September 2025 Grantee Events
Experience a wide range of art activities by supporting our Creative Engagement, Creative Learning, and UMEZ Arts Engagement grantees and their events this month.
Arnaldo Galban
Staged Reading of ASCO (disgust) by Yunior Garcia
Sep 01, 2025 – Sep 04, 2025
ATELIER at Theaterlab, 357 W 36th St, 3rd floor, New York, New York, 10018
ASCO (Disgust) Set in contemporary Cuba, ASCO (Disgust) is a poetic memory play by Yunior García exploring grief, guilt, and resilience after a tragic loss. Told in nonlinear waves, the story follows Nara as she navigates family conflict, machismo, and generational silence. Directed and translated by Arnaldo Galbán, this staged reading offers a rare English-language glimpse into one of Cuba’s most vital theatrical voices.
Find more information at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/staged-reading-of-asco-disgust-by-yunior-garcia-tickets-1447630354359?aff=oddtdtcreator
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
9/1/25- 7:30 PM Atelier at Theaterlab, Reading
9/2/25- 7:30 PM Atelier at Theaterlab, Reading+Q&A
9/3/25- 7:30 PM Atelier at Theaterlab, Reading+Conversation with Cuban-American artist and scolar Coco Fusco
9/4/25- 7:30 PM Atelier at Theaterlab, Reading
Cellunova Productions Inc
Destination Undefined
Sep 3, 2025 – Sep 07, 2025
Theater 154, 154 Christopher Street, New York, New York, 10014
A genre-bending sci-fi absurdist play, Destination Undefined follows five AI researchers from the Human Research Institute who uncover a mysterious Memory Cube buried in a forgotten vault beneath Manhattan. Inside lies a fractured record of human consciousness from the year 2051—revealing a cyborg society teetering on collapse, machines vying for rights, and humanity scrambling to remain relevant. As the researchers decode its contents, they begin to question whether the Memory Cube is a historical artifact or a dire warning. The play explores themes of trust, identity, and survival in a future where meaning itself is destabilized.
Find more information at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/destination-undefined-tickets-1281469994249
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
9/03, 7:30pm
9/04, 7:30pm
9/05, 7:30pm
9/06, 1:30pm; 9/06, 7:30pm
9/07, 1:30pm
Kai Xing Mun
Anna May Wong: PERSONA
Sep 06, 2025 at 4:00PM - Sep 06, 2025 at 9:00PM
Abrons Arts Center, 466 Grand Street, New York, New York 10002
A stage reading that looks through history, and imagines what went on behind-the-scenes of Anna May Wong, Hollywood’s first Chinese American movie star.
Her journey would turn her into an international star as she became close friends with fellow legendary actors Philip Ahn and Paul Robeson, immersing herself in the arts beyond the States like grand dame Josephine Baker did, and finding fondness and fierce rivalries with co-stars like screen siren Marlene Dietrich.
As she journeys from the past to the present from her travels around the world, she must reckon with herself. Through discrimination, trauma, loss, and depression, what kept pushing her to become an actress?
Find more information at tinyurl.com/AMWPersona
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Additional Notes:
Content Advisory Mentions of past suicide and death, outdated language and slurs used during the era, topics of mental health are referenced, references to World War II and violence, and historically discriminatory behaviors of the 1920s-50s are presented. Accessibility Wheelchair or mobility device seating is only available on the upper level of the Underground Theater. Views are fully unobstructed when standard seating is in use. The lower level of the Underground Theater, both seating and performance space, is only accessible via stairs.
Creative Stage Collective
Summer Shebang
Sep 06, 2025 at 4:00PM
Electric Ladybug Community Garden, 235 W 111th st. , New York, New York, 10026
What better way to end the summer than with CSC’s annual Summer Shebang? Join us for 45 minutes of clever, fast-paced comedy—full of unforgettable, quirky ideas that only a kid could dream up. This lively revue features imaginative characters, hilarious situations, and fabulous parody songs devised from music by composers ranging from Bach to Beyoncé—all created and performed by our multigenerational CSC troupe. Take a comical look at the lives of everyday New Yorkers and laugh along at what makes us all human. It’s big energy, big talent, and big fun for all ages!
