MR. JOE JACKSON PRESENTS: JOE JACKSON SOLO & THE MUSIC OF MAX CHAMPION
Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 8th at 8:00pm
Location: Apollo’s Historic Theater
Tickets: $82.95
Joe Jackson will perform an unprecedented two part performance at The Apollo on Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 8th at 8:00pm.First, listen to the music of Joe Jackson solo, as he performs songs from his catalog. Then, Mr. Joe Jackson presents the music of Max Champion featuring a nine-piece band.
YUNG N LIT MUSIC FEST
Thursday, June 13th at 8:00pm
Location: Apollo’s Historic Theater
Tickets: start at $172.55
Yung N Lit Music Fest presented by Empowerment Music Group (EMG) featuring Cash Cobain & Bay Swag, Rubi Rose, Bobby Shmurda, Asian Doll, 5ive Mics, Girll Codee, Connie Diiamond, DJ Self, DJ Smooth and Diamond The Artist.
Film Screening:
The Making of America's First Guru
Monday, June 17th from 6:30pm t0 8:00pm
Tickets: $8 Members, $15 Nonmembers
Join us for a screening of excerpts from America’s First Guru, a PBS special documentary telling the story of legendary Indian monk Swami Vivekananda’s experiences and impact in America. The screening will be followed by a conversation with filmmaker Raja Choudhury, Dr. Mukesh Prasad of the Lakshmi Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard University, and Swami Sarvapriyananda, Minister of the Vedanta Society of New York.
Leo Bar Happy Hour:
Celebrate Pride Month
Join Asia Society and the Human Rights Campaign to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month!
Thursday, June 20th from 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Tickets: $25 includes a free drink
Asia Society is partnering with Human Rights Campaign (HRC) for a special Leo Bar to celebrate Pride on Thursday, June 20!
Enjoy a fabulous evening of networking with the LGBTQ+ community, and make new professional and personal connections. There will be a special exclusive performance by Broadway’s Jaygee Macapugay!
5:00 p.m. Doors open
5:30-6 p.m. Program
5:30-8 p.m. Music by DJ Kai Song, cocktails, & snacks
Cheryl Pepsii Riley’s Black Velvet Mondays Experience
Monday, June 3rd at 8:00pm
Location: Peter Jay Sharp Building, The Adam Space / BAM Café
Tickets: FREE
Chart-topping R&B vocalist Cheryl Pepsii Riley created a sensation with Black Velvet Mondays, the warm, welcoming weeknight concerts and jam sessions she initially launched in Greenwich Village. Now, she’s bringing it all back home to Brooklyn, the borough where she was born and raised, with a new series serving up free live music.
More than just an open-mic session, the Black Velvet Mondays Experience promotes artistry, music education, and community, and supports personal and creative expression, building confidence and growth among its artists. The showcase is known as a safe, encouraging space for singers, instrumentalists, dancers, and other performers of all kinds to hone their craft and Trust Their Gifts (the night’s mantra) before making the leap to the big time. You never know what well known or future superstar you might catch.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
Tuesday, June 4th through Sunday, June 9th
Location: Peter Jay Sharp Building, Howard Gilman Opera House
Tickets: start at $35
The company that changed American dance forever returns to Brooklyn with two robust programs, featuring stunning works by Jamar Roberts, Hans van Manen, and Alonzo King, as well as iconic Ailey classics Memoria, A Song for You, Cry, and the transcendent masterpiece Revelations. Experience the agility and soul of “America’s most popular dance company” (The New Yorker) on the BAM stage, where Alvin Ailey first performed in 1956. Over 65 years later, the company continues to champion African American artistry and forge a bold new path for Ailey’s legacy—and modern dance itself.
First Saturday: Fruitful
Saturday, June 1st from 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Celebrate Pride with a glittering lineup of queer and trans artists, collectives, writers, and musicians who are creating opportunities for community and joy throughout Brooklyn. From erotic literary readings of the new anthology SLUTS to musical sets from freshly released records, the evening spotlights recent art that’s shaping queer culture.
Funky Reggae House Party Presents a Brooklyn Pride Carnival
Saturday, June 8th from 7:00pm t0 12:00am
Location: Martha A. and Robert S. Rubin Pavilion and Lobby and Great Hall, 1st Floor
Tickets: start at $15 ($25 after the first 100 tickets are sold) and include after-hours access to Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Celebrate Brooklyn Pride with Funky Reggae House Party, a Brooklyn-based collective that amplifies queer and trans West Indian community. Lime and vibe with a dynamic lineup of DJs and other live performances, featuring founders Visuallocs and Captain Dymond and special guests Boston Chery, A.Sauce, Cakey Koutour, Krys X, and Alex Mali.
Influenced by the colorful traditions of their homeland, Trinidad, Funky Reggae House Party enhances the range of Caribbean creative contributions to Brooklyn nightlife and beyond. When they’re not palancing at events, they are working hard behind the scenes to open a queer West Indian bar and community space called The Village BK.
Celebrating Juneteenth
Charles Turner & Uptown Swing
Sunday, June 16th at 4:00pm
Tickets: FREE
Join Caramoor as we celebrate African American freedom and achievement! Known as our country’s second Independence Day, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and honors their families, heritage, and resilience. Millions celebrate this nationally and globally significant American holiday. Channeling the spirit of Harlem with vibrant swing and vital blues, Charles Turner & Uptown Swing perform music from the 1920s to the present day. Family-friendly activities complete this annual June jubilee steeped in tradition and joy. All are welcome! This event is FREE.
Summer Gala
Honoring Wynton Marsalis
Saturday, June 22nd at 5:00pm
Welcome summer with an extraordinary evening at Caramoor! Celebrate our 10-year collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center and help us honor virtuoso jazz trumpeter, composer, bandleader, and longtime Caramoor friend Wynton Marsalis. Gather with your Caramoor community to sip cocktails before you settle into your premium concert seating in the Venetian Theater, where the joyful sound of big band jazz — performed by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra — will envelop you. After the concert, finish your memorable evening with an elegant dinner and dessert under a canopy of twinkling stars.
JAZZTOPAD FESTIVAL: KRIS DAVIS & LUTOSLAWSKI QUARTET
World Premiere of ‘The Solastalgia Suite’
Thursday, June 13th at 7:00pm & 9:00pm
Tickets: start at $20
Part of Poland’s 8th Jazztopad Festival, Dizzy’s Club proudly presents Kris Davis and the Lutoslawski Quartet premiering The Solastalgia Suite. Drawing inspiration from Olivier Messiaen’s haunting Quartet for the End of Time composed amid the turmoil of World War II, The Solastalgia Suite explores the impact of environmental change. Davis bonds influential elements from Messiaen, Beyoncé, and Cecil Taylor, creating a living work that dissolves clear boundaries between what’s scripted and what’s spontaneous.
For the past twenty years, Jazztopad Festival has commissioned music from major American and European artists including Wayne Shorter, Charles Lloyd, Jason Moran, Joelle Leandre, Vincent Courtois, William Parker, Vijay Iyer and Terence Blanchard. Jazztopad’s international creative partnerships have included such prestigious organizations as the Monterey Jazz Festival, Kennedy Center, London Jazz Festival and Los Angeles Philharmonic. Live recordings from the festival have been released by ECM and Blue Note Records.
