Little Rock's Clinton Center: A Hub of Ideas and Culture

The Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock is gearing up for an exciting lineup of events in early 2026. This isn't just about looking back at history; it's about sparking conversations that matter today. First up, in January, the center is bringing together two big thinkers: Cornel West and Robert P. George. These two have very different views on life and politics. West is known for his progressive ideas, while George is a conservative scholar. They'll be talking about big questions that affect all of us. Later in February, Jennifer Palmieri, who worked in the White House, will share some behind-the-scenes stories. She's written books and hosted shows, so she's got plenty of interesting tales to tell. Then, there's a young author named Rocco Smirne. At just 10 years old, he's already written a book about music at the White House. He and his mom will talk about how music has shaped traditions there.March is Women's History Month, and the center is celebrating with a panel of women leaders in Arkansas' arts scene. They'll discuss how they're making bold moves in their fields. In April, there's a talk about the complicated friendship between two Founding Fathers, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. It's a reminder that even people with big differences can find common ground. The center is also hosting talks about Queen Elizabeth II's relationships with U. S. presidents and the Asian chefs who cooked for them. It's a chance to learn about how food and diplomacy are connected. But the Clinton Center isn't the only place in Little Rock offering cultural experiences. The Weekend Theater is holding auditions for a play called "Nuts. " It's a drama about a woman who kills a client in self-defense and the legal battle that follows. The theater is looking for actors who can realistically portray adults and parents of adult children. All these events show that Little Rock is a place where ideas are shared and cultures are celebrated. Whether you're into history, politics, arts, or theater, there's something for you.