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Shop Artist-Made Holiday Gifts at Contemporary Craft’s CRAFTED Event

By
Keith Recker
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0
an aerial view of stacks of plates and bowls featuring various blue patterns. artist-made holiday gifts Pittsburgh

Kick off the holidays with Contemporary Craft’s annual shopping event, CRAFTED! With a $15 VIP ticket, you will be among the first to shop a curated selection of artist-made tableware, jewelry, objects and holiday décor.

For the first time ever, Contemporary Craft is collaborating with an outside curator for this annual event. Keith Recker, Editor in Chief of TABLE Magazine, worked alongside the Contemporary Craft team to curate tableware for the holiday season. Keith selected a blue and white theme for plates, mugs, bowls, napkins, placemats, and more. This artist-made selection will be displayed in the Contemporary Craft Store in stunning tablescapes.

On the left: A collection of mugs by many of the artists in CRAFTED! On the right: A gorgeous Alice Drew plate sits atop a charger by Francis DeFabo and linens by The Indigo Squirrel.

“It’s an honor to work with TABLE on this year’s CRAFTED holiday shopping event. Keith and his team truly appreciate the value and beauty of well-crafted items and the warmth and joy they bring to your life and home. CRAFTED is one of my favorite events of the year, and I’m excited for everyone to see the incredible selection of tableware curated for this holiday season,” says Rachel Rearick, Executive Director of Contemporary Craft. 

On November 21, enjoy a bespoke blue-and-white cocktail created by TABLE Publisher Justin Matase. Plus, complementary snacks and mocktails while shopping for everyone on your list. Purchases support working artists and Contemporary Craft’s free community programming.

three white bowls with blue flower patterns. one bowl holds limes, another artichokes.
Bowls by Peggy Quinn and Vena Ceramica

Adding to the festivities, Contemporary Craft will also unveil its new Regional Gallery at 7:00 PM and the Commemorative Art Installation by artist Kim Fox in the new Timmons Studios at 8:30 PM. 

Adiv Pure Nature

Blackbird Makers

Kimberly Bloise

Adam Chau

Francis DeFabo

Alice Drew

Carina Kooiman

Ceramika Kalich

Bri Larson

Little Cloth

Peggy Quinn

The Indigo Squirrel

Vena Ceramika

Emmanuelle Wambach

CRAFTED!
November 21
Contemporary Craft, 5645 Butler Street
VIP Shopping 5:30pm-7pm General Admission 7pm-9pm

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Fall Classes and Workshops for Adults in Pittsburgh

By
Emma Riva
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0
Two adults fencing in a class in the fall.

For a lot of us, once we get a degree, we leave the classroom. You might watch your kids learning times tables and cursive and long for the time when you also had the thrill and wonder of learning something new. But learning doesn’t have to be a bygone pleasure. There are plenty of opportunities in Pittsburgh for adults to learn a new hobby or skill. Taking a class is a way to meet new people and find a new passion outside of the day-to-day grind of work or the ups and downs of parenting. Dive into these fall classes at the stellar institutions Pittsburgh has to offer.

Perfect Your Skills at These Fall Classes for Adults in Pittsburgh

A bracelet made by a student at Sweetwater.
Courtesy of Sweetwater Center for the Arts

Metalsmithing

Sweetwater Center for the Arts, Mondays, September 10 – October 27

Pittsburgh has a rich history of metalworking, and now you can learn how to do it to with Sweetwater Center’s instructor Pat Falbo. In this class, students will complete two projects. First, you’ll learn how to make a simple cuff bracelet. Then, you’ll get an opportunity to design your own more complex bracelet. The main skills you’ll learn in this introductory class are metal forming and stone setting, which are basics that you can take with you to the next level of Sweetwater’s metalsmithing class.

Black and white photographs taken in a darkroom.
Courtesy of Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media.

Black & White Photography

Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media, September 15 – October 27, 2025

While anyone can take pictures on their phone now, we’ve seen a growing interest in “analog” photography techniques. Working with film brings you closer to the tactile experience of taking a photo. However, working in a darkroom requires some training. Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media can help you learn the technique. This course will focus on 35mm photography: how to load and shoot, how to mix darkroom chemicals, how to unload the film, and then how to process and treat the photos you’ve taken.  

A staff member at Contemporary Craft stands over a loom.
Courtesy of Contemporary Craft.

