NYS Music 2024

Category: News Desk

  • 38th Annual Tibet House US Benefit Concert Returns to Carnegie Hall on March 3

    The Annual Tibet House US Benefit Concert, among the longest-running and renowned live cultural events in New York City, returns to The Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall on March 3, 2025.

    TIBET HOUSE

    Artistic Directors, Philip Glass and Laurie Anderson, take the helm of for an evening full of extraordinary performances, camaraderie, and one-night-only collaborations. Included in the evening are special performances by Anderson, Arooj Aftab, Angélique Kidjo, Gogol Bordello, The Philip Glass Ensemble, Tenzin Choegyal, The Scorchio Quartet and more.

    Few events have withstood the test of time, and for more than three-and-a-half decades, this annual event has been a standout. The consistently sold-out concert has assembled some of the most legendary and exciting names in music and art, dazzling concertgoers with its unique mix of surprising and mesmerizing performances.

    TIBET HOUSE
    (Photo Credits L to R: Philip Glass – Danny Clinch; Laurie Anderson – Stephanie Diani; Arooj Aftab – Pooneh Ghana; Angélique Kidjo – Erwan Blaszka; Tenzin Choegyal – Courtesy of the Artist; Gogol Bordello – Ben Wong; The Philip Glass Ensemble – Ravi Sterman; The Scorchio Quartet – Jordan Strauss)

    Serving as the evening’s honorary chairs are actors Uma Thurman, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard, writer Arden Wohl and artist Jonah Freeman.

    Laurie Anderson will be joined by GRAMMY Award winning alternative jazz artist Arooj Aftab, five-time GRAMMY Award winning African music icon Angélique Kidjo, international punk band Gogol Bordello, The Philip Glass Ensemble (PGE) whose members remain inimitable interpreters of Glass’s work, Tibetan artist, composer, activist, musical director, and cultural ambassador Tenzin Choegyal, GRAMMY Award winning cutting edge electro-acoustic string quartet the The Scorchio Quartet, among many more artists to be announced in the new year. 

    TIBET HOUSE

    Tickets for the concert are on sale now ($49-$220) – visit www.carnegiehall.org to purchase, call CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800, or visit the Carnegie Hall Box Office (57th Street and Seventh Avenue). Also available now are special gala packages starting at $500 that include prime concert tickets, an elegant dinner reception with the performers and a who’s who of New York City society. To purchase these packages, visit thus.org/ or call Tibet House US at 212.807.0563.  

    All proceeds support the work of Tibet House US, a non-profit educational institution and cultural embassy founded in 1987 at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to ensure the survival of the unique Tibetan civilization.

    Throughout its rich history, the one-of-a-kind Tibet House US Benefit Concert has had hundreds of world-class artists participate, including Alabama Shakes, boygenius, Maggie Rogers, Carly Simon, David Bowie, Stephen Colbert, Lou Reed, Phoebe Bridgers, Sharon Jones, FKA twigs, The Roots, Jim James, Vampire Weekend, St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Bowen Yang, Joan Baez, Blood Orange, Sigur Ros, R.E.M, Emmylou Harris, Jon Batiste, Nathaniel Rateliff, Jason Isbell, Iggy Pop, The Flaming Lips, Keanu Reeves, Eddie Vedder, Annie Lennox, Brittany Howard, Black Pumas, Cage The Elephant, Cyndi Lauper, Trey Anastasio and many, many more. The event has garnered praise from many, including New York Times, Rolling Stone, Hollywood Reporter, Wall Street Journal, Entertainment Weekly, Associated Press, Billboard, Vogue, and more. 

    Tickets are on-sale now.

  • FTC Finalizes Rule Banning Junk Fees, Requires All-In Pricing for Events, Travel

    This week, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a final Junk Fees Rule to prohibit bait-and-switch pricing and other tactics used by live-event ticketing and short-term lodging industries (hotels).

    FTC Junk Fees
    photo by Steve Malinski

    Efforts by these corporations to hide the total price of a concert or hotel room bury junk fees have long been seen as unfair, and these deceptive pricing practices harm consumers and undercut honest businesses practices.

