This event is SOLD OUT. We will accept walk-ins on the day of, if space allows. Entry is first-come, first served. 

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Experience the Smart Museum of Art's must-see exhibition, Theaster Gates: Unto Thee, at the opening public reception, featuring live music, hors d'oeuvres and drinks.

RSVP is required with entry first-come, first-served subject to venue’s capacity. Please note that registration does not guarantee entry. Each opening weekend program requires separate registration.

Cocktails provided by our friends at Casa Dragones Tequila. 

ABOUT THE PERFORMERS

Mike Reed's "Big Gig"
Performance begins at 4 pm

Mike Reed’s "Big Gig" transforms the scene into a soulful, raucous Soul-Jazz party distinguished by its joyful energy and cross-continental spirit. The ensemble—Greg Ward (alto sax), Hunter Diamond (tenor sax), Keefe Jackson (baritone sax), Cole DeGenova (piano, organ), Christian Dillingham (bass), and Mike Reed (drums)—invites listeners to experience a setlist that blends American jazz traditions with powerful South African grooves.

In every live show, the Big Gig dives deep into the cosmic sounds of Sun Ra and the lush, timeless arrangements of Duke Ellington. But what really sets the night apart is a vibrant selection of music by South African legends Dudu Pukwana, Johnny Dyani, and Mongezi Feza. With driving horns, swirling organ, and earthy rhythms, the band brings a euphoric, danceable celebration to life—lifting up the optimism, protest, and pure joy embedded in these classics.

This is music that pulses with community, improvisation, and cultural lineage. It’s a celebration that connects the spiritual power of jazz’s outer-space explorers to the resilience and joy of township traditions. Whether covering deep cuts or classic tunes, the Big Gig is a high-spirited invitation to move, reflect, and revel in a world of soul-drenched sound.

DJ Sean Alvarez
Performance begins at 5 pm

Music is Sean Alvarez's Sanctuary....
The foundation was built over 25 years ago nurtured by the sounds of classic soul, disco, house, hip-hop and jazzy grooves. Since then Sean Alvarez has earned the respect of being one of Chicago's premier DJ's and Sound Curators. His love and respect for the music and the culture are the driving forces behind his ambition. He has played at several famous venues in the States and internationally alongside some of the most recognized names in music. Showing a strong commitment never to compromise his style and integrity he remains true to his roots by playing a wide variety of genres and timeless sounds that stem from authentic soul and jazz music.

Learn more and RSVP for the rest of the Theaster Gates: Unto Thee opening weekend. 

• Sunday, October 5
  12:00 - 2:00 pm, Theaster Gates in Conversation, at The Land School
• Sunday, October 5
  4:00 - 7:00 pm, The Black Monks Performance, at The University of Chicago’s Bond Chapel

   

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