Submersive Productions to Headline Voyages: Chapter 7 at the National Aquarium

The National Aquarium's Voyages series returns July 17 with Chapter 7 — an after-hours event for adults blending conservation, science, and art, featuring a creative, collaborative experience led by Baltimore's Submersive Productions.

Known for their innovative, community-driven art experiences, Submersive Productions invites guests to see the world — and their place within it — through a vibrant new lens.

Through puppetry and movement, Submersive Productions will transform the Aquarium into an immersive theatrical celebration of animal perception, encouraging guests to experience humanity in relationship with other species, not in dominion over them.

"Collaboration is at the heart of what we do because ecosystems in collaboration thrive," said Ursula Marcum, co-artistic director of Submersive Productions. "There's no us vs. nature—only 'us.' When the environment flourishes, we all flourish."

As part of their artistic residency, Submersive Productions also partnered with scientific experts from within the Aquarium and beyond.

They connected with the Johnsen Lab of Sensory Biology at Duke University, led by Dr. Sönke Johnsen, to learn how animals perceive the world. Their insights inspired the creation of a lively "underwater" puppet festival, complete with large-scale marine life puppets made from upcycled materials, a movement team, shadow puppetry, a crocheted coral reef and opportunities to interact with puppets.

"Artists and scientists aren't so different. Both are fueled by curiosity and a sense of wonder," said Glenn Ricci, Submersive Production's co-artistic director. "We wanted to create an experience that brings people into that spirit of exploration and joy."

Voyages: Chapter 7 will take place on July 17 from 6 to 11 p.m. Throughout the evening, guests will be invited to interact with the performers, affecting the flow of the night's storytelling. The celebration will culminate in a whimsical puppet parade, transporting guests from the depths of the ocean to the expanses of outer space.

After exploring the Aquarium's exhibits, guests will wrap up the evening alongside fellow voyagers at an exciting after-party featuring a live performance by Astronaut Symphony from Afro House, an Afrofuturist symphonic performance art group.

Guests can also enjoy culinary creations from Mera Kitchen Collective, Common Ground, Sistah's Sweets, Ekiben and a curated drink menu featuring Checkerspot Brewing and Baltimore Spirits Company.

"Joy and play are survival mechanisms for navigating the grief of reality," said Marcum. "We want every grown-up to let go, be playful, and rediscover that sense of wonder."

Support for the Voyages series is provided by the Marjorie Lynn Bank Endowment, and Voyages: Chapter 7 is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC). Learn more at the Voyages: Chapter 7 event listing.