News - Voicemail to the Future: 'Utopian Hotline' Takes Center Stage at Franklin Institute

Imagine if you could leave a message for humanity decades from now. "Utopian Hotline," an innovative theater experience, offers just that from September 24-26 at the Fels Planetarium, as part of the Philadelphia Fringe Festival. Conceived by Mitu, this performance art piece invites callers to dial 646-694-8050, sharing their hopes for an ideal future. These anonymous thoughts may become part of the show, which also includes insights from NASA's best and brightest, middle schoolers, and more. Inspired by the Voyager Golden Records sent to space in 1977, 'Utopian Hotline' brings these celestial communications into the modern age, capturing diverse and visionary futures under the dome of the Fels Planetarium. The program features seven hourlong shows, marking its Philadelphia debut, and is open to audiences aged 7 and above. Tickets for this transformative experience are priced at $35, exclusive of museum admission. Attendees wishing to delve further into the wonders of science can purchase separate museum tickets for the day. Performance Schedule: - September 24-25: Two shows each evening at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. - September 26: Three shows at 1 p.m., 5 p.m., and 7 p.m. Located at the Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, this groundbreaking experiment in storytelling and community engagement invites Philadelphians to envision—and perhaps help manifest—a more utopian tomorrow.