In this newly commissioned durational work choreographed by Brendan Fernandes, the first artist-in-residence to activate the Driehaus Museum’s 1926 Murphy Auditorium, an ensemble of performers from across Chicago’s vibrant independent dance community gather to create a dynamic site for sculptural installation, movement, and sound. Inspired by the pioneering spirit of New York City’s Judson Dance Theater, this core performance work will recur across five activation weeks throughout the episodic exhibition Brendan Fernandes: In the Round. Improvisational in nature, with no prescribed beginning or end, each performance features a rotating cast of dancers that interact with minimalist site-specific installations designed by AIM Architecture (Antwerp, Shanghai, Chicago) alongside textiles developed in collaboration with The Fabric Workshop and Museum, Philadelphia, and a sound installation by Chicago-based experimental musician Alex Inglizian.

In the Round features immersive performances that invite audience members to share the auditorium space with the performers. Guests are welcome to move through the space, observe quietly, or remain seated for the full performance. Limited seating will be available throughout, and audience members may enter or exit the space as needed. If you require accessibility accommodations, please reach out to programs@driehausmuseum.org.

Presented in partnership with EXPO ART WEEK’s Art After Hours.