3pm - Dawn | Rain or Shine | Kimmel Center
900 Moments you won't want to miss!
Celebrate the longest day of the year at the Kimmel Center's annual 15-hour party spectacular! During the day, enjoy kid-friendly activities, games and face painting, chair massages, classical and dance performances. When the sun sets, that's when the party really starts! Get down with indie bands, singer-songwriters, club dancing and even a drag show. Finally, as the sun rises, bang in the new day with an enormous drum circle, BYOD (bring your own drum)!
Event Parking
The Avenue of the Arts Garage (1501 Spruce Street) is the official parking garage of Summer Solstice. Visit www.aveartsgarage.com for directions and information. Please note that the 1400 block of Spruce Street, between Broad and 15th Streets, will be closed from 1pm - 9pm, Saturday, June 20. The Kimmel Center parking garage will be closed to the public for the entire day. Planning to stay overnight? Click here for hotel information!
Art for the Cash Poor
InLiquid: Art for the Cash Poor
Kicking off this year's Solstice is InLiquid’s Art for the Cash Poor outdoor art show and sale, featuring photographs, paintings, jewelry, clothing and handmade books, with all items priced under $200. Spruce Street will be closed from 3pm to 8pm between Broad and 15th Streets, with food and drink available for purchase.
3pm – 6pm | Spruce Street (1400 block) | Variety
Please Touch Museum’s Play Patrol
Please Touch Museum's Play Patrol brings the essence of the museum out on the road and into the community. As Philadelphia's premier children's museum, we encourage families to play and grow together through a myriad of child directed, interactive play experiences. Find us on Spruce Street for some outdoor fun with activities including sidewalk chalk, hula hoops, giveaways and more.
3pm | Broad Street | Jazz
The Hoppin' John Orchestra
Philly's only post-modern brass band brings you from the second line to club with stompin', swingin beats, specializing in the New Orleans brass band style, Jazz, Dixieland and pre-Rock 'n' Roll Rhythm and Blues.
Face Painting
Face Painting
Free face painting from Creative Face.
3pm | Commonwealth Plaza | Variety
Zoo on Wheels
Traveling naturalists from the Philadelphia Zoo bring animals and bio-facts for an educational and exciting encounter with wildlife.
3pm | Commonwealth Plaza | Family
Miss Amy Kids Fitness Rock & Roll
Returning to the Kimmel, Miss Amy will have you on your feet and keep your young children hopping, roaring and jumping for joy!
Kimmel Center Youth Jazz Ensemble
Kimmel Center Youth Jazz Ensemble
This ensemble of young talented musicians, comprised primarily of middle school students, trains with accomplished jazz musicians and teachers to perform in the first regional ensemble specializing in jazz. These talented students are directed by Marc Johnson.
3:30pm | Verizon Hall | Concert Band
Chester County Concert Band
The 85+ member Chester County Concert Band, directed by David Reif, celebrates its 28th Anniversary in 2009, entertaining audiences in Chester County and the surrounding tri-state area. The band's repertoire includes light classics; traditional and contemporary symphonic and military band compositions; show tunes; swing music; marches; and patriotic favorites.
J-Hoop
J-Hoop, Marisa Grasso & the Junior Hoop Troupe Hooptoxic
It’s all in the wiggle! It’s the latest craze to hit the streets! Hoop Dance performer and instructor Jennifer Alvarez aka J-Hoop and her hoop troupe will dazzle and amaze as they perform, instruct and demonstrate how to move hoops. Over ones back, doing tosses and flips, jumping through the hoop, and more! If you can imagine it, you can dance it with a hoop. Hoop Troupe accompanied by the drum sounds of Michael Romeo.
4pm | Spruce Street | Variety
Cumberland County 4-H Double Dutch Team
The Cumberland County Double Dutch Team Az One is a 4-H program, a dynamic, non-formal, educational program for young people in first grade through one year out of high school. 4-H, based out of Rutgers University, is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States with more than 7 million participants from diverse ethnic, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds who live in rural, suburban, and urban communities.
4pm | Commonwealth Plaza & Spruce Street | Variety
Balloon Twisting by Black Cat Balloon Company
Get to know Black Cat Balloon Company! Philadelphia-area balloon artist Susanne Ritchie has been entertaining children and adults for more than ten years with fun animals, characters, and wearable balloon art. Watch, be amazed and take one home!
