The Daum Museum of Contemporary Art at State Fair Community College is bringing back its "Summer Nights" series on the fourth Thursdays of the month throughout the summer. The museum will have extended hours and special programming on May 24, June 28, July 26, and August 23.

"This is the second time we're trying this series of programs," said museum director Tom Piché, "we had a lot of success last year."

For the first Summer Nights, the Daum Museum will host Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) in a production of Setting the Stage in the Stauffacher Theatre. "It's a multimedia performance," said Piché. "Setting the Stage is an exploration of modern and contemporary dance. This is the only other Alvin Ailey dance troop in the country (outside of New York City) and we're really excited to be having them come."

A news release from the Daum Museum describes Setting the Stage as "a multimedia celebration of African-American dance woven into the broader tapestry of American history. The program highlights the legacies of pioneering African-American choreographers who helped advance modern dance, artists like Alvin Ailey and Katherine Dunham. Tyrone Aiken, KCFAA chief artistic officer, developed and choreographed the production."

The Daum Museum of Contemporary Art will host Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey (KCFAA) in a production of Setting the Stage in the Stauffacher Theatre at 6 p.m. May 24. The event is free to the public.
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On Thursday, June 28, the Summer Nights series will open three exhibitions from 6-8 p.m., including "Shadows," the Sedalia Visual Art Association member's exhibition. "I think this may be the fifth or sixth year we've been doing this with them," said Piché. "We're happy to have them come out. It's the oldest visual art association in Sedalia." Photographer Matt Raynor will be exhibiting "Fair Pictures," photographs that were created during his time as a guest artist at last year's Missouri State Fair. Also opening on June 28 will be a selection from the permanent collection around the theme of "summertime blues."

On July 26, Summer Nights will be hosting musician Meredith Cisco, who composed the soundtrack for the film Winter's Bone, which starred Jennifer Lawrence and was filmed in Missouri. "She's known for her folk music and her storytelling ability. This will have to do with Missouri, Missouri culture...Ozarks culture. She's quite an accomplished person. She's a journalist, teacher, author, musician, and student of folklore."

Summer Nights wraps up on August 23 with Spofest. "They are a group of people from our area who promote the writing of sharing of poetry and prose. We had them last summer, and the talent is exceptional."

Museum hours will be 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on May 24, June 28, July 26, and August 23. Summer Nights events are free to the public.

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