A Random Act of Culture

Taking our “art” out into the community instead of expecting the community to always come to the concert hall, theatre, or museum – what a concept!  Well, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation has made it easier to do just that.  The Foundation has funded a program called “Random Acts of Culture” which is currently being experienced in eight cities.  The most recent occurrence was in Philadelphia, where the Opera Company of Philadelphia staged an “impromptu” performance of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus.  Over 650 singers, drawn from 28 area choruses, congregated (disguised as shoppers) in the downtown Macy’s store.  This is the old Wanamaker’s Department Store which still has the large pipe organ that made it famous.  At an appointed time, the organist cut loose with the introduction to Hallelujah and the 650 singers, spread throughout the store, began to sing.  It’s available to view and hear on youtube and I’ve also included the link on my Facebook page.  Take a look and a listen, and experience an amazing “shared” event between performers and listeners.  It made me wonder what other sorts of random acts of culture we might try in our own communities (funded by a foundation, or not).  Any ideas?