    “People deserve to know up-front what they’re being asked to pay—without worrying that they’ll later be saddled with mysterious fees that they haven’t budgeted for and can’t avoid,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The FTC’s rule will put an end to junk fees around live event tickets, hotels, and vacation rentals, saving Americans billions of dollars and millions of hours in wasted time. I urge enforcers to continue cracking down on these unlawful fees and encourage state and federal policymakers to build on this success with legislation that bans unfair and deceptive junk fees across the economy.”

    The Junk Fees Rule will ensure that pricing information is presented in a timely, transparent, and truthful way to consumers of live-event tickets and short-term lodging, two industries whose pricing practices the Commission has studied in particular. Consumers searching for hotels or vacation rentals or seats at a show or sporting event will no longer be surprised by a pile of “resort,” “convenience,” or “service” fees inflating the advertised price. By requiring up-front disclosure of total price including fees, the rule will make comparison shopping easier, resulting in savings for consumers and leveling the competitive playing field.

    FTC Junk Fees

    The Commission launched this rulemaking in 2022 by requesting public input on whether a rule could help eliminate unfair and deceptive pricing tactics. After receiving more than 12,000 comments on how hidden and misleading fees affected personal spending and competition, the FTC announced a proposed rule in October 2023 and invited a second round of comments. The Commission received more than 60,000 additional comments which it considered in developing the final rule announced today.

    The Federal Trade Commission estimates that the Junk Fees Rule will save consumers up to 53 million hours per year of wasted time spent searching for the total price for live-event tickets and short-term lodging. This time savings is equivalent to more than $11 billion over the next decade.

    The Final Rule

    The final rule targets specific and widespread unfair and deceptive pricing practices in the sale of live-event tickets and short-term lodging, while preserving flexibility for businesses. It does not prohibit any type or amount of fee, nor does it prohibit any specific pricing strategies. Rather, it simply requires that businesses that advertise their pricing tell consumers the whole truth up-front about prices and fees.

    To accomplish this, the Junk Fees Rule requires that businesses clearly and conspicuously disclose the true total price inclusive of all mandatory fees whenever they offer, display, or advertise any price of live-event tickets or short-term lodging. Businesses cannot misrepresent any fee or charge in any offer, display, or ad for live-event tickets or short-term lodging.

    In addition, the rule requires businesses to display the total price more prominently than most other pricing information. This means that the most prominent price in an ad needs to be the all-in total price—truthful itemization and breakdowns are fine but should not overshadow what consumers want to know: the real total.

    Finally, the rule requires businesses that exclude allowable fees up front to clearly and conspicuously disclose the nature, purpose, identity, and amount of those fees before consumers consent to pay. For instance, businesses that exclude shipping or taxes from the advertised price must clearly and conspicuously disclose those fees before the consumer enters their payment information.

    Industries beyond live-event ticketing and short-term lodging are prohibited from deceiving consumers about fees and pricing per longstanding law. The FTC will use its law enforcement authority to continue to rigorously pursue bait-and-switch pricing tactics, such as drip pricing and misleading fees, in other industries through case-by-case enforcement.

    The Federal Trade Commission vote approving publication of the final rule was 4-1, with Commissioner Andrew Ferguson dissenting. Chair Lina M. Khan issued a separate statement, as did Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter. Commissioner Melissa Holyoak issued a concurring statement and Commissioner Andrew Ferguson issued a dissenting statement. The final rule will become effective 120 days after its publication in the Federal Register.

  • Albany’s MVP Arena Ranked 83rd in the World for Attendance by Pollstar

    Albany’s MVP Arena, has been ranked by Pollstar as 83rd globally, and 52nd in the United States, in terms of attendance, a premier status for the Capital Region’s #1 venue for live events.

    Other New York venues found on the global 200 list include Madison Square Garden (2nd), Barclays Center in Brooklyn (6th), UBS Arena in Belmont Park (30th) and Keybank Center in Buffalo (94th).

    This ranking highlights the arena’s continued success in attracting large audiences for a variety of events, including sports, concerts, and other entertainment spectacles. 

