Entertainment

Cambridge, MA – The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health illuminated the stage with a vibrant display of global talent at its 35th annual International Night (i-Night) on February 13th. Held at Harvard University’s Smith Campus Center, the event showcased performances representing cultures from every continent, highlighting the rich diversity within the Harvard community. This year’s i-Night, themed “Threads of Home: A Celebration of Tradition, Culture, and Memory,” offered a powerful reminder of the importance of international perspectives in public health and beyond.

The evening wasn’t just a showcase of artistic expression; it was a testament to the experiences and backgrounds of students who contribute to the unique learning environment at Harvard Chan School. From traditional dances to spoken word poetry and musical performances, i-Night provided a platform for students to share their heritage and connect with peers. The event underscored the school’s commitment to fostering a globally inclusive atmosphere, a cornerstone of its mission to improve public health worldwide.

Kenzo Kimura, president of the Harvard Chan Student Government Association (HCSGA) and emcee for the evening alongside Priyam Aturi, emphasized the significance of the event. “We had performers from every continent, including students from Zimbabwe to Mexico to Haiti to Austria to India to the United States to China,” Kimura said, according to Harvard Chan School news. “The student government really wanted to emphasize the global diversity that our School and Harvard have to offer. The evening was incredible.”

The diverse program featured a captivating array of performances. Rahul Srinivasaragavan delivered a piano rendition of Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Für Elise,” although Renu Raj graced the stage with a performance of “Bharatanatyam,” an Indian semi-classical dance. Christian Cierny shared an original piano composition, and Rose Jean-Mary moved the audience with her spoken word poem, “Haiti is the Nation.”

Further enriching the program were Andres Porras-Gutierrez’s performance of “Si Nos Dejan” by Jose Alfredo Jimenez, Tanaka Chikati’s evocative “Songs from Zimbabwe” featuring the mbira, and Alice Zhang’s captivating “Rainveil,” a Dai ethnic dance. Onovughakpor Otitigbe delivered a powerful rendition of “Home” from The Wiz, Spencer Robinson shared his spoken word poem, “Take My Crutches,” and Andrew Wu concluded the musical performances with a piano cover of “The Fools Who Dream” from “La La Land.”

A Platform for Global Voices

i-Night has long been a tradition at Harvard Chan School, providing a space for students to express their cultural identities and share their stories. The event’s continued success speaks to the importance of celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging within the academic community. Kimura, who is also a second-year student in the Department of Global Health and Population’s SM-80 program, recently attended COP30 in Brazil, further demonstrating his commitment to global health initiatives, as reported by Harvard Chan School.

Beyond his role with i-Night and COP30, Kimura also participated in a panel discussion on trust in Arctic research and policy, as a Harvard Chan student and Rose Service Learning Fellow, according to the Belfer Center. This involvement highlights the breadth of his engagement with critical global issues.

The annual event serves as a reminder that the strength of Harvard Chan School lies in the diverse perspectives and experiences of its students. By providing a platform for these voices, i-Night contributes to a more inclusive and enriching learning environment for all.

As Harvard Chan School continues to prioritize global health initiatives, events like i-Night will undoubtedly play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and celebrating the contributions of its international students. The HCSGA is already looking ahead to next year’s event, promising another evening of cultural exchange and artistic expression.

Share your thoughts on this year’s International Night and the importance of cultural diversity at Harvard Chan School in the comments below.

Robyn’s highly anticipated return to the stage is now available for fans to relive with the release of Spotify Presents: Robyn Live from Los Angeles. The concert film, directed by Agniia Galdanova, captures a special November performance hosted by Spotify, bringing together devoted fans and special guests for an unforgettable night at the Fonda Theatre.

The film isn’t just a recording of a concert; it’s a document of a pivotal moment for the Swedish pop icon. After a period away from live performance, Robyn debuted new music and revisited beloved classics, creating an electric atmosphere that Spotify is now sharing with a global audience. The release arrives as anticipation builds for her upcoming ninth studio album, Sexistential, slated for release on March 27, and the accompanying Sexistential tour.

Fans can expect a setlist packed with hits, including “Missing U,” “Honey,” “Love Is Free,” “With Every Heartbeat,” and the fan-favorite anthem “Dancing On My Own.” Notably, the Los Angeles performance also marked the first live rendition of Robyn’s latest single, “Dopamine,” offering a sneak peek into her evolving sound. The concert film is now streaming exclusively on Spotify.

A Collaboration Between Music, Fashion, and Fan Connection

This concert film represents the second installment in a creative partnership between Spotify and Acne Studios. The collaboration began last year with an intimate performance by WILLOW in London, demonstrating a shared commitment to connecting artists with their fans in innovative ways. According to Spotify’s newsroom, the partnership focuses on “co-designed merch, live events, and exclusive content,” aiming to enhance the fan experience beyond simply listening to music. Spotify’s announcement details the ongoing effort to create unique experiences for music lovers.

The initial event at the Fonda Theatre wasn’t just about the music; it was a celebration of Robyn’s influence and a gathering of her most dedicated listeners. Flaunt Magazine reported that attendees included top Spotify listeners, invited to the intimate affair, many sporting Acne Studios’ signature logo. The guest list read like a who’s who of the Los Angeles creative scene, including Kyle MacLachlan, Maika Monroe, Sky Ferreira, and Lykke Li.

The Return to the Stage and Beyond

Robyn’s return to the stage was first previewed in November 2025, as Spotify announced a collaboration with Acne Studios to host an unforgettable evening at the Fonda Theatre. Isabella Lovestory and BROWNSKINHAZEL opened the night, setting the stage for Robyn’s high-energy performance. To commemorate the occasion, a limited-edition shirt featuring lyrics from “Dopamine” was released, available online via Acne Studios and in select stores.

The collaboration between Spotify and Acne Studios, which began in July 2024, underscores a growing trend of brands seeking to immerse themselves in the music experience and foster deeper connections with artists and their fanbases. This approach extends beyond traditional concert promotion, encompassing merchandise, exclusive content, and curated events.

As fans stream Spotify Presents: Robyn Live from Los Angeles, the anticipation for both the Sexistential album and tour continues to build. Robyn’s return signals a new chapter in her career, one that promises to be as innovative and emotionally resonant as her previous work. The release of this concert film is a testament to the power of live music and the enduring connection between artists and their audiences.

What comes next for Robyn is a full-fledged tour supporting Sexistential, promising to bring the energy and intimacy of the Los Angeles performance to cities around the world. Fans can expect a dynamic indicate that blends classic hits with new material, solidifying Robyn’s status as a true icon of pop music.

What are your thoughts on Robyn’s return? Share your excitement in the comments below and be sure to spread the word!