Free Jazz Shows in Philadelphia

Directed and Choreographed by Dominic Moore-Dunson Original score by Theron Brown Based on the book by Jessie Oliveros Illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers James’ Grandpa has the best balloons because he has the best memories. He has balloons showing Dad when he was young and Grandma when they were married. Grandpa has balloons about camping and Aunt Nelle’s poor cow. Grandpa also has a silver balloon filled with the memory of a fishing trip he and James took together. But when Grandpa’s balloons begin to float away, James is heartbroken. No matter how hard he runs, James can’t catch them. One day, Grandpa even lets go of the silver balloon. Meanwhile, James realizes his bunch of balloons is growing, and it’s up to him to share those balloons, one by one. This heartfelt dance production for the entire family breathes three-dimensional life into the pages of the original book that inspired it. The performance includes themes related to Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss, presented with sensitivity. 2:00 PM | Information & engagement in Manell Lobby 3:00 PM | Performance 3:45 PM | Community conversation with Dominic Moore Dunson immediately following the performance Free Admission Reserve your tickets in advance: www.DrexelPerformingArts.com

Thu, Oct 8, 8:00 PM

The City Wide Sessions Returns! Hosted by Dan Kalowitz

Velvet Whip Arts & Social Club / Eraserhood / Map

Are you up to Jam with the best of Philly? ARE YOU A MUSICIAN LOOKING TO JOIN THE JAM? RSVP FOR FREE ENTRY BELOW! The last City Wide Sessions jam at Heritage Jazz in 2023 brought together a real mix of players—familiar faces, new voices, and the kind of easy collaboration that only happens when the room feels right. It’s the kind of night people still bring up. Now, City Wide Sessions is returning—this time at Velvet Whip, with the possibility of becoming a monthly hang. The idea is simple: create a consistent space where musicians across Philly can show up, sit in, experiment, and connect. A room that welcomes both seasoned players and newer artists, without pressure—just good energy and openness. It also creates a real opportunity for younger musicians to learn firsthand—playing alongside a high-quality house band, picking up the unspoken language of live performance in real time. Nothing forced—just a good room, good people, and the music building from there. GET TICKETS

Discover the exuberant sound of Kommuna Lux, the genre-blending ensemble from Odesa, Ukraine. Ukrainian folk and klezmer meet Balkan swing, jazz, disco, and Latin influences in a high-energy, danceable performance. Syncopated rhythms, expressive melodies, and an improvisational spirit offer plenty for adventurous jazz listeners to enjoy. Join us for a joyful, life-affirming afternoon of music benefiting Common Man for Ukraine’s humanitarian aid and healing retreats for Ukrainian children who have lost a parent in the war. Sunday, October 11, 2026, at 3 p.m. KleinLife, 10100 Jamison Avenue, Philadelphia Doors open at 2:30 p.m.; reception included. Free Parking. Honorary Consul of Ukraine Iryna Mazur will open the proceedings. All backgrounds are welcome. Advance tickets: $36. Free admission can be arranged for refugees, recent immigrants, or anyone for whom price is a barrier. Tickets: https://givebutter.com/Philly10-11-26