Community Calendar

Panelists and featured guests discuss history topics with Clements staff in this webinar series. In this conversation, author Don James McLaughlin explores how phobia — first tied to diseases like hydrophobia (rabies) — became a flexible suffix attached to various fears and social concerns, shaping political, medical, and aesthetic thought from the colonial period through the early 20th century.

McLaughlin traces the emergence and evolution of phobia as a concept in American culture long before it became established in modern psychology. McLaughlin challenges the idea that phobia only gained prominence with late-19th-century psychiatry, showing instead that the term’s roots extend back to early American literary and medical discourses.

This exhibition honors the commitment of our members from SE Michigan and beyond, whose support plays a vital role in bringing our mission to life. We welcome the public to discover the unique artistic voices and styles of over 100 member artists.

Thomas Paine’s “Common Sense” was one of the most influential works of the American Revolution. The first edition was published on January 10, 1776, with an initial print run of just 1,000 copies; but within weeks demand soared. The students of Andy Murphy’s POLISCI 495 course co-curated the exhibition “Revolutionary Paine” to document the whirlwind caused by its publication. On view at the Clements January 16-May 8, weekdays from 12-4 pm.

Fostering intelligent conversation at the intersection of faith and the written word, the Festival of Faith & Writing is a unique celebration. For three days every other April, we gather on the campus of Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to explore the power of belief and the written word.

Rooted in Reformed theology’s deep appreciation for the goodness of creation, we create space for meaningful conversations and shared discoveries.

People with diverse religious beliefs and practices are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Through lectures, readings, and engaging conversations, we bring together a vibrant community of readers and writers for a genuinely inspiring experience.

From an Adaptation by CHRISTOPHER BOND
Originally Directed On Broadway by HAROLD PRINCE
Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick
Originally Produced on Broadway by Richard Barr, Charles Woodward, Robert Fryer, Mary Lea Johnson, Martin Richards in Association with Dean and Judy Manos

For mature audiences, aged 12+ - No babes in arms.

Attend the tale of a barber who returns from unjust exile, driven by vengeance and a hunger for justice. When he joins forces with Mrs. Lovett, a resourceful pie shop owner, the results are both horrific and strangely compelling.

Winner of eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, Sweeney Todd blends sharp wit, chilling suspense, and a powerful score that ranges from haunting ballads to biting satire. Described as “one of the greatest musicals ever written” (New York Post) and “a nightmare of a show and in some ways a dream” (The Guardian), this tale of love, loss, and razor-sharp revenge continues to resonate.

Erin Shields’ Paradise Lost reinvents John Milton’s epic poem through a bold, contemporary lens. Satan, cast out of Heaven, seeks revenge by tempting humanity, setting the stage for a cosmic battle of free will versus divine power. Blending sharp wit, modern feminism, and classical mythology, Shields’ adaptation challenges traditional notions of good and evil while exploring oppression, rebellion, and knowledge. With rich language and a fresh perspective, this powerful play reimagines one of literature’s most profound stories, making it both deeply relevant and strikingly theatrical.

A charming and witty comedy about the relationship of Hollywood legends, Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner. Tipping Point Theatre presents the Michigan Premiere of "Gene & Gilda" by Cary Gitter.

It’s Hollywood in the late 1980’s and Gene Wilder is giving his first interview after the death of his beloved Gilda Radner. Although he states any discussion of Gilda is off limits, Gilda has other ideas and crashes the interview. The famous couple come to vivid life as we follow them from their first meeting through their personal and professional ups and downs, all the way to their poignant farewell. We celebrate an intimate portrait of two comic legends in love, and the lives they led beyond the laughter.

Runtime: ~90 minutes, no intermission

Showtimes are Wednesday - Sunday starting April 8 through May 3, 2026

Chicago Steppin' dance event and workshop for adults