Karamu House announced on May 12, 2026, that Tony F. Sias will transition from President and CEO to Artistic Director after more than a decade of executive leadership. Aseelah Shareef will serve as Interim President and CEO while the board conducts a national search for the organization’s next chief executive.

Under Sias and Shareef’s joint leadership, the 110-year-old institution completed a full theater renovation and rebuilt organizational stability. As Artistic Director, Sias will focus on theatrical programming, developing emerging artists and playwrights, and overseeing arts education.

“This allows me to go deeper and really execute the artistic vision of this institution,” Sias said. Karamu House, founded in 1915 on Cleveland’s east side, is one of the oldest African American theaters in the United States. Board Co-Chair Tamara Horne said the transition positions the theater for its next chapter.

Source: Karamu House