Upstairs at the Greenwich

Art started at Upstairs at the Greenwich and then spread to become the soul of the entire space. Growing to include so much of the inspirational -- Jazz, theater, poetry, comedy and even opera beginning this fall -- The Greenwich is bursting at the seams with life, energy and creative charisma. It's got a vibe and a voice all its own.

Here's how it works: The downstairs is "The Greenwich", an eclectic bar and adjoining performance area. "Upstairs at the Greenwich" is a former apartment-turned-art gallery featuring regional established and emerging artists. The art is cool with thought-provoking themes and interesting perspectives. The previous exhibit touched on women's issues, displaying work such as Christina Pereyma's handmade corsets composed of rose petals and cracked eggshells.

But the gallery itself is just a glimpse of a greater artistic vision. Co-owner Mark Yates is continuously incorporating different forms of art, on a mission to "broaden the scope of cultural endeavors," as he so eloquently put it. He added a stage downstairs for Jazz, plays, political debate, improvisational comedy, receptions -- just about anything that enriches the arts or the community. The Greenwich also hosts 24-hour open mic nights for poetry, performance art and music. And on Fridays you'll find the "Divas of Legend" re-creating performances by classic singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday.

"We think we're doing something important here. Our hope is to spark a revitalization of the arts and bring people back to Peebles Corner," says Yates. I'd say The Greenwich is doing a damn good job. It's eccentric, it's admirable, it's an all-round amazing place, and it's completely absorbed in the arts.

Upstairs at the Greenwich
Address: 2442 Gilbert Ave., Second Floor, Walnut Hills

First opened: June 8, 2002

Hours: 7-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 p.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday

Next exhibit: Cincinnati artist Ricci Michaels, opening Saturday

Contact: 513-221-1151