About this Event
These are difficult days for those of us who love the United States of America. Not the polarised, authoritarian, ignorant, chaotic narcissism of President Donald Trump, but the charming, can-do, freewheeling, adventurous, smart US of jazz, Robert Redford, Yale University, New York Times and Barack Obama.
Your guide Eugene Quinn was powerfully impacted by Jack Kerouac's book On the Road (1957), of freedom, soul, joy and beauty. He loves the hippies and rock n roll, the original spirit of Silicon Valley idealism and openness, of networking and a land where people wanted to start again, to improve themselves, to be part of a bigger project, to enjoy democracy, and the humour of Woody Allen, Simpsons and Walt Disney.
Most of all, of Black America, embodied in all that glorious music they have given the world, from gospel and blues, rhythm and blues, soul, funk, disco, hip hop, house and trap. Of the optimism and play we see in so many fine films from the middle of 20th Century, of Levi's and chinos, dancing and group dynamics, witty dialogue and great sporting moments. And then of the endless reinvention and remixing in hip hop music, breakdancing, graffiti and rap.
On 4th of July, 2026, America will celebrate its 250th birthday, at a very dangerous moment. Are we about to lose this legacy, to hate and post-democratic cynicism? Here we will show you how the US has influenced Vienna, beyond the cliches, and what the postwar occupation gave to our city. Eugene Quinn is a Brit, with Irish roots, but wants to reach out and recognise how important America is to who we are, and how we might live in the future. Please join us for an alternative, progressive party. Or a memorial?
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Boltzmanngasse 18, 18 Boltzmanngasse, Wien, Austria
EUR 15.00 to EUR 18.00
