PHILADANCO! For the Love of Philly
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Ensemble Arts Presents
PHILADANCO! For the Love of Philly
December 4-6, 2026
Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center
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PHILADANCO! and Philadelphia International Records come together for a powerful evening celebrating Philadelphia's artistic soul, cultural memory, and enduring global influence. For the Love of Philly is an electrifying collaboration that honors the city's unparalleled contributions to music, dance, and Black cultural innovation through a dynamic fusion of movement and sound.
Set to the iconic music of Philadelphia International Records featuring legendary voices including Patti LaBelle, Teddy Pendergrass, The O'Jays, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, and more, the evening features world premiere works by Rennie Harris and Dawn Marie Bazemore alongside returning works by Gene Hill Sagan and Tommie-Waheed Evans, as well as a reimagined classic by Dwight Rhoden. Together, these choreographic voices create an evening rooted in rhythm, resilience, sensuality, social consciousness, and communal joy.
Opening night will hold special significance as audiences gather to celebrate Joan Myers Brown's 95th birthday, recognizing more than six decades of visionary leadership and her immeasurable impact on generations of artists and audiences around the world.
Extending far beyond the stage, For the Love of Philly begins the moment audiences enter the theater through a fully immersive lobby installation experience. Designed to "set the stage" for the evening, the installation invites attendees to explore the rich histories and lasting impact of both PHILADANCO! and Philadelphia International Records (TSOP) through archival photography, audio and video stations, historical artifacts, award reproductions, and interactive reflection spaces. Audience members will be invited to engage with stories, memories, and personal responses, transforming the theater into a living celebration of Philadelphia's creative lineage and cultural power.
PHILADANCO! For the Love of Philly
December 4-6, 2026
Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center
---
PHILADANCO! and Philadelphia International Records come together for a powerful evening celebrating Philadelphia's artistic soul, cultural memory, and enduring global influence. For the Love of Philly is an electrifying collaboration that honors the city's unparalleled contributions to music, dance, and Black cultural innovation through a dynamic fusion of movement and sound.
Set to the iconic music of Philadelphia International Records featuring legendary voices including Patti LaBelle, Teddy Pendergrass, The O'Jays, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes, and more, the evening features world premiere works by Rennie Harris and Dawn Marie Bazemore alongside returning works by Gene Hill Sagan and Tommie-Waheed Evans, as well as a reimagined classic by Dwight Rhoden. Together, these choreographic voices create an evening rooted in rhythm, resilience, sensuality, social consciousness, and communal joy.
Opening night will hold special significance as audiences gather to celebrate Joan Myers Brown's 95th birthday, recognizing more than six decades of visionary leadership and her immeasurable impact on generations of artists and audiences around the world.
Extending far beyond the stage, For the Love of Philly begins the moment audiences enter the theater through a fully immersive lobby installation experience. Designed to "set the stage" for the evening, the installation invites attendees to explore the rich histories and lasting impact of both PHILADANCO! and Philadelphia International Records (TSOP) through archival photography, audio and video stations, historical artifacts, award reproductions, and interactive reflection spaces. Audience members will be invited to engage with stories, memories, and personal responses, transforming the theater into a living celebration of Philadelphia's creative lineage and cultural power.
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Where is it happening?
300 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA, United States, Pennsylvania 19102
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherEnsemble Arts Philly
