Looptopia

Conceptually brilliant. In reality - not fabulous.

Looptopia was an experiment, trying to replicate the arts festival vibe of White Nights around the world. Scatter a variety of different events (dance, live music, performance & installation art, DJs, exhibits, etc) in all sorts of venues within a small, walkable area. Run from 5PM to sunrise. Capitalize on all the people getting off work in the Loop.

I met up with Kallisti to check out the events. I really wanted to see the Redmoon stuff, but they didn't start up until 8PM. In the meantime, I was excite to walk around, absorb some free culture and festival energy, generally support Looptopia. Usually the Loop empties in the evenings, especially Fridays, so it was exciting to see people still walking around.

Unfortunately, the weather really wasn't cooperating. Instead of a mild May evening, it was downright chilly 55, with big gusty winds that had me ready to cling to more permanent objects lest I get blown down Madison. This decreased the general patience with less-than-perfectly thought-out events. Putting breakdancers on the pavement and then hoping the crowd can see their floor work? Restricting Midnight Circus to a rickety stage? But I am not the only one who was underwhelmed. Ended up bailing pretty early.

I will say the coolest thing was the dock-dance party. Tucked under the Sullivan building within site and earshot of the Palmer House was a great "found space" where they put up a variety of DJs, complete with projections and lighting. It had a great gritty aura, got you out of the wind, and was generally cool. There were even amateur breakers! I was happy to see girls on the floor, even if they lacked the theatrics.

on iTunes: "Heartbreaker" - Pat Benatar