The Great Holtzie
4pm | Rendell Room | Bluegrass
DePue Bros and Philly Grass
DePue Bros and Philly Grass play a mix of genres from classical, rock, folk, blues, bluegrass, to swing. Including members of the Philadelphia Orchestra, DePue Brothers and Philly Grass will perform a set of originals and standards. Some of the finest violin playing in the world will be heard from the DePue Brothers, whose artistry in classical, rock, country, and bluegrass circles is internationally acclaimed. Be ready to have your jaw dropping in awe, with a smile, and some tapping toes.
4pm | Innovation Studio | Family
The Great Holtzie
The world's greatest (and only) stand-up comedian for kids 3-10! Named “Best Comedian For Kids” in Philly Mag’s 2008 “Best Of” issue, Holtzie was described as the “Steve Martin for five-year-olds.” He has thrown the rules of children's entertainment out the window, creating an original and rapid fire act that will make mom and dad laugh just as hard as the kids.
Kulu Mele
Kala JoJo
With his towering height, deep voice and gentle humor, this nationally acclaimed vocalist, musician and African Jeli (storyteller) offers living lessons to children and adults alike through traditional folktales and poetry embellished with drums, harp, kalimba and bylophone.
4:30pm | Perelman Theater | Dance
Kulu Mele
Since its creation four decades ago, Kulu Mele African Dance & Drum Ensemble has established a national reputation as a unique and dynamic performing company. The longest-lived African Dance company in Philadelphia, Kulu Mele has built a repertoire that is an exciting blend of West African ancestral tradition and African American creativity.
4:30pm | Cadence Restaurant | Jazz
The Hoppin' John Orchestra
Philly's only post-modern brass band brings you from the second line to club with stompin', swingin beats, specializing in the New Orleans brass band style, Jazz, Dixieland and pre-Rock 'n' Roll Rhythm and Blues.
5pm | Rendell Room | Classical
Brett Deubner, viola & Luba Slepoi, piano
Brett Deubner and Luba Slepoi perform music from the Soviet Era by Revol Bunian, Arutinian, Kachaturian and Kolodub. Brett Deubner, one of this generation's leading violists, has thrilled audiences with his technical mastery and soulful playing. Slepoi studied at St. Petersburg State Conservatory in Russia.
Duffy String Band
Yappy Hour
Bring your dog and enjoy 'Yappy Hour' together with other animal lovers on Broad Street in front of the Kimmel while helping the animals of the Pennsylvania SPCA build the field of their dreams. A portion of drink sales will directly benefit their Dog Park Project. The Dog Park, which is currently under construction in the lot next to Philadelphia’s shelter, will offer their shelter pups over 14,000 square feet of play space! Canine lovers can also pick up Waggies, all natural peanut butter dog treats by Maggie & Friends. Planning to stay overnight with your pooch? Click here for hotel information! 5:30pm | Commonwealth Plaza | Mummers
Duffy String Band
Members of the 64-piece Duffy String Band enjoys a long-standing and well-deserved reputation as a band that is willing to take on beginners and introduce them to the tradition of Mummery. Duffy String Band celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2005, with the recording of their CD 60 Years of Music and Mummery.
Gina Sicilia
Gina Sicilia
Gina began singing in Philadelphia area clubs as a teen, and has since branched out worldwide. As an artist who has been performing on the blues circuit for only a few short years, Gina's star is rising, and is rising fast.
6pm | Innovation Studio | Singer/Songwriter
Philadelphia Songwriters Project
The Philadelphia Songwriters Project presents the winners of their 2009 songwriting competition: Dante Bucci, Andrea Carlson, Angella Irwin, Kelly & the Ruths, Adam Swink and Dawn Iulg. These talented singer-songwriters have emerged from submissions of more than 200 nationwide entries. The Philadelphia Songwriters Project is a non-profit arts organization with the mission to support local and regional songwriters.
Bradd Marquis
Bradd Marquis
In partnership with SPEAKtoMe Presents
Up and coming R&B phenomenon, Bradd Marquis is already building an impressive fan base from his televised performances on Showtime At The Apollo and BET’s "Wild Out Wednesdays," where he won the 2007 Soul Singer of the year award. Marquis’ first single "Radio" is receiving air play on New York’s Hot 97. This summer, Marquis will be representing the "future of soul" at the Soul Summer Series featuring India.Arie and Tamia.
6pm | Rendell Room | Classical
Paul Arnold, violin & Sonya Ovrutsky, piano
Violinist Paul Arnold has been a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra for 23 years, and has appeared with such diverse personalities as Yefim Bronfman, Christoph Eschenbach, Keith Jarrett, and the Emerson Quartet. He has also been featured in the Philadelphia Orchestra's Chamber Music series performing widely contrasting repertoire. Founder of the Main Line Music Academy, pianist Sonya Ovrutsky has appeared on stages around the world, including Carnegie's Weill Recital Hall and Aspen Music Festival.
