International House plans schedule of artistic performances, lectures

International House will begin its year-long 70th Anniversary Celebration during the week of October 4 to 13 when the Global Voices Performing Arts Series will present Arts Across the World.

To reach out to a wider community, Arts Across the World will be included in the Illinois Arts Council’s statewide campaign to promote Illinois Arts Week 2002 and to launch the public portion of I-House’s 70^th Anniversary Celebration.

“The program is intended to take advantage of I-House’s strengths while moving it in new directions that will extend its city-wide public profile and institutional identity,” said Henry Pernet, Director of International House.

“The goal of the anniversary year is to enable us to continue to strengthen our links with the University and the City of Chicago in ways that promote cross-cultural understanding and respect and the exchange of ideas among people of all nations and backgrounds,” Pernet said.

The main program will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5th when International House will host a World Music, Dance and Arts Tour featuring selected works from master artists from Brazil, East Africa, Eastern Europe and India.

“These regions have been selected for their rich cultural heritage,” said Denise Jorgens, Director of Programs and Special Events. A reception sponsored by the Office of the Provost and held for alumni and members of the University of Chicago community as well as Chicago-based international organizations and cultural groups will precede the concert.

In conjunction with the World Music, Dance and Arts Tour, concerts showcasing individual artists, educational workshops and art exhibitions will be scheduled throughout the week to encourage interaction between the master artists and the greater community. Information about individual programs and activities is available at http://ihouse.uchicago.edu.

Along with a growing schedule of special events, International House is in the midst of several important projects, such as the renovation of office space to allow the Office of International Affairs to relocate to I-House. In addition, space has been renovated to create two guest suites to accommodate the growing need for short-term rental units on campus.

“We are fortunate over the past 18 months to have enjoyed the steadfast support of President Randel,” said Pernet. “We have also renewed the mission of International House to facilitate communication and collaboration among University departments, including a special relationship with the Area Studies Centers, the Center for International Studies and the Human Rights Program.”

The Office of International Affairs has moved to International House, 1414 E. 59th St., Suite 291, (773) 702-7752