The American edition of Jazztopad is first and foremost an opportunity to get to know the most important artists of the Polish contemporary jazz scene, which is a strongly recognized brand in the world both in terms of the quality of the festivals and the artistry of the featured musicians.
The project is organized by the National Forum of Music in Wroclaw in partnership with the Polish Cultural Institute New York.
JOE FARNSWORTH’S TIME TO SWING QUINTET
Thursday, June 20th through Sunday, June 23rd
Tickets: start at $20
A true mentor who leadsby example, drummer and composer Joe Farnsworth brings his intergenerational ensemble to Dizzy’s Club. Over four nights, the award-winning artist’s Time to Swing Quintet presents a high-octane program of blistering solos, dynamic ballads, and joyful spontaneity at its highest level. Don’tmiss this special performance that features three generations of master artists.
ARTEMIS
Friday, May 31st and Saturday, June 1st
Location: The Appel Room
Tickets: start at $65.50
Experience the 2023 DownBeat Jazz Group of the Year in front of the breathtaking backdrop of the NYC skyline in The Appel Room. The all-star supergroup Artemis performs original music from its distinguished members comprised of modern jazz bandleaders and composers. Join us for an evening of unparalleled musical brilliance led by pianist and musical director Renee Rosnes, and featuring alto saxophonist and flautist Alexa Tarantino, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover, trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, bassist Noriko Ueda, and drummer Allison Miller.
RHYTHMS OF INDIA: THE JLCO WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 8th
Location: Rose Theater
Tickets: start at $40.50
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis presents Rhythms of India, continuing its proud tradition of international community building and cultural exchange. In collaboration with master Indian artists – flautist Jay Gandhi, tabla artist Anubrata Chatterjee, ghatam artist Ghatam Umashankar, and vocalists Malini Awasthi and Roopa Mahadevan – the JLCO bonds the melodies and rhythms of raga-based music and different folk styles with the tradition of jazz – a union poised to captivate audiences of all ages.
Drawing inspiration from iconic Indian compositions like “Kesariya Balam,” echoing the voices of Rajput princesses welcoming home their beloveds, and classic raga “Miyan Malhar,” evoking thundering clouds and pouring rain, this Rose Theater performance invites listeners on a journey through colorful soundscapes and moving stories. From the lively Punjabi folk song “Kothe Te Aa Mahiya” to the soul-stirring Thumri “Ka Karu Sajni,” each piece reflects a unique aspect of Indian culture and history.
Witness this vibrant exchange of ideas and celebration of diversity!
First Friday
Friday, June 7th from 10:00am to 9:00pm
Tickets: FREE!
Join Poster House on the First Friday of every month for free admission and extended hours! Explore the museum’s latest exhibitions and get in on the fun by attending a tour, workshop, performance, or activity throughout the day. Every First Friday is different, offering unique opportunities to engage with rotating exhibitions and the permanent collection.
1-7pm Drop-In Pride Poster-Making Workshop
1pm Zoolander Screening
3pm Wonder City of the World Curatorial Tour
5pm Genius on Display: Sohia Yeshi
6:30pm Miss Poster House NYC
Drink & Draw: Queer Artist Stories
Friday, June 21st from 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Tickets: $40
Queer Artist Stories offers a unique twist on traditional figure drawing sessions. Instead of a passive model, a local queer artist will be posing and sharing their personal story while participants sketch them. The session aims to provide a platform for LGBTQ+ artists to share their compelling narratives.
This event fosters an intimate dialogue between the artists and the attendees. The session will kick off with short warm-up poses before progressing to four 10-minute poses, during which the artist will cover topics such as technique, style, community, and inspiration from a queer perspective.
Father’s Day
Sunday, June 16th from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Location: on the grounds
Tickets: Father’s Day is a premium day for admission at the front entrance; $2 surcharge per visitor.
Father’s Day comes just as summer is filling our hearts. Celebrate Dad with a memorable day in vibrant gardens. Spend the day together with a special Family Art Project, a guided walk in the gardens and a free session of community yoga.
Enjoy the very rare opportunity to picnic on the Wave Hill House Lawn. Bring your own feast or purchase a delicious picnic curated by our exclusive partner Great Performances. Limited, first come, first served seating will also be available in Armor Hall for picnic purchasers. If you would like to picnic on the Wave Hill House Lawn, you may bring your own blanket and outdoor folding chairs.
Carnegie Hall Citywide Concert: Jasmine Rice LaBeija
Thursday, June 27th from 7:00pm to 8:00pm
Location: Great Lawn; Rain Site: Armor Hall
Tickets: Free, and admission to the grounds is free on Thursdays
“Drag is a grand opera” according to renowned drag artist Jasmine Rice LaBeija—and she should know. A Juilliard-trained tenor with a commanding voice and razor-sharp wit, LaBeija has sold out performances at the Guggenheim Museum’s Works & Process series, Lincoln Center, and queer clubs around the world. In addition to being the International Godmother of the Royal House of LaBeija—recently shouted out in Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul (Queens Remix)”—she has also been a host of Dragged and was the face of New York City’s 2020 Pride celebrations. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of New York’s great entertainers in this free presentation in partnership with Carnegie Hall Citywide.
CITYPICKLE AT WOLLMAN RINK
Projected Opening May 1st
Open Daily from 8:00am to 9:00pm
Court rentals, clinics, open play, special events…we have you covered.
We welcome all levels, from beginners to elite players.
Come play on our 14 courts, the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast!
Explore exciting community events around the Bronx this month.
BRONX NIGHT MARKET
AT FORDHAM PLAZA
Saturday, June 1st from 4:00pm to 10:00pm
Tickets: FREE with RSVP!
As the longest-running event series in the northmost borough, the Bronx Night Market stands as a transformative force, revolutionizing the foodie scene and cultivating a deep connection to the identity of the Bronx. With a remarkable lineup of 50 local vendors, this iconic market draws over 4,000 guests each time, making it a thriving hub for community engagement and culinary exploration. Beyond its diverse array of cuisines and unique vendors, the Night Market serves as a dynamic platform for local businesses, providing a stage for the wealth of talents within the Bronx. The event embodies the spirit of the borough, celebrating its unique identity through a fusion of flavors, cultures, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Bronx Night Market is not merely a culinary gathering; it is a powerful reflection of the community’s resilience, creativity, and collective pride, contributing to the borough’s cultural richness and economic vibrancy.
FIRST FRIDAY JUNE 2024:
ART, MUSIC, & DANCING!
Friday, June 7th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Tickets: FREE with RSVP!
Get ready to get down to the irresistible beats of DJ Ultra Violet! Uptown Vinyl Supreme will also be in the house. The evening’s festivities pay tribute to the GOAT, Prince—on what would have been his 66th birthday—with funky old-school tunes.
Take a break from dancing to check out the Museum’s current exhibition: Bronx Calling: The Sixth AIM Biennial (Part Two), featuring work by 27 artists who completed our AIM Fellowship program in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. The work on view powerfully engages with the complexities of the human condition: from our inseparability from nature to the dictates of our cultural identities and norms.
