PLEASE NOTE: This event has already occurred.
Date/Time
Date(s) - 09/03/2026
4:30 pm
Location
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
Categories
Opening Night. Those words represent months of hard work and preparation. They generate anticipation and excitement as both audience and performers gather for the first time.
The stage is set, the curtain is drawn, and the music starts.
Krannert Center’s Opening Night reflects the diversity found right here in Champaign-Urbana. Join in Thursday, September 3rd for live music, food and drink, family-friendly activities, and lots of fun.
Celebrate Community! Celebrate the arts! Celebrate the start of our 2026-27 season!
Come Be Here.
Procession to the Ampitheatre
Kick off the Opening Night Party with a procession starting in the Student Union Plaza led by Mucca Pazza and the Chicago International Puppet Festival. Campus, community groups, and individuals are invited to join in the fun that will culminate at Krannert Center’s ampitheatre.
Mucca Pazza
Chicago’s wildly inventive Mucca Pazza storms the stage with brass, drums, cheerleaders, and nonstop energy. Their genre-defying spectacle is bursting with joy, surreal humor, and dance-filled fun that transforms every performance into an unforgettable musical carnival experience. You will be dancing in no time!
Antibalas
Steeped in the energy of Nigerian superstar Fela Kuti, Grammy-nominated Afrobeat powerhouse Antibalas hits hard with unstoppable rhythms, funk-infused grooves, and an electrifying performance that’s a joyous, dance-filled celebration of music and cultural connection.
Dr. Nativo
Guatemalan native Doctor Nativo brings an explosive live show blending reggae, cumbia, hip-hop, and indigenous influences. His ensemble delivers high-energy rhythms, cultural roots, and a powerful message of community, resistance, and celebration experience.
Funkadesi
Winner of the “Most Outstanding Group” at the Chicago Music Awards and “Best World Music Group” by Chicago Reader, Chicago-based collective Funkadesi blends the Bollywood and Cbhangra music of South Asia with reggae, funk, and more into one seamless, infectious sound.
DJ Silkee
Champaign’s own DJ Silkee blends technical skill, musical intuition, and love into rich mix of beats designed to keep the dance floor moving. It’s the perfect sendoff—uplifting, dynamic, and rooted in the power of music to connect people and leave a lasting impression.
Please remember that events may be canceled or rescheduled last minute due to unpredictable weather or other factors. We encourage you to reach out to event organizers before heading out to an event to verify it is still happening.
