ArtPhilly Launches Inaugural Festival 'What Now: 2026' for US Semiquincentennial

ArtPhilly, founded by Katherine Sachs and led by Creative and Executive Director Bill Adair, will launch its inaugural city-wide festival titled 'What Now: 2026' on May 27, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States. The five-week festival features over 30 projects by local artists, selected by a curatorial committee of 17 Philadelphia-based curators led by Curatorial and Deputy Director Tania Isaac. The program includes performances, installations, and podcasts across multiple festival districts, highlighting Philadelphia's artistic community and sparking dialogue about the nation's future. Artists commissioned include Jai Perez, Cookie Diorio with Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus, Urban Arts Movement, Theatre in the X, and The Bearded Ladies. The festival aims to reaffirm creativity and community as central to Philadelphia's character.