America 250

Hamilton The Movie

The Obama Presidential Center launches its Movies on the Plaza series with a screening of the filmed Broadway production of Hamilton — the groundbreaking musical that reimagines the founding era through a contemporary lens blending hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theater. Before the film, hear from a member of the original Broadway production about how the show has become part of the national conversation about democracy in action. Grab a blanket, bring your friends and family, and enjoy a summer evening under the stars on the OPC Plaza. This free event is presented in partnership with the Chicago Park District.
Event Details
Tue, Jul 21 • 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Great Lawn
Admission
This event is free. Please bring your confirmation email with your digital ticket(s).
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Plan Your Visit

John Lewis Plaza

Named in honor of late civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis, the John Lewis Plaza is a lively and animated outdoor space that welcomes visitors to the Center. The Plaza–which serves as an entry point for the Forum, Museum, and Library buildings–is a dynamic hub built to foster the spirit of community that was central to the legacy and work of Congressman Lewis.

Good to Know

Explore helpful resources regarding transportation, accessibility services, and on-site amenities before you arrive.

More America 250

Explore America 250
  • An illustration in a bold-line, distorted-proportion style featuring a massive hand and arm covered in a textured collage of colorful torn paper, a hallmark of artist Mark Bradford's work. The hand holds a large, similarly textured map of the United States. In the background, the modern architectural buildings of the Obama Presidential Center campus are depicted under a pale yellow sky, with a small sign that reads "Layers of America: Mark Bradford." A tiny figure in the bottom corner looks up at the scene, emphasizing the exaggerated scale of the hand.

    Mark Bradford: Layers of America

    Tue, Jul 21

    Join OPC commissioned artist Mark Bradford for a public conversation and hands-on youth artmaking workshop exploring America's layered history.

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  • YOUmedia Alumni Workshop: From Self to Sound

    Wed, Jul 29

    Chicago music icons Saba, Nico Segal, and Jamila Woods lead teens through a hands-on workshop on music creation and storytelling in the OPC Media Suite.

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  • Encanto Movie Screening

    Tue, Aug 11

    Bring the family for an outdoor screening of Disney's Encanto with pre-film art activities by Hyde Park Art Center and live music performances.

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  • Podcast Production: Keys to Success in Sports Media

    Thu, Aug 20

    Teens produce their own sports podcast segment guided by ESPN journalist Mina Kimes and Super Bowl champion Ryan Clark in the OPC Media Suite.

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