Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is presenting Constellating Wonder: Maria Popova and Friends Celebrate 20 Years of The Marginalian, a unique event celebrating literature, music, science, philosophy, and storytelling. The presentation will be held on Friday, October 23 at SPAC’s Amphitheater Stage in Saratoga Springs and will mark exactly 20 years since the launch of Maria Popova’s The Marginalian.
The night is going to include live appearances and guest performances by an eclectic mix of writers, musicians, scientists, artists, and performers such as Krista Tippett, Marie Howe, Diane Ackerman, James Gleick, Natascha McElhone, Debbie Millman, Sophie Blackall, Uma Thurman, Stephon Alexander, Natalie Batalha, Willow Defebaugh, Paola Prestini, Wendy MacNaughton, Zoë Keating, Joan As Police Woman, and Nick Cave.
Popova launched The Marginalian, which was formerly named Brain Pickings, in 2006 as a means of sharing her personal reflections on the search for meaning. What began as a compilation of personal reflections and insights from Popova that originated from an email she sent to seven colleagues became so successful that it earned global acclaim as a literary magazine.
The anniversary celebration is inspired by The Universe in Verse of Popova, which features readings, songs, stories, and discussions of the existential issues that affect humankind. During the evening, Popova will present excerpts from books that have inspired her while dealing with topics such as pain, beauty, love, curiosity, and the pursuit of meaning.
“Maria Popova is one of the most extraordinary thinkers and cultural voices of our time,” said Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “Maria has inspired millions to think more deeply and expansively and I am thrilled that SPAC will be the place where we celebrate her remarkable work and the twentieth anniversary of The Marginalian.”
Apart from these performances, visitors will get a chance to explore a pop up “Museum of Delights” where they will have a chance of participating in a raffle in order to win some handmade ceramic art by Popova, as well as other art pieces that she makes. Moreover, there will be a bookstore at the event which will display the 20 best books selected by Popova along with her book autographed by her.
In line with the principles of The Marginalian, which has been open access and maintained through the efforts of donations, tickets will be provided on a pay what you can basis, ranging from covering the basic cost at a minimum to making more substantial donations. Free tickets will also be offered upon request to those who need them. There will also be an option to stream the viewing for those who cannot attend in person.
Constellating Wonder: Maria Popova and Friends Celebrate 20 Years of The Marginalian will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, October 23, at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
Click here for tickets, livestream information, and additional event details.
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