The Return of Midnight Marathon – Arts & Science Council
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The Return of Midnight Marathon
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March 3, 2026
THE RETURN OF MIDNIGHT MARATHON
Get ready, Queen City. You asked, and we listened.
Midnight Marathon
, ASC’s signature showcase-style fundraiser,
returns April 17th
, transforming the historic
Carolina Theatre at Belk Place
into an immersive and enchanting showcase of local art.
Presented in partnership with
Charlotte SHOUT
, an annual celebration of art, culture, and community presented by Bank of America and Atrium Health, this immersive experience will showcase nearly 30 artists across a cycle of musical, theatrical, comedic, and captivating performances of all genres.
“More than just a fundraiser, Midnight Marathon is a celebration of Charlotte’s thriving cultural ecosystem, showcasing the talent that makes our city a regional arts powerhouse,”
says  Adam Santalla-Pierce, ASC President.
With enough variety to last all night long, Midnight Marathon 2026 will feature electrifying performances from
Rumbao Latin Dance
Planet Improv
, Charlotte-based rapper
Myrts Son
, musicians including
Tom Billotto
and
Walter Boston
, readings from local poets such as
Hannah Hasan
and
Shane Manier
, and much more.
The night is punctuated by an hour-long intermission from 8-9pm activated by renowned tarot-reader, Marcos Robles and aura photographer, Alexia Byrd of Black Moon Co. Audiences will have an opportunity to come away with a stunning photo keepsake and maybe even some mystical direction from the cards.
At Midnight Marathon 2026, we are embracing the history and magic of our hosting venue, the
Carolina Theatre.
Carolina Theatre - Exterior
Carolina Theatre - Audience View
Carolina Theatre - Stage View
As ASC prepares for the event’s second iteration, it’s become clear that the demand goes beyond audiences seeking bold, engaging new art forms and an engaging theatre-going experience. And, there is also a
growing need
for more
diverse opportunities for creatives.
“At ASC, we are passionate about expanding the cultural community; there is a need for diversified creative opportunities in Charlotte-Mecklenburg, and Midnight Marathon is one of the core ways in which ASC works to meet that need,”
says ASC’s Community Engagement Program Officer and Midnight Marathon’s curator, Sasha Banks.
In that spirit,
proceeds from Midnight Marathon will support ASC’s mission
of empowering creatives and strengthening communities, with a particular emphasis on expanding opportunities for both artists and residents.
Help ASC nurture and grow Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s creative ecosystem by being a part of the movement. Join the Arts & Science Council in celebrating
the diversity of Charlotte, both in people and talent.
To
purchase your tickets for Midnight Marathon 2026
click here.
TICKETS: Midnight Marathon 2026
ABOUT ASC
The
Arts & Science Council (ASC)
is Charlotte-
Mecklenburg’s
cultural leader,
serving as a resource hub,
funder
, and advocate for arts, science, and history.
A supporting organization of
Foundation
For
The
Carolinas
, ASC champions
local creatives
by
investing in the arts, sciences, and culture to drive economic growth, community
retention
and cultural
engagement.
Our mission is to build inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich communities where creativity drives belonging, growth, and opportunity.
From artist support grants and public art stewardship
to free Culture Blocks events and partnerships with local schools and universities, ASC invests in a thriving, accessible creative ecosystem for all.