University of La Verne Unveils Lyceum Arts, Lectures Series

The University of La Verne is launching a new performing and visual arts series this fall with a rich and eclectic lineup of concerts, exhibitions and captivating special guests.

The inaugural season of Lyceum, created in celebration of the University of La Verne's 125th anniversary, is open to the public, and will attract audiences from across the region. The name Lyceum, which is Greek, refers to public lectures, discussions, concerts and entertainment.

"Lyceum at La Verne provides a window through which to view ideas, cultures and art forms, and serves as a mirror that reflects ourselves, our histories and our own cultures," said Dr. Lawrence Potter, dean of the University of La Verne College of Arts and Sciences.

The series also promotes cultural and artistic awareness and exemplifies the university's commitment to holistic education and community development, Potter said.

Dozens of events have already been confirmed. The first signature event will be the Latin Music Festival at Morgan Auditorium at 5 p.m. on Sept. 25. It will feature the Cuban music of New York's La Tematik, the seasoned percussion of Latin artist Calixto Oviendo, and his band, Cuban Jazz Train. La Tematik began in 2010 as an ensemble for salsa and Cuban singers touring New York's Tri State area, but quickly became a first-call ensemble. Calixto Oviendo is a Latin Grammy-nominated artist who has performed with internationally-known artists including Paquito D'Rivera, Arturo Sandoval and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. He and his ensemble of musicians mix Afro Cuban music with New Orleans jazz.

Other signature events scheduled for the fall include:

• Oct. 11: Photographic artist Joshua Rashaad McFadden presents After Selma, an award-winning exhibit examining the 1965 civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala.
• Nov. 2: Guest lecture by author and poet Claudia Rankine, whose bestselling book "Citizen: An American Lyric" explores what it means to be an American citizen in a "post-racial" society.
• Nov. 13: LA Opera Artists perform some of opera's greatest hits.
• Nov. 15: Guest lecture by award-winning American playwright Luis Valdez

Subscribers to Lyceum enjoy priority seating, VIP invitations to select pre-concert receptions and other benefits. See the full calendar of events and become a subscriber at http://laverne.edu/lyceum or call 909-448-4188.

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