Things to Do

"Song 1" Goes Live at the Hirshhorn

The groundbreaking installation features live performances tonight instead of its recorded soundtrack.

"Song 1" at the Hirshhorn. Photograph courtesy of the Hirshhorn.

We’re not usually advocates of misbehavior in the name of
art (except when the occasion really merits it), but today’s two-part
“Song 1” happening at the Hirshhorn might just merit an early
escape from the office. If you haven’t already seen the groundbreaking
multimedia installation by
Doug Aitken, read our review
here.
The 360-degree
projection includes a film made by Aitken, featuring
Tilda Swinton and
Devendra Banhart and set to the song “I Only Have Eyes For You,” recorded by a variety of artists.

The installation, which has been running nightly from
sundown to midnight since March 22, has proved so popular that it’s
been extended for a week until May 20. Today’s activities
include a 3 PM symposium in the Hirshhorn’s Ring Auditorium with
artists and writers
David Allin,
Aaron Betsky, and
Zabet Patterson, discussing the concept of “liquid architecture and the culture of modification.”

Tonight, the Hirshhorn is also hosting a live
performance outdoors to accompany “Song 1,” directed and choreographed
by Aitken.
For one night only, instead of the recorded accompanying
tracks, bands including High Places, Nico Jaar, Tim McAfee Lewis
and Leo Gallo, No Age, and Oneohtrix Point Never will perform
their own versions of the song. Tickets are sold out, but we’re
assuming you’ll be able to hear and see a fair amount from the
nearby Mall. Pitchfork is also streaming
a live broadcast of the performance, which you can watch from
the comfort of your own home.

For more information, visit the Hirshhorn’s Tumblr.