FAMILY TIME JUNE 2024: FREE ART-MAKING FOR ALL AGES
Saturday, June 15th from 1:00pm to 2:00pm
Tickets: FREE! no RSVP needed.
All are welcome to participate in free art activities led by Bronx Museum Education Staff Members! The activities are geared toward families with young children, but fun for everyone.
GARDENING TUESDAY AT THE FOODWAY
Tuesday, June 11th from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Concrete Plant Park
Join the Bronx River Alliance select Tuesdays from 10a-12pm for stewardship activities such as litter removal, weeding, mulching, watering & planting at different rain gardens & newly planted tree sites along the Bronx River!
On Tuesday, June 11th, we will be stewarding the Foodway at Concrete Plant Park. We will meet volunteers at Concrete Plant Park (1370 Westchester Ave) Bronx, NY. Please wear clothing appropriate for outdoor weather and gardening/cleaning activities. We also recommend bringing snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated. All gloves and tools needed will be provided by the Alliance.
STARLIGHT PARK WETLAND PLANTING
Friday, June 14th from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Location: Westchester Avenue Park Entrance in Concrete Plant Park
Join the Stewardship Team to restore the saltwater marsh in Starlight Park with a volunteer plug planting! Urban wetlands provide important benefits including improving water quality, retaining stormwater, and serving as critical habitats for native wildlife! Please note, that volunteers should dress in clothes that can get dirty and close-toed shoes. We also encourage volunteers to bring their own water bottles. Space is limited and registration is required. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a chaperone.
CONNECTING WITH NATURE THROUGH YOGA
Sunday, June 9th from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Crotona Nature Center
Join Urban Park Rangers for an hour of nature themed yoga and meditation. Learn some poses inspired by animals and the natural world. Then restore balance to your body with a chakra meditation. Please bring a mat.
GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN BY JAMES BALDWIN
Thursdays, 7-8:30p: June 6, 13, 20, 27, & Wednesday, July 3
– Bronx Collab, 3866 White Plains Rd, Bronx, NY
Saturdays, 12-1:30p: Jun 8, 15, 22, 29, & July 6
– Bronx River Community Garden, 180th St. & Devoe Ave
Tuesdays, 7-8:30p: Jun 11, 18, 25, & July 2
– on Zoom
In an exploration of FAITH in America, we’ve paired Temple Folk with Go Tell It On The Mountain.
First published in 1953, Baldwin chronicles a fourteen-year-old boy’s discovery of the terms of his identity as the stepson of the minister of a storefront Pentecostal church in Harlem.
Juneteenth + Pride Month Poetry House Open Mic: Reflect, Empower, and Unite
Monday, June 17th from 6:00pm t0 9:00pm
Location: ID Studio Theater (311 East 140th Street, Bronx)
Tickets: FREE and open to all.
Join us for an evening celebrating Pride Month and its themes: Reflect, Empower, and Unite. Don’t miss the launch of Poetry House’s first zine! And, as part of the Literary Freedom Project’s James Baldwin centenary celebration, we’ll honor Baldwin’s legacy with blackout poetry, and more.
5 PM: Collaging, screening and discussion on Baldwin’s work
6-9 PM: Blackout poetry, open mic performances and zine launch
WONDERLAND NIGHTS
June 1, 8, 14*, & 15 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Special Ticket Required: $29 for Member and $39 for Non-Member
Enter Wonderland at dusk—a madly beautiful world! Join us to experience Wonderland: Curious Nature in a new light with a full cast of characters on the scene and specialty themed cocktails that make for the perfect evening out. In a spectacular show of rhythm and delight, Thistle Dance invites you to let loose during the Mad Hatter’s dance party.
PRIDE NIGHT
Friday, June 14th from 7:00pm t0 10:00pm
Tickets: $39 for Non-Members; $29 for Members
Celebrate Pride at NYBG with a twilight viewing of Wonderland: Curious Nature, and get into your element with a ballroom class led by Legendary NYC Father Malik Miyake-Mugler accompanied by his amazing house members. Will you serve face? Strut across the runway? We invite you to vogue the house down.
THE SOUNDVIEW GARDENER'S CLUB
every Tuesday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Location: Soundview Field House – 1550 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx
The Soundview Gardener’s Club is a space where After-School students from local schools and community volunteers come together to clear invasive plants, plant trees/native plants, and spread mulch as part of our forest restoration efforts in Soundview Park in The Bronx.
NYC Parks Presents: Schools Out Celebration
Thursday, June 20th from 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Location: Metcalf Playground in Soundview Park
Join NYC Parks for a School’s Out Celebration. Activities will include games, activities and much more. This event is free and open to the public.
National Trails Day: Van Cortlandt Super Hike
Saturday, June 1st from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center in Van Cortlandt Park
Urban Park Rangers will lead hikers through some of the hidden gems of Van Cortlandt Park on an 8 mile journey through the park’s diverse forests and ecosystems. Registration is required. Registration opens on Wednesday May 22.
Juneteenth Celebration
Wednesday, June 19th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Location: Van Cortlandt House Museum in Van Cortlandt Park
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance and Bronx Arts Ensemble invite you to an evening celebration of Juneteenth at the Van Cortlandt House Museum.
The program will begin on the lawn of the Van Cortlandt House Museum with performances, including music and spoken word. Then join us for a procession with drums to the Enslaved African Burial Ground for a libation ceremony, honoring the memory of the enslaved people.
Guest artists include renowned drummer Baba Don Babatunde, actress Ashley Hart Adams, violist Judith Insell, mezzo-soprano Lucia Bradford and the NYC All City High School Chorus, poet David Mills and West African drummer Yahaya Kamate.
Special thank you to our venue partners at the Van Cortlandt House Museum and the National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New York.
This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the New York City Council.
Juneteenth Celebration
Thursday, June 13th from 4:30pm to 8:00pm
Tickets: Free, and admission to the grounds is free on Thursdays
Location: Great Lawn, Rain moves indoors
Celebrate Juneteenth and honor Black history, achievement and resilience with an evening of performances, artmaking and more. Picnic on the Great Lawn and enjoy a tasty treat of specialty ice cream while supplies last, courtesy of Only Rare NYC. Decorate colorful plant pots inspired by stories of hope and liberation. The celebration culminates with engaging musical and dance performances that highlight the Black experience in the United States. This is a free community event; all ages are welcome.
5:00PM – 7:00PM: Complementary rolled ice cream by Only Rare NYC
6:00PM: Musical performance by Bahati Barton
7:00PM: Dance performance by Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet
Family Tree for Father’s Day
Saturday, June 15th from 10:00am to 1:00pm
Tickets: Free with admission to the grounds
Location: meet at Wave Hill House
Celebrate a father figure in your life. We’ll design a tree sculpture using our families as inspiration. Personalize this as a special gift to hold precious photographs or drawings.
At 11:30AM, families can enjoy a storytime program in the Gund Theater; all ages welcome. We will be celebrating the Juneteenth holiday with a reading of the book, Baby’s Asleep by JayNay Brown-Wood.