Find more information at https://www.creativestagecollective.org/upcoming-events
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
Date: Saturday, September 6
Time: 4PM
Place: Electric Ladybug Garden 237 W 111th St.
Eri Shoji
Butsu Butsu #8
Sep 06, 2025 at 01:30PM – Sep 06, 2025 at 05:00PM
Columbus Park, Chinatown, Mulberry Street & Baxter St, New York, New York, 10013
Butsu Butsu is a participatory, barter-based tea happening series that explores gift culture through artistic exchange. Instead of monetary payment, guests are invited to offer a form of barter—goods, skills, or favors—in return for tea and shared experience. Now in its 8th edition, Butsu Butsu gathers artists from diverse disciplines in a shared, improvisational encounter. Coinciding with the Happening series People’s Pavilion, curated by BHKM. Two sessions will be held at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, each with distinct teas and snacks. Seated spots (10 per session) are available by sign-up 30 minutes prior. Standing audience members are welcome anytime without registration.
Find more information at https://www.instagram.com/butsubutsu/
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Creative Stage Collective
Summer Shebang
Sep 07, 2025 at 05:00PM – Sep 07, 2025 at 04:45PM
JCC Harlem, 318 W 118th St, New York, NY 10026
What better way to end the summer than with CSC’s annual Summer Shebang? Join us for 45 minutes of clever, fast-paced comedy—full of unforgettable, quirky ideas that only a kid could dream up. This lively revue features imaginative characters, hilarious situations, and fabulous parody songs devised from music by composers ranging from Bach to Beyoncé—all created and performed by our multigenerational CSC troupe. Take a comical look at the lives of everyday New Yorkers and laugh along at what makes us all human. It’s big energy, big talent, and big fun for all ages!
Find more information at https://www.creativestagecollective.org/upcoming-events
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Additional Location:
JCC Harlem, 318 W 118th St.
Sloka Iyengar
iksana ("Caregiving")
Sep 7, 2025– Sep 27, 2025
YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, Buunni Coffee, Aaron David Hall, 54 Nagle Ave, New York, NY 10040, New York, New York, 10040
"We are who we are because someone took care of us". This sentiment is the inspiration for Īkṣaṇa ("Caregiving") - a series of recitals planned for Fall 2025. The word Īkṣaṇa (ईक्षण) means "sight" or "vision", and also "caring", highlighting the close connection between observing a need and taking care of someone with that need. Through Bharatanatyam, we will share caring for our communities, each other, ourselves, nature, the dance form and its heritage. These four recitals will present different pieces.
Find more information at https://www.slokaiyengar.net/iksana-caregiving.html
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
Sunday, September 7, at 2 pm, YM & YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, 54 Nagle Ave, New York, NY 10040
Friday, September 19, at 7pm, Buunni Coffee Inwood, 4961 Broadway, New York, NY 10034
Saturday, September 27, at 3pm, Theatre B, Aaron Davis Hall, City University of New York, 129 Convent Ave, New York, NY 10027
VGM Jam Sessions NYC
VGM Jam sessions NYC
September 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM – September 12, 2025 at 10:30 PM
OS Nyc , 50 bowery, New York, New York, 10013
VGM Jam Sessions NYC is a grassroots community that seeks to partner with NYC venues to provide an environment where people from all walks of life can express their love for music, videogames and the intersection of two by performing, arranging, and listening to classic and contemporary Video Game Music (VGM) together. Our monthly event at OS NYC features an all-VGM performance of top-call nyc musicians followed by an open Jam Session. Everyone from students and public school educators to top call, Grammy-winning musicians regularly participate in our monthly jam session.
Find more information at https://linktr.ee/vgmjamsessionsnyc
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
First Friday of every month 7-8pm performance 8:30-10:30 PM jam.
2025: 9/12 10/3 11/7 12/5
Mike Freeman
Hell's Kitchen Vibe-Centric
Sep 12, 2025 at 05:30PM – Sep 12, 2025 at 07:00PM
Bella Abzug Park, 34th St & Hudson Blvd East, New York, New York, 10018
Hell's Kitchen Vibe-Centric - Mike Freeman ZonaVibe concert performance highlighting Freeman's vibraphone-centric jazz-Latin-blues music rooted in Afro-Cuban clave. The concert features Freeman's original music born from his associations with high-profile Latinjazz and salsa artists along with his experiences as a long-time Hell's Kitchen resident.
