Our Vision

The South Side Arts District

The South Side of Bethlehem is our city’s hub for the celebration of a variety of art forms, including visual artsfilm & theatremusic, and literature. With a wide variety of artists housed in the Banana Factory, nationally recognized performances hosted by Touchstone Theatre and Mock Turtle Marionette Theatre, thought-provoking film series at the Frank Banko Alehouse Cinemas, and vibrant music performances at Godfrey Daniels and through ArtsQuest, the South Side of Bethlehem provides numerous opportunities for audiences to become inspired by art. In addition, Lehigh University’s Zoellner Arts Center provides an additional venue for residents to enjoy a vast array of artistic programming, including dance and readings by renowned literary figures.

The Southsider Vision

Southsider focuses on celebrating our vibrant arts district by creating a forum for reportage on arts programming and local artists on the South Side of Bethlehem. With funding from the Mellon Digital Humanities Initiative and the South Side Initiative of Lehigh University, Southsider reporters compose articles that include reviews of theatrical performances, musical shows, films, and gallery openings. We also provide interviews with area artists and discussions of the ongoing arts programming and arts organizations on the South Side of Bethlehem.

We envision a website in which residents of Bethlehem can reflect upon the power and import of local arts events, artists, and cultural organizations. While Southsider staff will continue to pen articles for the site, we hope that community members also will take time to write pieces that discuss South Side arts and culture.

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