Odd Space playing under the planetariums dome – Photo by Joel Grimsley
By Joel Grimsley, Arts Editor
Seats were filled at Grand Rapids Public Museum as an audience gathered for a concert under the dome of the museum’s Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. This Concert Under the Stars is one of a series of late night events that the museum offers.
The performance offered an immersive experience in both music and arts. A local indie band, Odd Space, was staged inside the planetarium where they performed live. Meanwhile, Grand Rapids based visual artist, Jasmine Bruce, operated a series of animations and videos that were projected on the planetarium’s 50 foot dome overhead. This event took place on the evening of Jan. 30 and 31, but is one of a series, more concerts with new artists will occur again in February and March.
Odd Space, lead by multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Joey Frankovich, was joined by fellow musicians, Sydney Brown and Michael Pierce. They performed ethereal music that experiments with elements of rock and electronic music to create mystic but melancholic tunes. Simultaneously, these pieces were being performed projected images shifted and changed under the dome that fitted the tone of each song.
All of the images, ranging from abstract to surreal animations, were created by Bruce and reflected themes of spirituality, pain and consciousness. Some of the songs were paired with animated videos, others played alongside projections of time lapses of the creation of illustrations revealing the process behind some of Bruce’s work.
The audience warmly received both artists. Souvenirs and merch were available during the intermission and after the show.
Audiences exploring the museum and merch after the performance – Photo by Joel Grimsley
Alongside the concerts, the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium continues to offer their regular range of immersive, pre-made shows throughout daytime hours, these show contain more informative content than events such as the concert.
“I really don’t think I have taken full advantage of the museums in the downtown area in Grand Rapids,” said sophomore Matthew Sloan. “I’m not a local student here,… but given the chance I would absolutely go and check it out.”
For music lovers or art enthusiasts, events such as Concerts Under the Stars offer a unique experience and really highlights West Michigan’s local talent. With engaging performances and creative collaborations, the show can offer audiences an experience that uses both sounds and visuals, all beneath the stars of the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.
Projected aquatic footage was also paired with songs at the event – Photo by Joel Grimsley
For those seeking other nocturnal experiences, the museum’s popular event, Adventure After Dark event returns, offering a chance to enjoy the exhibits after hours. Guests will have exclusive access to all three floors of the Museum, interactive shows at the planetarium, and opportunities to support the museum’s work with casual attire, appetizers, and drinks. This event is 18+, and has cocktails and an open bar for those over the age of 21.
For tickets and more information on upcoming performances, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum’s website. https://www.grpm.org/.
The Saint 