Find more information at jazzvibe.com
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Lindsay Ross on behalf of eGALitarian Brass
Brass Blast Off: A Musical Journey for Kids of all Ages
Sep 13, 2025 at 11:00AM – Sep 13, 2025 at 12:30PM
Children's Museum of Manhattan, 212 W 83rd St, New York, New York, 10024
Brass Blast Off: A Musical Journey for Kids of all Ages: eGALitarian Brass will perform family friendly concerts featuring brass quintet and drums with visual aspects. Visual aspects include an animated children’s story accompanying the music, video art inspired by some of the pieces, hand and body percussion, and more.
Find more information at https://cmom.org/
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
lina Liu Artist group
Traditional of Chinese acrobatic show
Sep 16, 2025 at 4:00PM - Sep 16, 2025 at 5:00 PM
Bloomingdale Library, 150 W 100th St, New York, NY 10025
This is more than just a show - it's a journey into the heart of Chinese culture, brought to you by the award-winning Lina Liu Artist Group and proudly supported by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC).
On September 16, 2025, at 4:00 PM, the Bloomingdale Library will come alive with a spectacular 45-minute program, featuring:
Lion Dance, Traditional of Chinese acrobatics: Chinese Yo-Yo, foot juggling umbrellas, interactive ribbon dance and Incredible Sichuan Opera Face-Changing.
Find more information at https://www.nypl.org/events/programs/2025/09/16/lina-liu-artist-group-chinese-acrobatic-show
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Pedro Giraudo
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at Westbeth
Sep 17, 2025 at 07:00PM – Sep 17, 2025 at 08:30PM
Westbeth Artists Housing - Community Room, 55 Bethune St., New York, New York, 10014
Come join us at Westbeth Artists Housing as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a special performance by the Giraudo Sinfonietta. Enjoy a night filled with beautiful music and cultural celebration. Don't miss out on this unique event!
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
binbinFactory / Satoshi Haga & Rie Fukuzawa
Embodied Dialogue through Movement Theatre
Sep 17, 2025 – Sep 18, 2025
Independence Plaza Neighborhood Older Adults Center, 310 Greenwich Street, 2nd Floor, New York, New York, 10013
This is the culminating event of our project.
Find more information at https://greenwichhouse.org/network-of-older-adult-centers/
Grant program(s) Creative Learning
Schedule of events:
9/17/25 1:30 PM at Independence Plaza Neighborhood Older Adults Center
9/18/25 12 PM at Washington Market Park (in front of the Adults Center) / Downtown Older Adults Day Picnic
Michael Jacobsohn
Hidden Film Gems by New York’s Independent Filmmakers
Sep 19, 2025 at 07:00PM – Sep 19, 2025 at 09:30PM
New Plaza Cinema, 35 West 67 Street, New York, New York, 10023
A selection of short films by New York Metropolitan area filmmakers.
Find more information at https://newplazacinema.org/coming-soon/
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Boombox Burlesque
Boombox Burlesque: A Hip Hop Burlesque Festival
Sep 19, 2025 – Sep 20, 2025
Speyer Hall, 184 Eldridge St, New York, New York, 10002
Now in it's third year, Boombox Burlesque is back with a brand new cast of talent from around the country. Get your tickets for a weekend of classes and shows that bring together the world of Hip Hop and the sultry scene of burlesque in new, dazzling and unexpected ways. We've got emcees, beat boxers, breakers and of course burlesque! Boombox Burlesque celebrates the legacy of Hip Hop and its roots in New York City through the art of burlesque. Founded by a collective of NYC burlesque performers and producers, the festival aims to provide a platform for diverse and talented performance artists by creating an inclusive event that inspires creativity and artistic expression.