The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital: Brittany Olivia Logan, Hannah Jones, Matthew Cairns
Wednesday, June 26th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center
An annual summer tradition, the Metropolitan Opera’s popular concert series in New York City parks continues with a free outdoor recital. Three of today’s most exciting young stars— soprano Brittany Olivia Logan, mezzo-soprano Hannah Jones, and tenor Matthew Cairns—come together for an effervescent evening of favorite arias, duets, and ensembles, accompanied by Deborah Robertson at the piano.
Did you know that Great Performances is headquartered in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx? We love being a part of the Bronx community, supporting other Bronx-based companies, and giving back to our community.
On the surface, a wedding planner may not seem like an essential expense, especially when pitted against the more obvious needs of food, your dream venue, and a good DJ. But what most newly-weds-to-be don’t know is that hiring a wedding planner can actually save you money.
And that’s not all. Great Performances Wedding Specialist Amanda DiUglio spoke on the ways in which hiring a wedding planner might just save your big day.
Save Time
“Let the planner do the hard work. Let them research and find out information about all the places you’re looking [and] at the vendors so you don’t have to do any of the stressful things. They can come in [and] they can say here are my top five recommendations and take you through it without you having to do the hours and hours of work it really takes to plan the perfect wedding.”
Save Money
“They can help negotiate. They can help recommend different vendors that might have different price points. They can get you exactly what you’re looking for and help you really craft your budget to make sure it works all within what you’re looking to spend.”
Save Energy
“Your planners have worked in weddings for normally a very long time and have a good list of vendors who they love partnering with. They’re suggesting them because they do a great job and they want your wedding to come out perfect. So trust their recommendations and really look into the vendors that they recommend.”
Each season has its perks and pitfalls when it comes to planning a wedding, but oftentimes the positives can outweigh the more unfavorable aspects.
Great Performances Wedding Specialist Amanda DiUglio highlighted for us the top 3 reasons why you should consider getting married in the spring.
#1 All is in bloom
Flourishing in the influx of sunny days, gardens and greenery are bound to be blooming in abundance. Whether you decide to host your ceremony outside or indoors, pulling from the lush natural elements is sure to give your special day an extra dose of serenity. From bountiful bouquets to stunning organic backdrops, you can’t go wrong with incorporating the fruits of the season in your wedding design.
#2 Post-winter and ready to party
Shedding the dreary days of constant gray, woodland creatures aren’t the only ones emerging from hibernation. Though more of the metaphorical variety, it’s undeniable that the first signs of sunlight draw out even the most introverted individual’s desire to socialize. A spring wedding is an enticing break from the monotony of the colder months, sure to increase that RSVP rate and bring together all those you haven’t seen since before the first snowfall.
#3 Temperate temperatures
With warm afternoons and cool evenings, the moderate embrace of spring is sure to create a comfortable atmosphere for your many celebrations. The perfect porridge for a wide array of guests, you’re certain to settle somewhere “just right” when it comes to desired degrees. No sweating through suits or shivering in sleeveless dresses, there will be smiles all around, allowing for an enjoyable exchange of vows.
Main photo credit Gulnara Samoilova
We invited our colleague, Bella Camara, a garde manger cook, to share her experience of working in food service during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a holy month that is observed as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
Ramdan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. During the month of Ramadan Muslims around the globe fast from sunrise to sunset. Meaning that we can eat or drink anything while the sun is out. Ramadan is the month that the holy Quran began to be revealed to Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him). It is an obligation upon all Muslims to fast during the month of Ramadan except children who have not reach puberty, the elderly, women who are menstruating, women breastfeeding a newborn, and people who are physically or mentally sick. Ramadan is not only the month of fasting but the month of giving charity and feeding the less fortunate.
It takes a lot of discipline and self-control to work in the kitchen while fasting during the month of Ramadan. Many people who are not Muslims always ask, how do we (as Muslims) do it. The reason we can fast while working with food is because many of us have been fasting since we were 14 or 15 years. Even though we have been fasting since we were teenagers, being around food while fasting is very tempting because your sense of smell is heightened, and your body is craving food. But you must focus on the rewards you will get if you do not break your fast before sunset and the sins if you break (without any valid reason) your fast before sunset. We also try to keep our minds off the food as much as possible when we are fasting. It is not that difficult to fast during Ramadan while working with food.
STRENGTH OF A WOMAN PRESENTS: TIFFANY HADDISH
Friday, May 10th at 8:00pm
Location: Apollo’s Historic Theater
Tickets: $72.70
Live Nation and Mary J. Blige are bringing the third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit to New York City for weekend full of activities dedicated to empowering, educating, and elevating, women. One of the annual staples of the festival is the comedy show. This year’s show will feature a headlining set from Tiffany Haddish with support from Don’t Call me White Girl and Paris Sashay.
DANCE THEATRE OF HARLEM FAMILY MATINEE: HARLEM MOUSE/COUNTRY MOUSE
Saturday, May 18th at 3:00pm
Location: Apollo’s Historic Theater
Tickets: start at $25
The Dance Theatre of Harlem presents a family matinee of Harlem Mouse/Country Mouse – an exciting retelling of Aesop’s Fable, City Mouse and Country Mouse.
Harlem Mouse/Country Mouse references the rich traditions of the Black South, modern-day life in Harlem, and the unique expressions of dance, music and poetry that arise when cultures collide. It unites the dynamic artists of the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company together with students from the Dance Theatre of Harlem School. Conceived as a celebration of the Harlem community, this full-length story ballet is an uplifting event for the whole family!
“Dance Theatre of Harlem…a premier ballet company and global ambassador for excellence and diversity.” -Sarah L. Kaufman, Washington Post.
Directed and conceived by Robert Garland and Tai Jimenez
LEO BAR HAPPY HOUR
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month!
Thursday, May 9th from 5:30pm to 8:00pm
Tickets: $25 includes a free drink
Visit Asia Society’s new exhibition, COAL + ICE with an evening of cocktails, music, and catching up on Thursday, May 9th from 5:30 to 8 PM.
Enjoy the gorgeous Garden Court as you look at art, mingle with friends, and make new connections at Asia Society!
A ticket includes one drink, followed by a cash bar. Kindly note this event is only open to guests 21 years old and over.
Music by DJ Kai Song.
DANCING THE GODS
In Partnership with World Music Institute
Asia Society is pleased to collaborate with World Music Institute for Dancing the Gods, an annual festival of Indian Dance celebrating its 13th year, featuring some of the leading performers of Indian dance. Each night begins with a slide presentation by Rajika Puri, festival curator, and acclaimed dance storyteller.
Night One – Kasi Aysola and Archana Raja (Kuchipudi)
Friday, May 10th from 7:15pm to 10:00pm
Kasi Aysola is a performer, choreographer, and nattuvangam artist based in the United States. Apart from his solo performances, as Artistic Director of the Prakriti Dance Company, he also collaborates with and trains artists across America. Moreover, he is renowned for his original rhythmic compositions and the musical insight with which he has accompanied dance artists like Rama Vaidyanathan, Mythili Prakash, and Janaki Rangarajan, all of whom have appeared in Dancing the Gods over the years. WMI last presented Kasi as part of our virtual Dancing the Gods festival in 2022, where he performed the world premiere of a series of Kuchipudi works. For this year’s festival, he will be joined by Archana Raja, a Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi practitioner, teacher, and choreographer based in the Bay Area who is currently a student of Kasi in the Vempati style of Kuchipudi.
