Call For Artists

Spreadin’ Rhythm Around: An Ain’t Misbehavin’ Art Show

Broadway Rose Theatre Company is seeking submissions from emerging and established Black visual artists in the Portland metro area for the Spreadin’ Rhythm Around art exhibition accompanying our production of the musical revue Ain’t Misbehavin’, which runs September 21–October 15.

Ain’t Misbehavin’ pays tribute to the incomparable Thomas “Fats” Waller who rose to international fame during the Harlem Renaissance, the Golden Age of the Cotton Club, and that jumpin’ new beat, swing music. Winner of the 1978 Tony Award for Best Musical, Ain’t Misbehavin’ evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of this American legend as a versatile cast struts, strums, and sings the songs that he made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown, Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood, and throughout concert stages in the United States, Canada, and Europe. This production will be directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran Eugene Ware-Hill.

Described by his writing partner Andy Razaf as “the soul of melody” and a “bubbling bundle of joy,” Waller viewed life as a journey meant for pleasure and play. Through themes of joy, humor, creativity, musical expression, and, of course, jazz, this exhibition seeks to celebrate Waller’s joie de vivre as well as the explosion of creativity and innovation from the Black artists that defined the Harlem Renaissance.

Art, music, and culture as we know it today would not exist without the countless contributions and artistry of Black creatives through the ages. Our goal is to share the voices and perspectives of Black visual artists in our community and to support emerging artists and their work. As such, there is no fee for submitting work for consideration, and no commission taken off of potential sales of works.

Artists selected for the exhibition will be awarded two tickets to the opening night performance of Ain’t Misbehavin’ on September 22, immediately following the exhibition’s opening reception.

Exhibition curated by Education & Community Engagement Manager Amaya Santamaría and Dani Wright.

Contact Dani@broadwayrose.org with any questions.

Application deadline and selection by: August 30
Art drop off: September 13 – 15, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Exhibition: September 21 – October 15
Opening night reception: September 22, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Art pick up: October 18 – 19, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.