Live interactive music shows for all ages are coming to Trolley Portal Gardens at 40th and Baltimore. Starting May 11, University City District (UCD) is partnering with West Philadelphia-based jazz vocalist Gretchen Elise to present inclusive musical performances featuring local talent on Thursday evenings from 5 – 7 p.m.

“Our goal with Trolley Portal Gardens is to bring programming for the neighbors, parents, and commuters who use the space every day,” said Margaret Starke, UCD’s Senior Manager of Events and Community Partnerships. “Gretchen has deep connections with the neighborhood and other local musicians and made a great fit as both a presenter and a curator.”

About the programming, Gretchen Elise shares: “I wanted to design an intergenerational series where every community member can truly participate. This is how I perform and even compose – it fuels me, and generates positivity.”

The musicians featured in the 2023 Pop-Up series will bring a variety of styles and influences, culminating on June 15 with a performance by Gretchen Elise and The Authentic during the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll.

                    Gretchen Elise

Here’s the full schedule:

• May 11: Gretchen Elise – Philly fusion and open mic. Anam Owili-Eger, keys; Rhodney Miller, bass; Ricardo Martino, dr; Jan Jeffries, perc (see preview video below).

• May 18: Zay Money and Friends – 10-year-old rapper, singer, and dancer.

• May 25: Ants on a Log – Music for children and childlike people.

• June 1: Pierre Paloma & M.O.M. – Inflight interactive percussion jam (see video below).

• June 8: AfrVbz & DJ ACube – Afrobeats dance party!

• June 15: Gretchen Elise featuring The Authentic – Hip-hop and jazz open mic during the Baltimore Avenue Dollar Stroll.

Curator Gretchen Elise has performed widely and served in professional and volunteer roles in arts and education in Philadelphia. She has released two original albums, and her 2020 single, “Wawa,” received international press.

Some seating is available. In the event of inclement weather, the series moves inside Renata’s Kitchen. For more info, visit: https://www.universitycity.org/portalgardens