6pm | Cadence Restaurant | DJ
DJ AfroDJiak
"DJ AfroDJiak" El (aka Josey) moved to Philly four years ago and we haven't been the same since! Come check out her incredible spins while enjoying one of the best views on Broad Street from the Cadence balcony.
Schuylkill River Outlaws
Schuylkill River Outlaws
Described as "wonderfully rowdy bluegrass," the Schuylkill River Outlaws are a Philadelphia-based quintet focusing on American-roots and country music, influenced by performers like the Stanley Brothers, John Hartford, the Memphis Jug Band, and Old Crow Medicine Show.
7pm-1am | Commonwealth Plaza | Variety
Chair Massage Therapy
$1/minute professional chair massages.
7pm | Verizon Hall | Gospel
Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Mass Choir
Established in 1876, Enon is the oldest African-American Baptist Church in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. This majestic 80-100 member choir will perform uplifting spirituals, and traditional and contemporary choral music.
Márcia Ganem Fashion Show
7:30pm | Perelman Theater | Fashion Show
Márcia Ganem Fashion Show
Presented in partnership with Conexoe Consulting
Internationally acclaimed fashion designer Márcia Ganem makes her U.S. debut at the Kimmel Center! Her creations represent a strong link between fashion, art and jewelry using innovative techniques and materials such as her trademark use of recycled fibers. Ganem has been in the business for over 10 years, and participates annually in Rio de Janeiro’s Fashion Week. Immediately following the show, textile and fashion experts will host a panel discussion about Marcia’s work. Afterward, don’t miss the chance meet the renowned designer in the Plaza.
7:30pm | Rendell Room | Jazz
Swinging Foxes
The Swinging Foxes are led by long time Berks County musician Skip Moyer. The band plays tasteful, swinging arrangements of jazz standards. A simple rhythm combination supports the lovely vocal sensation of Ms. Amber Rae. The Foxes are inventive, romantic and classic.
Pasión y Arte
8pm-1am | Commonwealth Plaza | Variety
Henna Tattoo Designs
8:15pm | Commonwealth Plaza | Dance
Pasión y Arte, flamenco
Pasión y Arte is an all-female dance company that creates challenging, provocative, innovative and original works of flamenco with the dual goals of preserving and strengthening the tradition and empowering women. Our work is deeply steeped in rigorous study of the Old World culture of flamenco baile (dance), cante (deep song), and toque (guitar), while simultaneously including New World jazz dance, ballet, and feminism.
PhillyBloco
PhillyBloco
PhillyBloco is Brazilian music to shake your body and soul! Modeled after the blocos of Rio de Janeiro, PhillyBloco is comprised of 13 drummers, guitar, bass, singer, accordion, a brass section and two Brazilian dancers. Sing, dance, shout and celebrate!
8:30pm | Innovation Studio | Variety
First Person Arts Story Slam
Hosted by Philadelphia Magazine Arts & Entertainment Editor Victor Fiorillo
First Person Arts brings its Story Slam for the second year to the Kimmel Center’s Summer Solstice—signups are before the show outside the theater. For those brave enough to approach the mic, this year’s theme is The Great Outdoors.
Three Blind Mice
Three Blind Mice
Philadelphia's premier Organ Trio, led by saxophonist Victor North, Three Blind Mice call upon our city's great history of organ groups for their explorations into contemporary Jazz.
9pm | Cadence Restaurant | DJ
DJ AfroDJiak
"DJ AfroDJiak" El (aka Josey) moved to Philly four years ago and we haven't been the same since! Come check out her incredible spins while enjoying one of the best views on Broad Street from the Cadence balcony.
9:30pm | Perelman Theater | World & Dance
Attitudes Bollywood Dance Company
Dance lessons Bollywood style! Attitudes Bollywood Dance Company has been on numerous television shows, in movies, and competitions, throughout Philadelphia. Learn the exotic, rhythmic, heart pounding music of India through Bhangra dance with these talented instructors. Balle Balle (Dance, Dance)!
9:30pm | Commonwealth Plaza | World Fusion Music and Dance
Animus
Eastern Mediterranean world fusion music and dance ensemble Animus’ unorthodox instrumentation and original compositions excite the mind, body and soul with an endless variety of grooves and tribal rhythms. Animus will be joined onstage by special guest bassist Dave Palan.
