Back by popular demand, Chicago Philharmonic once again brought the world of Wakanda to life—this time at the historic Auditorium Theatre on January 18, 2025.

This was more than a concert—it was a celebration of Black artistry, culture, music and storytelling. As the orchestra performed Ludwig Göransson’s Oscar® and Grammy®-winning score live to picture, the audience was transported into the heart of Black Panther, experiencing every pulse-pounding battle and triumphant moment through the power of live music.

From the thrilling opening notes to the final bow, this night was a testament to the impact of music, film, and community.

The Cultural Impact of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther

When Marvel Studios’ Black Panther premiered in 2018, it wasn’t just another superhero movie—it was a cultural milestone that reshaped how Black stories were told in Hollywood.

🔥 The first major blockbuster to feature a predominantly Black cast and an African-American director

🏆 Winner of three Academy Awards, including Best Original Score, Best Costume Design, and Best Production Design—marking Marvel Studios’ first-ever Oscar wins

💰 One of the highest-grossing films of all time, proving the power of Black-led films

🎥 A groundbreaking vision of Afrofuturism, merging African traditions with modern storytelling

These wins were not just a triumph for the film, but also for Black creatives in Hollywood. Ruth E. Carter became the first Black woman to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design, and Hannah Beachler became the first Black woman to win Best Production Design.

Beyond its box office success, Black Panther was a cultural statement, portraying a thriving African nation untouched by colonialism—a vision that challenged Hollywood’s long history of limiting Black narratives.

This concert honored that legacy, bringing the film’s music to life in a way that celebrated the creativity, influence, and impact of Black artists in film and music.

More Than a Concert—A Celebration of Black Excellence

The evening began with a pre-show panel exploring Marvel Studios’ Black Panther’s impact through the perspectives of cultural leaders and musicians:

• • • Massamba Diop – Senegalese Tama Drum Master & Co-Composer for Black Panther
    • Professor Eve L. Ewing – Acclaimed writer for Marvel Comics
    • Sekou “Tepaka Lunda” Conde – Executive Director, Muntu Dance Theatre
    • Jason Buchea – Ethnomusicologist & Music Director for Massamba Diop
    • Terell Johnson – Executive Director of Chicago Philharmonic & Panel Moderator

The discussion delved into the film’s musical influences, its connection to African traditions, and its lasting cultural impact, giving audiences a deeper appreciation for the evening’s performance.

Following the panel, Muntu Dance Theatre took the stage, delivering a vibrant, high-energy performance that honored the deep-rooted traditions of African dance and music. Their presence celebrated the cultural essence of Black Panther, reinforcing themes of heritage, resilience, and unity. As one of the nation’s oldest Black dance companies, Muntu’s performance was more than entertainment—it was a powerful tribute to the legacy and influence of African music and dance.

Comics, Culture, and Community

📚 FIRST AID COMICS brought a selection of Marvel Comics, including Black Panther, giving fans a chance to engage with the film’s legacy beyond the concert hall.

During intermission, Marvel Comic’s Writer Eve Ewing took time to sign copies of her Black Panther comics, adding a personal touch to the evening. Her work continues to expand T’Challa’s story within the Marvel Universe, and it was a special moment for fans to connect with her contributions to the franchise.

A Night of Music, Culture, and Celebration

The moment the Marvel Studios fanfare played, excitement filled the theater. Cheers erupted as Chicago Philharmonic’s musicians began their journey through Black Panther’s iconic score. 

With the orchestra swelling behind T’Challa’s story, Massamba Diop’s tama drumming added a pulse that resonated throughout the room. As a co-creator of the film’s distinctive sound, his playing brought an authentic energy to the live performance. 

The audience was deeply engaged, reacting not just to the film’s action but also to the power of the music itself. When the final credits rolled, the theater erupted into a standing ovation, a testament to the unforgettable experience of hearing Black Panther in this way. 

Massamba Diop: The Sound of Wakanda

As one of the key contributors to Black Panther’s soundtrack, Massamba Diop’s tama drumming played a defining role in shaping the film’s sound. His presence at Black Panther in Concert brought an added layer of authenticity and energy to the performance. 

During the final bows, Diop gave the audience an impromptu tama drum solo, a spontaneous and lively moment that had the crowd clapping along. His connection with the music and the audience was clear, making it a joyful close to an already unforgettable night.

The concert ended with a standing ovation for Chicago Philharmonic, Massamba Diop, and guest conductor Emil de Cou—a well-earned recognition of an evening filled with powerful music and storytelling.

Thank You, Wakanda Forever!

From the stage to the audience, this was a night of music, culture, and community.

Chicago Philharmonic is honored to have brought Marvel Studios’ Black Panther in Concert back to Chicago—and we are grateful to every artist, musician, and audience member who made this performance so meaningful.

📸 Got photos? Tag us at @chicagophilharmonic—we’d love to see your favorite moments! 

Up Next: More Film Concerts with Chicago Philharmonic!

The magic continues with more iconic films performed live to picture at The Auditorium.

La La Land in Concert
Saturday, April 5, 2025

The Goonies In Concert – 40th Anniversary
Saturday, April 26, 2025

The Terminator in Concert
Friday, June 13, 2025

Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story in Concert – 30th Anniversary
Saturday, June 14, 2025

Tickets are on sale now. Don’t miss these unforgettable cinematic experiences.