Weaving

Contemporary Craft, Tuesdays, September 9-October 14, 2025

Textile arts are one of the oldest crafts in the world, practiced by people in many forms across centuries. At the recently-opened Timmons Studio at Contemporary Craft, instructor Miranda Crotsley will help you get comfortable with using a 4-harness loom to gain a basic knowledge of weaving. Contemporary Craft provides all the materials for you to get comfortable with basic weaving, and by the end of the class you’ll have a base for how to design your own weaving projects in the future.

A man in a jacket on a white background, writing instructor Tony Norman.
Courtesy of Next Pittsburgh.

Telling the Truth: Opinion Writing

Steel Quill Writing Workshop, 4 Sundays beginning September 7, from 5-7

Join award-winning journalist Tony Norman for a month-long workshop series to help you find your voice and speak your truth. When there are so many distortions of truth out there, knowing where you stand is a form of stepping into your power. This workshop takes place at Amazing Books and Records in Squirrel Hill as part of their newly developed Steel Quill Writing Workshop program.

Two students at Hilt and Helm learning about fencing technique.

Knight School

Hilt and Helm, Offered bi-monthly, starting again in September

Live out your childhood dream of swashbuckling medieval adventures with the HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) programs at Hilt and Helm in Squirrel Hill. The teachers at Hilt and Helm offer longsword, smallsword, saber, and broadsword instruction at different times a week. With the Knight School class pass, you get 2 months of unlimited fencing and equipment rentals so you can swordfight to your heart’s delight. It’s a great workout. And, as owner Chris Shelton says: “You can’t think about your personal problems when someone is about to stab you in the face.”

Adults and children at Carnegie Museum of Art.
Photo by Darieus Veltri, courtesy of Carnegie Museum of Art.

Carnegie Lab

Carnegie Museum of Art, Every Friday 10AM-1PM, September 5 – May 29

For something a little more chill and lower-cost, the Carnegie Museum’s weekly Carnegie Lab is an art class every Friday free with museum admission. The activities take inspiration from the what’s in the galleries at any given time, so they rotate every week. Carnegie Lab is open to all ages, and you’re guaranteed to meet some new friends while drawing, collaging, or sculpting.

Story by Emma Riva
Cover Photo Courtesy of Hilt and Helm

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Selecta’s Top Pittsburgh Concert Picks for Fall 2025

By
Star Laliberte
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A DJ spinning records wearing a ball cap in a darkly lit room.

When TABLE Magazine hosts an event, music is never an afterthought. James Scoglietti, master at reading the room and setting the perfect vibe, has been a go-to. Scoglietti, better know to Pittsburgh as Selecta, has been a pioneer of the Pittsburgh DJ and hip hop scene since the late 80’s. His energy and style foster unforgettable experiences. We have turned to Selecta once again — not for an event, but for his expertise. We asked Selecta to share his top Pittsburgh concert picks for Fall 2025. And, as expected, his list does not disappoint.

Selecta’s Fall Concert Picks

Soul Show 30th Anniversary Feat. Water Seed

August 30th
Pittsburgh Winery

The locally produced “Soul Show” is celebrating 30 years of providing a terrestrial radio outlet for quality Soul, Funk, and R&B in our fair city. One such group that spawned from the current host Mike Canton’s playlist is Water Seed. I’ve borne witness to their seamless fusion of the aforementioned genres over the years. They continue to get tighter and groovier. 

Barrington Levy

September 2
Pittsburgh Winery

I was introduced to the work of Barrington via his distinctive vocal prowess being sampled on numerous Hip-Hop records of my youth. His “Broader Than Broadway” being the most notable example of said lifting of Barrington’s voice to enhance a pre-existing groove. Witnessing his huge presence in such an intimate setting is sure to be an experience.

Alabama Shakes

September 9
Stage AE

From the very first time I received the aural blessings of this powerhouse of a vocalist that is Brittany Howard, I was transfixed. Her group transcends any sort of record industry category or classification, just pure lush arrangements from this three piece band of musical virtuosos. A must see!

Tower Of Power

September 12
Carnegie Library Music Hall of Homestead

One of the handful of groups that were responsible for birthing the “Jazz-Fusion” movement of the early 70s alongside like-minded outfits such as Weather Report and Return To Forever. Their current roster consists of founding members Emilio Castillo and Stephen “Doc” Kupka on dueling saxophones. Enough motivation to make it out to check out this iteration of the TOP.

