May 01 Friday
A true multihyphenate, Sean Hickey is an active composer and arranger, an instrumentalist, and a record label executive, currently serving as Managing Director of Pentatone Music, one of the world’s leading independent classical labels. In this public talk, MUSICIAN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND THE TOOLS OF CULTURAL DIPLOMACY, he will share insights drawn from his 35 years on both sides of the business, exploring how today’s artists can navigate a fractured media landscape, the rise of Big Tech, and the ubiquity of AI while using the many tools available to best promote their work. Hickey will also discuss the idea of soft power—how music, in a fractured world, can and should offer escape, comfort, and motivation—and on the importance of centering culture as a tool of diplomacy on the world stage.
Join us to learn more about the history of the Clements Library, its programs, and collections. Highlights include Benjamin West's iconic painting "Death of General Wolfe," a Revolutionary War-era trunk that once housed General Thomas Gage's papers, and the current exhibit, “Revolutionary Paine.”
Arrive at our North Entrance to check-in for your tour. This entrance is accessible and an elevator is available to move between floors.
We want to ensure full participation in our events. If an accommodation would promote that, please let us know.
Join HAVEN on Friday, May 1, 2026 as we celebrate those who support survivors of domestic violence and abuse. Our annual gala will be held at the Auburn Hills Marriott Pontiac and will be emceed by WDIV anchor, reporter and multiple Emmy winner Karen Drew, a strong community advocate and leader.
The evening will begin with a cocktail hour from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, followed by an unforgettable program from 7:00 to 10:00 pm, bringing together community and corporate leaders, advocates and survivors for a night of compassion and connection.
This inspiring event will feature a powerful paddle raise, 50/50 raffle, wine pull and silent auction, all dedicated to raising critical funds that make HAVEN’s life-saving work possible. Guests will experience meaningful conversations, moving survivor stories, and the collective energy of a community united to end violence and create lasting change.
Julian Kuerti, conductor | Kalamazoo Symphony OrchestraJoseph Lattanzi, baritone | Stanislav Khristenko, piano
Alexandre Kantorow, 2024 Gilmore Artist, piano
American pianist Van Cliburn instantly shot to superstardom after winning the inaugural International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow at the height of the Cold War. At this year’s Festival, experience the World Premiere of a new one-act monodrama by American composer Evan Mack and Pulitzer-prize winning librettist Mark Campbell, exploring the impact of Cliburn’s historic win on his own life and on global culture. American Sputnik features baritone Joseph Lattanzi and Cleveland International Piano Competition-winning pianist Stanislav Khristenko dually portraying the role of Cliburn, joined by the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra under Music Director Julian Kuerti. After intermission, 2024 Gilmore Artist Alexandre Kantorow — who followed in Cliburn’s footsteps as a winner of the Tchaikovsky Competition — joins the KSO to perform Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 2, one of the concertos that helped Kantorow earn his victory at the competition.
More from Alexandre Kantorow:Alexandre Kantorow, Solo Piano | May 2, 2026 at 8 pm | LEARN MORE
ProgramEVAN MACK /libst. MARK CAMPBELLAmerican SputnikWorld Premiere, commissioned by The Gilmore & Kalamazoo Symphony OrchestraP. TCHAIKOVSKYPiano Concerto No. 2 in G Major, Op. 44
It’s the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence … if only the founding fathers agree to it! This musical follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson as they attempt to convince members of Congress to sign the Declaration of Independence. With humor and a stirring score, the Tony® Award-winning musical presents the frustrations and triumphs of our founding fathers. Presented in partnership with the Midland County Historical Society, and in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States. 1776 brings a fresh look at the people, and the compromises that defined a revolution.
Directed by Susie PolitoMusic and Lyrics by Sherman Edwards / Book by Peter Stone
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
Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show, was formed in Los Angeles the summer of 2012. Since then, they have traveled all over North America and meticulously crafted a show that spares no detail. Recreating the legendary persona of Fleetwood Mac, Rumours embodies the band members in all of their youthful glory from 1975 through 1987 – whether it’s their period-accurate equipment and costumes or their spot-on characterizations and musical performances. Rumours will take you back to a time when music was still an unbridled cultural experience and bands weren't afraid to put on a show. Relive rock and roll magic with Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show.
May 02 Saturday
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.