The Little Island Park, considered Manhattan’s newest cultural hub, is all set to welcome an electrifying summer season as it prepares to open its 700-seat amphitheater on June 6. A performance of Twyla Tharp’s “How Long Blues” will mark the inauguration of the amphitheater. With this move, Tharp will accomplish her first full-length work in a decade, which also promises to be a highlight of New York City’s artistic calendar.
Situated above the Hudson River on tulip-shaped concrete columns, Little Island Park has become a landmark since its opening in 2021. Now, with the unveiling of its amphitheater, the park will further fortify its reputation as a vibrant cultural destination.
The summer lineup of the amphitheater includes a diverse array of performances, with nine world premieres already scheduled. Among the highlights is a 90-minute remix of Mozart’s “Le Nozze di Figaro (The Marriage of Figaro)” which features countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo in all major roles. This ambitious production will continue from August 30 to September 22. With its innovative approach to a classic opera, the performance will captivate audiences.
Zack Winokur, a distinguished director, choreographer, and dancer will further add to the excitement. He has been named as the producing artistic director of the amphitheater. The announcement was made by media executive Barry Diller, which reflects the commitment of Little Island Park to fostering a community of new talents and groundbreaking performances.
The opening of the amphitheater will also see Little Island Park elevated to the ranks of premier performing arts spaces in Manhattan, including The Shed at Hudson Yards and the Perelman Performing Arts Center at the World Trade Center site. However, Winokur has emphasized that the programming at Little Island will offer a unique experience that will be distinct from its counterparts.
Ticket prices for all the performances at the amphitheater will be capped at $25. This will make world-class entertainment accessible to all New Yorkers. The Glade, a 200-seat venue within the Little Island park, will be hosting free programming every week from Wednesdays through Sundays in July and August. These programs will be curated by luminaries such as Suzan-Lori Parks, Cécile McLorin Salvant, and Justin Vivian Bond.
Elaborating on the park’s ambiance, Winokur describes it as an idyllic setting where visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, refreshments, and free performances in The Glade throughout the summer months. He has also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of outdoor events, highlighting that there will be no rain dates. Also, the start times of the performances are subject to weather conditions.
Previews of “How Long Blues” will be unveiled on June 1, offering audiences a glimpse of Tharp’s groundbreaking choreography in collaboration with T Bone Burnett and David Mansfield. Costanzo will be playing the iconic role of Figaro in a production directed by Dustin Wills which will feature new arrangements by Dan Schlosberg and costumes designed by Emily Bode.
“Robeson,” a musical tribute to Paul Robeson starring bass-baritone Davóne Tines, and “Mama,” a performance by Britton Smith, are among other highlights of the summer lineup at the amphitheater. Another performance, “The Sting,” Britton Smith’s funk liberation band choreographed by Ebony Williams, is also gaining the spotlight among audiences. Pam Tanowitz’s “Day For Night” will offer a mesmerizing dance performance with the sunset as the backdrop.
As the amphitheater prepares to welcome audiences, anticipation is building for a series of exceptional performances that promise to offer an immersive experience and make Little Island Park a cultural hub in Manhattan.
