MIDDLETOWN, Calif. — The public is invited to “Harlem Voices,” a powerful musical performance and experience at the Middletown Art Center, this Saturday, March 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Written and composed by Rev. Clovice Lewis Jr., M.Div., “Harlem Voices” is a story about resilience in the face of systemic racism and white supremacy while celebrating the enduring power of art to inspire change.

The performance at MAC features seven original musical numbers performed by three vocalists, a string quartet and piano, with chorus by My Divas.

The art center will transform into the Black Jay Speakeasy set in the 1920s. Guests are encouraged to dress in Prohibition Era or fancy attire and participate in the speakeasy experience.

Tickets are currently available for $25, and limited. Prohibitions Era inspired food (by Goddess of the Mountain) and beverages are available for purchase. Advance orders of food requested. For more information or to purchase tickets visit middletownartcenter.org/harlemvoices.

Lewis is a composer well known in Lake and Mendocino County as a music educator and cellist participating in both local symphonies, He is a social justice advocate and an ordained Unitarian Universalist Minister.

In partnership with MAC, Lewis was recently awarded a prestigious Humanities for All grant from California Humanities to bring this two-part opus to life.

“Harlem Voices” has been the focus of his work since 2019. It is composed in a style Lewis calls “jazzical” – a blend of genres that makes this musical unique.

“I firmly believe that art has the unique ability to dismantle the cognitive dissonance that often shields people from their moral and spiritual truths,” Lewis said. “My life's work is dedicated to articulating the lived experience of a Black man in this country — for as long as it takes. No regime built on ignorance and bigotry will deter me. I will continue to champion justice through creativity, as long as I can hold a pen in my hand!”

Performing musicians and vocalists come from the Bay Area and Mendocino County and include Lake County’s own singer songwriter and activist Blue Ryon and My Diva’s: Barbara Clark, Laura McAndrews Sammel, Jo Fay, Brenda Vickers Gravesen.

Additional concert performances with a twelve piece orchestra will take place at the Soper Reese Theatre May 30, 31, with a matinee on June 1.

This is an urgent call to action for our community members to support a project that brings world-class artistry to Lake County and amplifies the voices of marginalized communities.

“Harlem Voices” is made possible by an award from California Humanities, a nonprofit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Visit www.calhum.org. 

Matching funds are required and donations are graciously accepted to help the partners meet their fundraising goals for this meaningful project. For more information visit MiddletownArtCenter.org/Harlem-voices.

Middletown Art Center is a nonprofit dedicated to engaging the public in art making, art education, and art appreciation and providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, striving to create an inclusive and accessible space for all.

To learn more and donate to support this or other MAC arts and cultural programs visit middletownartcenter.org. Contact MAC at 707-355-4465, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..