Find more information at https://www.boomboxburlesque.com/2025-festival
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
9/19 - 7:30pm Doors - Live From the Underground (Show Night 1)
9/20 - 12pm - Body Love with Goddess Briq House (Class 1)
9/20 - 1pm - Hook, Line & Striptease with Academixxx (Class 2)
9/20 - 7:30pm - Grand Burlesque Cypherd (Show Night 2)
Uptown Dance Collective
Immersive Dance Walk in Fort Tryon Park / Tales: Altered and Repaired
Sep 20, 2025 at 03:00PM – Sep 20, 2025 at 05:00PM
Fort Tryon Park/Broadway Promenade and Dongan Lawn, Fort Tryon Park Entrance at Bennett and Broadway, New York, New York, 10040
Celebrate National Dance Day with an immersive, multi-disciplinary arts experience in Fort Tryon Park! Walk the Broadway path and encounter Uptown Dance Collective’s “Tales: Altered and Repaired” inspired by folk tales with dance, music, and spoken word all woven into the landscape of the parkland. Dance artist's Lisa Green, Amy Kail, Sandra Rivera, Navarra Novy-Williams & Maxine Steinman's influences include Butoh, Ballet, Folk, Latinx Folklorico, Flamenco, Modern, and Afro-Caribbean; musicians join them on Saxophone, Flute, Guitar, and Percussion; original poetry further illuminates the folk themes. This event brings the arts to the outdoors—inviting you to move, witness, and connect.
Find more information at https://www.forttryonparktrust.org/event/national-dance-day-festival-at-fort-tryon-park/
Grant program(s) UMEZ Arts Engagement
Harlem Dance Club
MOTHERSHIP SEVEN Dance & Music Festival
Sep 20, 2025 at 03:00PM – Sep 20, 2025 at 07:00PM
Richard Rodgers Amphitheater, Marcus Garvey park / 18 Mount Morris Park West at 122nd street , New York, New York, 10027
MOTHERSHIP SEVEN Dance & Music Festival: A FREE, cross-cultural performing arts festival that takes over the treasured Richard Rodgers Amphitheater in Marcus Garvey Park on 9/27/25. Afro-Dance, urban dances, folkloric dances, live drumming and musical performances share the stage in this outdoor celebration of sound, spirit and community.
Find more information at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mothership-seven-dance-music-festival-free-tickets-1471006432839?aff=oddtdtcreator
Grant program(s) UMEZ Arts Engagement
Decibel
Piano Jazz Series: Alan Broadbent
September 20, 2025 at 07:00 PM – September 20, 2025 at 08:00 PM
Klavierhaus, 790 11th Avenue, New York, New York, 10019
Join us for an unforgettable evening with Grammy-winning pianist Alan Broadbent at Klavierhaus on Saturday, September 20, featuring bassist Harvie S and drummer Billy Mintz. Broadbent, an acclaimed pianist, composer, and arranger, is celebrated for his lyrical style and profound musicality. Hailing from New Zealand, he has made a remarkable impact on jazz, performing with legends like Woody Herman, Diana Krall, and Natalie Cole. His exceptional arranging work has earned him Grammy Awards with Natalie Cole and Shirley Horn, and he is praised for his collaborations with Charlie Haden and his own trio.
Find more information at https://decibelpresents.com/event/piano-jazz-series-alan-broadbent-3-2-2/
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
International Girls Ensemble
Once Upon Our Own Story
Sep 21, 2025 at 02:00PM – Sep 21, 2025 at 04:00PM
6th Street and Avenue B Community Garden, 6th Street and Avenue B, New York, New York, 10009
International Girls Ensemble (IGE) presents an original family-friendly performance by our youth ensemble. A joyful celebration of friendship, courage, and sharing stories that too often go unheard. Join us where imagination leads and every voice matters.
Find more information at https://intlgirlsensemble.com/upcoming-events-workshops
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Creative Stage Collective
Summer Shebang
Sep 21, 2025 at 10:30AM - Sep 21, 2025 at 11:15AM
Showbox Theater in Battery Park, ShowBox Theater at The Battery Playscape 20 State Street, New York, New York, 10004
What better way to end the summer than with CSC’s annual Summer Shebang? Join us for 45 minutes of clever, fast-paced comedy—full of unforgettable, quirky ideas that only a kid could dream up. This lively revue features imaginative characters, hilarious situations, and fabulous parody songs devised from music by composers ranging from Bach to Beyoncé—all created and performed by our multigenerational CSC troupe. Take a comical look at the lives of everyday New Yorkers and laugh along at what makes us all human. It’s big energy, big talent, and big fun for all ages!