David Byrne

September 15
Benedum Center for the Performing Arts

Where is my beautiful wife? Probably burning down the house. My god what have I done? 

See what I did there? LOL! David is so much more than his Talking Heads origins but these tunes will forever be engrained in our collective “I Want My MTV” psyche. The Benedum is an apropos backdrop for Byrne’s whimsical, broadway-esque stage show. 

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival

Sept 18-21
August Wilson African American Cultural Center

I must admit that I may be a bit biased with this one, as I’ve been honored to DJ the Jazz Fest since its inception almost 15 years ago. Our International Jazz Festival rivals other long-standing productions in significantly larger cities…perphaps even more focused and varied than others. We can thank Janis Burley and the amazing staff at the AWAACC for that. Did I mention that it’s free? Let me rattle off some names from this year’s stelar lineup….Bilal, Eric Benet, Jazzmeia Horn, Dee-Dee Bridgewater, Branford Marsalis, Kandace Springs, and a tribute to our Hill District hero George Benson! (Drops Mic)

Raphael Saadiq

October 7
Roxian Theatre

Ray (As Saadiq is affectionately known) rarely embarks on a one man tour. That alone is a selling point for me. With the recent passing of his Tony! Toni! Toné! Bandmate Dwayne Wiggins, it’s likely we will be treated to a melody of the Three T’s vast discography coupled with Saadiq’s infectious solo selections.

Thomas Dolby

October 26
Roxian Theatre

Poetry In Motion! The 80s brought us an era of Synth-Pop. Catchy tunes that shunned the traditional elements of a band to incorporate those instruments of an electronic nature. Drums machine, synthesizer and computer-aided musical interfaces.  Europe was at the forefront of this and Thomas struck red hot with “She Blinded Me With Science.” Firing on all fronts!  

Chicago

November 5
UPMC Events Center

Chicago embarked on a massive tour with Earth, Wind & Fire last year. On the surface it seemed to be an odd pairing. Digging deeper into this Windy City band’s discography and inspiration, it totally made sense. Groovy is an understatement! This time they are out on their own. With OG vocalist/keyboardist Robert Lamm turning 81 in a few months, this may be the last time you get to catch the band with their lead mastermind at the helm

Boz Scaggs

November 25
The Palace Theatre

Blue Eyed Soul. You hear that descriptor tossed around quite often. Even sometimes jointly thrown in with the semi-newfound “Yacht Rock” stamp. Whatever Boz may be to you, he encompasses all that surrounded him in the musically ambiguous melting pot of the south. “Lowdown” is that jam that unites us all in perfect harmony. Exquisite on myriad fronts. At 81, this may also be one of the last hurrahs as he winds down from a storied career.

Story by James Scoglietti, Selecta
Photography by Cody Baker

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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce and Aged Feta

By
Abdul Rafay
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0
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce & Aged Feta served in a bowl.

Smoky, tangy, and irresistibly savory, Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce & Aged Feta are a side dish that steals the spotlight. Roast tender Brussels sprouts golden perfection. Pair them with a vibrant, nutty Romesco sauce made from sweet roasted red peppers, toasted almonds, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle crumbled aged feta to add a salty, creamy finish that ties all the flavors together.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Crispy-edged Brussels sprouts, silky-smooth sauce, and the crumbly richness of feta. The Romesco sauce brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor, while the feta adds depth and tang. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and elegant. We think it’s right both for a weeknight dinner and a holiday table. Everyone around the table at either occasion will agree.

Serve these Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce & Aged Feta as a standout side or even a vegetarian main. The bold flavors and beautiful presentation make it a crowd-pleaser, and the simple preparation means you can enjoy gourmet results without spending hours in the kitchen. One bite, and you’ll see why this combination is a match made in flavor heaven.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce & Aged Feta served in a bowl.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Romesco Sauce and Aged Feta

  • Author: Aniceto Sousa
  • Yield: Serves 4 to 6 1x
Print Recipe

Description

You’ll be happy to eat these veggies. 

Ingredients

Scale

For the peppers:

  • 4 red bell peppers, roasted and deseeded
  • 1/4 cup chopped garlic
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper

For the romesco sauce:

  • 1/4 lb butter
  • 2 tbsp chopped garlic
  • 2 lb Brussels sprouts, cleaned and halved
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

To roast the bell peppers:

  1. Toss peppers in canola oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast in a 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes until skin is charred and peppers are soft.
  2. After the peppers are done, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap for about 10 minutes until the peppers are cool enough to touch.
  3. Peel off the charred skin and remove the seeds from inside the peppers.

