
The National Arab Orchestra debuts in Central Illinois, increasing Arab visibility
The Champaign-Urbana community got a taste of Arab culture this weekend — with a visit from the world-famous National Arab Orchestra.

The Champaign-Urbana community got a taste of Arab culture this weekend — with a visit from the world-famous National Arab Orchestra.

Renowned Indian musician Zakir Hussain, who died this week, performed twice in Urbana within the last few years.

URBANA — Things haven’t been easy for community theaters in Champaign-Urbana this past year, according to their leaders. Kelly Nowlin, executive director of the Champaign Urbana Theatre Company (or CUTC), said they’ve been unable to do any live shows since they canceled their March 2020 show in the middle of its run. “It was