Last year, the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s Rainbow Summer took advantage of the Instagrammable society we find ourselves in these days by bringing a light-bending art installation to the event. Apparently, the translucent bubbles got a good response because something similar will be set up on the MPAC grounds as Rainbow Summer returns this week.
Throughout the free event, July 23-27, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the light and sound of “Elysian Arcs” — a series of 20-foot-high inflatable arcs that feature a choreographed display after the sun goes down. The engagement comes from Atelier Sisu, a design studio based in Sydney led by award-winning artists Renzo B. Larriviere and Zara Pasfield that creates experiences somewhere between art and architecture.
When you’re not wandering through the arcs, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Rainbow Summer during the week, not least of which are the free concerts happening all five nights. There’s a global feel to the lineup, which includes a partnership with Culture x Design’s “Summer of Soul” on Wednesday. Here’s what’s on tap:
- Tuesday, July 23 — LowDown Brass Band, a one-of-a-kind horn ensemble that embodies the vibrant Chicago music culture but providing a modern take on hip hop, soul, reggae and jazz.
- Wednesday, July 24 — Robert Randolph Band, led by its pedal steel guitarist namesake, will give a joyous, gospel-infused genre-bending performance as part of a unique partnership between MPAC and Culture x Design.
- Thursday, July 25 — Radio Free Honduras incorporates the colorful tastes of salsa, samba, and bossa nova into their music, drawing influence from the diverse musical traditions of Latin America.
- Friday, July 26 — BritBeat, an immersive Beatles Tribute Experience featuring an unparalleled fusion of live musical prowess and innovative multimedia technology that creates a mesmerizing journey through the band’s iconic soundscape.
- Saturday, July 27 — Mucca Pazza, an intrepid interdisciplinary instrumental music ensemble known for their danceable music, irresistible energy and unmistakable sound.
All of the performances start at 7 p.m., with the exception of a 6:30 p.m. start time for Saturday’s show. You’ll also want to get down there early for a couple different reasons as the week moves along. Food trucks and beverages from Sazama’s Fine Catering start serving at 4:30 p.m. each day, Michelle Hackett will lead bubble playtime from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and a rainbow-colored piano will be on the grounds all day so you can make a little music of your own.
In addition to those activities, Wednesday’s partnership with Culture x Design includes an outdoor marketplace; Mercadera Market will open at 4 p.m. Thursday and feature Latina-owned, female-led vendors; and Family Day is Saturday, with a Kid Boogie Down Dance Party with DJ lukewarm from 3 to 6 p.m., Spin Art MKE, face painting and an interactive bubble station.
For more information about this year’s Rainbow Summer, visit the event page on the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s website.