For the romesco Sauce:

  1. Place all ingredients in a blender and puree until a mostly smooth texture, check seasoning.

For the brussels sprouts:

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan and add the garlic, allowing the garlic to lightly sweat for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Coat the brussels with the butter and garlic and season with salt and pepper. Place on a roasting pan and cook for 15-20 minutes in a 375-degree oven.

To assemble:

  1. On a serving platter, spoon the Romesco Sauce on the platter. Put the Brussels on top of the sauce. Then crumble some feta cheese and scatter around the top of Brussels.
  2. Optionally, add some toasted almonds and fresh dill sprigs on top for garnish.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Recipes by Aniceto Sousa, Mediterra Café
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Styling by Lauren Piasecki

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Corpse Reviver #2

By
Abdul Rafay
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0
Two cocktails in coupe glasses on a wooden table, each garnished with a lemon peel and a purple edible flower.
Absinthe bitters take this classic cocktail to a whole new level.

Mom and Dad, are you feeling weary from the fury of activity during the first week of school? We’ve got the perfect cocktail to bring you back to life: the Corpse Reviver #2. Citrus-studded and spirit-forward, this drink from Cat Cannon and Cecil Usher of Mindful Hospitality will breathe some life into a hectic week.

Who Invented the Corpse Reviver?

Some say it was renowned bartended Harry Craddock, who included two recipes for the cocktail in his Savoy Cocktail Book, published in 1930. The book reminded Americans coming out of Prohibition of the spectrum of flavor possibilities represented by cocktails. However, the Corpse Reviver was invented to relieve the symptoms of a severe hangover as far back as 1861. Early versions contained brandy, Maraschino liqueur, and bitters. Our recipe takes a more nuanced approach…though the advice to enjoy it with a sensible grilled cheese sandwich reminds us of its original role as a hangover prevention device.

Corpse Reviver Recipe

Print
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Two cocktails in coupe glasses on a wooden table, each garnished with a lemon peel and a purple edible flower.

Corpse Reviver #2

  • Author: Cat Cannon and Cecil Usher
Print Recipe

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3/4 oz Ford’s Gin
  • 3/4 oz Cap Corse Blanc Vermouth
  • 3/4 oz Italicus
  • ½ oz Lemon Acid
  • 1/4 oz Simple Syrup
  • 4 dashes Absinthe Bitters
  • Lemon peel and edible flower, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Stir all ingredients together with ice, then strain into a coupe glass.
  2. Garnish with a lemon peel and edible flower, then enjoy with something simple and delicious, like a grilled cheese.

Find recipes here!

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Recipe by Cat Cannon and Cecil Usher
Photography by Dave Bryce
Styling by Maggie Weaver

Subscribe to TABLE Magazine’s print edition.

Pittsburgh Events: Your Guide to September 1-7

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
People gather in a crowd in Pittsburgh for the Pittsburgh taco festival, walking down a street of food trucks.

Cultural festivals, food-filled celebrations, explorative nature hikes, and dazzling laser shows fill Pittsburgh’s buzzing event calendar from September 1 to the 7. This first week of September showcases Labor Day (and the weekend after) through family fun. Immerse yourself in a week which offers something for everyone to enjoy as the last days of summer welcome the start of fall.

Pittsburgh Events Happening September 1-7

Laser lights in a dark space.
Photo Courtesy of Artem Bryzgalov

Laser ABBA

September 1, Carnegie Science Center

Celebrate the timeless hits of ABBA with a dazzling display of lights and sound. During this installment of the Laser Shows at Carnegie Science Center, audiences can sing and dance along to classics like Dancing Queen while vibrant lasers fill the dome. It’s a dance party perfect for all ages. 

A blue jay bird sits on a bird feeder in a park.
Photo Courtesy of Friends of South Side Park

Labor Day Bird Hike in South Side Park

September 1, South Side Park

Artist and bird enthusiast Maria Mangano leads a peaceful, bird hike through South Side Park. She’ll help you explore local habitats, spot migrating birds, and learn tips for birdwatching. Bring binoculars, a hat, and sturdy shoes for this early morning walk that leaves the rest of the day for other festivities. 

