As the new year rolls in, the Oak Cliff Cultural Center decks out its schedule with a slate of events aimed to enrich, educate, and entertain Dallas locals. January kicks off with the Zora Neale Hurston Festival on January 13, a showcase of literature, workshops, and storytelling. The festival is joining hands with Pan-African Connection and The Dock Bookshop to set up book sales, SDCC Book Club discussions, and creative activities like Adinkra printmaking, according to the City of Dallas.
Those with an artistic bent can get hands-on experience courtesy of the Dallas Museum of Art with workshops on found objects sculpture — think recycling on steroids turning everyday junk into treasures. A particularly engaging Instagram Live event will feature Rae Chesny, known as The Zora Girl, and Dr. Ashely Wade delving into Hurston's legacy. However, save some energy for the auditory journey through the annals of history with Sheran Keyton and friends, designed for kids but sure to captivate any adult within earshot.
The cultural center isn't shy about switching gears with FTC Comedy bringing the laughs on January 19 with Chris Tellez, who's been flagged by Comedy Central as an "up next" talent to keep tabs on. Joining him are Lili Lopez, known for hosting United Tacos of America on the El Rey Network, and Dante Martinez who's shared his trials as a first-generation Latino through the art of comedy. With more shows locked in for the rest of the year, this comedy series is primed to toast the Latin talent of the City of Dallas.
Not to be left in the canvas' shadow, Belong Disability Ministry enters the artistic fray with art classes spanning January 16 to February 6. This inclusive series invites those 16 and up with disabilities to dive into an array of artistic endeavors. Attendees will have the opportunity to dabble in painting, drawing, printmaking, and collage – culminating in their very own canvas masterpiece. All these events go to show that the Oak Cliff Cultural Center is committed to serving up a rich platter of cultural and comical encounters to kick off 2024, per the City of Dallas.
