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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, May 3, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
May 3, 2026. Free shows, free concerts, free movies, free tours, free readings, worshops, lectures, etc. are New York's best kept secret! Learn all about it and do not miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides: NYC never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So start using these unique New York City opportunities today, May 3, 2026!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, May 3, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in New York City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (May 3, 2026) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York City (NYC), Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
Join the Club!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
The quality and quantity of
free events,
free things to do
that happen in New York City
every day of the year
is truly amazing.
So don't miss the opportunities
that only New York provides:
stop wondering what to do;
start taking advantage of
free events to go to,
free things to do in NYC
today!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the unique opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
37 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Sunday, May 3, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Tai Chi on the Plaza
Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Exploring Art, History, and Global Cultures in a Landmark Museum
Spend time exploring a world-renowned collection spanning centuries of art, design, and cultural history. From ancient artifacts to iconic masterpieces, these galleries invite slow looking, discovery, and reflection across works that connect global traditions, artistic innovation, and human stories. Note: Some galleries are closed for installation.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
pay-what-you-wish for NY...
pay-what-you-wish for NY...
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis, Baseball, & Soccer
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 1:30pm Mutua Madrid Open
1:30pm - 4:30pm MLB- NYY vs Baltimore
5:00pm - 7:00pm NWSL- Gotham FC vs Racing Louisville
*Scheduled programming subject to change. Seating is open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wells Fargo customers receive priority seating.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park: Movement, Balance, and Longevity
Join a certified Tai Chi Instructor for an hour-long class focused on nourishing the body, calming the mind, and supporting long-term health and vitality.
This class is welcoming, accessible, and highly effective, guiding you step by step into a solid, authentic foundation in Tai Chi, with a special emphasis on health, balance, and longevity.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Contemporary Art, Open Doors: First Sundays at NYC's Leading Museum
This monthly program offers an accessible opportunity to explore groundbreaking exhibitions featuring emerging and established artists from around the globe. Explore the galleries with fun activities, make art, and gather for story times with special guests. Engage with current artistic dialogues and help expand the definition of art.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities
Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century
This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
City Walk | Walking the Flatiron District
Take a stroll through the beautiful and iconic Flatiron District. The neighborhood is home to some of the city's most notable landmarks, such as the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clocktower, and the Flatiron Building. Expect to learn all about this district and its historical tidbits as you enjoy beautiful sights.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday at a Unique Art Museum
Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Print Your Own Mother's Day Card
Looking for a special Mother's Day gift? Create an original, festive design with the help of talented designers on hand to guide you, using the Museum's 19th-century printing equipment. See the museum's working collection in action and make something memorable for the mother figure in your life.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park
This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! Walk locations sometimes change, so make sure to check the group's Instagram page @citygirlswhowalk stories the day before and on Sunday to confirm the meet/walk spot. You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Buuild Your Own Plushie BFF with New York City Sewing Center (All Ages Welcome)
Here's a chance to build a plushie best friend or a specially tailored outfit for your mini-bestie with assistance from members of The New York City Sewing Center. A team of talented and passionate makers leads the way at this awesome all-ages create-athon where you can forge your perfect plush BFF to take home, or whip up a killer lewk for the fuzzy guy of your dreams. Learn the basics of clothing design and construction, then make your custom piece a reality with help from the pros. Now that you're ready to show off the squad, stop by our animation station and project your buddy onto the digital stage with advanced AI programming. Little monsters, unite! There are two ways to access this event: 1. General Admission, first-come first-served. Just show up! 2. Fast Track opening the Monday before the event at noon.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Afternoon Jam Sesh (Play Music or Just Listen)
This jam session is open to all musicians. Come and play or just listen to some jazzy tunes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Discover Work from International, Emerging Filmmakers: Day 2
Enjoy diverse films from students all over the world. Come celebrate all of the films!
