The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) is set to host its 14th annual Summer Solstice festival on June 21, marking the return of this highly anticipated event after a hiatus for renovations. This spectacular celebration blends music, art, and dance with performances by international bands and DJs. The lineup includes seven groups, featuring debut performances from Mexican Institute of Sound, Balkan Paradise Orchestra, and El Laberinto del Coco. Additionally, visual artist Kevin Jackson will enhance the experience with projection mapping inspired by the museum's collection. Inside the Ames Family Atrium, Cleveland DJs will keep the energy high with a mix of funk, soul, hip-hop, and house music.
Gabe Pollack, CMA’s director of performing arts, highlights the importance of the festival’s diverse musical offerings. He expresses excitement about the global sounds showcased, including New Orleans-style brass band music and Latin Grammy-nominated artists. Ticket holders enjoy access to galleries, appetizers, and unlimited drinks. Tickets priced at $150 are expected to sell out quickly, as they have done for the past 14 years. Memberships offer early ticket access, while public sales begin shortly thereafter if available.
Global Sounds Under the Stars
This year's festival features a rich tapestry of international music styles, performed by acclaimed artists hailing from various corners of the globe. The South Terrace stage hosts a series of dynamic performances that transport audiences across continents through sound. Each act brings its unique flavor, from the vibrant rhythms of New Orleans to the fiery beats of Spain and Puerto Rico. These performances promise to captivate listeners with their energetic presentations.
Among the standout acts is Mexican Institute of Sound, led by Camilo Lara, an Emmy-winning and Grammy-nominated artist celebrated globally. His compositions have graced numerous film soundtracks, television shows, and gained recognition in prestigious media outlets. Also making their Cleveland debuts are the Balkan Paradise Orchestra, an all-female ensemble from Spain, and El Laberinto del Coco, bringing Bomba music from Puerto Rico. Each performance offers a distinct auditory journey, blending traditional sounds with contemporary flair. Gabe Pollack emphasizes his excitement over these diverse musical experiences, noting the festival's role in introducing new global sounds to local audiences.
Artistic Flourishes Within the Museum
Beyond the outdoor festivities, the Cleveland Museum of Art transforms into a vibrant indoor venue during the Summer Solstice festival. Visual artist Kevin Jackson employs cutting-edge projection mapping techniques to enliven both interior and exterior spaces with captivating visuals drawn from the museum's extensive collection. Meanwhile, the Ames Family Atrium becomes a pulsating hub of activity, where Cleveland's top DJs spin eclectic mixes that keep guests dancing throughout the night.
Jackson's projections incorporate detailed 3-D models of artworks created using photogrammetry, adding layers of depth and interactivity to the museum environment. Attendees can also explore extended gallery hours, enjoying access to permanent collections until late evening and previews of select exhibits like Takashi Murakami: Stepping on the Tail of a Rainbow. Inside the atrium, It’s a Vibe Solstice Atrium Takeover presents exclusive DJ sets by Sound on Tape, Corey Grand, and Knyce, elevating the atmosphere with a fusion of music, style, and culture. These elements combine to create an immersive artistic experience that complements the outdoor musical extravaganza, ensuring a memorable evening celebrating summer solstice in true Cleveland fashion.