The revitalization of the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood gets another welcome dose of vitality Friday as the historic Emery Theatre reopens its doors for a special music and arts event, the latest (and most promising) phase behind the theatre’s comeback. The restoration is the mission of The Requiem Project, which is attempting to not only bring back a fantastic performance venue and celebrate its 100th anniversary but also to give the neighborhood a bustling community arts center. Friday event attendees will be able to explore the Emery building as well as exhibitions featuring the work of by several area artists (curated by ParProjects). The “preview party” also gives organizers a chance to show off the building’s greatest asset — the main-stage area, with its great acoustics and seat views, will present local performing artists Exhale Dance Tribe, concert:nova, Madcap Puppet Theatre and singer/songwriter Peter Adams. Then, one of Cincinnati’s all-time great bands, Over the Rhine, will cap things off with a headlining performance. OTR is in the midst of a big fall/winter tour behind its latest release, The Long Surrender (Sunday, they’re back on tour, performing in Los Angeles).
