Powered by Community. Guided by Professionals.
Supporting the culture of live performance in the Mahoning Valley.
The Iron City Arts Project connects emerging performers with experienced professionals while creating opportunities for our community to experience exceptional live performance.
Through collaboration, mentorship, and live events, participants gain insight into the craft behind professional stage performance—from musicianship to the many technical disciplines that support a great live show.
Iron City Arts is proud to work alongside the many talented performers, educators, and arts organizations that contribute to the vibrant culture of live performance throughout the Mahoning Valley.
Iron City Arts Project is dedicated to cultivating artistic excellence, fostering real-world opportunity, and creating connection across the Mahoning Valley. We believe strong communities are built through professional arts experiences that invite everyone to participate and belong.
The Iron City Arts Experience
Professional Performance
Iron City Arts presents live performances that celebrate the craft of professional stage performance while creating meaningful experiences for audiences in our community.
Stagecraft & Production
Participants gain exposure to the many disciplines that support live entertainment, including musicianship, sound engineering, lighting, production, and collaboration.
Mentorship & Skill Development
Emerging artists have the opportunity to learn alongside experienced professionals, gaining insight into the discipline, preparation, and teamwork required in the performing arts.
What We Believe
Live performance is one of the most powerful ways a community connects.
We believe the craft behind great performances—both on stage and behind the scenes—is learned through collaboration, mentorship, and experience.
And we believe that when artists, creators, and audiences come together, they help strengthen the cultural life of the Mahoning Valley.
Cliff Barnes
Founder, Iron City Arts Project
Cliff Barnes is a seasoned music director, composer, educator, and touring musician whose career spans national and international stages across jazz, gospel, R&B, and musical theater. Known for his ability to guide both artistic vision and technical execution, Barnes has managed the musical and production logistics of major tours, directed high-level recording sessions, and served as musical director for theatrical productions and churches.
Throughout his career, Barnes has collaborated with an extraordinary roster of artists including Johnny Gill, Gerald and Sean Levert, Marvin Sapp, Karen Clark Sheard, and Dorothy Norwood. His musicianship has also contributed to projects with Gregory Porter, Lalah Hathaway, Marcus Miller, Terrence Blanchard, Chris Potter, Pieces of a Dream, and Gerald Veasley.
Alongside his performance career, Barnes is a dedicated educator who has served as a Jazz Piano instructor at West Virginia University and continues to mentor emerging musicians. Through the Iron City Arts Project, he extends that commitment—connecting the next generation in the Mahoning Valley to the real craft and collaborative spirit of professional performance.
“Music has taken me around the world, but the greatest impact comes from sharing that experience with the next generation. Through The Iron City Arts Project, we’re creating opportunities for emerging artists to learn the craft, build real careers, and contribute to the culture of live performance in our community.”
— Cliff Barnes