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Ensemble Works by Haydn & More
The Broadway Bach Ensemble, with bassist Timothy Cobb. Program: Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958) Overture to "The Wasps" Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) Symphony No. 99 In Eb Major, Hob. I/99 George Walker (1922-2018) Lyric for Strings Serge Koussevitzky (1874-1951) Double Bass Concerto In F# Minor, Op. 3
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists
Berta Indeed presents "Let the Music Play", a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. Seating is limited, unreserved, and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If there is heavy rain at the time of the event, the event will be canceled.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works by Saint-Saens for Pipa, Erhu, & Piano
The Joy Luck Trio - the world's first pipa, erhu and piano ensemble - creates a fresh sound world for classical music enthusiasts with Gao Hong, pipa, Karen Han, erhu, and Donna Weng Friedman, piano. Program: Camille Saint-Saens (1835-1921) The Swan (with improvisations on pipa and erhu) Lin Shicheng (1922-2006) Dragon Boat Gao Hong Flying Dragon Liu Tianhua (1895-1932) Flickering Candle Shadows Liu Tianhua (1895-1932) Birds Singing in the Empty Mountains Huang Haihuai (1935-1967) Horse Racing Stefania De Kenessey Three excerpts from MICROVIDS Gao Hong Pastoral Heitor Villa-Lobos (1887-1959) The Three Maries Gao Hong Nostalgia Huang Haihuai (1935-1967) Horse Racing
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Sea Chanteys: Singing Maritime Traditions (In Personn AND Online!)
Celebrate centuries of seafaring music in this hybrid monthly gathering. Join a joyful community singing traditional maritime work songs and ballads, whether you participate live or listen online. Each session invites everyone to sing along, lead a tune, or simply soak in the sound, keeping the rich traditions of sea chanteys alive in a warm and welcoming environment.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Roller Rink Party with Live DJ
Get ready to roll into the excitement at an outdoor skate circle. With live DJs spinning the tunes, is as much fun to watch as it is to join! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, bring your own skates and get ready to groove with roller dancing. All skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for all ages. Children under 14 must wear helmets for safety.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:45 pm
Free
Free
Performance | The Cat and the Moon: W.B. Yeats One-Act Play
A performance of W.B. Yeats' one-act play, The Cat and the Moon, which was first performed in 1926. Performers imagine a timeless landscape in the west of Ireland. An old Blind Man has been carrying an old Lame Man on country roads for forty years in search of Saint Colman's holy well to be cured...or blessed. Three musicians sit off to the side as in the Japanese kyogen. They wear masks by Ralph Lee.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Chamber Music by Mendelssohn & More in a Historic Townhouse Setting
Ginevra Petrucci, flute, Samuel DeCaprio, cello, Kostja Kostic, clarinet, and Amir Farid, piano. Program: Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 49 Alexander von Zemlinsky (1871-1942) Trio in D minor for clarinet, cello and piano, Op. 3
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Diverse Works Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride (In Person AND Online!)
Juilliard Pride Songbook brings a performance that celebrates the music of LGBTQIA+ composers past and present. Musicians from the Vocal Arts, Collaborative Piano, and Chamber Music departments come together to honor LGBTQIA+ artists who have left a lasting impact on the performing arts. This year’s Songbook features music from Young Concert Artists composer in residence Alistair Coleman, Juilliard Orchestra and AXIOM competition winner Vincent Zhang, and Joy Redmond, whose one-act opera debuted at the Kennedy Center. Also featured are three selections from the celebrated neo-romantic art song composer Ned Rorem, alongside a trio of Bob Dylan’s poems set to music by Pulitzer-winning composer John Corigliano. Program: Joy Redmond I Will Kiss Vincent Zhang Imprint I-II Alistair Coleman curve/he died at daybreak Ned Rorem (1923-2022) What If Some Little Pain John Corigliano (1938-) From Mr. Tambourine Man: Seven Poems of Bob Dylan
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Limitrophe: Apocalypstic Drama by Emerging Playwright
What can you build on a territory that has been reduced to ruins? On the edge of a border harbor, under a cloche, there aren’t many souls left living. Yet, THE GRAPEVINE narrates NEREO’s arrival to this terrible territory on Suspension Sunday. By chance (or not), he gets hired as a handyman at the Borrodale country house. There, in the middle of debris, are surviving THE BARONESS OF BORRODALE and JACKIE, childhood allies and accomplices. At first blush, the young man’s presence sows discord, friction, and jealousy between the two. At second blush, it also reveals the devastation of their past, and the limits of their future. Written by: Flavie Philipon
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Afternoon Concert with "Modern Jazz Wizard" Musicians
Esteemed pianists Renee Rosnes and Bill Charlap bring their dazzling musicianship and husband-and-wife chemistry to the stage for an afternoon of inspired jazz artistry. Individually celebrated for their unmistakable voices -- NPR calls Charlap "one of the finest interpreters of American popular song" and Rosnes "a modern jazz wizard" -- together they create something truly special, as captured on their stunning duo album, Double Portrait.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Art from All Over The World in the Most Amazing Museum
Discover a vast collection of art from a diverse range of countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Italy, Russia, France, Spain, Japan, India, United States and more. Tickets for Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
$1 min pay-what-you-wish,...
Workshop | Creative Writing Session: Practice the Craft
Become a better writer! Suitable for all levels.
Writing exercises
Personal attention
Peer Workshop
Guest Lectures
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History
Reconnect with the feeling of community and cohesion that blanketed our city and nation in the wake of 9/11. This is a monument to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice, this museum honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music of the English Courts of the 16C-18C by Acclaimed Period Instrumentalists
The sound of the viol (viola da gamba - bowed, fretted string instrument popular from the Renaissance through the Baroque aras) was treasured throughout Europe for its ability to emulate the human voice and to move the emotions of those who heard it. This concert shares how England’s courts and chapels were graced by this beautiful instrument, across three centuries. Parthenia Viols is a critically acclaimed viola da gamba quartet, widely regarded as one of the brightest ensembles in the early‑music world. They will be joined by one of the leading American viola da gamba players of his generation Arnie Tanimoto and acclaimed cellist and viola da gamba player Caroline Nicolas.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Pay what you...
Pay what you...
Classical Music | Serene Organ Meditations in Intimate Venue (In Person AND Online!)
Enjoy a program of hymns, anthems, and voluntaries for the organ.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Chamber Works by Beethoven & Schubert (In Person AND Online!)
Chamber music with fortepiano. Program: Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) An die ferne geliebte Op. 98 Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) 12 Variations on a Theme from Judas Maccabeus, WoO 45 Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Trio No. 2 for Violin, Cello and Piano in E-flat Major, Op. 100
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
Book Discussion | USA Today Bestselling Author Shares Her New Novel, Ms. Mebel Goes Back to the Chopping Block
Jesse Q. Sutanto (Dial A for Aunties, Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers) discusses her new book, Ms. Mebel Goes Back to the Chopping Block, with Radha Vatsal. Book Synopsis: A nearly divorced trophy wife enrolls in culinary school to win back her husband, only to find a fresh start in the unlikeliest of places.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Performance | Archives in Motion: Improvisation & Collective Creation in a Historic Site
Archives in Motion is a site-specific performance created and staged in a historic gymnasium—one of the first basketball courts in the United States. Led by faculty member Irina Kruzhilina, the project brings together performers to engage with the physical, historical, and social layers of the site. Drawing from materials found in the archives, the performance emerges through a process of research, improvisation, and collective creation.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Chamber Works by Schubert, Felix Mendelssohn, & More, with Fortepiano (In Person AND Online!)
Chamber music with fortepiano. Program: Nikolaus Freiherr von Krufft (1779-1818) Sonata for Horn and Piano Felix Mendelssohn (1809-1847) Trio for Violin, Viola and Piano in C Minor, MWV Q3 Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Fantasy for Piano 4 Hands in F Minor, D. 940 Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Rondo for Piano 4 Hands in D Major, D. 608 "Notre amitié est invariable" Franz Schubert (1797-1828) Fantasy for Violin and Piano in C Major, D. 934
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
7:30 pm
Free
Free
Play | Limitrophe: Apocalypstic Drama by Emerging Playwright
What can you build on a territory that has been reduced to ruins? On the edge of a border harbor, under a cloche, there aren't many souls left living. Yet, THE GRAPEVINE narrates NEREO's arrival to this terrible territory on Suspension Sunday. By chance (or not), he gets hired as a handyman at the Borrodale country house. There, in the middle of debris, are surviving THE BARONESS OF BORRODALE and JACKIE, childhood allies and accomplices. At first blush, the young man's presence sows discord, friction, and jealousy between the two. At second blush, it also reveals the devastation of their past, and the limits of their future. Written by: Flavie Philipon
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Ensemble Works by Emerging Composers
Hear a concert from Nevermind the Noise, a graduate composer collective committed to the composition and performance of new experimental concert music. Rather than exploring the repertoire of an established tradition, the group seeks to break down common conceptions of what music is while engaging the community through collaborative art projects and performances.
New York City, NY; NYC
Join the Club!
8:00 pm
Free
Free
Join the Club!
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