The carrie blast furnaces lit up for the Pittsburgh Irish Festival in green, white, and red.
Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Irish Festival

34th Annual Pittsburgh Irish Festival

September 5-7, Carrie Blast Furnaces

Even if it’s not your heritage, the celebrations at the 34th Annual Pittsburgh Irish Festival, make everyone feel Celtic. Discover music, dance, storytelling, and Irish pride all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Carrie Blast Furnaces. This year you can look forward to four stages of entertainment and a fifth stage for Irish baking and culinary demonstrations.

People gather in a crowd in Pittsburgh for the Pittsburgh taco festival, walking down a street of food trucks.
Photo Courtesy of Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival

Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival

September 6, Three Crossings

If you’re a taco lover, there’s no way you’ll want to miss out on rows of vendors at the Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival. Dine on food from over 25 different kitchens while immersing yourself in Latin music and culture. Then, wash it all down with brews from various bars throughout the grounds. 

A group of families gather around a craft table at Pittsburgh's Freedom Harvest Celebration.
Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Parks

Freedom Harvest Celebration

September 6, From Slavery to Freedom Garden, Frick Park

Dive into harvest season at the From Slavery to Freedom Garden alongside live music, local food, and family-friendly activities. Tour through the park’s gardens and try a mix of international flavors from Pittsburgh’s neighborhood eateries. Plus, you can listen to local musicians as well as enjoy face painting, games, and other fall-themed activities.

Story by Kylie Thomas
Featured Photo Courtesy of Original Pittsburgh Taco Festival

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Maree ReMalia Dances Through Life

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Maree ReMalia sits in a red velvet seat with a disco ball in front of her.

Maree ReMalia is a dynamic force in the world of dance and movement. She infuses every project with joy, curiosity, and a sincere commitment to inclusivity.

A woman lays in front of rows of red theater seats.

Dancer Maree ReMalia’s Creativity Impacts the Performance World

Earning her MFA from The Ohio State University, Maree’s career spans international stages. Her time includes performances at venues like the Daegu International Dance festival in South Korea and La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club in New York City. Yet her artistry remains deeply grounded in community and collaboration. As someone who had the privilege of joining the creative process and performing in her piece, The Ubiquitous Mass of Us, in 2014 and 2017, I witnessed firsthand her devotion to crafting work where everyone’s story and individuality shape the performance’s energy and meaning. Each of her works pulses with the vibrant personalities of her collaborators, both dancers and non-dancers. This results in pieces that feel alive and refreshingly unique.

Dancer Maree ReMalia curls up in a red theater chair.

Reaching Out to Help Others As Well

Maree’s impact extends beyond performance, she has served as the Interdisciplinary Choreographer for Middlebury College for over two years, taught at Point Park University, and has been a guest artist at institutions such as Bates Dance Festival and Cleveland Public Theatre. Whether leading movement workshops, crafting dance works, or performing, Maree transforms ordinary spaces into realms of playful exploration. Audiences leave her performances touched by wonder and connection, carrying away the sense that art and community are inextricably linked. Maree ReMalia isn’t just a choreographer; she’s a catalyst for connection, inspiring those around her to move, think, and feel in new ways.

A woman sitting in a theater seat wraps her arms around it.

Story by Joseph Hall, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Shot on Location at Kelly Strayhorn Theater

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Michele Lee Betts, the Face Behind Pittsburgh’s Theater Curtains

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Michele Lee Betts stands in a pattern color dress with a smile on her face.

The magic of theater relies on the unseen artistry happening behind the curtain, and that’s precisely where Michele Lee Betts thrives. With over 20 years as a production and stage manager across Pittsburgh’s theater landscape, Betts has orchestrated more than 100 live performances, transforming creative visions into seamless high-quality productions. 

A woman stands back stage with her foot on a chair.

The Show Goes on with Pittsburgh Stage and Production Manager Michele Lee Betts

Currently serving as Production Manager for Pittsburgh Playwrights’ Fences (Aug. 8 – Sept. 6) and stage managing DanceAfrica by The Legacy Arts Project (July 26-27), Betts brings her signature “artist-first” philosophy to every show. Her meticulous attention to detail and collaborative leadership have wowed audiences many times at Kelly Strayhorn Theater, even if they didn’t know it.  

Michele Lee Betts sits on the edge of a stage with a light in the background.

