Artscape 2025 is partnering with Baltimore Center Stage to present two new cultural programming tracks: the “In Conversation” series and “Beyond the Reel,” both taking place at Baltimore Center Stage (BCS).
The two tracks are part of Artscape, taking place on May 24 – 25, 2025. Actress Lex Scott Davis of “Suits LA” will serve as inaugural chair. Television producer Matt Weiner of “Mad Men,” artist Derrick Adams, model Broderick Hunter, Rudy Gay, Angel Reese, and actor and entrepreneur Kofi Siriboe will participate in the discussions.
“The addition of the In Conversation series and Beyond the Reel to Artscape reflects our commitment to embracing all forms of artistic expression,” said Robyn Murphy, BOPA’s Interim CEO. “I am especially excited about these new programming tracks because they expand the tent of our vision: creating space for dialogue, discovery, and the diverse disciplines that make Baltimore’s creative community so dynamic.”
There will be film screenings, live conversations, and panels featuring local and national celebrities spanning a variety of artistic disciplines, in addition to sports, media, culture, health, and other voices. Davis will host a VIP industry mixer to kick off the weekend and will also join a panel with Adams and local art builders moderated by Siriboe. Siriboe’s panel will focus on building community among artists and creating spaces in which artists can thrive.
“Artscape is at the center of the artistic life of communities across our city, and it’s an honor to host this expanded programming at our theater,” said Adam Frank, BCS’s Managing Director. “Our mission is to spread joy and connection through the power of the arts, and we’re proud to be of service in showcasing these extraordinary artists and work that do just that.”
The “In Conversation” series will feature “unexpected pairings” of thought leaders, artists, and cultural visionaries. Discussion topics will include the future of the arts, technology, culture, and creative economies, aiming to challenge perspectives and inspire ideas.
Featured panelists include Adams; Weiner; Davis; Hunter; artist Joyce Scott; entrepreneur Monique Rodriguez, founder of the hair care and beauty brand Mielle Organics; author D. Watkins; fashion designer Bishmie Cromartie; Avon Dorsey, a celebrity stylist and writer for Vogue; Mayor’s Advisor of Arts & Culture Tonya Miller Hall; and more.
Just a small sampling of discussion topics shows the breadth of discourse, a few of which are listed below:
- The Art of Sport: From Court to Canvas
Moderator: D. Watkins, sportswriter and historian
Conversation exploring the artistic nature of athleticism and more - Lensing The Black Male Image: Black Men’s Style Contributions in Film & Fashion
Moderator: Avon Dorsey, celebrity stylist and writer
The Met Gala’s theme of Black Dandyism acts as a springboard for this discussion of the importance of Black men’s fashion and more - Embodying Her: The Female Archetype in Art & Design
Moderator: Rashida Bumbray, curator and choreographer
An exploration of the female form across creative disciplines
“Beyond the Reel” celebrates the impact of Baltimore’s film and television industry by showcasing films alongside live discussions. There will be film blocks exploring the influence of nature and nurture via sports documentaries, the role of storytelling in producing meaningful change, and the contributions of young filmmakers. This programming will take place during festival hours on Saturday and Sunday at Baltimore Center Stage.
Films set to screen as part of “Beyond the Reel” include the Emmy-nominated documentary “The Body Politic,” 2025 Sundance Directing Award winner “Ricky,” ESPN’s “Baltimore Boys,” the HBO series “The Cost of Winning,” and more.
On Sunday from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m., as an extension of the “Beyond the Reel” programming at BCS, there will be a youth film programming and panel discussion taking place at Ikonic Live (directly across from the Kidscape activation). In partnership with Wide Angle Youth Media, this will consist of work from Baltimore area middle and high school students, with a panel of and co-led by the youth participants. The young filmmakers will discuss their process, inspiration, and craft, and how they see a future in the industry of film.
For more information on scheduling, events, and discussion topics, click this link for the “In Conversation” series, and click this link for “Beyond the Reel.”
