Freedom of expression is an essential tenet of a free society. But that freedom often comes under fire when artistic institutions present works that express different and sometimes incendiary points of view. This conversation looks at recent visual and performing arts controversies and the role of cultural collaborators in preparing audiences for controversial work.

PANELISTS:

Kathleen Tolan, playwright (her play Chicago Boys will be read immediately after the discussion)

Sydney Chatham, blogger and founder, The Tofu Chitlin Circuit

Kelly Kleiman, Arts Critic

Eric Reda, Artistic Director, Chicago Opera Vanguard

Leonard Jacobs of The Clyde Fitch Report (blog) will moderate.