Tarot Readers
Tarot Card Readers
10pm | Verizon Hall | Reggae
Iron
For people seeking just the right triangulation of Kingston, London and Philly, IRON will satisfy your desire! The six-piece Philadelphia-based band deftly melds the rhythms of the Caribbean with a soul punch and the edgy energy of punk rock.
Forte’s Late-Night Lounge
Forte’s Late-Night Lounge
Forte, the Kimmel Center’s Young Professionals group, hosts a Late-Night Lounge on the rooftop garden for an escape from the noisy crowds below. Guests can lounge under the stars and enjoy old-school films and cartoons such as Gumby, Betty Boop and The Three Stooges projected on an inflatable, 25-foot screen, vintage board and card games, tarot card readers, and cocktails from the bar.
10:15pm | Rendell Room | Middle Eastern-Balkan-Blues
Oud Blues
Fusing styles from the Gypsy mountains of Romania to the Saharan and Middle Eastern deserts and back to the streets of Philadelphia, Oud Blues is comprised of the upright bass, saxophone, trumpet, percussion, drumset and the oud. Led by Philadelphia native, Brian Nadav, Oud Blues doesn't want to break with tradition but add to it. The oud is a fretless, short-necked, pear-shaped, plucked lute of the Arab world, the direct ancestor of the European lute, mandolin and guitar.
Oud Blues
DJ Rahsaan
DJ Rahsaan, has ignited dance floors from NYC to Puerto Rico with his innovative fusion of funky global beats. His company, Afrotaino Productions, has collaborated with numerous international indie and major artists like Calle 13 (Puerto Rico), Mala Rodriguez (Spain), Cordero (Puerto Rico/Brooklyn), and Monareta (Colombia). Bhangra beats & anthems, accompanied by Bollywood dancing styles with instructor Rosalyn Reidt.
10:30pm | Innovation Studio | Cabaret
Karen Gross Presents the Late-Night Cabaret
Sassy, sexy cabaret performer/songwriter Karen Gross ("Sex & the Single Singer") hosts an intimate, irreverent and fabulous evening of music and comedy. Joining her are some of the area's acclaimed cabaret performers (Aimee Robidoux, Melissa Kolczynski), singer-songwriters (Gillian Grassie, Dan Creskoff) and comedians (Dave Terruso and Matt Lally, a.k.a. Animosity Pierre).
Bob & Barbara’s Drag Show
Bob & Barbara’s Drag Show
The notorious Bob & Barbara’s Drag Night joins us again for a night of amazing drag queen performances. “One of the longest running drag spectacles in the city…Brassy, a little gritty and real in a way that would make any Philadelphian, gay or straight, proud.” —AOL Cityguide Philadelphia
11:30pm | Verizon Hall | Jam Band
Splintered Sunlight
Since 1992, Philadelphia’s Splintered Sunlight has entertained fans with their own interpretation of the music of The Grateful Dead. Splintered Sunlight has a play-list of over two hundred songs, in the true spirit of The Grateful Dead musical experience. Splintered Sunlight has performed with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead.
Christian Rich
Christian Rich
Hip-hop duo Christian Rich, the multi-tasking production and artist team best known for their single "Famous Girl," has been creating hit records since early 2000. Currently based in New York, the duo has been exciting audiences at home and abroad with a six-piece band accompanied by string quartet playing electro/ hip-hop infused songs.
Ruder Than You
Ruder Than You
Ruder Than You has long been known as Philly’s top ska band. While ska and reggae have always provided the common musical thread, they also mix in dancehall, hip-hop, rocksteady, funk, jazz, and punk to create their own unique sound. The band’s energy and enthusiasm inevitably pulls everyone out onto the dance floor!
3:30am | Commonwealth Plaza | Funk
Dr. Ketchup
Dr. Ketchup is a five piece instrumental project from Philadelphia consisting of Rhodes piano & organ, tenor sax, trumpet, bass, and drums. Dr. Ketchup's style is a balance between jazz structure and a funkified groove, as well as Boogaloo beats from the late '60s.
Sunrise Drum Circle
Sunrise Drum Circle
B.Y.O.D (bring your own drum) for the Solstice Sunrise! Arabic Rhythms by Al-Bustan Percussion Ensemble will lead the audience in Commonwealth Plaza to dawn the new day.
> View a printable schedule grid featuring links to artist websites!
Please check back for updates! All artists subject to change.
The Kimmel Center Box Office is open daily from 10am - 6pm.
The Call Center is open daily from 9am - 8pm. Call 215-893-1999 for single tickets. TTY callers only, the number is 215-875-7633.
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