Study Hall

Study Hall is a recurring salon series held at Rhizome DC, designed to recreate the free‑wheeling, intellectually curious conversations of a school cafeteria — without the pressure of being an expert. The name playfully acknowledges that most people weren’t actually studying during their “study hall” periods; instead, they were trading ideas, asking questions, and sharing what they’d learned informally. This iteration takes place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and welcomes all to participate either as presenters or as engaged audience members.

Description: The event revives the salon tradition, drawing on Horace’s classical aim “either to please or to educate” (aut delectare aut prodesse). Participants are encouraged to bring any topic — a passion, a curiosity, a question, a piece of art, a project, or something they’ve learned — and sign up to present it to the group. The atmosphere is informal and conversational; you need not be an expert, and proposing a compelling question for discussion is just as valued as delivering a polished talk. Works of art in any medium (visual, audible, written, or even that “easy elective” project) can be shared at any point during the gathering.

Format: At the start of the session, attendees sign up on a physical agenda (or can add themselves online in advance via a provided link). Presentations have no fixed time limit; they naturally evolve when audience members begin raising questions, shifting into Q&A or group discussion. The event follows Chatham House rules: participants may freely use the information they hear, but may not reveal the identity or affiliation of any speaker or attendee.

When: Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Showtimes: The event runs as a single continuous session; no separate showtimes.

Tickets: $0–10 sliding scale, with advance registration recommended. A registration link is provided on the event page.

Lineup / Presenters: No preset lineup; all attendees are invited to volunteer a topic at the start or pre‑register via the agenda link. Presentations can cover any subject — personal interests, academic topics, creative works, or open questions.

Run time: Three hours (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

Ages: Not explicitly stated, but the event is community‑oriented and likely all‑ages; check with Rhizome DC for specific age policies.

Venue: Rhizome DC, a community‑focused arts and performance space.

Note: Attendees should come prepared to participate, whether by presenting, asking questions, or simply listening. The event encourages a relaxed, respectful environment where no topic is off‑limits as long as Chatham House rules are observed. Pre‑registration is available via the event page’s “REGISTER” link, and the agenda can be edited beforehand at the provided “HERE” link.