Find more information at https://www.creativestagecollective.org/upcoming-events
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Additional Location:
Battery Park Conservancy, Battery Park
Creative Stage Collective
Summer Shebang
Sep 21, 2025 at 12:30PM – Sep 21, 2025 at 01:15PM
Showbox Theater in Battery Park, ShowBox Theater at The Battery Playscape 20 State Street, New York, New York, 10004
What better way to end the summer than with CSC’s annual Summer Shebang? Join us for 45 minutes of clever, fast-paced comedy—full of unforgettable, quirky ideas that only a kid could dream up. This lively revue features imaginative characters, hilarious situations, and fabulous parody songs devised from music by composers ranging from Bach to Beyoncé—all created and performed by our multigenerational CSC troupe. Take a comical look at the lives of everyday New Yorkers and laugh along at what makes us all human. It’s big energy, big talent, and big fun for all ages!
Find more information at https://www.creativestagecollective.org/upcoming-events
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
The New York Baroque Dance Company
An Uptown Ball
Sep 21, 2025 at 06:00PM – Sep 21, 2025 at 08:00PM
United Palace Theatre, 4140 Broadway at 175th Street, New York, New York, 10033
Join NYBDC for a dazzling costume ball at United Palace Theater in WaHi! Celebrate the first generation of American artists, including the trailblazing African-American composer Francis Johnson. Enjoy an evening of community, live period music, dancing, and spectacular costumes. All are welcome — dances will be taught at the ball, and even more can be learned at workshops (see www.nybaroquedance.org). Whether you join in on the dance floor or simply watch, you’ll be part of a magical evening. This ball crowns Crackalackin’, United Palace’s celebration of Uptown artmakers. Make it a full day by attending the 4PM concert featuring Leadlights Ensemble, DJ Boo, Opera on Tap, and more.
Find more information at https://unitedpalace.boletosexpress.com/event.php?event_id=83608
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Simona Smirnova
Kanklės Features Diversity
September 26, 2025
Five Flies, 554 W 158th St, New York, NY 10032, New York, New York, 10032
"Kanklės Features Diversity" is a monthly concert series at a local coffee shop "Five Flies" in Washington Heights. Each concert will feature a different and unique musical duet: kanklės and sitar, saxophone, double bass, oud and harp. All concerts are free and open to the public.
Find more information at www.simonasmirnova.nyc
Grant program(s) UMEZ Arts Engagement
Schedule of events:
All performances take place at Five Flies (554 W 158th St, New York, NY 10032)
6/27/25 - 7PM at Folk Rebels: Summer Solstice show. Kanklės and sitar, featuring Galen Passen
7/18/25 - 7PM Kanklės and saxophone, featuring Alec Hutson
8/29/25 - 7PM Kanklės and double bass, featuring Maksim Perepelica
9/26/25 - 7PM Kanklės and oud, featuring Josh Kaye
10/17/25 - 7PM Kanklės and harp, featuring Johanna Telander
Te Ao Mana
TATOU FESTIVAL
Sep 30, 2025 – Oct 05, 2025
LA MAMA Experimental Theater Club, 66 East 4th Street, New York, New York, 10003
TATOU FESTIVAL is New York City's first and foremost Ta'ata Moana Nui (Pacific Islander) festival created by and for Ta'ata Moana Nui, where all are welcome to celebrate our cultural traditions and artistic innovation. The festivities include: engaging performances, an Ori Tahiti (Tahitian Dance) competition, provocative panel discussions with islander artists, an array of hands-on cultural workshops and master classes, a mini makeke (market), and skilled artisans including carvers and tattoo artists. Bring you friends and family to celebrate with us island style.
Find more information at tatoufestival.org
Grant program(s) Creative Engagement
Schedule of events:
Check online for updated information on times closer to event date.
9/30/25 - 12PM Opening Ceremony and Protocol at LA MAMA Experimental Theater
10/1/25 - Film Screenings focusing on Action, Activism, Climate & Awareness at A/P/A Institute NYU
10/2/25 - Night at the Hawaiian Opera featuring virtuosic Kanaka Maoli musicians and composers.
10/3/25 - Ori Tahiti Master Classes
10/3/25 - Trans Pacific Glam MVPFAFF+
10/4/25 - Ori Tahiti Competition at Judson Church
10/5/2025 - Moana Nui Workshops
10/5/2025 - Closing Pa'ina