Overview
We're celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May with a multi-week lineup spotlighting AAPI artists and featuring dance, music, film and more! Bring the whole family for free artistic offerings on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza, including Friday movie nights, Polynesian dance lessons (Tuesday Night Dance), and Live on Argyros Stage concerts.
On May 31, join us for an unforgettable event that explores Black music in anime & Japanese jazz. This brand-new musical venture will be part anime screening, part concert and part discussion that highlights the dynamic fusion of two cultures.
Why do so many Black people love anime? Why does anime love jazz, hip hop, and other Black American music genres? Dr. Marcus Norris and South Side Symphony return to explore these questions and more, celebrating cultural exchanges as we transition from AAPI Heritage Month to Black Music Month. It’s a party on the Argyros Plaza featuring a full orchestra and a concert packed with new twists on some of your favorite anime themes!
Event Schedule
6:30 PM – Enjoy food trucks & photo ops!
8:00 PM – Kids on the Slope
8:30 PM – South Side Symphony
Admission
Admission is free with our new Plaza Pass! Before you arrive, sign up for free and download this digital pass to your mobile wallet for access to AAPI Heritage Month events along with thrilling live entertainment, exciting cultural experiences, and free community programming on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza.
About Kids on the Slope (TV-14, 30m)
Kids on the Slope follows Kaoru Nishimi, an introverted high school student who discovers jazz music through his friendship with his delinquent classmate Sentarō Kawabuchi. Kaoru begins playing piano at after-school jazz sessions in the basement of a fellow classmates' family-owned record shop.
Know Before You Go
This is an outdoor event in an open plaza with limited built-in seating. Audience members may bring their own folding chairs if desired. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at George’s Café. Attendees are welcome to bring their own refreshments, however outside alcohol, glass containers, tables, barbecues, and food preparation are not permitted on the Plaza. The Plaza can get chilly with occasional strong breezes. Please bring a warm sweater or jacket to ensure maximum comfort during the performance. The film will be screened with English dubbing and subtitles. This show may include flashing lights, but will not include theatrical haze and fog, or strobing effects.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is presented with generous support from Charlie and Ling Zhang and Bank of America.
Free Plaza Programming Presented by:
