Remembering the music scene in Detroit is part of The 1950s: Affluence and Anxiety in the Atomic Age, a program series running through May 7 at the Lorenzo Cultural Center on Macomb’s Center Campus in Clinton Township.
On Sunday, March 27, 2 p.m., Jim Gallert, veteran jazz broadcaster, researcher and writer, and Lars Bjorn, U of M-Dearborn professor, recall the “golden age of Detroit Jazz” and the burgeoning of Motown, which broke down the artificial barriers between the music of black and white kids in 1940s Detroit Music: Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Rock ‘n’ Roll.
On April 30 at 7:30 p.m., find a pair of saddle shoes and a poodle skirt and plan on an evening of dancing at a fun-filled 50s-themed Sock Hop. The evening will include dance contests, “Name that Tune,” individual and couples’ costumes and Hula Hooping. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased by calling 586.286.2222 or visit www.MacombCenter.com. Cash bar and refreshments will be available for purchase.
The program series features more than two dozen free presentations, as well as free exhibits in the cultural center, including Atoms for Peace – a display of lithographs on loan from the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History – and Affluence and Anxiety in the Atomic Age – a multimedia exploration of life in the 1950s.
Admission to the presentations is free, but advance registration is required and may be made by calling 586.445.7348. Group visits and school field trips are also welcome and may be made at the same number.
The Lorenzo Cultural Center is open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sundays. Additional information about the cultural center and on the 1950s program series is available at www.LorenzoCulturalCenter.com. Group visits are welcome during the series and may be arranged by calling 586.445.7348.
About the Lorenzo Cultural Center
The Lorenzo Cultural Center (www.LorenzoCulturalCenter.com) explores the influences and experiences that shape our community's heritage, examining topics from a variety of perspectives and creating interactive opportunities for learning, celebration and entertainment. Located on Macomb Community College's Center Campus, Hall and Garfield Roads in Clinton Township, the cultural center is adjacent to the Macomb Center for Performing Arts.
About Macomb Community College
Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is one of the nation’s leading community colleges, providing learning experiences to more than 48,000 students annually. Macomb nationally ranks in the top two percent in the number of associate degrees awarded and as the largest grantor of associate degrees in Michigan. The college’s comprehensive educational programming includes pre-collegiate experiences, university transfer and career preparation programs, bachelor degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.
Media Contact:
Tish Wirth
Communications & Community Relations
Macomb Community College
586.445.7560
wirthp@macomb.edu