Lending More Than Just a Stage Hand 

Beyond stage management, Betts serves as a cultural consultant for 15+ nonprofit organizations, crafting strategic frameworks that amplify arts equity and outreach. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges logistics with artistry, ensuring every production reflects both technical excellence and cultural authenticity. 

A woman in a long colorful pattern dress stands on a stage with her hands on her hips.

When not organizing the intricate dance of live theater, this retired opera singer and avid salsa dancer brings her rhythm to cultural strategy work. As a dedicated caregiver and world traveler, Betts understands that theater, like life, requires both precision and heart, a philosophy that infuses every project she touches with transformative power. 

Story by Joseph Hall, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Shot on Location at Kelly Strayhorn Theater

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Choreographer Jasmine Hearn Uses Their Body as an Artistic Tool

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
A woman dances in a yellow dress with her arms and legs outstretched.

Jasmine Hearn is an acclaimed interdisciplinary artist and choreographer celebrated for their deeply intuitive and evocative approach to improvised movement.

A woman kicks her foot up while dancing and stretches her arms out.

Art Comes in the Form of Jasmine Hearn’s Choreography

Raised in Houston, Texas, Jasmine draws from a rich tradition of storytelling, memory, and ancestral connections, weaving these elements into performances that bridge personal narrative with collective experience. Jasmine grounds their artistic practice in improvisation, sound, and collaboration, consistently exploring how the body archives and transmits lived histories. Jasmine’s haunting vocals during performances transport audiences into liminal, timeless spaces. Their voice creates an atmosphere that lingers long after the final note. 

Jasmine Hearn leans back outside of a theater.

A Professional Career That Amazes

A graduate of Point Park University, Jasmine’s professional journey includes working with many Pittsburgh-based companies. They have worked with PearlArts Movement & Sound and The Pillow Project, as well as national ensembles like Urban Bush Women and David Dorfman Dance. Their exceptional contributions have been recognized with a Rome Prize and two Bessie Awards for Outstanding Performer, including for a high-profile collaboration with Bill T. Jones, where they were one of six choreographers creating with musician Saul Williams.

Jasmine Hearn stands with her hands on her face.

Beyond the stage, Jasmine is a sought-after educator. They share their unique methodologies at institutions like Stanford University and within community-centered residencies. Hearn’s artistry infuses every setting with empathy, depth, and a profound sense of shared connection. 

Story by Joseph Hall, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Shot on Location at Kelly Strayhorn Theater

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Kelly Strayhorn Theater’s Creative Production Team Features J.R. Shaw and Piper Clement

By
Kylie Thomas
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0
Two Kelly Strayhorn Theater Production Team members work together to get props up on the stage.

Behind every unforgettable performance at Kelly Strayhorn Theater are the tireless efforts of J.R. Shaw and Piper Clement, who together make up the organization’s core production team. Long before the curtain rises, they collaborate closely with artists, manage design elements, take on creative challenges, and track every facet of tour and performance logistics. Their combined technical expertise are key drivers of the theater’s success. This is all anchored by a shared dedication to cultivating inclusive, artist-centered spaces and a dose of humor to navigate the demands of production. 

JR Shaw and Piper Clement stan side by side next to two racks of production items.

Production Team J.R. Shaw and Piper Clement Bring Kelly Strayhorn Shows to Life

J.R. Shaw, the theater’s Production Manager, brings years of experience to his role. Part of that experience includes eight years as co-founder of Phase 3 Productions. His portfolio includes collaborations with notable Pittsburgh companies such as City Theater and Prime Stage Theater, ranging from experimental projects to large-scale productions. While studying theater at Ashland University, J.R. fell in love with production design and technology. Now, he is now known for his calm under pressure and inventive problem-solving. 

Two men work together in red theater seats to build production.

As Production Coordinator, Piper Clement leverages a rich background that includes roles as staff lighting technician at Carnegie Mellon University, lead lighting technician at Bricolage Production Company, as well as electrician and scenic carpenter at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center. Piper’s academic path began at Point Park University, where he earned a BFA in Technical Design and Management, specializing in Lighting Design and Theatre Electrics. Outside the theater, Piper also finds creativity as a dedicated guitarist. 

Two men hold onto a prop on a theater stage.

J.R. and Piper’s mutual respect and dedication foster a collaborative environment where artists and audiences alike can flourish. 

Story by Joseph Hall, Kelly Strayhorn Theater
Photography by Laura Petrilla
Shot on Location at Kelly Strayhorn Theater

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