The Mp3 Experiment Twenty 6 Aug 11:00 AM (2 months ago)
Created by: Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Directed by: Charlie Todd
Music: Tyler Walker
Camera Operators: Keith Haskel, Tom Levin, Darin Quan, Vladimir Efros
Editor: Keith Haskel
Still Photography: Scott Lynch, Laura Brett
Special Thanks: Andrew Ronan and Maggie Curtis at Hudson River Park; James Burke at Make Music New York; Justin Ayers and Andrew Soltys at DVRG; Charles Todd; Mambembe New York
For our latest mission, thousands of people followed secret, synchronized instructions delivered via headphones at Hudson River Park’s Piers 62, 63, and 64.
After surprising random strangers in the area with a series of activities like freezing in place, laying on the ground, and giving high fives, participants convened at the lawn in the middle of the piers for a picnic, freeze tag, dancing, and a spray bottle battle.
This was all part of our twentieth annual Mp3 Experiment event, held every summer in New York City and toured around the world.
We support this free event by touring it to schools, festivals, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage one for your organization, see here for more details and how to get in touch.
The Mp3 Experiment is created each year by Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker. All music is by Tyler Walker.
A huge thanks to the amazing community of people that continue to come out to be a part of this event every year. We’re so proud of what a diverse, joyful celebration the Mp3 Experiment has become. As silly as the project is, it’s life-affirming to be in a crowd of strangers, all smiling, laughing, and working together.
If you’re new, be sure to join our email list to be the first to hear details for next year’s event. We also have an NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook group you can join, and you can follow us on Instagram.
The Mp3 Experiment 20 was presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York.
This year’s event included activities from the past 20 years of Mp3 Experiments, a sort of “greatest hits.” Participants were divided up by birthday and started on two different piers, Pier 62 and Pier 64, blending in with everyone else on the pier. Everyone was instructed to wear a red, blue, green, or yellow shirt (or dress, etc.) At exactly 2 PM the audio track began playing in everyone’s headphones, powered by our smartphone app.
One of the first instructions was for everyone to lay down on the ground. Then, in unison, everyone shouted “I am asleep!”
Participants were told to form a single file line behind people not participating and to copy their every move.
We got a ton of great reactions from people sunbathing, walking dogs, and jogging through the park. Participants were told to give high fives to non-participants.
Participants formed long lines on the side of the piers and cheered on joggers (and walkers).
In a callback to last year’s experiment, participants performed a ballet routine on the “ballet barre.”
Participants wave at the other half of the group on the other pier.
We did a series of activities where participants yelled back and forth from across the water between the piers. First each pier yelled “secret words” that the other pier tried to yell back. Then they yelled a series of words back and forth (“New!” “York!”, “Hot!” “Dog!”, “Non!” “Sense!”)
Both groups met up on Pier 63, a big grassy lawn in the middle. They circled the lawn and hummed a note together, before a mad scramble to cross the lawn to the other side.
Participants found a partner and played a few rounds of thumb war.
Then it was time for some freeze tag, a game that has been played at nearly every Mp3 Experiment since 2007.
Everyone was told to bring picnic blankets. For the “ghost walk” activity, participants were told to put the blankets over their head and walk in a straight line.
Participants were asked to bring a small stuffed animal they didn’t mind giving away. They used the blankets to launch them into the air together. Many happy kids went home with more stuffies than they brought. We then had a big picnic, where everyone sat on their blankets and enjoyed a snack. Participants were encouraged to trade their snack with someone else. We’ve never had a food portion of an Mp3 Experiment before!
In a very self indulgent moment, we had an activity where participants sat down when Steve said the number of Mp3 Experiments they had attended in the past. It always amazes us how so many people have been to 10+ Mp3 Experiments. In the end, creators Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker were the only two left standing, with Steve admitting that they wrote themselves into their own script.
Next up was a country line dance and a little square dancing. We also danced to the Cure’s “Just Like Heaven,” which also happened in the very first Mp3 Experiment in December of 2004. The first few Mp3 Experiments had a few pop songs in them, until we switched to the track being 100% original music by Tyler Walker.
After the dancing, it was time to cool off. Everyone got out their spray bottles and set them to “mist” for a huge mist storm.
After the mist storm, it was time for the “spray bottle battle finale.” Participants divided up into two groups (red/yellow and blue/green) and went to opposite sides of the lawn. They then set their bottles to “spray” and marched in formation, stopping twenty paces apart before engaging in the battle.
