In response to anti-Black racism, Artscape Weston Common, in partnership with our programming partner, UrbanArts, and non-profit organization, MANIFESTO, is launching the Run It Black live showcase series to amplify voices of Black, marginalized youth, celebrate the rich diverse culture in Weston and surrounding areas, and provide paid and safe performance opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Generously sponsored by Ontario Trillium Foundation and Telus, Run It Black will feature a local emerging artist — musicians, spoken word artists, poets, and other performance artists — every Thursday from June 25-July 30, 2020 at 6pm in a 30-minute live broadcast from Artscape Weston Common over Artscape’s Facebook Live, with special behind-the-scenes footage on Artscape’s Instagram.

The series will encourage the next generation of artists to use their platforms with increased self-esteem and feeling of connection to local arts, culture and community, while also demonstrating solidarity with anti-black racism.

The schedule of performances include:

June 25 – I.P. the Poet

July 2 – Travis Knight

Born in raised in the city of Toronto, growing up in a Pentecostal church Travis has always been around music. He did not start singing until he was eight years old when his mother caught him humming over his homework. His experience in music grew as he took part in York University’s Gospel choir. Since then, the up and coming artist has started to come into his own and has begun to build a solid catalogue of smooth soulful vibes.

July 9 – Mighloe

Mighloe is a Toronto Based RnB singer/ songwriter. You can catch her performing all over the city on major platforms including Manifesto at Nathan Philips Square and has opened up stages for artists such as Ari Lennox and Grammy Award winning PJ Morton. Mighloe often engages in all aspects of her works from creative direction to styling and acting. An all-around artist, Mighloe is on her way to a promising career in the entertainment industry.

July 16 – 30 – TBA

 

 

As a community cultural hub, Artscape Weston Common is a destination for emerging young artists, as home to programming partners UrbanArts and Shakespeare In Action, as well as creating its own community engagement initiatives like the Run It Black live showcase series.

In early 2021, Artscape will be launching youth programming aimed at engaging at-risk youth who have little access to mentorship and few employment opportunities through the power of arts and culture.