In addition to an already full arts calendar this fall, Fort Wayne will host a very special exhibit, one which has already touched many around the country who have been fortunate to experience it.

Violins of Hope represents an astonishing collection of violins played during and after the Holocaust, instruments that represent an unimaginable time in our collective history but a period that instills a sense of hope and perseverance. Israeli luthier Amnon Weinstein has spent the last two decades tracking down and restoring many of these violins and is sharing them with the world in this extraordinary exhibit.

However, the experience will go well beyond a collection of instruments to be viewed and admired at the University of Saint Francis and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne, is taking the lead in what will be a remarkable schedule of events and performances that will include many of Fort Wayne’s arts organizations.

With tie-ins to school curriculum and events open to the public, no fewer than 25 groups are already on tap to be part of the Nov. 9-24 exhibit.

“The sound, presence, and stories of Violins of Hope Fort Wayne will drive the creation of music, visual art, theater, public conversation, interfaith dialogue, readings, and educational activities throughout Northeast Indiana,” said the Fort Wayne Philharmonic in a press release.

“Most importantly, Fort Wayne Philharmonic and Youth Orchestra musicians will bring to life the humanity and stories of those who owned these precious instruments through dozens of local area performances.”

Among the organizations already set to take part in Violins of Hope Fort Wayne are Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne Philharmonic and Youth Orchestras, Fort Wayne Museum of Art, City of Fort Wayne, PBS39, WANE-TV, WBOI — Northeast Indiana Public Radio, Classical 94.1 WBNI, History Center: George R. Mather Lecture Series, Embassy Theatre, Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne, Cinema Center, University of Saint Francis, Fort Wayne Ballet, Purdue Fort Wayne, Purdue Fort Wayne Department of Theatre, Purdue Fort Wayne Music Department, Heartland Sings, Fort Wayne Children’s Choir, Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library, Trinity English Lutheran Church, Allen County Courthouse, and Northeast Indiana Jewish Genealogy Society.

More will be announced as we come closer to the November dates, but be sure to circle those dates on your calendar because it is sure to be a memorable experience for northeast Indiana.

Honeywell Packs in Big shows

The Honeywell Center in Wabash is always busy, bringing in a wide range of performances to the lovely Ford Theater. This summer is no exception, and there are a few standout shows coming up in the months ahead.

Perhaps the biggest is Alice Cooper who visits the center on July 11. Fans of Bohemian Rhapsody who now can’t get enough of Queen will be happy to know that the Killer Queen tribute band will visit the Honeywell on July 13.

Remembering Hee Haw, featuring a crew of surviving cast members, comes to the venue on Aug. 9, while Beatles tribute band 1964 heads to Wabash on Aug. 17.

The Honeywell Foundation also hosts tours and historic lectures at the Dr. James Ford Historic Home as well as other music and cultural events throughout the Wabash area.

News and Venues covers Northeast Indiana’s music and arts organizations, venues, and colleges, from large to small. Send your news items to info@whatzup.com.