Night Two – Rama Vaidyanathan (solo Bharatanatyam)
Sunday, May 12th from 7:15pm to 10:00pm
Rama Vaidyanathan is one of the foremost Bharatanatyam dancers of her generation and is also the recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Puraskar awarded by the central government of India. Her technique is grounded in tradition, yet she brings a fresh approach to her choreography that is evident in the innumerable dance compositions she has added to the Bharatanatyam repertoire. As Director of Ganesa Natyalaya New Delhi, she is actively engaged in teaching and nurturing young dancers, inspiring a whole new generation. Rama opened the very first Dancing the Gods festival in 2011.
IRONWEED: An Evening of Art & Humanity
Friday, May 17th at 7:30pm
Location: BAM Strong, Harvey Theater
Tickets: start at $35
Four-time Academy Award nominee Mark Ruffalo and two-time Tony Award nominee Jessica Hecht star in an innovative mix of live performance and recorded sound directed by Jodie Markell and produced by Brad Gilbert, based on a new play adapted from William Kennedy’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. IRONWEED: An Evening of Art & Humanity offers a heartbreaking look at a man’s end-of-life reckoning during the Great Depression. Set on All Hallows’ Eve in 1938 on the streets of Albany, the play follows one man’s journey through purgatory and his struggle for redemption, bringing to life the poetry, humor, and heartbreak of Kennedy’s prose. The evening includes select readings of scenes from a new stage version of the novel, adapted by Kennedy and Markell. Following the performance, Ruffalo and Hecht discuss the timeliness of IRONWEED and the current crisis of the unhoused with local advocates, moderated by The New Yorker writer and author Vinson Cunningham. This exclusive one-night event offers a memorable, moving experience of the power of creative expression to illuminate the human condition.
DanceAfrica 2024
Friday, May 24th through Monday, May 27th
Location: Peter Jay Sharp Building, Howard Gilman Opera House
Tickets: start at $25
This year, the festival’s anchor performance, under the artistic vision of Abdel R. Salaam, welcomes the illustrious Cameroonian dance company Cie La Calebasse, founded by acclaimed choreographer and dancer Merlin Nyakam. Renowned for captivating performances that blend traditional African dance with contemporary flair, Cie La Calebasse presents an array of traditional Cameroonian dances and music. The program, titled Cameroon: The Origin of Communities/A Calabash of Cultures, also fosters a unique collaboration with the DanceAfrica Spirit Walkers and The Billie’s Youth Arts Academy Dance Ensemble, joined by Women Of The Calabash, an ensemble known for its mesmerizing polyphonic sound. The artistic vision is brought to life with costume designs by Wunmi Olaiya, lighting design by Al Crawford, set design by Jasiri Kafele, and music and sound design by David Margolin Lawson, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the depth of Cameroonian culture.
First Saturday: In Bloom
Saturday, May 4th from 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Celebrate spring, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and our exhibitions Artland and Hiroshige’s 100 Famous Views of Edo (feat. Takashi Murakami). May’s First Saturday features a lineup of artists, poets, and musicians from the Asian diaspora in Brooklyn and beyond.
This program is free; registration is required and includes Museum general admission. Tickets are released on a rolling basis. Sign up for the Brooklyn Museum newsletter to be notified of the next release.
Brooklyn Pop-Up Market
every Sunday from 10:30am to 5:30pm
Location: Iris Cantor Plaza, 1st Floor
Stop by our market to shop one-of-a-kind, handmade items from local artisans. This weekly event features more than 20 vendors offering artwork, jewelry, fashion, home and apothecary goods, and more.
This event is free and takes place outdoors (rain location: Martha A. and Robert S. Rubin Pavilion, 1st Floor).
Jake Blount
Presented in Collaboration with City Winery
Saturday, May 11th at 8:00pm
Tickets: start at $40
When Jake Blount stumbled upon a banjo performance in an Ethiopian restaurant around a decade ago, he instantly fell in love with the instrument. Now you’ll instantly fall in love with him — banjoist, fiddler, singer, scholar, and entertainer — as he explores the folk traditions of Black and indigenous Americans. A recipient of the prestigious Steve Martin Banjo Prize, Blount will blend his “charismatic and limber” voice (The Guardian) with blues, bluegrass, and spirituals for a deeply fulfilling musical experience.
An Evening Of Wine
A Benefit for Caramoor’s Education Programs
Saturday, May 18th at 6:00pm
Tickets: $2,500
By joining us this evening, you are contributing to the vibrant experiences that Caramoor offers, fostering a sense of discovery and inspiration among all who visit. We believe these educational programs will ignite a lasting passion for the arts within our community, nurturing creativity and curiosity for generations to come. We hope you’ll join us.
Schedule
6:00pm / Cocktails
7:00pm / Musical Performance by Stella Cole
8:00pm / Dinner by Chef Jesse Schenker & Silent Auction of Rare Wines
10:00pm / Cigar Lounge and Nightcaps
VICTOR GOINES QUARTET
Friday, May 17th through Sunday, May 19th
Tickets: start at $25
Join tenor master, clarinetist, and longtime JLCO member and music director Victor Goines as he leads his 4-piece ensemble at Dizzy’s Club. An artist of compelling versatility, Goines has collaborated with a diverse roster of leaders, including Ahmad Jamal, Ruth Brown, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Dizzy Gillespie, Lenny Kravitz, Branford Marsalis, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder.
SUN RA AT 110 WITH SULLIVAN FORTNER'S GALACTIC FRIENDS
Wednesday, May 22nd and Thursday, May 23rd
Tickets: start at $25
Celebrating what would have been composer/keyboardist Sun Ra’s 110th birthday on May 22, Grammy-winning, Earth-born, New Orleans pianist/keyboardist Sullivan Fortner has summoned his most galactic-minded of friends to delve into Sun Ra’s inventive and adventurous music. From swing to free to earthy and spacey, Fortner and his fellow explorers – including Sun Ra Arkestra veterans and Grammy-winners – will embrace the eclecticism that marked Sun Ra’s atmospheric musical forays.
In the immortal words of Sun Ra:
In the half-between world,
Dwell they: The Tone Scientists
In notes and tone
They speak of many things…
The tone scientists:
Architects of planes of discipline
Mathematically precise are they:
The tone-scientists
–Sun Ra
ESSENTIALLY ELLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ BAND COMPETITION & FESTIVAL
Friday, May 10th and Saturday, May 11th
Location: Rose Theater
Tickets: start at $25.50
The annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival is one of the most innovative jazz education events in the world. Each year, high school musicians from across North America travel to New York City to spend three days immersed in workshops, jam sessions, rehearsals, and performances at the “House of Swing,” Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of Jazz at Lincoln Center.
