By 1808Delaware
Ohio Wesleyan University is bringing an exciting lineup of cultural events and artistic performances throughout November 2024. From visual art exhibits and musical performances to discussions on world politics, the university offers a variety of events that are mostly free to the public. Here’s a look at what to expect:
Three Art Exhibits at Ross Art Museum
Ohio Wesleyan’s Richard M. Ross Art Museum is hosting three concurrent exhibitions through December 13:
- “Fossils and Halos” explores the artistic interpretations of a 370-million-year-old shark fossil by Ohio Wesleyan Fine Arts professors Kristina Bogdanov, Frank Hobbs, and Jeff Nilan.
- “Pictures with Stories” showcases the work of photographer and writer Tony Mendoza, chronicling his family’s journey from pre-Castro Cuba to present-day America.
- “Culture Push” visually responds to Fritz Scholder’s provocative piece, “Hollywood Indian.” This exhibit uses selections from OWU’s permanent collection to delve into the cultural forces shaping society, supporting the university’s first-year student seminar curriculum. It will continue to be displayed through March 23, 2025.
The museum, located at 60 S. Sandusky St., Delaware, is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It will close for Thanksgiving from November 23 to December 1. Admission is always free, and the museum is handicap-accessible.
For more information, visit owu.edu/ross.
Musical Theatre and Recitals
Ohio Wesleyan will host several musical performances throughout November, promising diverse genres and experiences:
- November 1-2, 8:00 PM: European Staycation, a theatrical journey through Europe with scenes from musicals such as Cabaret, Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812, and Les Miserables. This event takes place in Jemison Auditorium at 23 Elizabeth St., Delaware. Admission is free.
- November 3, 3:00 PM: Ohio Wesleyan’s faculty recital, featuring pianist Mariko Kaneda, will also be held at Jemison Auditorium.
- November 8, 7:30 PM: A Cappellooza, the university’s signature a cappella event, will feature student groups and a surprise headline act in Gray Chapel at 61 S. Sandusky St., Delaware. Tickets are $5 for general admission, while Ohio Wesleyan students and staff can attend for free with valid IDs. Tickets go on sale October 21 at owu.edu/acappellooza.
- November 10, 3:00 PM: The Choral Art Society and Chamber Choir, under the direction of Professor Jason Hiester, will perform in Gray Chapel.
- November 11, 6:30 PM: The Honor Choir Festival Concert also takes place in Gray Chapel, featuring talented high school singers.
For more details about musical performances, visit owu.edu/PerformingArts.
Lectures and Observations
Alongside artistic events, Ohio Wesleyan offers opportunities for public discourse and stargazing:
- November 13, 7:00 PM: Dr. Marc Lynch, a political science expert from George Washington University, will present a talk titled Gaza and America’s Role in the Middle East as part of the John Kennard Eddy Memorial Lecture on World Politics. The lecture will be held in the Benes Rooms inside the Hamilton-Williams Campus Center at 40 Rowland Ave., Delaware. This event aligns with OWU’s 2024-2025 colloquium theme, Democracy Matters, exploring challenges to American democracy. Admission is free. Learn more at owu.edu/SNC.
- November 1, 8, 15, and 22, 8:00 PM: Perkins Observatory, located at 3199 Columbus Pike, Delaware, will host its Friday night skywatches, featuring telescope views, planetarium shows, and tours (weather permitting). Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. Reservations can be made by calling (740) 363-1257 or visiting owu.edu/Perkins.
Dance and Jazz
Ohio Wesleyan’s dance and jazz programs will round out the month’s schedule:
- November 14, 8:00 PM: The Chamber Orchestra, directed by Deborah Price, will perform in Gray Chapel. Admission is free.
- November 15 (8:00 PM) and November 16 (2:00 PM & 8:00 PM): The OWU Dance Company presents Fall Dance Concert: Orchesis 24/25, featuring a blend of student and faculty choreography at Chappelear Drama Center, 45 Rowland Ave., Delaware.
- November 19, 8:00 PM: The Park Avenue Jazz Ensemble will perform in Gray Chapel. Directed by Kevin Turner, this ensemble promises an evening of jazz favorites.
What to Know Before You Go
Ohio Wesleyan encourages the community to take advantage of its free public programming. However, attendees should verify event details in advance, as scheduling is subject to change. Visit owu.edu/calendar for the latest updates and battlingbishops.com for information on OWU athletics events.
Source: OWU; Photo – Ohio Wesleyan’s November events include a voices-only A Cappellooza concert on Nov. 8 and the Fall Dance Concert: Orchesis 24/25 on Nov. 15-16. Here, the OWU Dance Company enjoys an outdoor rehearsal. (Photo by Paul Vernon)
