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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on May 9, 2026?
43 free events take place on Saturday, May 9 in New York City. Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides! Exciting, high quality, unique and off the beaten path free events and free things to do take place in New York today, tonight, tomorrow and each day of the year, any time of the day: whether it's a weekday or a weekend, day or night, morning or evening or afternoon, December or July, April or November! These events will take your breath away!
New York City (NYC) never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment. Check out May 9 and see for yourself. Summer or Winter, Spring or Fall! Just click on any day of the calendar above and you'll find most inspiring and entertaining free events to go to and free things to do on each day of May . Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides!
Some events take place all year long: same day of the week, same time there are there for you to take advantage of. One of the oldest free weekly events in Manhattan is Dixieland Jazz with the Gotham Jazzmen, which happen at noon every Tuesday. Another example of an event that you can attend all year round on weekdays is Federal Reserve Bank Tour, which takes place every week day at 1 pm (but advanced reservations are required). You can take at least 13 free tours every day of the year, except the New Year Day, July 4th, and the Christmas Day. If you are classical music afficionado, you can spend whole day in New York going from one free classical concert to another. If you love theater, then New York gives you an option to attend plays and musicals free of charge, or at deep discount. You just need to have information about it. And we are here to make that information available to you.
Are you looking for free things to do in New York City (NYC) on May 9, 2026?
43 free events take place on Saturday, May 9 in New York City. Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides! Exciting, high quality, unique and off the beaten path free events and free things to do take place in New York today, tonight, tomorrow and each day of the year, any time of the day: whether it's a weekday or a weekend, day or night, morning or evening or afternoon, December or July, April or November! These events will take your breath away!
New York City (NYC) never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment. Check out May 9 and see for yourself. Summer or Winter, Spring or Fall! Just click on any day of the calendar above and you'll find most inspiring and entertaining free events to go to and free things to do on each day of May . Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides!
Some events take place all year long: same day of the week, same time there are there for you to take advantage of. One of the oldest free weekly events in Manhattan is Dixieland Jazz with the Gotham Jazzmen, which happen at noon every Tuesday. Another example of an event that you can attend all year round on weekdays is Federal Reserve Bank Tour, which takes place every week day at 1 pm (but advanced reservations are required). You can take at least 13 free tours every day of the year, except the New Year Day, July 4th, and the Christmas Day. If you are classical music afficionado, you can spend whole day in New York going from one free classical concert to another. If you love theater, then New York gives you an option to attend plays and musicals free of charge, or at deep discount. You just need to have information about it. And we are here to make that information available to you.
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!
43 free things to do in New York City (NYC) on Saturday, May 9, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Editor's Picks
Workshop | Drawing in Nature
Paint in watercolor or use pastels and other drawing materials to capture the magical vistas of the Hudson River and the unique landscape of the park. An artist/educator will help participants of all levels with instruction and critique. Materials provided or bring your own.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Low-Impact, Mindful Yoga in the Park
A 40-minute, low-impact, mindful movement session featuring slow, gentle movements led by multitasking yogi instructor Nicole. This class is designed for all ages. Please bring your yoga mat and arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Sporting Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 6:30pm Italian Open
*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
Master Class | Learn African Drumming Techniques & Methods (Familyt Friendly)
Rhythm and grooves fill the air at this Saturday morning drumming program. Follow the lead of professional drummers as they guide you through the pulsating beats of traditional African drumming techniques and methods. Drums provided, dancing welcome!
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:30 am
Free
Free
Screening | Computer Arts Showcase: 3D &2D Animation, VFX, Motion Design, & More (In Person AND Online!)
MFA Computer Arts presents this year’s thesis screening event featuring short talks and videos of work by graduating students. Run, don’t walk, to see the 3D animation, VFX, 2D animation, motion design, and experimental pieces by talented students! This showcase of 37 thesis projects incorporates a variety of media, materials and cutting-edge technologies that address a range of topics, including: Starfall by Emily Zhang, a 2D animation about an astronaut who returns to an alien-infested earth, and explores the generational consequences of violence and the importance of vulnerability; Ronnie Ahlborn’s interactive audio-visual installation, Transit, an exploration of the multiple realities we continuously move between; and Future Relics by Meina Yin and Yiwen Wu, a film that combines 3D environment and AI elements to create products rooted in Y2K and dreamcore aesthetics, blending nostalgia and hope.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Explore Exhibition on NYC Magician History
Enjoy a guided tour of the exhibition on the golden age of magic, Mystery and Wonder: A Legacy of Golden Age Magicians in New York City. This staff-led tour highlights the major collectors and magicians linked to New York City from the 1870s to the 1930s. About the Exhibition: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a surge of magicians began to refine their art, finding larger audiences and building communities of practice, especially in New York City. This period has come to be known as the Golden Age of Magic. The history of magic and magicians has long been documented through text and image as a form of theater. Now, the exhibition Mystery and Wonder: A Legacy of Golden Age Magicians in New York City, curated by Annemarie van Roessel, will display our rich and historic archival materials related to the art of magic and the fascinating lives of magicians performing in New York City during the Golden Age.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Get in Shape: Dance Fitness Class for All Ages
Colorful outfits encouraged at this creative workout that fuses dance and aerobics! Space 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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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Jewish History: Centuries of Art
As one of the largest collections of art in Jewish culture globally, the venue features an extensive array of historical Jewish artifacts as well as modern and contemporary art.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Learn to Juggle, All Skill Levels Welcome
This juggling class is ideal for a quick lesson, an extended practice session, or just enjoy watching jugglers put their skills to the test. They're a friendly group and open to drop-ins, even if you catch them outside of the regular juggling lessons.
All skill levels welcome. Equipment is provided.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Movie in a Park | Live Music Inspired by Up + Family Film Screening
Enjoy a family-friendly event featuring a live performance, introducing musical themes inspired by Up. Through an engaging short concert, audiences will explore how music shapes the film's emotional world. After the performance, settle in for a screening of the beloved animated classic on the big screen.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | JIG SHOW: Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana (2025) -- Multimedia Documentary on Early Burlesque (+ Live Burlesque Performance & Filmmaker Discussion)
Step behind the velvet curtain for the New York premiere of JIG SHOW: Leon Claxton's Harlem in Havana, a documentary on a sizzling, untold chapter of American entertainment--where Black brilliance, Cuban rhythm, and early burlesque lit up the big top and defied segregation. This three-part documentary takes viewers inside the legendary Harlem in Havana Revue, featuring Cunningham's grandmother Shirley Bates, former lead exotic dancer, and her father John Cunningham, a San Diego musician raised on the show. Rare footage, never-before-digitized show photos, archival clips, and vibrant performances illuminate the rise and fall of Claxton's troupe, while historians, burlesque artists, and musicians provide cultural context. Director: Leslie Cunningham In addition to the screening, the program features a special pop-up burlesque performance by The Doll of D.C. Bebe Bardeaux, and a post-screening panel discussion with filmmaker Leslie Cunningham, burlesque historians Bebe Bardeaux and Chicava HoneyChild, and facilitated by NYC burlesque artist GiGi Holliday.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Parade | Celebrate Japan Day with Special Artists & Performers
Celebrate Japan Day in New York City by attending the Japan Day Parade and/or Street Fair! This year, the parade's Grand Marshal is Acky Bright, an internationally acclaimed Japanese manga artist whose work has appeared in collaborations with McDonald's, Meta, Marvel, DC Comics, BMW, Lexus, and more. Special guests include JUJUTSU KAISEN The Stage cast for a performance. The street fair will be running from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Fair | Create Your Own "Stained Glass" Suncatcher
Join a museum family and community day to create your own faux stained-glass suncatcher! Participants can draw inspiration from the museum's stained-glass windows and the centuries of craftsmanship. Don’t miss this chance to bring the beauty of the sun into your home! Materials are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
City Walk | Curator-Led Brooklyn Art Tour
This energetic, expert-led experience features visits to galleries, live art presentations, and special exhibitions, with chances to meet artists and explore participating spaces. The tour spans about a mile; comfortable shoes are advised.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Drop-in Drawing: Medieval Inspirations
Discover the joy of sketching with guidance from expert teaching artists. Explore creative drawing challenges inspired by centuries-old art and architecture, and bring your vision to life on paper. Materials provided.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Lesson | Learn Heel-Toe-Heritage Dance (All Ages)
Attend a Heel-Toe-Heritage dance class celebrating Asian performing arts led by multitasking yogi instructor Marc. This class is designed for all ages. Please arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Play New Games & Make New Friends
Play your favorite contemporary board games! Featured games include but are not limited to Chameleon, Wavelength, Avalon, Parade, Splendor, Century Spice Road, Mountain Goats, No Thanks, Codenames, Werewords, Spyfall, Azul, Letter Jam, Dixit, In Kahootz, and Captain Sonar. A new game will be selected each week.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Systems in Motion: Time, Perception, and The Machine
Join a gallery guide for an interactive tour of David Lamelas: The Machine. Led by practicing artists, this 30-minute experience invites visitors to engage directly with the work, encouraging dialogue, questions, and personal perspectives.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Girl, Interrupted (1999): Star-Studded Biographical Drama with Winona Ryder & Angelina Jolie
A troubled young woman is diagnosed with borderline-personality disorder and sent by her parents to a mental hospital, where she befriends a charismatic fellow patient. This intense drama is based on a true story. Director: James Mangold Cast: Winona Ryder, Angelina Jolie, Clea DuVall, Brittany Murphy, Elisabeth Moss, Jared Leto, Jeffrey Tambor, Vanessa Redgrave, Whoopi Goldberg Winona Ryder is an American actress. Originally playing quirky roles, she rose to prominence for her more diverse performances in various genres in the 1990s. She has received many accolades, including a Golden Globe Award, and nominations for a Grammy Award, a BAFTA Award, and two Academy Awards. Angelina Jolie is an American actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian. The recipient of numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and three Golden Globe Awards, she has been named Hollywood's highest-paid actress multiple times.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Film | Licorice Pizza (2021): Coming-of-Age Comedy-Drama from Paul Thomas Anderson
In the early 1970s, teen actor Gary Valentine navigates the successes and pitfalls of burgeoning fame while traversing the tricky terrain of first love with the charming Alana as the noteworthy Licorice Pizza record store chain begins to take root in California's San Fernando Valley. Director: Paul Thomas Anderson Cast: Alana Haim, Cooper Hoffman, Sean Penn, Tom Waits, Bradley Cooper, Benny Safdie Paul Thomas Anderson is an American filmmaker. Often described as one of the preeminent filmmakers of his generation, his accolades include two Golden Globe Awards, a BAFTA Award, two Critics' Choice Awards, and nominations for eleven Academy Awards, and a Grammy. He is the only person to have won Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival, the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival, and the Silver and Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 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
2:00 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Tour | Explore Collection Which Features Goya, Velazquez, El Greco, and More
Join these guided tours every Friday and Saturday at 2 PM to explore a museum's history, special collections, and landmarked spaces. Led by educators, the tours last 45-60 minutes and provide an engaging introduction to the artworks and archives on view.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Field Journaling Session for Mindfulness & Creativity
During this session, you’ll learn simple techniques for observing, recording, and sketching the species around you. Create entries in your own nature journal while practicing mindfulness and creativity outdoors. Please arrive 15 minutes early, class begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Performance | Live Medieval Combat in a Major New York Park
See knights in full armor battle it out in the heart of Manhattan. Watch the performers bring medieval history to life with live-action combat, community fun, and outdoor excitement. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks, grab something on-site, and enjoy an afternoon outside.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: Works by Mozart & Beethoven for Strings and Piano
Alexandra Joan, piano, with Semplice Players: Katya Moeller, violin; Luke Henderson, violin; Jeremy Kienbaum, viola; Noah Chen, cello. Program: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791) Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, K. 488 Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827) Piano Concerto No. 5, Op. 73, "Emperor"
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Vibrant, Meditative DJ sets in an Archival Exhibition
Enjoy an intimate live performances curated by special guests JWords and Tito Deler, who will host listening sessions. Their sets will offer a vibrant, meditative journey through the archives—merging Afro-Latino music and poetry in direct alignment with the latest exhibition, To Uncover and Reveal to the World: Arturo Schomburg’s Library.
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
Play | Alala & The Scarman: Political Drama by Emerging Playwright
In an unnamed nation that bankrolls American power, a radical student activist leads a campaign demanding her university divest from the United States. At home, her boyfriend—an immortal man who once survived a lynching—keeps himself safe by offering spiritual readings, turning the scar that could not kill him into currency to avoid deportation. As protests rage outside their apartment, the performances that keep them alive begin to erode their intimacy. When survival becomes spectacle, what remains between them that isn’t an act? Written by Silma Sierra Berrada.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Discussion | Death Cafe Discussion Group
An informal, group-directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes. The purpose of Death Cafe is "to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives." This is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Master Class | Isidore String Quartet Musicians Teach Great Chamber Music Performance
Engage with Joshua McClendon and Phoenix Avalon from the award-winning Isidore String Quartet as they impart techniques for chamber music mastery.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
Screening | Women of Coenties Slip: Art, Connection, and Place
Experience the creative legacy of Coenties Slip through three short documentaries spotlighting pioneering artists Agnes Martin, Lenore Tawney, and Chryssa. This program explores a transformative downtown community where art, queerness, and collaboration converged in the mid-20th century. Screenings are followed by engaging conversations with leading scholars, who offer fresh insights into the artists and their enduring impact.
New York City, NY; NYC
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3:30 pm
Free
Free
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
Workshop | Accessible Yoga Session in the Park
Enjoy an accessible yoga class led by Multitasking Yogi instructor Michael, featuring mostly seated and reclined movements. Please bring your yoga mat and arrive 15 minutes before class begins.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Opening Reception | Gesture Material and the Language of the Paintbrush
A new series of paintings by Jamie Zeccola explores the expressive potential of the paintbrush as both a tool and a subject. Blending influences from Art Brut, abstraction, and satirical narrative, the works emphasize gesture, materiality, and spontaneity.
Constructed with layered acrylic and oil and found elements, the paintings combine thick brushwork, vivid color, and reworked frames that serve as integral parts of the composition. Everyday objects and fragments appear throughout, creating intimate, diary-like scenes that balance humor, memory, and raw expression.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | NPR-Featured Singer-Songwriter Brings Bilingual, Intimate Storytelling to the Stage
Gina D'Soto redefines Latin soul for a global audience. Blending R&B, pop, and Cuban spirit with bilingual storytelling, her music flows effortlessly from silky intimacy to powerhouse anthems. Her artistry has been spotlighted by Billboard, Remezcla, and NPR Live Sessions, with standout tracks like "Si Me Miras" (featuring Zacchae'us Paul) and "Lay With U." A GRAMMY ballot artist, Gina has collaborated with international voices including Yendry, Ana Tijoux, and Danay Suarez, while also sharing stages with rising talents across the Latin and pop worlds. With a sound that is sensual, magnetic, and deeply authentic, Gina D'Soto is one of the most exciting new artists bridging cultures and sounds today.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Cabaret | Immersive Burlesque Spectacle Celebrating Black & Latine Artistry
Welcome to Harlem in Havana reimagined, where forbidden glamour, beauty, and electrifying performance collide. Brown Skin Showgirls: A Harlem in Havana Tribute Show, part of Harlem in Havana NYC, is a high-glam love letter to Black and Latine artistry. This immersive burlesque spectacle resurrects Leon Claxton's legendary midway show--a celebration of Black and Cuban performers who captivated North America from the carnival stage during the Jim Crow era. Journey through decades of rebellion and desire: the heat of 1940s Black burlesque; the Afro-Cuban rhythms of the 1950s; and the fearless drag and sultry movement of the 1960s. Every act drips with sensuality and modern edge. The night is headlined by Jessabelle Thunder, Miss Exotic World 2026, and hosted by NYC drag royalty Junior Mintt, with a jaw-dropping cast. Dare to indulge? Please note: This performance contains partial nudity and other adult themes. Audience discretion is advised. 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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7:30 pm
Free
Free
Play | WINGS // WATERMELON: Historical Play by Emerging Playwright
There’s mean things happenin’ in this land. What's left to do but make a scene? Join the 1500, a group of sharecroppers and tenant farmers from the boot heel of Missouri, as they camp out on the highway to protest the failings of the president’s New Deal. Based on historical and familiar events from people who take to the road. Written by Mo Holmes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Wizziwig: Romantic Comedy of Unexpected Connection
A tender, offbeat romantic comedy about two hyper-ambitious college actors navigating disability, identity, and ambition. When reluctant scene partners Alice and AJ find their rehearsals spilling into real life, tension gives way to awkward intimacy--and unexpected connection. Written by Amy Claussen. Directed by Evan T. Cummings.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Dance Lesson | Salsa Saturdays with Beginner Latin Dance Class and DJ Gagou
DJ Gagou performs a high-energy set of salsa, merengue, and bachata for a weekly social dance night at Chelsea Baila Social Club. The evening begins with a beginner-friendly Latin dance lesson at 8 pm, followed by an open social dance floor featuring Latin rhythms designed for all experience levels. No prior dance experience is required, participants are invited to join, learn, and dance throughout the night.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
8:00 pm
Regular: $51
Member: $0
Regular: $51
Member: $0
Join the Club!
8:30 pm
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Regular: $50
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Join the Club!
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