Over the last 20 years, the demographic composition of the Midwest has dramatically changed, bringing significant cultural shifts that transform community values and practices at every level. New residents speaking Somali, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Laotian, Hmong, and Russian, among 40 other languages from countries all over the world, are now settling into communities that have historically lacked diversity.

As the demographic makeup of our region transforms, other aspects of cultural life have simultaneously changed. The arts have long been explored as a tool for both addressing cultural differences and enhancing quality of life; however, such experiences—particularly multi-cultural or international arts experiences—are often unavailable or inaccessible to many people in small- to mid-sized communities.

Arts Midwest believes that students should have regular opportunities to explore the arts in their daily lives, regardless of where they live. The arts serve a vital role for enriching people and communities—not only do they provide entertainment, they serve as a catalyst for education, self-expression, and cultural awareness.

We believe it is important that quality arts reach our communities and that community members experience cultures outside their own, broadening their sense of the world at large and encouraging cross-cultural dialogue.

We address the need for cross-cultural arts through Arts Midwest World Fest, a performing arts program that brings inimitable performing artists from around the world to people in small- and mid-sized communities throughout our region. Through this program we provide rich arts experiences, educational materials, and social opportunities to stimulate creativity and arts understanding, break down barriers, allow appreciation for diversity, and promote acceptance of other cultures.

Over a two year period, four global musical ensembles conduct intensive residencies in selected communities throughout the Midwest. These residencies last one week in each community and include workshops with elementary-, middle-, and high-school students; low-cost public concerts; free school concerts; and a variety of community outreach activities such as family workshops in public libraries, master classes with local musicians, and community-hosted dinners with the ensembles.