As winter’s chill lingers, Pennsylvania State University has already begun its new year with a cultural flourish. From January 16 to 23, 2025, the university will host a dynamic Cultural Week, featuring music, dance, art exhibitions, and discussions on pressing social issues. The event aims to enrich campus life, bridge connections among students, faculty, and the community, and inspire deeper reflections on societal responsibilities.
Musical Roots: From Folk Traditions to Modern Beats
The week opens with "Origins," a concert by the NEPA Chamber Music Society on January 16 at Hayfield House in Wilkes-Barre. The performance delves into nostalgic folk melodies, offering more than entertainment—it’s a journey through music’s historical tapestry. Artists will weave tales of tradition, inviting audiences to experience the timeless allure of acoustic storytelling. This intimate setting provides students rare access to engage with performers, igniting artistic curiosity and deepening the university’s cultural roots.
A Global Feast: North African Flavors and Dance as Advocacy
On January 21, Eisenhower Auditorium transforms into a hub of cross-cultural exchange with "The Joyfull: Compagnie Hervé Koubi Edition." The event celebrates diversity through North African cuisine and performances, fostering dialogue among diverse communities. Attendees will savor authentic dishes while immersing themselves in the vibrant rhythms and narratives of another culture—an experiential learning opportunity that broadens global awareness.
The following day, Compagnie Hervé Koubi makes its Penn State debut with "What the Day Owes to the Night." The contemporary dance ensemble merges athletic choreography with classical compositions by Bach and others, crafting a visceral commentary on human resilience. This visually arresting production promises to leave audiences reflecting on art’s power to transcend language.
Starry Night: Alumni Spotlight in "Dancing with the Stars" Live
On January 23, the Bryce Jordan Center will electrify with the touring cast of "Dancing with the Stars." The showstopping routines—a mix of new works and beloved classics—will feature Penn State alumnus Stephen Nedoroscik, whose participation underscores the university’s artistic legacy. The event doubles as an educational platform, exposing students to professional dance’s technical and expressive depths.
Legacy of Change: MLK Day Reflections
Interwoven with the festivities are Martin Luther King Jr. Day observances under the theme "Change Moves With Us." Documentaries and panel discussions will examine ongoing struggles for equity, challenging participants to consider their roles in advancing social justice. These programs reinforce the university’s commitment to civic engagement, linking historical movements to present-day activism.
Art and Activism: Exhibitions and Film as Catalysts
The Henry Art Gallery unveils "DVAL Presents" on January 21, showcasing works by the Delaware Valley Art League through March 14. The exhibition spotlights regional talent while encouraging critical conversations about contemporary art’s societal role.
Equally provocative is the January 22 screening of "Harm to One," a documentary probing the intersection of labor rights and environmental degradation. A post-film discussion led by the Global Workers’ Rights Center will dissect real-world cases where economic progress clashed with human welfare—a timely exploration of sustainable development’s complexities.
Sustainability Through Culture
Penn State’s sustainability initiatives resonate throughout the week, particularly in events linking art to environmental stewardship. The university’s "Solar Schools" program and related policies find natural extensions in these cultural forums, demonstrating how creativity can drive ecological and social consciousness.