Dance Theatre of Harlem’s iconic Firebird places the Russian folk tale about a magical bird that triumphs over evil in an exotic Caribbean setting. John Taras’ choreography to Stravinsky’s familiar score was further enlivened by sets and costumes by Geoffrey Holder. The 1982 DTH production was a tremendous worldwide success.Continue reading
The Real Story of Jean-Michel Basquiat, often focusing on his transition from a homeless graffiti artistto a global art icon. This YouTube mini-documentary titled The Real Story of Jean-Michel Basquiat was released in 2023. Continue reading
Dance Theatre of. Harlem founder Arthur Mitchell told me, “It’s easy to choreograph on professionals try choreographing on regular people”. He was implying that the dance maker must rely more on creativity than on established steps and patterns. Jamel Gaines has accepted this challenge. Instead of using members of the Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet Dance Theater, he has constructed a large intergenerational cast of church constituents.
On Sunday February 1st the Creative Outlet founder/artistic director will present his staging and choreography in MAAFA: The Capture. The Brainchild of Bishop, Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, the 9am free performance at Mt. Piscah Baptist Church, located at 167-10 137th Ave in Jamaica, Queens, will herald in Black History Month. MAAFA: The Capture is a twenty-minute dance theatre vignette depicting the African American experience.
O&A NYC Magazine Editor-in-Chief Walter Rutledge attended recent rehearsals and watched Gaines put his neophyte cast through the paces. These rehearsals were equal parts inspiration and perspiration. A true old school director Gaines rehearsals are both exacting and exhausting. And Gaines high energy and cajoling demeanor effortlessly brings out the movement shapes and dramatic artistry. Don’t take my word here’s a sneak peek into the rehearsal process.
MAAFA: The Capture rehearsal
The black church has always been the source of not only inspiration but the hallmark for information and education. MAAFA: The Capture captures African American history in an entertaining and enlightening dance theater group endeavor. Unity through community.
This short speech reframes immigration as America’s greatest source of strength — not a threat. Inspired by the moral cadence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it challenges the fear, division, and political noise surrounding immigration today. It’s clear the voices of oppression have not been silenced. The chorus of hate, fear, greed and politics remain synonyms for discrimination and bigotry. Whether you’re living the immigrant journey or witnessing it in your community, this message is for every outsider who refused to stay outside.Continue reading
Martin: a ballet by Gordon Parks,an original five-movement ballet chronicling the struggles of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. Filmed in 1990 the work stars John Jones as Dr. King and Sheila Rohan as Rosa Parks, featuring choreography by Real Lamb. “Martin” (PBS, 1990), about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King. Parks served as executive producer, director, composer, keyboardist and documentary photographer for this boldly ambitious project. Continue reading
The Birth of Jesus Christ is brought to life in this full animated Bible movie—a touching retelling of the greatest story ever told. Follow Mary, Joseph, and the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem through beautiful animation that captures the message of hope, love, and faith.Continue reading
Its Taylor Time! The Paul Taylor Dance Company returns to Lincoln Center’s State TheaterNovember 4 through 23. The company will present a total of eighteen works including the New York premiere of choreographer Hope Boykin and world premieres by resident choreographers Lauren Lovett and Robert Battle. Out and About NYC Magazine Editor- in Chief Walter Rutledge and Battle sat down for a long overdue conversation about his new workUnder the Rhythm, his second work for the Taylor Company.Continue reading
“Performed by original members of the Moses Hogan Chorale in June, 1996 at the First Baptist Church of New Orleans, LA. Dedicated to all Chorale members and all singers throughout the world who have performed any of the works of Moses Hogan. Lastly, this video is dedicated to the memory of our beloved artistic director and dear friend, Moses George Hoganand also, chorale members Rhonda Ragin and Percy Ewell.”- Ernest C Battle.
1The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
2The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
3The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. Neried from 10:30 am to 11:30 am
4The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
5The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
6The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
7The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
8The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Gibney Company from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
9The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Gibney Company from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
10The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. Neried from 10:30 am to 11:30 am Gibney Company from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
11The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Gibney Company at 2:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Gibney Company from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
12The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Gibney Company at 2:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Graham100: The Centennial Celebration from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
13The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
14The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
15Grand Opening Nike SOHO, New York from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
16Grand Opening Nike SOHO, New York from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance Theatre of Harlem from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
17Grand Opening Nike SOHO, New York from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. Neried from 10:30 am to 11:30 am Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
18Grand Opening Nike SOHO, New York from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
19The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
20The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
21The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
22The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
23The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
24The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm Dance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. Neried from 10:30 am to 11:30 am
25The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
26The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
27The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
28The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
29The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
30The Met’s Arts of Africa from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Today’s Events
Grand Opening Nike SOHO, New YorkGrand Opening Nike SOHO, New YorkTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Grand Opening DayLa Cabra Coffee + Cardamom Buns from 10:00 AM - 2:00 pm (until supplies last)Torrisi Pasta from 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM (until supplies last)Nike By You Graphics Packs with LAAMS Artist, @chuckys.play (All Day)DJ Carlita spinning from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PMNIKE AIRFORCE 1 LOW BY YOU X LAAMS: Nike Air Force 1 Low By You x LAAMS Artist, DNTWATCHTV (Live On Site Footwear Customization, 12:00 PM - 4:00 pm, First Come, First Served)Street SNKRS joining 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM611 Broadway SOHO, NewYork
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH)Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH)Time: 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Experience the power and passion of Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) as the company returns with a bold, unforgettable season. The centerpiece is the revival of Firebird, DTH’s iconic take on the classic tale of love and transformationThe program also includes dynamic works by DTH Artistic Director Robert Garland, whose choreography blends classical ballet with a modern pulse as well as William Forsythe and Jodie Gates. Join the celebration of 57 years of trailblazing artistry with DTH.
New York City Center
131 W 55th St (between Sixth and Seventh avenues)
New York, NY 10019
Upcoming Events
April 19, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
April 20, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
April 21, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
April 22, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
April 23, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
April 24, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000
Dance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. NeriedDance of the Village Elders - R.A.I.N. NeriedTime: 10:30 am - 11:30 am A dance and wellness classes design for Older Adults taught by Walter Rutledge720 Nereid Ave, Bronx, NY 10466
April 25, 2026
The Met’s Arts of AfricaThe Met’s Arts of AfricaTime: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
The new permanent installation foregrounds the creativity of artists across the subcontinent and enduring, dynamic historical traditions. The Met’s Arts of Africa galleries returned in May 2025, in a reimagined Michael C. Rockefeller Wing. Following a multiyear renovation, the reenvisioned installation reintroduces visitors to the Museum’s collection of sub-Saharan African art through a selection of some 500 works organized to survey major artistic movements and living traditions from across the subcontinent. The new galleries present original creations from the Middle Ages to the present, and one-fourth of the works are on display at the Museum for the first time.
The Met Fifth Avenue
1000 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10028
Phone: 212-535-7710
Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens Time: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm Encounter an artist who changed the face of portrait photography. Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens is the most expansive North American exhibition of the legendary Malian photographer’s work to date. More than 280 works include iconic prints, never-before-seen portraits, textiles, and Keïta’s personal artifacts, all brought to life with unique insights from his family.200 Eastern Parkway
Brooklyn, New York 11238-6052
718.638.5000