BATTLE OF THE BIG BANDS: NEW ORLEANS JAZZ ORCHESTRA AND CAPTAIN BLACK BIG BAND
Friday, May 17th and Saturday, May 18th
Location: Rose Theater
Tickets: start at $40.50
When The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra with Adonis Rose, a 20-piece ensemble of intergenerational voices representing the birthplace of jazz, faces off against the Captain Black Big Band with Orrin Evans, a bold, swinging assemblage of artists from Philadelphia and the mid-Atlantic, expect a high-energy, roof-shaking rumble, as they duke it out to the music of Count Basie, Sun Ra, Stevie Wonder, and more, in one of jazz’s most beloved traditions, in The House of Swing.
First Friday
Friday, May 3rd from 10:00am to 9:00pm
Tickets: FREE!
Join Poster House on the First Friday of every month for free admission and extended hours! Explore the museum’s latest exhibitions and get in on the fun by attending a tour, workshop, or activity throughout the day. This month, the museum is thrilled to partner with Welcome to Chinatown for a series of programs that celebrate the culture, community, and resilience of Chinatown. Stop by and learn more about Welcome to Chinatown and how you can support the organization’s recovery efforts.
Sleepless in Seattle Movie Screening
Friday, May 17th from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
Tickets: FREE!
The Anatomy of a Movie Poster: The Work of Dawn Baillie includes some of the most iconic and beloved posters in modern cinematic history. Throughout the exhibition, Poster House will screen a selection of films from the movie-focused exhibition. On Friday, May 17, there will be a free screening of the romantic classic, Sleepless in Seattle. The year before this poster was created, Dawn became one of the first female cofounders of a Hollywood design studio. This poster was one of the first she created with the use of Photoshop—at the time, a new digital tool many studios were not yet using. Be sure to stop by Café des Affiches for exclusive, themed drinks and snacks to accompany the screening!
Mother's Day
Sunday, May 12th from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Location: on the grounds
Tickets: Mother’s Day is a premium day for admission at the front entrance; $2 surcharge per visitor. Free admission for children 5 & under.
Wonderfully timed to coincide with the arrival of spring, Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to pull out all the stops. Plan to spend the day in the gardens, with a special Family Art Project, a guided walk in the gardens, a session of spring birding, and free sessions of community and family yoga. Links below.
Enjoy the very rare opportunity to picnic on the Wave Hill House Lawn. Bring your own feast or purchase a delicious picnic curated by our exclusive partner Great Performances. Limited, first come, first served seating will also be available in Armor Hall for picnic purchasers. If you would like to picnic on the Wave Hill House Lawn, you may bring your own blanket and outdoor folding chairs.
Night Out at Wave Hill: The Birders Lounge
Saturday, May 18th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Location: Wave Hill House
Tickets: $25; including admission to the grounds. Members save 10%
Don’t let the fun end! Grab your friends or a date and spend a leisurely spring evening at Wave Hill with fellow birders and nature enthusiasts. Enjoy drinks and a lively round of Birders Trivia with local bird guide Gabriel Willow as your host, and hang out on our tented café terrace with gorgeous views of the open lawns and woodlands. Wrap up your evening with a guided nature walk as the birds are heading home to roost or enjoy a quiet sunset from the café terrace or the Great Lawn. No birding experience necessary! Cash bar with a variety of local beers and themed cocktails. Ages 21 and older.
CITYPICKLE AT WOLLMAN RINK
Projected Opening May 1st
Open Daily from 8:00am to 9:00pm
Court rentals, clinics, open play, special events…we have you covered.
We welcome all levels, from beginners to elite players.
Come play on our 14 courts, the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast!
Explore exciting community events around the Bronx this month.
BRONX NIGHT MARKET
AT FORDHAM PLAZA
Saturday, May 4th from 4:00pm to 10:00pm
Tickets: FREE with RSVP!
As the longest-running event series in the northmost borough, the Bronx Night Market stands as a transformative force, revolutionizing the foodie scene and cultivating a deep connection to the identity of the Bronx. With a remarkable lineup of 50 local vendors, this iconic market draws over 4,000 guests each time, making it a thriving hub for community engagement and culinary exploration. Beyond its diverse array of cuisines and unique vendors, the Night Market serves as a dynamic platform for local businesses, providing a stage for the wealth of talents within the Bronx. The event embodies the spirit of the borough, celebrating its unique identity through a fusion of flavors, cultures, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Bronx Night Market is not merely a culinary gathering; it is a powerful reflection of the community’s resilience, creativity, and collective pride, contributing to the borough’s cultural richness and economic vibrancy.
FIRST FRIDAY: ART, MUSIC, DANCING! WITH AIM FELLOW CARLA MALDONADO
Friday, May 3rd from 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Schedule:
6PM – Choreographing The End Of The World: A Dance Workshop with AIM Fellow Carla Maldonado
7PM – Salsa dance tutorial with Instructor Talia Castro-Pozo
7:30PM – Live salsa music by Johnny Mambo & Friends and dancing!
All are invited to The Bronx Museum for this fun evening of art, music, and dancing that is part of our ongoing series of events that take place after-hours on the first Friday of a month. You are welcome to drop-in, but you can let us know if you plan to stop by with an RSVP.
This First Friday features a dance workshop with AIM Fellow Carla Maldonado, as part of our exhibition Bronx Calling: The Sixth AIM Biennial (Part Two).
In addition, we are thrilled to welcome back salsa dance instructor Talia Castro-Pozo—who will be offering an open-level free salsa tutorial. And the band Johnny Mambo & Friends will be playing live salsa music throughout the evening!
THE FIRST AIM CONVENING: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR ARTISTS
Saturday, May 11th from 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Tickets: FREE!
All are invited to The Bronx Museum for the First AIM Convening! This free event is designed to impart vital advice to artists that can help them succeed in a competitive and difficult-to-navigate industry.
The Convening is programmed and led by artists who completed The Bronx Museum’s flagship AIM Fellowship program in 2023.
SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK
Thursday, May 2nd from 3:00pm to 4:00pm
Location: Westchester Avenue and Edgewater Road in Concrete Plant Park
Explore which plants are in bloom in our parks! Learn how to identify different species of flowers and pick up some botany basics on this engaging and educational hike with the Urban Park Rangers!
GARDENING TUESDAY AT THE FOODWAY
Thursday, May 28th from 10:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Concrete Plant Park
Join the Bronx River Alliance on select Tuesdays from 10a-12pm for stewardship activities such as litter removal, weeding, mulching, watering & planting at different rain gardens & newly planted tree sites along the Bronx River!
On Tuesday, May 28th, we will be stewarding the Foodway at Concrete Plant Park. We will meet volunteers at Concrete Plant Park (1370 Westchester Ave) Bronx, NY.
NATURE STORY TIME
Saturday, May 18th from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Crotona Nature Center
Join the Urban Park Rangers as we take our time in nature! We will begin our meet-up with a storytime circle under the trees, followed by arts and craft activity inspired by the story.
