This event is our annual gala fundraiser. Click here to find more information and to purchase tickets. Your generosity is an investment in a gathering place governed by empathy and built for honest civic discourse, deep listening, and shared imagining.

Known for his pioneering work in superstring theory, Brian Greene is frequently called one of the great “science communicators” of our time. This program personalizes the question of his recently released book’s title: how do we locate our own lives in the human ‘quest for meaning’? From our respective homes, perhaps a sense of meaning feels more elusive—for others it might be easier to see. In conversation with bestselling author and host of NPR’s Hidden Brain podcast Shankar Vedantam, Dr. Greene helps us telescope from the changes that constitute our new normal to the change at the heart of the cosmos. While Dr. Greene addresses the macro search for meaning, social science journalist Vedantam hones in on the micro of human behavior, examining the unconscious and subconscious influences we face when identifying our collective and individual purpose.

This is one gala where no one will care if you show up in your pajamas, but you’ll still be supporting Town Hall with any ticket purchase—plus we’ll deliver delicious food and treats right to your door for a true gala experience. The gala is Town Hall’s most critical fundraising event of the year, with the proceeds directly supporting our accessible ticketing strategies—particularly, our $5 general tickets and free tickets to everyone 22 and under. Our goal for this virtual gathering is $250,000, and we hope you’ll consider supporting the event by buying a ticket and/or raising your virtual paddle. Thank you for helping to keep Town Hall accessible!