A Night to Remember: The Big Pop Picture Show at The HÜG Place

Big Pop Picture Show prepares for the event.

Akron, OH – November 27, 2023 — In a spectacular fusion of music, art, and community, Akron Soul Train, in collaboration with EventsAkron.com, delivered an unforgettable evening on Saturday, November 25th, at The Highland Universal Gathering Place (The HÜG Place). The spotlight shone on Jeri Sapronetti, Akron Soul Train's 2023 Artist-in-Residence, and her band Big Pop, as they took center stage for the highly anticipated Big Pop Picture Show.

The event, hosted at the newly established art hub, The HÜG Place, featured Sapronetti's live performance along with a 7-part music video produced during her residency. The result was nothing short of extraordinary, providing attendees with a captivating and immersive experience. Following the performance, a special Q&A session allowed fans to gain insights into Sapronetti's creative process.

Jeri Sapronetti, a local music staple with a decade-long career, showcased her ripping guitar leads and spunky lyrics, creating an atmosphere of energy and youthful spirit. The dance-rock electricity emanating from the stage left an indelible mark on the audience, making it an evening of unforgettable performances.

One of the highlights of the night was the inclusive ticketing approach. With a pay-as-you-can model and a suggested donation of $10 per ticket, the event aimed to make live music accessible to everyone. Doors opened at 6:30 pm, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the artistic ambiance of The HÜG Place before the concert commenced at 7:30 pm.

Sponsored by EarthQuaker Devices and supported by local partners including The Nightlight Cinema, Events Akron, and Arts Together, the Big Pop Picture Show was a collaborative effort that celebrated Akron's vibrant arts scene.

The venue itself, The HÜG Place, housed in the historic Temple on Merriman, has a rich history of promoting peace, compassion, and unity. Transformed by Akron developer Tony Troppe in 2023, this 46,000-square-foot space is dedicated to cultural enrichment and features an auditorium, event spaces, and a commercial kitchen, setting the stage for a variety of events.

Akron Soul Train, with its mission to connect and empower the community through artist residencies, played a pivotal role in bringing this musical spectacle to life. The organization's vision of becoming a nationally renowned Northeast Ohio art program aligns with its core values of sustainability, collaboration, inclusion, community, and creativity.

The Big Pop Picture Show at The HÜG Place was not just a concert; it was a celebration of Akron's vibrant arts scene, made possible by the collaborative efforts of Akron Soul Train, The HÜG Place, EventsAkron.com, and the generous support of sponsors and partners. This event marks another chapter in the cultural renaissance of Akron, and the community eagerly anticipates future artistic adventures.

For more information about upcoming events and to stay connected with Akron's vibrant cultural scene, visit EventsAkron.com.