the art. There is also an outdoor sculpture gallery and a children’s exhibit. Until May 2012 there is an exhibition entitled “Monet to Matisse” which commemorates the Columbus Bicentennial. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Museum_of_Art)