Join Pilobolus’s UP!, where the imaginative whimsy of Mary Poppins meets the kaleidoscopic energy of a night at Studio 54. Using lighted umbrellas developed in collaboration with MIT, you will create a visually stunning, large-scale, live performance piece—no training or rehearsals needed! Build a feast for the eyes while you move to music in a lively, collaborative community experience led by dance theatre company Pilobolus. Presented in partnership with Opera Philadelphia and Village of Industry and Art. This FREE, all-ages event is open to the public. Select from three sessions: 7PM, 8PM, or 9PM on Thursday, October 29. Want to celebrate Halloween with us? Dress the part! Costume theme suggestion: The Next 250 Years in the USA – we want to see your most comfortable, futuristic best. (For the safety of other attendees, please leave props at home.) How to prepare: Wear your costume, if desired, and comfortable shoes! We suggest leaving bulky bags at home. Participants age 13 and up: please bring a photo ID or another form of collateral for us to hold until it is time to return the umbrella. Accessibility Info: An accessible entrance to the Village of Industry and Art is available at 1431 Pine St. Note that the event includes holding a lighted umbrella (approximately 1- 2 lbs) for the duration of the experience and moving around the event space. If you prefer, you are welcome to participate as a spectator. Accessible bathrooms are available on site. Limited street parking only. Please check septa.org for local public transit. UP! (The Umbrella Project) in Philadelphia is possible thanks to a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Special thanks to Penn Live Arts, Village of Industry and Arts, and Opera Philadelphia for their support.
Organizer
PilobolusVenue
Village of Industry and Art, Great Hall
Category
Performance ArtTag
Family-FriendlyStart date
October 29th, 2026
End date
October 29th, 2026
Audience Role
Umbrella-wielding performer. Note that the event includes holding a lighted umbrella (approximately 1- 2 lbs) for the duration of the experience and moving around the event space. If you prefer, you are welcome to participate as a spectator.
Ages: All ages
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About Pilobolus
Pilobolus is a rebellious dance company. Since 1971, Pilobolus has tested the limits of human physicality to explore the beauty and the power of connected bodies. We continue to bring this tradition to global audiences through our post-disciplinary collaborations with some of the greatest influencers, thinkers, and creators in the world.