Finally it was time to say goodbye to narrator Steve. It was another super fun year, and we can’t wait until the next one!
Mission Accomplished
OTHER RESOURCES:
To find out about future Improv Everywhere projects be sure to sign up for our Mailing List (select NYC events if you want to hear about participation opportunities in NYC).
HIRE US
We regularly tour The Mp3 Experiment around the world to places like Berlin, Germany and Adelaide, Australia and to college campuses in the US like UNC and Texas Tech. If you’re part of an organization (festival, conference, university student activities board, arts group) that is interested in commissioning an Mp3 Experiment, get in touch via our contact form. Here’s some more info on our touring version.
The post The Mp3 Experiment Twenty appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
Mp3 Experiment 20 – Full Details 17 Jun 11:39 AM (4 months ago)
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who came out! What a huge crowd!! Official photos are available below, and we filmed it, so expect a video later this summer. Share your photos and memories on the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group, or tag @improvevery on Instagram. The absolute best way to stay in touch with us and find out about future events is our email list. Join it, and be sure to click “NYC Events.”
Photos by Scott Lynch are below. Please tag Scott, Scoboco, on Instagram if you re-share any. These photos will be available for download for a limited time only, so if you want to save one, do it now.
___
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place at Hudson River Park in NYC on Saturday, June 21 at 2:00 PM.
Overview:
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Location: Hudson River Park’s Pier 62 & 64 in Chelsea (Specific starting areas on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 2:00:00 PM and lasts just over an hour.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: A red, yellow, blue, or green shirt (or dress, etc)
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– A picnic blanket (or bed sheet)
– A small stuffed animal you don’t mind trading (if you don’t own one, a pair of socks will do)
– A small snack you don’t mind trading (individual bag of pretzels, candy bar, bag of chips.)
– A spray bottle full of water (Like the bottles you spray your hair with. No chemicals, just water. Same as last year.)
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
In the app there are two “performances” to choose from. If your birthday is between January and June, join the one that says “Pier 62”. If your birthday is between July and December, join the performance that says “Pier 64”. Join a performance in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. If you want to start with friends and family, make sure you all pick the same pier.
After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. Only join ONE performance. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero. Bring headphones. Wired headphones are recommended if you have them to ensure no Bluetooth interference.
(If you do not own a smartphone and would like to download the mp3 file and sync manually on your own, the files are available for download on Soudcloud)
Location:
We have two starting points. If your birthday is between January and June, you will start on Pier 62. If your birthday is between July and December, you will start on Pier 64. As the start time approaches, blend in and walk around or sit on a bench on your assigned pier.
When 2:00:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 2:00:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on.
RSVP:
You can optionally RSVP on Partiful for updates. By RSVPing on Partiful we’ll be able to text you last minute info (like if there is a rain delay).
Partiful Event Link (invite friends!)
You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times, and wear the same color shirt so you don’t get separated.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, leave a comment on the Partiful invite with your question.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the Mp3 Experiment to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage an Mp3 Experiment somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time and help cover our server costs, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 21st!
The Mp3 Experiment 20 is presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Learn more about the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
Did you know you can hire us to bring the Mp3 Experiment to your campus, festival, or conference? Learn more. And check out our other touring projects.
Last year’s video
The post Mp3 Experiment 20 – Full Details appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
The Mp3 Experiment 20: Save The Date 23 Apr 7:36 AM (6 months ago)
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place at Hudson River Park in NYC on Saturday, June 21 at 2:00 PM.
Overview:
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Location: Hudson River Park’s Pier 62 & 64 in Chelsea (Specific starting areas on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 2:00:00 PM and lasts just over an hour.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: A red, yellow, blue, or green shirt (or dress, etc)
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– A picnic blanket (or bed sheet)
– A small stuffed animal you don’t mind trading (if you don’t own one, a pair of socks will do)
– A small snack you don’t mind trading (individual bag of pretzels, candy bar, bag of chips.)
– A spray bottle full of water (Like the bottles you spray your hair with. No chemicals, just water. Same as last year.)
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
In the app there are two “performances” to choose from. If your birthday is between January and June, join the one that says “Pier 62”. If your birthday is between July and December, join the performance that says “Pier 64”. Join a performance in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. If you want to start with friends and family, make sure you all pick the same pier.
After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. Only join ONE performance. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero. Bring headphones. Wired headphones are recommended if you have them to ensure no Bluetooth interference.
