KARAMU HOUSE MARKS LEADERSHIP MILESTONE AFTER TRANSFORMATIVE DECADE 

Tony Sias Takes the Stage as Artistic Director While Historic Theatre Begins New Chapter with Strength, Purpose and National Momentum 

CLEVELAND, Ohio – May 12, 2026: When Tony F. Sias and Aseelah Shareef joined Karamu House more than ten years ago as executive leaders, they took on the responsibility of guiding one of the nation’s most historic cultural institutions. Today, the Karamu House Board of Directors is celebrating the results of that leadership: a fully renovated theatre, national recognition, and a vibrant artistic home that is stronger than it has been in decades.. 

As part of the organization’s next chapter, Sias will step into the role of Artistic Director, returning to the creative work that has long been at the heart of his career. Aseelah Shareef will serve as Interim President and CEO while the Board conducts a national search for the organization’s next chief executive. In addition to her leadership experience, Shareef brings a deep background as a performer, educator, and cultural arts leader, ensuring steady guidance for Karamu House during this transition. 

“Tony has been a transformational leader, restoring Karamu House to national prominence while honoring its 110-year legacy,” said Board of Directors Co-Chair Tamara Horne. “We are grateful for his continued leadership in shaping Karamu’s artistic future. At the same time, Aseelah will step into the role of interim President and CEO, leading the organization’s executive and operational functions.” 

Following more than a decade of executive leadership, Sias will transition from his role as President and CEO into Artistic Director. 

“This allows me to go deeper and really execute the artistic vision of this institution,” Sias said. His focus will include honoring and advancing the theatrical qualities that have set Karamu House apart, creating a pipeline for new and emerging creative artists, playwrights and theatre technicians, and reimagining arts education for lifelong learners. 

Karamu House enters this transition period from a position of strength, said Board of Directors Co-Chair Michael Jeans. “We’ve completed all phases of our renovation,” Jeans said. “We’ve upgraded our facilities, added amenities and improved our accessibility for all. We’re primed to embrace the future – at a time when audiences across the nation are consuming theater with a dynamism and enthusiasm we have not seen in years. We’ve made it a mission at Karamu House to preserve the past and empower the future.” 

The Board’s search committee has begun work, including retaining an outside consultant to help lead the national search to identify a strategic leader with business acumen and cultural vision to carry Karamu House into its next era. 

About Karamu House 

Karamu House, the nation’s oldest Black producing theatre, was founded more than a century ago on the principles of improving conditions for the community. Established within the settlement house model, the Playhouse Settlement (precursor of Karamu House) invited all to commune in and through the arts. Today, our “place of joyful gathering” contributes to the livability of Greater Cleveland and honors the Black experience by presenting high-quality theatre productions; educating students of all ages in dance, theatre, vocal performance, and other arts disciplines; and hosting community events that celebrate Black history and culture. On a consistent basis, Karamu develops new content to address systemic racism and contribute to the conversation about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. 

Contact

Joshua McElroy, marketing@karamuhouse.org, 216.206.7350