The next phase of The Thing emerged from Charlotte’s underground film studio scene and arrived at Starlight on 22nd.

Starlight is a special place within Charlotte’s creative ecosystem. Founded by the artists who helped establish the NoDa Arts District in the 1980s, the venue carries decades of artistic history while providing a fresh home for community-driven experiences. When we announced the move in July, we were excited to see what would happen when The Thing’s blend of art, movement, and play landed in the space, and Charlotte delivered.

From the moment the doors opened, Starlight transformed into a glowing playground. Our model, Ruby, was painted with giant dolphin stickers and fairy wings complete with a tiara crown and bejeweled sunglasses. The dance floor stayed packed, blacklight bodypaint illuminated the crowd, and every corner of the venue seemed to spark new interactions between friends, strangers, artists, dancers, and curious first-timers.

One of the night’s most memorable moments came from something entirely unplanned. A pile of glowing ribbons quickly evolved beyond simple flow props. They became jump ropes, lassos, collaborative sculptures, and eventually the centerpiece of a spirited game of glow limbo. It was a perfect reminder of what makes The Thing different. We can build the environment, provide the materials, and create the framework, but the most magical moments always come from the imagination of the people who show up.

The real art isn’t just what we create. Every installation, activity, and creative prompt is an invitation, and what happens next belongs to the community. At Starlight, everything aligned and ignited.

We’re grateful to everyone who danced, got bodypainted, volunteered, performed, and helped bring the night to life. The Thing has taken many forms already, and this night at Starlight felt like an important moment in its evolution.

Bodypainters: Matt Deifer, Shaylyn Joy, Amy Bogdan
Models: Ruby and The Thing Audience Members
Photographers: Matt Deifer, Shaylyn Joy, Amy Bogden, Jason Rogewicz
Location: Starlight on 22nd, Charlotte, NC
Date: September 18, 2026