(If you do not own a smartphone and would like to download the mp3 file and sync manually on your own, the files are available for download on Soudcloud)
Location:
We have two starting points. If your birthday is between January and June, you will start on Pier 62. If your birthday is between July and December, you will start on Pier 64. As the start time approaches, blend in and walk around or sit on a bench on your assigned pier.
When 2:00:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 2:00:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on.
RSVP:
You can optionally RSVP on Partiful for updates. By RSVPing on Partiful we’ll be able to text you last minute info (like if there is a rain delay).
Partiful Event Link (invite friends!)
You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times, and wear the same color shirt so you don’t get separated.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, leave a comment on the Partiful invite with your question.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the Mp3 Experiment to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage an Mp3 Experiment somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time and help cover our server costs, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 21st!
The Mp3 Experiment 20 is presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Learn more about the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
Did you know you can hire us to bring the Mp3 Experiment to your campus, festival, or conference? Learn more. And check out our other touring projects.
Last year’s video
The post The Mp3 Experiment 20: Save The Date appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
The Mp3 Experiment Nineteen 22 Oct 2024 8:16 AM (last year)
Created by: Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Directed by: Charlie Todd
Music: Tyler Walker
Camera Operators: Todd Bieber, Nona Catusanu, Keith Haskel, Vladimir Efros
Editor: Todd Bieber
Still Photography: Scott Lynch, Laura Brett
Special Thanks: Andrew Ronan and Maggie Curtis at Hudson River Park; James Burke at Make Music New York; Rhythm Band Instruments; Justin Ayers and Andrew Soltys at DVRG; The Intrepid Air and Space Museum
For our latest mission, thousands of people followed secret, synchronized instructions delivered via headphones at Hudson River Park’s Pier 84. The crowd of around 2,000 people blended in by the entrance to the pier. The app-powered audio started playing at exactly 6:30 PM.
After surprising random strangers in the area with high fives, strange walks, and an unexpected country line dance, participants convened at the end of the pier for some ballet and a spray bottle battle finale.
This was all part of our nineteenth annual Mp3 Experiment event, held every summer in New York City and toured around the world.
We support this free event by touring it to schools, festivals, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage one for your organization, see here for more details and how to get in touch.
The Mp3 Experiment is created each year by Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker. All music is by Tyler Walker.
A huge thanks to the amazing community of people that continue to come out to be a part of this event every year. We’re so proud of what a diverse, joyful celebration the Mp3 Experiment has become. As silly as the project is, it’s life-affirming to be in a crowd of strangers, all smiling, laughing, and working together.
If you’re new, be sure to join our email list to be the first to hear details for next year’s event. We also have an NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook group you can join.
The Mp3 Experiment 19 was presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York. Recorder flutes were generously donated by Rhythm Band Instruments.
This year, participants were instructed to dress in bright, solid colors (“bright as you can find in your closet! Day glo, neon, etc.”) It was fun watching people arrive and being able to tell who was a part of it based on their colorful outfits. Everyone spread out in the area around the entrance to the pier, and then at exactly 6:30 PM, our smartphone app began playing the audio track in sync.
One of the early instructions was to try to hide from people not participating.
Participants formed long lines on either side of the walking/jogging path by the river and cheered on random joggers as they ran by. Imagine going for your normal evening run and suddenly passing by a crowd of 2,000 people cheering for you.
Participants were told to walk towards the end of the pier and given instructions to walk like different types of people you might find in the area (tourists, Hell’s Kitchen locals walking their dogs, etc.)
We played a rousing game of “musical benches” where participants had to scramble to find a seat on one of the pier’s many benches whenever the music stopped.
Participants were told to make a giant single file line along the pier’s metal railings and were then prompted to do a series of ballet moves.
Everyone brought cardboard squares (cut up from their recycling) and we played tic-tac-toe, using the tiles on the pier as our board. Participants partnered up and played the game one-on-one, and then later we played a “massively multi-player tic-tac-toe” where everyone played at once.
Next up was a giant group game of Scrabble, using the cardboard squares to spell out words together, again using the tiles on the pier as a game board. Participants were instructed to write random vowels and consonants beforehand. Most of the tiles on the pier are pink, so there were many double word scores.
Next up was an Mp3 Experiment classic, freeze tag!
“People wearing glasses are it!”
We partnered again with Make Music New York on this year’s event, and for the “make music” portion of the experiment, participants sat on the ground and played music together with instruments they brought from home. We also handed out a “special prop” to the first 500 people that arrived, that was revealed to be a recorder flute, donated by Rhythm Band Instruments.
Next up was “Dance Captain,” a recurring favorite of recent years, modeled after Improv Everywhere’s Dance Captain Wanted project. Brave volunteers stood on top of benches on all sides of the pier and danced as the crowd copied their every move.
For the finale this year, we had participants bring a spray bottle filled with water. Everyone turned the bottles to “mist” mode and together made a huge mist storm. This was quite nice because the heat index was around 90 degrees!
The Intrepid Air and Space Museum let us put a camera operator on the deck of the air craft carrier next to the pier. Pretty cool vantage point! The mist storm looked awesome from up there.
Next everyone turned their spray bottles to “spray” mode and had a massive battle. The 90 degree weather meant everyone was happy to get wet.
Finally it was time to say goodbye to narrator Steve. It was another super fun year, and we can’t wait until next year for the 20th edition of the Mp3 Experiment in NYC. Mark your calendars for June 21, 2025, and we’ll see you there.
Mission Accomplished
OTHER RESOURCES:
To find out about future Improv Everywhere projects be sure to sign up for our Mailing List (select NYC events if you want to hear about participation opportunities in NYC).
HIRE US
We regularly tour The Mp3 Experiment around the world to places like Berlin, Germany and Adelaide, Australia and to college campuses in the US like UNC and Texas Tech. If you’re part of an organization (festival, conference, university student activities board, arts group) that is interested in commissioning an Mp3 Experiment, get in touch via our contact form. Here’s some more info on our touring version.
The post The Mp3 Experiment Nineteen appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
Mp3 Experiment Nineteen – Full Details 17 Jun 2024 6:24 AM (last year)
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who came out! What a huge crowd!! Official photos are available below, and we filmed it, so expect a video later this summer. Share your photos and memories on the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group, or tag @improvevery on Instagram. The absolute best way to stay in touch with us and find out about future events is our email list. Join it, and be sure to click “NYC Events.”
Photos by Scott Lynch are below. Please tag Scott, Scoboco, on Instagram if you re-share any. These photos will be available for download for a limited time only, so if you want to save one, do it now.
– Scott Lynch photos (highlights)
– Scott Lynch photos (outtakes)
___
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place at Hudson River Park in NYC on Friday, June 21 at 6:30 PM.
Overview:
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
Location: Hudson River Park’s Pier 84 at W 44 St (Specific starting area on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 6:30:00 PM and lasts just under an hour.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: Dress in bright solid colors (bright as you can find in your closet! Day glo, neon, etc.)
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– 5 pieces of cardboard that are 12 inch by 12 inch square (cut up Amazon boxes in your recycling! Doesn’t have to be exact measurements; do your best.)
— On one side of each piece of cardboard draw an “X” if your birthday is between January and June or an “O” if your birthday is between July and December.
— On the other side of each piece of cardboard, write one random letter from the alphabet. Choose a vowel for at least two of them.
– A small acoustic musical instrument (make one if you don’t have one)
– A spray bottle full of water (Like the bottles you spray your hair with. Ideally with the ability to twist to change from mist to spray. No chemicals, just water.)
– A metal spoon
Special Prop:
A special prop will be given out starting at 5:30 PM to the first 500 people who arrive. Show the Mp3 Experiment app on your phone to the volunteers handing them out at the Hudson River Park tent by the entrance to the pier. Don’t sweat it if you don’t get one! You do not need it to participate, and not everyone will get one.
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
Open the app and click “join” for the Mp3 Experiment Nineteen event. Do this in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero. Bring headphones. Wired headphones are recommended if you have them to ensure no Bluetooth interference.
Location:
Our starting point is the upland area of Hudson River Park’s Pier 84 (at 44th Street in Manhattan). Start seated on a bench, chair, or steps in the red-shaded area in the map below. If you can’t find a seat, you can sit on the ground, or just walk around and blend in.
When 6:30:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 6:30:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on.
RSVP:
You can optionally RSVP on Partiful for updates. By RSVPing on Partiful we’ll be able to text you last minute info (like if there is a rain delay).
Partiful Event Link (invite friends!)
You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, leave a comment on the Partiful invite with your question.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the event to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage the event somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 21st!
The Mp3 Experiment 19 is presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Learn more about the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
Did you know you can hire us to bring the Mp3 Experiment to your campus, festival, or conference? Learn more. And check out our other touring projects.
The post Mp3 Experiment Nineteen – Full Details appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
The Mp3 Experiment Nineteen: Save The Date 2 May 2024 11:35 AM (last year)
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who came out! What a huge crowd!! Official photos are available below, and we filmed it, so expect a video later this summer. Share your photos and memories on the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group, or tag @improvevery on Instagram. The absolute best way to stay in touch with us and find out about future events is our email list. Join it, and be sure to click “NYC Events.”
Photos by Scott Lynch are below. Please tag Scott, Scoboco, on Instagram if you re-share any. These photos will be available for download for a limited time only, so if you want to save one, do it now.
– Scott Lynch photos (highlights)
– Scott Lynch photos (outtakes)
___
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place at Hudson River Park in NYC on Friday, June 21 at 6:30 PM.
Overview:
Date: Friday, June 21, 2024
Location: Hudson River Park’s Pier 84 at W 44 St (Specific starting area on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 6:30:00 PM and lasts just under an hour.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: Dress in bright solid colors (bright as you can find in your closet! Day glo, neon, etc.)
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– 5 pieces of cardboard that are 12 inch by 12 inch square (cut up Amazon boxes in your recycling! Doesn’t have to be exact measurements; do your best.)
— On one side of each piece of cardboard draw an “X” if your birthday is between January and June or an “O” if your birthday is between July and December.
— On the other side of each piece of cardboard, write one random letter from the alphabet. Choose a vowel for at least two of them.
– A small acoustic musical instrument (make one if you don’t have one)
– A spray bottle full of water (Like the bottles you spray your hair with. Ideally with the ability to twist to change from mist to spray. No chemicals, just water.)
– A metal spoon
Special Prop:
A special prop will be given out starting at 5:30 PM to the first 500 people who arrive. Show the Mp3 Experiment app on your phone to the volunteers handing them out at the Hudson River Park tent by the entrance to the pier. Don’t sweat it if you don’t get one! You do not need it to participate, and not everyone will get one.
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
Open the app and click “join” for the Mp3 Experiment Nineteen event. Do this in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero. Bring headphones. Wired headphones are recommended if you have them to ensure no Bluetooth interference.
Location:
Our starting point is the upland area of Hudson River Park’s Pier 84 (at 44th Street in Manhattan). Start seated on a bench, chair, or steps in the red-shaded area in the map below. If you can’t find a seat, you can sit on the ground, or just walk around and blend in.
When 6:30:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 6:30:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on.
RSVP:
You can optionally RSVP on Partiful for updates. By RSVPing on Partiful we’ll be able to text you last minute info (like if there is a rain delay).
Partiful Event Link (invite friends!)
You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, leave a comment on the Partiful invite with your question.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the event to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage the event somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 21st!
The Mp3 Experiment 19 is presented in partnership with Hudson River Park and Make Music New York.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Learn more about the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
Did you know you can hire us to bring the Mp3 Experiment to your campus, festival, or conference? Learn more. And check out our other touring projects.
The post The Mp3 Experiment Nineteen: Save The Date appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
Epic Office Party Surprise 16 Jan 2024 6:17 AM (last year)
CREW
Directed by: Charlie Todd
Executive Producers: Justin Ayers, Andrew Soltys, and Charlie Todd
Producer: Andrew Soltys
Production Manager: Jordan Drake
Associate Producer: Stephanie Roush
Key PA: Kristin Kirkley
Production Assistants: Aspen Nelson, Jackson Griffin, Mecca McDonald, Elvis Minaya
Technical Director: Justin Ayers
Camera Operators: Ces Tayo, Corey Noll, Sofia Chavez, Jake Hachey, Mike Doyle, Marius Becker, Gabriel Stanley
Assistant Camera: Jenna Cleveland, Katie Voss
Camera PA: Antone Axten
Sound Mixer: Brett Van Deusen
Art Director: Steve Phelps
Music: Tyler Walker
Post Sound: Mat Guido
Editor: Ryan Spears
CAST
Host / HR Manager: Cody Lindquist
Ken: Ken McGraw
Office Workers: Terence Chen, Brielle DeMirjian, Lou Gonzalez Jr., Ryan Karels, Glo Tavarez, Dejen Tesfagiorgis, Erika Wood
For our latest mission, we surprised temp workers with the most epic office party ever. We built a fake room in the middle of our production studio in New York. From the inside, it looked like a boring conference room, but we secretly rigged it with hidden cameras and special effects. We hired real temp workers to come in for a day’s worth of work. They had no idea that everyone else in the office was an actor or what was about to go down.
Using Craigslist and TaskRabbit, we hired people to come in for a one-day gig of envelope stuffing. The temps first reported to a reception area and then were brought to the fake conference room by Agent Cody Lindquist, playing our fake company’s HR Manager. Agent Ken McGraw was already seated and working in the conference room, pretending to be another temp.
Enjoy the video above first, and then check out the behind-the-scenes below.
Special thanks to Flashtalking for their collaboration.
Outlining the fake room in our studio.
We found the most boring, generic carpet possible.
Surrounding the exterior door with walls.
The drop ceiling coming together.
Our Technical Director Justin Ayers working on the projectors embedded in the ceiling.
Disco ball trap door!
We installed two air dancers (AKA wacky waving inflatable arm flailing tube men), cutting holes in the walls and hiding them behind paintings that slid on a track.
We even had ducting for air conditioning in our little fake room.
We had full control of all of the lighting in the room. While the ceiling lights looked light fluorescent tubes, they were LEDs that could change to any color.
Four projectors installed in the ceiling were able to light up every wall with custom graphics during the party.
Dress rehearsal with cast.
Robotic hidden camera operators were right on the other side of the wall.
Our robotic hidden cameras were placed behind two way mirrors throughout the room.
The view from the control room.
Enjoy the video above to see how it all went down! Thank you to all of the temp workers who were all excellent sports about the surprise.
Mission Accomplished
OTHER RESOURCES:
To find out about future Improv Everywhere projects be sure to sign up for our Mailing List (select NYC events if you want to hear about participation opportunities in NYC).
The post Epic Office Party Surprise appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
The Mp3 Experiment Eighteen 3 Oct 2023 7:06 AM (2 years ago)
Created by: Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Directed by: Charlie Todd
Music: Tyler Walker
Camera Operators: Justin Gonçalves, Keith Haskel, Clarence Eckerson, Vladimir Efros, Noam Meyerfeld
Editor: Keith Haskel, Justin Gonçalves
Still Photography: Arin Sang-urai, ZED Images
Special Thanks: Justin Ayers and Andrew Soltys at DVRG; Anne Bonacum, Kevin McGinn, Jane Rossman, and Jerry Scupp at Garment District Alliance; Andrew Hyatt, Paul Krikler, Anna Melendez, and Katherine Nessel at Transportation Alternatives.
For our latest mission, thousands of people followed secret, synchronized instructions delivered via headphones in Manhattan’s Garment District. The crowd of around 2,000 people blended in on sidewalks just south of Times Square. The app-powered audio started playing at exactly 3:00 PM.
After surprising random strangers in the area with high fives, dollar bills, and unexpected synchronized movements, participants convened on a new public plaza on Broadway between 39th and 40th Streets for a colorful celebration and a bubble-filled finale.
This was all part of our eighteenth annual Mp3 Experiment event, held every summer in New York City and toured around the world.
We support this free event by touring it to schools, festivals, and conferences around the world. If you want to hire us to stage one for your organization, see here for more details and how to get in touch.
The Mp3 Experiment is created each year by Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker. All music is by Tyler Walker.
A huge thanks to the amazing community of people that continue to come out to be a part of this event every year. We’re so proud of what a diverse, joyful celebration the Mp3 Experiment has become. As silly as the project is, it’s life-affirming to be in a crowd of strangers, all smiling, laughing, and working together.
If you’re new, be sure to join our email list to be the first to hear details for next year’s event. We also have an NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook group you can join.
Photo galleries by our official photographers:
– Arin Sang-Urai Gallery
– ZED Images Gallery
Please credit the respective photographer if you use any of their photos.
The Mp3 Experiment 18 is presented in partnership with Transportation Alternatives and the Garment District Alliance.
Participants started out by blending in and walking on the sidewalks on 6th Avenue, 7th Avenue, 39th Street, and 40th Street.
Narrator Steve asked participants to give high fives to people not wearing headphones.
Participants were instructed to treat cracks in the sidewalk like a tightrope.
We very excited to work with the Garment District Alliance to activate their new pedestrian plaza. Just a couple of years ago this block was choked with car traffic. Now it’s a great public space for all. Hopefully one day all of Broadway will be like this, creating a Broadway Linear Park!
The plaza had three large sculptures by artist Joy Brown. Steve asked participants to bow down before the sculptures, creating a very unusual site for those walking by.
Here’s a great video a passerby took that we found on Instagram.
In the “movie simulator” section of the event, participants were asked to act like the music they were hearing was a soundtrack to their own movie. They were told the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man was approaching from Times Square and they needed to Ghostbust him.
There were several 15-second dance parties throughout the event.
Participants pointed at various things around the plaza during the “I Spy” scavenger hunt instructions.
Everyone was told to bring an 8.5 x 11 inch piece of paper and a pen. Participants were instructed to find a partner and draw them. Instead of showing their partners the drawing right away, they mailed them to them. Each participant brought a self addressed stamped envelope for this purpose. There were blue mailboxes right on the plaza to make it easy. It was fun to get a letter in the mail a few days later with a hand drawn picture of your self and signed note from the artist.
Participants all brought a trading card to trade with another participant. If you didn’t have any trading cards, you were encouraged to make your own. The MP3-Kachu card someone received really made us laugh.
Participants were told to make paper airplanes with an additional 8.5 x 11 inch piece of paper they brought. Then everyone threw them at the same time.
Narrator Steve explained that his favorite way to get around any big city is by bicycle. He asked the crowd to surround both sides of the Broadway bike lane and give high fives to the cyclists. We had someone wonderful volunteers from Transportation Alternatives who biked by at just the right time.
To celebrate the 18th edition of the Mp3 Experiment, Steve asked everyone to throw their hats in the air on the count of 3.
Participants were asked to spread out in the plaza and organize themselves by color, ROYGBIV style.
In what is becoming a new Mp3 Experiment tradition, we asked random participants to volunteer to be the Dance Captain by stepping up on a concrete block at the southern end of the plaza and leading the rest of the mob in some dance moves. If you haven’t seen our classic Dance Captain Wanted video, check it out.
The Mp3 Experiment ended with a “bubble finale.” Participants brought bubbles with them and everyone was told to blow them on the count of 3. Some people had some pretty impressive bubble makers.
Tens of thousands of bubbles rose over Times Square as the event came to a close.
Mission Accomplished
OTHER RESOURCES:
To find out about future Improv Everywhere projects be sure to sign up for our Mailing List (select NYC events if you want to hear about participation opportunities in NYC).
HIRE US
We regularly tour The Mp3 Experiment around the world to places like Berlin, Germany and Adelaide, Australia and to college campuses in the US like UNC and Texas Tech. If you’re part of an organization (festival, conference, university student activities board, arts group) that is interested in commissioning an Mp3 Experiment, get in touch via our contact form. Here’s some more info on our touring version.
The post The Mp3 Experiment Eighteen appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
Mp3 Experiment Eighteen – Full Details 21 Jun 2023 10:30 AM (2 years ago)
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone who came out today! What a huge crowd!! Official photos are available below, and we filmed it, so expect a video later this summer. Share your photos and memories on the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group, or tag @improvevery on Instagram. The absolute best way to stay in touch with us and find out about future events is our email list. Join it, and be sure to click “NYC Events.”
– Photo gallery by Arin Sang-urai
– ZED Images photo gallery
Photo by ZED Images
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place in the Garment District in NYC on Saturday, June 24 at 3:00 PM.
Overview:
Date: Saturday, June 24
Location: Garment District (Specific starting area on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 3:00:00 PM and lasts just under an hour.
Rain info: There is a chance of storms on Saturday. If we decide to shift the start time of the event to avoid a storm, the countdown timer in the app will be updated to reflect a rain delay.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: Dress in colors from the rainbow. Wear a hat.
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– Bubbles (small bottle or big bubble gun or anything in between)
– A self addressed stamped envelope
– Two pieces of 8.5 x 11 paper
– A pen
– A book to trade
– A trading card (baseball, Pokémon, etc. If you don’t have one, make one.)
– A $1 bill
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
Open the app and click “join” for the Mp3 Experiment Eighteen event. Do this in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero.
(If you do not own a smartphone and would like to download the mp3 file and sync manually on your own, the file will be available for download on soundcloud prior to the event)
Location:
Start on any of the following sidewalks:
– East side of 7th Avenue between 40th and 39th Streets
– West side of 6th Avenue between 40th and 39th Streets
– South Side of 40th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
– North Side of 39th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
As the start time approaches, blend in and walk on the sidewalks. Spread out as much as possible and use all of the sidewalks listed above. Do not go onto the streets or bike lanes. You should never have to cross traffic during this event (though watch out for the bike lane on Broadway). Here is a map, with the red shaded areas showing the sidewalks we are using:
When 3:00:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 3:00:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on. Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to RSVP?
Nope, but you can RSVP on Partiful if you like, and please invite friends there. Bring as many friends as you like; this event is open to the public.
– RSVP on Partiful
– You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, just ask us on twitter.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the event to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage the event somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 24th!
The Mp3 Experiment 18 is presented in partnership with Transportation Alternatives and the Garment District Alliance.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Read the full history of the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
The post Mp3 Experiment Eighteen – Full Details appeared first on Improv Everywhere.
The Mp3 Experiment Eighteen – Save The Date 25 May 2023 10:51 AM (2 years ago)
Here are the full details for our Mp3 Experiment taking place in the Garment District in NYC on Saturday, June 24 at 3:00 PM.
Overview:
Date: Saturday, June 24
Location: Garment District (Specific starting area on map below)
Time: The event starts at exactly 3:00:00 PM and lasts just under an hour.
Rain info: There is a chance of storms on Saturday. If we decide to shift the start time of the event to avoid a storm, the countdown timer in the app will be updated to reflect a rain delay.
What to Wear and Bring:
Wear: Dress in colors from the rainbow. Wear a hat.
Bring: A bag (purse, backpack, messenger bag, shopping bag, etc.) that has the following items inside:
– Bubbles (small bottle or big bubble gun or anything in between)
– A self addressed stamped envelope
– Two pieces of 8.5 x 11 paper
– A pen
– A book to trade
– A trading card (baseball, Pokémon, etc. If you don’t have one, make one.)
– A $1 bill
Download our smartphone app:
– Mp3 Experiment iPhone/iPad App
– Mp3 Experiment Android App
Open the app and click “join” for the Mp3 Experiment Eighteen event. Do this in advance; don’t wait until you are at the event. After you click join, you will see a countdown timer. The app, if open, will begin playing the audio track when the timer reaches zero.
(If you do not own a smartphone and would like to download the mp3 file and sync manually on your own, the file will be available for download on soundcloud prior to the event)
Location:
Start on any of the following sidewalks:
– East side of 7th Avenue between 40th and 39th Streets
– West side of 6th Avenue between 40th and 39th Streets
– South Side of 40th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
– North Side of 39th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
As the start time approaches, blend in and walk on the sidewalks. Spread out as much as possible and use all of the sidewalks listed above. Do not go onto the streets or bike lanes. You should never have to cross traffic during this event (though watch out for the bike lane on Broadway). Here is a map, with the red shaded areas showing the sidewalks we are using:
When 3:00:00 PM Approaches
Make sure you have your headphones on and the app open. The track will play automatically at 3:00:00. When it starts, turn on “do not disturb,” turn off the screen, put your phone away, and have fun! If you are interrupted by a phone call during the event, just make sure to return to the Mp3 Experiment app and audio will resume playing in sync. If you have any sync issues, try turning “autoplay” off and then back on. Keep all of your props in your bag until you are asked to take them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to RSVP?
Nope, but you can RSVP on Partiful if you like, and please invite friends there. Bring as many friends as you like; this event is open to the public.
– RSVP on Partiful
– You can join the NYC Mp3 Experiment Facebook Group to connect with other participants, ask questions, share photos, etc.
How old do you have to be?
The Mp3 Experiment is appropriate for people of all ages. If you are under 18, you should have your parent’s permission to participate. Young children should participate with their parents, obviously. Use common sense if you are participating with a young child and stay with them at all times.
What if I don’t have the right wardrobe or props?
It’s OK. Just do your best! If you have a specific question about props or wardrobe, just ask us on twitter.
How do you make money on this?
We don’t! We lose money! We eventually end up breaking even because we get hired to tour the event to festivals, schools, and conferences. If you want to hire us to stage the event somewhere, reach out! Or if you just want to send us a tip in appreciation for a good time, here’s our PayPal.
When is the next event?
Join our email list to stay informed about upcoming Mp3 Experiments and other Improv Everywhere events.
See you on the 24th!
The Mp3 Experiment 18 is presented in partnership with Transportation Alternatives and the Garment District Alliance.
The Mp3 Experiment is a collaboration between Charlie Todd and Tyler Walker
Read the full history of the Mp3 Experiment project and see videos of past events here: The Mp3 Experiments
The post The Mp3 Experiment Eighteen – Save The Date appeared first on Improv Everywhere.