In this episode, Jim Cunningham speaks with the Executive Director of the National Opera House, Jonnet Solomon, about their upcoming exhibit at Grand Lobby in the City-County Building on Grant Street.
Jonnet talks about the history of the National Negro Opera Company that was founded in Pittsburgh by Mary Cardwell Dawson in 1941. It was the first African American opera company in the United States. The house that housed the opera company was a vibrant cultural hub for icons like Cab Calloway, Roberto Clemente, and Ahmad Jamal.
The exhibit will feature the inspiring story of Mary Cardwell Dawson, and pictures of the many people who stayed at the house. Jonnet reflects on the challenges of restoring a historic home that is on the National Trust’s list of endangered sites. She also discusses the future for the National Opera House and its funding.
Jonnet also talks about her father’s work as a steel pan maker in Pittsburgh. Jonnet performs with her dad’s band regularly, and loves playing classical music on the steel pan.
You can catch the opening reception on February 3rd at 6 pm at the City-County Building. There will be a live musical guest, and a chance to ask Jonnet questions about the exhibit.
The Black History Month display will be available to visit until February 28th.
Visit https://www.pittsburghpa.gov/Recreation-Events/Special-Events/Black-History-Month to learn more.