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UNBOUND, When the Day Comes, and Poor Judge
The BSR Weekly Arts and Culture Roundup, January 8-14, 2026
Kyle V. Hiller
Happy new year to you and yours! We’re back on the scene here at BSR, and the first roundup of the year starts us off strong. A new photography exhibit blends two trips to Kenya with inspiration from a popular anime TV series to deliver a compelling message about freedom and liberation; a picture book illustrates the cultural importance of Black girls and their braids; a Barrymore Award-winning play returns to the Wilma, and a party pops off under the el.
UNBOUND: A Visual Study on the Nature of Freedom
Now through January 25, 2026
Ubuntu Fine Art Gallery, 5423 Germantown Avenue
Steven CW Taylor’s new exhibition captures photographs from Taylor’s 2019 and 2020 travels to Kenya. Inspired by one of Taylor’s favorite characters from One Piece studied through the lens of Ubuntu (the Outward) and Ikigai (the Inward), the exhibit captures a quest to define freedom and what it means to live liberated.
When the Day Comes
January 10-11
Theatre Exile, 1340 South 13th Street
This original stageplay written and directed by Philly native Mikel Java follows Thessaly Grant, a documentary filmmaker, and Dr. Leander Case, a physician diagnosed with stage IV metastatic colon cancer—a terminal illness. They collaborate on creating a documentary that not only captures their bond while transforming personal tragedy into art.
A Black Girl and Her Braids
Sunday, January 11, 12pm
Barnes and Noble, 1708 Chestnut Street
Harlem native Jaylene Clark Owens visits Philly in celebration of her new picture book A Black Girl and Her Braids. Drawn from a poem by Owens amd illustrated by Brittney Bond, this debut shines a spotlight on the significance of braids for Black girls of all ages, celebrating the cultural heritage and creativity of Black communities. Joy is at the heart of the story, and it pays tribute to the historical roots of braids and how they continue to be a symbol of self-expression. The event is free, with a reading and book signings by Owens. The book is available for purchase online now.
Under the El
Saturday, January 11, 1-10pm
Vizion Gallery, 3312 Kensington Avenue
Under the El is a street art and hip hop event, featuring performances by Philly hip hop legends Reef the Lost Cauze and DJ Sat One, live graffiti, art vendors, and more. The event brings artists together from all over the country, and includes a jacket drive to support neighbors in need. It’s hosted by Recovery Done Simple, a grassroots non-profit based in Philadelphia dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and homelessness.
Scratch Night x Studio 34
Monday, January 12, 7pm
FringeArts, 140 North Columbus Boulevard
Scratch Night returns with experimental works at various stages of development. The monthly series is a chance for artists and audiences to connect, discover new works, give and receive feedback, and more. Scratch Night features artists from all disciplines—it’s not only for theater artists (though they are certainly welcome, too!). This edition is hosted by Studio 34’s Morgan Andrews.
Poor Judge
January 13-25
The Wilma Theater, 265 South Broad Street
Poor Judge returns to the Wilma, courtesy of Pig Iron Theatre Company, for a limited run due to popular demand starting this weekend. The Barrymore Award-winning cabaret with music by Aimee Mann is part spy story, part woeful tale of lost loves, and part Hollywood audition. Told through vignettes and songs, the cabaret offers glimpses of “an inviting, seductive Los Angeles and its shadow: the frightening underbelly of the American success story.”
Editor’s note: Before you go, did you know that BSR is celebrating 20 years at our Party with the Critics event on January 15? All are welcome! Get your tickets now.
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