'Voyages' offers night of music, science, art and food

As if walking through the galleries of the National Aquarium wasn’t dreamy enough, imagine doing it at night, with original music inspired by the ecosystem’s feedback loops played live and echoing throughout.

Baltimoreans will have that opportunity during the sixth installation of Voyages, the National Aquarium’s adults-only event series where conservation, science and art converge in a completely original experience.

On Thursday, November 21, attendees will be immersed in this sonic journey, courtesy of Baltimore-based artist, composer and performer Dan Deacon. His original musical composition will be performed by a collective of Baltimore musicians, whose soundscape will flow through the Aquarium’s galleries.

Deacon was inspired by research at the Aquarium and the vision of Patuxent Riverkeeper, Fred Tutman, to create a piece based on the concept of feedback loops. The term “feedback loop” refers to how natural systems react to environmental changes and how these same systems undergo exponential transformation.

He imagines the guests interacting and interacting with the musicians, thereby influencing the music and helping to shape the dynamic soundscape that evolves from their interactions. Deacon imagines this echoes the intricate balance found in different ecosystems.

“I hope travelers come away (from this next chapter) feeling a greater connection and a greater role in the feedback loops they are a part of – their real ecosystem, those around them and within themselves,” said Deacon. “My favorite part about interaction is that even if you choose not to participate, you have interacted with the work that is asking for your participation. This has been an aspect of my performance practice for many years, but I think this performance will expand in a way I have never done before.”

He added: “I hope the performance and the audience’s role in it will help highlight the never-ending fractalization of connectivity we all have with everything around us.”

After exploring the Aquarium’s exhibits, guests are invited to end the night with fellow travelers at an exclusive party featuring an intimate performance by Deacon. The evening will also include a curated bar menu crafted by Cane Collective, alongside delicious offerings from local restaurants including Ekiben, Arepi, Sistah’s Sweets and Crust by Mack.

Voyages: Chapter 6 takes place on November 21st, from 7pm to 11pm. This event is for visitors aged 21 and over. Tickets are $60. To learn more about the experience and purchase tickets, click this link.

The aquarium is located at 501 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD.