Aug. 22 family event features chalk art, performances by Squonk Opera
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Written by: Rob Cline

The grand opening of the new Hancher Auditorium is just over a year away, but getting closer every day. In anticipation of the ever-approaching milestone, Hancher will host a free family event titled Drawing Closer: Celebrating Hancher’s Upcoming Opening on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event, which will include chalk artists, games, food vendors, and more, will be held on the roadway connecting Park Road to the Hancher parking lot.

The event is being produced with the help of Mortenson Construction and volunteers from the Hancher Guild.

Hancher Chalk Illustration

A variety of artists have signed up to participate in the event, and each has been asked to create a work of art in a designated space on the roadway. Many of the artists may choose to depict performers they would like to see on the Hancher stage. Chalk will also be available for families to create their own images during the event.

Drawing Closer will also feature Squonk Opera, a band known for creating unusual spectacles. Squonk will perform Pneumatica, an event that makes use of air in a variety of unexpected way, including the inflation of the 40-foot Lady Pneumatica. Pneumatica will be performed from 11:30 a.m. to noon, 1 to 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 to 3 p.m. The second performance will be followed by a STEAM workshop for children. Audience members are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets for seating during the performances.

Drawing Closer is the first event of the 2015-2016 Hancher season. The new Hancher season is supported by the Hancher Partners and gifts to the Hancher Circle through the University of Iowa Foundation. Tickets for the rest of the season go on sale on Monday, Aug. 24. The complete schedule can be seen at the Hancher website.

Parking for Drawing Closer will be available in the Hancher parking lot. Those with accessibility needs can be dropped off at either the event gate along Park Road or at the gate adjacent to the Hancher parking lot.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact the Hancher Box Office in advance at 319-335-1158.