John Cage's concert for the opening of the National Arts Foundation can be seen as a happening because:

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A happening is an art form that emphasizes the experience of the lived moment rather than the creation of a lasting artwork. John Cage's concert for the National Arts Foundation opening can be seen as a happening because it expanded the scope of art to include the lived moment, breaking down the boundaries between art and life. While he did use lights and props, and the performance had elements of theatricality, these alone do not make it a happening. The fact that the artist did not fall asleep is not relevant to whether or not it is a happening. The statement "this concert was not a happening" is incorrect, as Cage was known for his experimentation with happenings.

John Cage's Concert for the Opening of the National Arts