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: Ginkgo Tree Celebration
Sunday, May 19th from 1:00pm to 2:00pm
Location: Crotona Nature Center
Celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with NYC Parks! Join the Urban Park Rangers and learn about Ginkgo trees and their significance in Asian culture and folklore. Then end with creating your own Ginkgo-inspired craft!
ONE BOOK ONE BRONX
Temple Folk by Aaliyah Bilal
Thursdays, 7-8:30p: May 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30
Bronx Collab, 3866 White Plains Rd, Bronx, NY
Saturdays, 12-1:30p: May 4, 11, 18, 25 & June 1
Bronx River Community Garden, 180th St. & Devoe Ave.
Tuesdays, 7-8:30p: May 7, 14, 21, & 28
on Zoom
In Temple Folk by Aliyah Bilal, Black Muslims contemplate the convictions of their race, religion, economics, politics, and sexuality in America. The ten stories in this collection contribute to the bounty of diverse narratives about Black life by intimately portraying the experiences of a community that resists the mainstream culture.
SPRING UNCORKED
Saturday, May 4th from 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Tickets: $50 Non-Members, $25 Members; includes a souvenir NYBG wine tumbler
Enjoy the Perfect Pairing of Springtime Beauty & Local Wines
At Daffodil Hill, sip and savor spring during this wine lover’s weekend, featuring wineries from the Hudson Valley, Brooklyn, and Long Island. Enjoy samples, relax to live music, learn the science behind making great wines, and kick back with a variety of crafts and games. Enjoy delicious lunch options for sale from a line-up of the tri-state area’s finest local foods curated by Morning Glory Markets.
MOTHER’S DAY GARDEN CELEBRATION
Saturday, May 11th and Sunday, May 12th from 11:00am to 5:00pm
Treat Mom to a One-of-a-Kind Garden Party
The most spectacular spring landscape New York City has to offer is the setting for music, games, picnicking, and more. Make Daffodil Hill your own backyard and bring the whole family together while playing your favorite garden party lawn games, making a collage or craft for Mom, and getting your face painted with whimsical designs.
THE SOUNDVIEW GARDENER'S CLUB
every Tuesday from 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Location: Soundview Field House – 1550 Lafayette Avenue, Bronx
The Soundview Gardener’s Club is a space where After-School students from local schools and community volunteers come together to clear invasive plants, plant trees/native plants, and spread mulch as part of our forest restoration efforts in Soundview Park in The Bronx.
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: BARBIE
Saturday, May 18th from 8:00pm to 11:00pm
Location: Entrance – Lafayette Avenue and Morrison Avenue
Grab a blanket and come enjoy a movie in a neighborhood park or playground! This spring, NYC Parks will host family-friendly movie showings across the five boroughs.
Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans.
Movies begin at dusk. This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited.
FAMILY CAMPING: BRONX
Saturday, May 18th from 6:00pm to 7:00am
Location: Van Cortlandt Nature Center in Van Cortlandt Park
We camp to create lasting memories, connect with the natural world, and bond with our families. The Urban Park Rangers celebrate the tradition of camping and we look forward to welcoming your family. Families are chosen by lottery. Lottery registration opens on Wednesday May 8.
Fantastic Fungi Mushroom ID Hike
Sunday, May 25th from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Van Cortlandt Golf House in Van Cortlandt Park
This Urban Park Ranger led hike will take you through the forest to learn how to identify fungi. Participants will learn about the crucial role that mushrooms play in an ecosystem and how natural decomposition takes place.
NYC Parks Presents: Superhero Skate Party
Saturday, May 4th from 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Location: Basketball Courts in Watson Gleason Playground
Join NYC Parks and Majority Leader Amanda Farias for a superhero skate party at Watson Gleason Playground. Kids, come out dressed as your favorite superhero and enjoy an afternoon of music, dancing, and skating. Skates will be provided while supplies last or, feel free to bring your own. This event is free and open to the public.
Bring It On Talent Show
Friday, May 31st from 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Location: Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center
Ready, Set, Work! All ages are invited to join the bring it on talent show at Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center. Join us and showcase your unique talents from singing, dancing, acting, and beyond. If you have a passion for it, let’s see what you’ve got, bring it! This event is free and open to the public.
Did you know that Great Performances is headquartered in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx? We love being a part of the Bronx community, supporting other Bronx-based companies, and giving back to our community.
Last year, we shared our new mission, Unleash Joy through Genuine Hospitality. It’s at the heart of everything we do and encompasses the delicious food and impeccable service that we bring to every event we cater and every space we operate. At the core of this is our operations team, which I’ve been honored to lead for the past few years.
To kick off the spring season, we brought together the operational leaders at Great Performances to talk through the key aspects of our team dynamics. From Culinary to Pastry and Venues to Warehouse, we covered topics including collaboration guidelines, empowerment, questioning the status quo, and creating an inclusive and innovative environment.
One notable point of discussion centered around the concept of “unleashing human magic,” highlighting the importance of feeling valued and encouraged to be oneself at work.
The meeting also emphasized the importance of reframing challenges as opportunities and adopting a solution-driven mindset. Team members were encouraged to shift from a mindset of “I can’t” to “How can we?” to promote problem-solving and mutual support within the team.
With this team, leadership and moral authority are always key topics of discussion, with an emphasis on earning authority through actions and character rather than exerting power over others.
At the end of the event, we donned t-shirts spelling out Great Performances to represent that although we are all individual contributors, together, we become the whole of Great Performances.
Meet the team:
Culinary
Albert Bello – Executive Pastry Chef (2nd E)
Andrew Smith – Culinary Director (!)
Bridgid Randolph – Culinary Administrator (1st E)
Daniel Dougherty – Director of Beverage (3rd R)
Daniel Sokolov – Research & Development Chef (3rd E)
Geoff Koo – Research & Development Pastry Chef (O)
Javier Carrasquillo – Corporate Chef de Cuisine (2nd R)
Michael Steifman – Executive Sous of Catering Operations (M)
Mike Deuel – Executive Chef of Catering Operations (F)
Rachel Taffet – Food & Beverage Coordinator (1st R)
Stratos Georgedakis – Executive Production Chef (G)
Design
Micha Bentel – Creative Director (1st A)
Hospitality and Staffing
John Gargano – Director of Service (N)
Steven Moskos – Director of Staffing (S)
Logistics
Willie Carrasquillo – Director of Transportation (C)
Procurement
Vince Gubbins – Director of Purchasing (T)
Zach Mayer – Director of Fulfillment (P)
Venue Operations
Christina Macaluso – Executive Director of Venues (2nd A)
The Bronx River
Contributor: Alyssa Perez, Communications and Development Assistant At the Bronx River Alliance, great strides are being made to promote community advocacy and stewardship right here in the Bronx. A major testament to our work was the opening of Starlight Park Phase II in 2023 that created new pedestrian bridges, added to the existing Bronx River Greenway, and incorporated stormwater retention features into the development. This all-new connection brought communities together! In addition, our continued efforts in rain garden maintenance speaks to the prevalent flooding issues NYC experiences during wet weather events. For a unique experience, you can canoe the Bronx River during programming season, visit the ONLY edible food garden at Concrete Plant Park’s Foodway, and cycle continuously through on the Bronx River Greenway. You can also join us at major events like Open House on April 20th, Our Amazing Bronx River Flotilla on May 4th, and so many volunteer opportunities for an experience unlike any other in the Bronx! Find us at bronxriver.org or @bronx_river on Instagram!
