FRIDAY, AUGUST 2
- Baltimore Improv Group (BIG) has been an Artscape participant for years, boldly bringing its brand of Old Bay-seasoned comedy to the BIG Theater on Charles Street. During daylight hours, BIG is hosting free improv shows open to all. But for the 18+ crowd, starting at 9:00 p.m. some of Baltimore’s funniest comics will take the stage for the popular program LOL@Artscape.
- You can catch LOL@Artscape on Friday or Saturday night — or both! The lineup is different each night for maximum laughs. Comedians include They/Them Ty, Bryan Preston, Violet Gray, Ian Salyers, and more. Your host with the most is Michael Furr.
- Just down the street at Penn Station, you can listen to a live set by DJ Thommy Davis of Collective Minds from 9:00–11:00 p.m. while you lounge in the Beer Garden and enjoy a delicious cocktail from Bar Movement
- Around the corner, the SNF Parkway Theatre is throwing a Lounge Party & Artist Meet & Greet also from 9:00–11:00 p.m. The bar will be open and there will be a live DJ. Guests are invited to have a drink and mingle with the artists behind some of the films that are screening at the Parkway as well as an upcoming installation.
- In addition to the Lounge Party and screenings, the Parkway is also holding several filmmaker Q&As. On Saturday, August 3, the Q&A is moderated by Wide Angle Youth Media (WAYM), featuring a panel of WAYM students and alumni. On Sunday August 4, the Q&A is moderated by JHU-MICA Film Centre, featuring a panel of JHU-MICA Film Centre students and alumni. For both events, doors open at 1:30 p.m., and the program starts at 2:00 p.m.
- Back to Friday night — from 9:00–11:00 p.m. at the Eubie Blake National Jazz & Cultural Center you can sign up for Bmore Hip Hop Karaoke. Since its inception in 2018, Bmore Hip Hop Karaoke has redefined the karaoke scene with its distinctive monthly event celebrating Hip Hop culture.
- Bmore Hip Hop Karaoke creates space for enthusiasts and fans alike to take center stage, showcasing their passion and talent in an unforgettable experience. Hosted by Ellen Gee and Eze Jackson with DJ Harvey Dent, this event offers a turntable spin on traditional karaoke.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3
- Another longtime Artscape participant, Corpus Christi Church is hosting Baltimore’s Big Sing, a massive audience choir sing-along, at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday night. Belt out pops hits like “Hey Jude” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart” along with learning the fundamentals of epic massed choir songs like the “Hallelujah Chorus” and the opening of “Carmina Burana.”
- Led by Baltimore Choral Arts Music Director Anthony Blake Clark and other wonderful leaders from Baltimore’s vibrant choral community, the program will also feature some songs from the 1780s, 1880s, and 1980s in celebration of the decade when Artscape began.
- Beginning a little earlier at 5:00 p.m., Night Owl Gallery presents “Aquatic Womb,” a captivating new installation by Virginia Warwick. This site-specific work transforms their secondary gallery into the illusion of a cozy, oceanic womb, utilizing familiar materials such as plastic drop cloths and party streamers. While the materials appear shiny and attractive, they serve a dual purpose: These seemingly harmless items highlight the environmental hazards they pose, prompting reflection on how humans treat their surroundings. From 9:00–11:00 p.m., artist Virginia Warwick’s band performs live.
- Also from 5:00–11:00 p.m., the Blk Ass Flea Mkt takes over the Eubie Blake Center for “Blk @ Nite: Artscape 40 presented by Fulton Bank.” This night market and after party will have local vendors and a live DJ. Since 2021, Blk Ass Flea Mkt has been an incubator of Black artists, creatives, and business owners. If you want to bop while you shop, be sure to check it out.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4
As Artscape winds down on Sunday, attendees are invited to Corpus Christi Church, 110 W Lafayette Ave, Baltimore, MD 21217 from 3:00–6:00 p.m. for a homecoming. This joyous event will include live music, singing, and interfaith prayer.
Join visionary, artist, and vibe curator Safiyatou for an afternoon of soulful music and heartfelt prayers. The melodies will transport you to a place of peace and serenity as you celebrate the beauty of music and spirituality. This in-person event is an opportunity for like-minded individuals who share a love for music and a desire for spiritual connection to gather. Expect classic gospel, African drumming and dancing, and refreshing and real fellowship.
Finally, Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers will perform songs from his album, “Eric Waddell Presents Hour of Power Experience.” For one whole hour, enjoy listening to oldies (but goodies!) from James Cleveland, Mattie Moss Clark, Thomas Whitfield, Benny Cummings, Milton Brunson, and more.