On October 3, 2011, Chinese-American Army Pvt. Danny Chen was found dead in a guard tower at his base in Afghanistan. Based on his story and the ensuing courts-martial of Chen’s fellow soldiers, this New York City premiere opera tells the powerful true story of a young soldier from Manhattan’s Chinatown who sought to serve his country, only to find his biggest threat was the very people who swore to protect him.

An American Soldier

Perelman Performing Arts Center

Experience the magic and transformation of "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" at the Perelman Performing Arts Center from June 13 to July 14, 2024. This radical reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, inspired by T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats," brings a fresh, vibrant take on the classic. Directed by the visionary Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch, and choreographed by the dynamic duo of Arturo Lyons and Omari Wiles, this production infuses the show with the energy and style of New York City's Ballroom culture.

Set against the backdrop of a spectacularly immersive competition, "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" features all-new Ballroom and club beats, runway-ready choreography, and an edgy eleganza makeover that shifts the setting from a junkyard to a glamorous runway. This production celebrates the joyous transformation of self at the heart of both "Cats" and Ballroom culture itself, inviting audiences to come together and revel in the spectacle.

The creative team behind this production includes some of the most talented names in theater today, with scenic design by Rachel Hauck, costume design by Qween Jean, lighting design by Adam Honoré, sound design by Kai Harada, and many more contributing to bring this vision to life. Major support for this production is provided by BNY Mellon, ensuring that "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" is a must-see event.

In addition to the main show, attendees can look forward to a special post-show discussion on June 23 titled "Paris Is Still Burning," featuring pioneers, legends, and stars from the House Ballroom community. This series, moderated by Mother Jocelyn Milan, aims to educate and unite the LGBTQ community and our allies, celebrating the rich history and impact of Ballroom life and culture.

Don't miss your chance to witness this groundbreaking production of "Cats: The Jellicle Ball." Book your tickets now and be part of a theatrical experience that promises to be as transformative as it is unforgettable.

Cats: The Jellicle Ball

Join us at the Perelman Performing Arts Center for a groundbreaking theatrical event, "She He Me," as part of the celebrated Criminal Queerness Festival. This pivotal play, written and directed by the acclaimed Raphaël Amahl Khouri, marks a significant moment in theater as the first Arab transgender play. "She He Me" intricately weaves the true stories of three Arab characters - Randa, Omar, and Rok - each navigating the complexities of gender identity against the backdrop of societal, familial, and internal challenges. From the harrowing tale of Randa, an Algerian trans woman forced to flee her homeland, to Omar's struggle with social dysphoria, and Rok's journey to acceptance with his conservative religious mother, this play offers a profound exploration of resistance, love, and identity.

Performances are scheduled for June 21 at 8:00pm, June 22 at 2:00pm, and June 23 at 8:00pm, with a special post-show discussion on June 23. This discussion will provide audiences with an invaluable opportunity to engage with the cast and company, delving into the inspiration, themes, and creative process behind this powerful work.

In alignment with the spirit of inclusivity and accessibility, tickets for "She He Me" are offered on a Pay-What-You-Wish basis, ranging from $15 to $120. This initiative ensures that the transformative power of theater is accessible to all, inviting audiences to contribute as they are able.

Please note, the play contains themes of domestic violence, police violence, and sexual abuse, and viewer discretion is advised.

Celebrate Pride Month by experiencing "She He Me" at the Perelman Performing Arts Center, and be part of a momentous occasion that champions the stories and voices of the Arab transgender community.

She He Me

Join us at the Perelman Performing Arts Center for a compelling and thought-provoking performance of "The Survival," a play written by Achiro P. Olwoch and directed by Nadia Guevara. This event is a highlight of the Criminal Queerness Festival, celebrating Pride Month with a story of love, resistance, and the quest for a new definition of family in modern Uganda.

"The Survival" unfolds the story of Achan, a 27-year-old woman grappling with societal pressures to marry, who finds herself in a complex relationship with Oyat. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when Achan discovers Oyat's hope for her to become a surrogate for him and his boyfriend's child. This revelation forces Achan to confront her traditional upbringing, challenging her to redefine love and family in the face of modern realities.

Performance Dates and Times:
- June 22, 2024, at 8:00 PM
- June 23, 2024, at 3:00 PM
- June 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM

Tickets for "The Survival" are available on a Pay-What-You-Wish basis, ranging from $15 to $120, making it accessible to a wide audience. Attendees are also invited to a post-show discussion on June 22, where cast and company members will delve into the inspiration, themes, and creative process behind the play.

Please note, the content advisory for "The Survival" includes mention of rape, homophobia, miscarriage, and war, reflecting its commitment to addressing complex and challenging issues.

Don't miss this powerful performance that not only celebrates Pride Month but also offers a profound commentary on societal norms and personal identity. Book your tickets now and be part of a moving experience that transcends the stage.

The Survival

Join us at the Perelman Performing Arts Center for a groundbreaking theatrical experience, "Waafrika 123: A Queerly Scripted Tragic Rise to African Fantasia." This compelling production is scheduled for three exclusive performances: June 26 at 7:00pm, June 28 at 8:00pm, and June 29 at 2:00pm. Crafted by the talented Nick Hadikwa Mwaluko and directed by é boylan, "Waafrika 123" invites audiences into a vividly imagined African fantasia.

Set on the eve of the country's first democratic elections, the narrative unfolds in the remote, fictional village of Luoland, located some 250 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. Despite societal norms that deny their existence, two queer individuals, Bobby, an American development worker, and Awino, from the Luo tribe, find love. Their relationship challenges the deeply rooted traditions and expectations of their community, especially as they face blame for a devastating famine. The play explores themes of identity, love, and community amidst adversity.

As part of the Criminal Queerness Festival, this multi-disciplinary theater event not only celebrates Pride Month, resistance, and love in collaboration with National Queer Theater and PAC NYC but also offers a unique pay-what-you-wish ticketing policy, with prices ranging from $15 to $120. This initiative ensures accessibility while supporting the arts.

The production also features a post-show discussion on June 28, providing an invaluable opportunity for audience members to engage with the cast and creative team about the inspiration, themes, and process behind this powerful work.

Please note, the play contains depictions of transphobic, homophobic, and misogynistic violence, language describing sexual assault, and self-harm, and is intended for mature audiences.

Don't miss your chance to experience "Waafrika 123: A Queerly Scripted Tragic Rise to African Fantasia." Book your tickets now and be part of a conversation-starting performance that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining.

Perelman Performing Arts Center

12 - 19 May, 2024

An American Soldier

Jun 13 - Jul 14, 2024

Cats: The Jellicle Ball

21 - 23 Jun, 2024

She He Me

22 - 27 Jun, 2024

The Survival

26 - 29 Jun, 2024

Waafrika 123: A Queerly Scripted Tragic Rise to African Fantasia

Perelman Performing Arts Center

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