- Volunteer with us, as we gear up for spring, planting lots of new trees and shrubs. Upcoming volunteer events are listed on the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance calendar here.
- From April 26-29, Van Cortlandt Park Alliance will participate in the City Nature Challenge, a global contest or “bio blitz” between cities to find and document wildlife on iNaturalist. Any picture, video, or recorded sound of plants, animals, or evidence of life counts as a submission! Van Cortlandt Park had the most wildlife observations of any NYC park two years ago! Details on a public event for this challenge coming soon!
- Van Cortlandt Park is a great place to explore the history of NYC with sites like the Grand Central Stones and the Van Cortlandt House Museum
- Cultural events, like our annual Pinkster Festival on Saturday, May 4, connect visitors to the park’s history through live music, crafts, and food.
- On Tuesday, June 11, the New York Philharmonic plays its annual free concert on Van Cortlandt Park’s Parade Ground. With dazzling fireworks at the end of the evening, it’s our favorite way to kick off summer!
- Hike in Van Cortlandt Park – the best way to escape the sights and sounds of the city, accessible via subway! Full list of trails here
- Summertime is the best time to picnic in the park!
Contributor: Jess Brey, Senior Horticultural Interpreter at Wave Hill
My favorite view at Wave Hill is from the Secret Garden. An enclosed hillside surrounded by hedges and specimen trees and shrubs offers intimacy with a view. The plantscaping directs attention towards a “garden window”, a break in the plants, to enjoy the best view. Overlooking the nearby Conservatory and Flower Garden, the view spans out towards sweeping lawns and the distant Hudson River and New Jersey Palisades. Many times, there will be some Wave Hill chairs positioned in the Secret Garden offering a seated view from underneath the sweeping arms of an old blue Atlas cedar. Many miss this garden area on their visit as it is a “secret”, however I think it is one of the must stops at Wave Hill during late spring into early autumn. You can even watch Sunset Wednesday concerts from here!
Last month, we unleashed joy in the most epic way at our 40+4 Anniversary Celebration at our Bronx HQ. We invited our partners, collaborators, clients, vendors, and more to join us as we celebrated 40 (plus 4) years of being of service, delivering deliciousness, and helping others celebrate their milestones.
From the moment our guests arrived at our building – by car or by foot – they knew they’d arrived at the right place when they saw the large graffiti mural by Scratch decorating the front of the building and were greeted with the The Marching Cobras Drumline and Danceline who dazzled with energizing drums and electrifying dance.
Guests quickly checked their coats and stepped into Mae Mae Café and Plant Shop where they enjoyed live jazz music from Jazz at Lincoln Center and got their first bite and sip of the day – a Berry Beet Shot and some Carrot Tartare – before they embarked on a tour of our space.
We had so much to share with our guests! They started with the first floor commissary that starts on the south with the loading dock for incoming ingredients, goes through various walk in refrigerators, cold kitchens and hot kitchens, blast chillers, and pack out refrigerators to the out going loading dock. Inside the production kitchen which was still bustling with activity, they enjoyed some bites highlighting our production lines. The Sauce line presented Butternut Squash Soup with Truffled Croutons; the Starch Line presented Twice Baked Potato Gruyere Bites; and the Vegetable Line presented Eggplant Meatballs.
A fan favorite at our venues and at our 40th was a guest appearance from our friend and partner, Charles’ Pan Fried Chicken who served bite-sized portions of his Chicken Slider, Catfish Slider, and Cornbread.
Guests then headed up to the third floor, home to our administrative offices and pastry kitchen, where they had a photo moment in front of our mural painted by Crash, peeked in at the Sylvia Center and the Design/Marketing Offices before continuing through the main office to the Pastry Kitchen where they grabbed one of our incredibly delicious chocolate chip cookies.
A quick hop down to the second floor, they had the chance to see our Design Warehouse, a cave of wonders packed with all the essentials to turn an event into a party! Walking past our Subway Mural created by Scratch (complete with subway audio!), they stepped into our 2nd Floor Event Space! We transformed the open space into a swanky lounge with bars, food stations, a demo area, and a seated lounge.
Warm, friendly staff members greeted guests and offered a selection of our most popular hors d’oeuvres including House Made Kosher Pigs in a Blanket; Smoked Salmon Napoleon; Tuna in a Birds Nest; Mushroom Mole Tostada; Habanero Smoked Tofu Taco; Red Pepper Puffed Tortilla; Fluke Ceviche; Goat Cheese Bonbon; Beet Terrine; and Boneless Lamb Chop.
Guests wandered around the space, learning about our Exclusive Venue Partners and Nonprofit Partners (and how to support them); learning more about our history through our wall of Iconic Moments; adding their tags to a graffiti wall by Scratch; becoming experts in napkin folding with Kevin Horne, a long-time member of our event team; slinging cocktails with our mixologist Daniel Dougherty; and learning how to use vegetables in place of meat with Chef Andrew Smith.
We made sure everyone stayed hydrated throughout the event with our bar station and beverages from our partners at Dio. And of course we made sure that everyone left full of delicious treats from stations representing the breadth of our menus and partners.
At Katchkie Deli, named after our organic farm in upstate New York and featuring a vegan take on the classic NY Reuben with a Pastrami Cured Butternut Squash on Herbed Focaccia.
We shared our Momofuku Station, a collaboration with Momofuku to prepare and share their recipes at events, sharing Charred Eggplant Dip; Tingly Lamb; Chilled Spicy Noodles; Ginger Scallion Noodles; Spicy Pork Rice Cakes; Wagyu Ragu Rice Cakes; Shiitake Bao; Brisket Bao; Bing Bread.
Our friends at Russ & Daughters hosted a station featuring Bagel Chips; Latkes; Wild Alaskan Salmon Roe; Trout Roe; Smoked Salmon.
We worked with JJ Johnson to bring FIELDTRIP to the party with their fan favorite Short Rib & Carolina Rice Bowl and Quinoa Falafel & Wild Rice Bowl.
We rounded out the menu with our Pan African Station serving a variety of dishes that represent different regions across Africa: Chapati (East African Flatbread); Zaalouk (Moroccan Vegetable Dip); Burkina Faso Chicken Brochette; Senegalese Jollof Rice; Khudraat Mashwiyya (Moroccan Spiced Roasted Vegetables); Kelewele (Ghanian Sweet Plantain); and Tanzanian Tofu Curry.
We were thrilled to receive a number of citations and proclamations including a Citation of Merit from Vanessa L. Gibson, President of the Borough of The Bronx; and a proclamation from Mayor Eric Adams declaring March 11, 2024 Great Performances Day in New York City!
It was an incredibly joyous event, and we lived up to our Mission of Unleashing Joy through Genuine Hospitality. We love throwing parties with our clients; and we love even more having them over at our own home and throwing a party for them!
40+4 Video
Video credit: Hechler Photographers
Great Performances Through the Years