Evening Includes Debut of Gates’ New “Processions” Performance Series

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden will host world-renowned artist and urban activist Theaster Gates and architect David Adjaye in conversation Wednesday, Sept. 21. The event marks two debuts for the long-time friends: the world premiere of Gate’s public performance series “Processions” earlier that evening, and the historic opening of the Adjaye-designed Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) Sept. 24.

Space will be limited, with free tickets for both the performance and talk available online starting on Friday, Sept. 9 at 11 a.m. The talk will also be livestreamed at hirshhorn.si.edu/processions.

“Processions,” a four-part performance series convened by Gates and taking place throughout next year, will bring unexpected performers together to introduce audiences to unexplored connections between sacred music, African and African American culture and history, theater, world dance and chant. The first performance is entitled “The Runners” and will feature students from Howard University in Washington, D.C., alongside The Black Monks of Mississippi, an experimental musical group.

Following the premiere of “Processions,” Gates and Adjaye will discuss the roles of artists and architects in community engagement and cultural development, as well as the ways in which collaboration can act as a catalyst for positive change.

An Evening with Theaster Gates and David Adjaye
Wednesday, Sept. 21

Processions: The Runners performance, 5:30 p.m.

David Adjaye and Theaster Gates in Conversation, 6:30 p.m.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Independence Avenue and Seventh Street S.W.

Free tickets and more info: hirshhorn.si.edu/processions

“Processions” has been made possible with support from the Sidney E. Frank Foundation.