    MVP Arena’s strong performance in global rankings reflects a wide range of events that resonate with audiences, including Major League Lacrosse, Arena Football, a variety of concerts, comedians, College Basketball, and much more.

    Rogers Waters at MVP Arena - July 2022 - photo by Dave Decresente
    photo by Dave Decrescente

    Notably, gross ticket sales generated in Albany (more than $28 million dollars) exceeded major markets such as New Orleans, Cleveland, Glendale, Minneapolis, Columbus, Grand Rapids, Atlantic City and many international cities that ended the year behind Albany’s ranking. 

    “We are proud to be ranked among the top 100 venues in the world,” said Bob Belber, General Manager of MVP Arena. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our team, the support of our community, and the incredible fans who fill the arena for every event. We look forward to continuing to host unforgettable experiences for our guests.” 

    Phish Albany Box of Rain MVP Arena
    photo by Conor McMahon

    This milestone further reinforces Albany County’s commitment to providing a top-tier facility. The re-investment that County Executive McCoy has made into the arena with upgrades to seating, technology, locker rooms and the enclosure of the atrium has made MVP Arena a must play for many tours. 

    Slipknot knotfest Albany 2022
    Photo by Mike Miller

    “This ranking reflects how years of strategic investment and management have transformed MVP Arena into a first-class venue for residents and visitors alike. I would like to thank our partners at ASM Global as well as our naming sponsor, MVP Health Care, and the Albany County Legislature for their continued support. Together, we are ensuring that our arena remains a source of pride for our County and a key driver of tourism and economic activity in the Capital Region. I look forward to seeing even greater success and growth as we continue to raise the bar and attract world-class entertainment,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy. 

    The ability for Albany to make a strong showing in the Top 200 venues shows a resilience for the town, that despite the monikor ‘Smallbany,’ folks come from all over to take part in the rich variety of arts and music offered in the state capital.

  • Dogs In A Pile Announce Extensive Spring 2025 Tour

    Up and coming jam band Dogs In A Pile have announced their plans for a 2025 Spring Tour which includes an opening two-night stand at Brooklyn Bowl in New York City. The spring tour also includes a number of return trips to cities with shifts up in venue sizes as well.

    The two tour opening shows at Brooklyn Bowl will mark the band’s headlining debut there and first visit back since October 2021. The band will then make stops in Bethlehem, PA (April 3) and Buffalo, NY (April 5). In between those dates, they’ll play their largest indoor space in Western PA yet at Mr. Smalls in Pittsburgh (April 4).

    The spring tour then sees Dogs In A Pile playing exclusively Midwest gigs with shows in Ferndale, MI (April 8), Cleveland, OH (April 9), and Columbus, OH (April 11), before heading further west to Kalamazoo, MI (April 12), Madison, WI (April 13), and Indianapolis, IN (April 15). The spring run also includes several Southern shows, including Charlottesville, VA (April 18) – where a massive October 2023 performance at The Southern Café and Music Hall has earned them a headlining slot at the Jefferson Theater.

    The tour later wraps up with two shows in New Orleans, LA during Jazz Fest at Chickie Wah Wah on April 29 and May 3, before the band heads to Mexico for Viva El Gonzo in San José Del Cabo on May 8, 9, and 10. See below for all newly added dates.

    Presale ticketing is already underway and tickets will go on sale to the general public this Friday, December 20 at 10 am ET. To view all tour dates and learn more, visit dogs-tour.com.

    Dogs In A Pile Spring Tour 2025

    3/8 – Chicago, IL – Salt Shed (indoors)*

    3/28 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl

    3/29 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Bowl
    4/3 – Bethlehem, PA – Musikfest Cafe
    4/4 – Pittsburgh, PA – Mr. Smalls
    4/5 – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Iron Works
    4/8 – Ferndale, MI – Magic Bag 

    4/9 – Cleveland, OH – Beachland Ballroom
    4/11 – Columbus, OH – Woodlands Tavern

    4/12 – Kalamazoo, MI – Bell’s Eccentric Cafe

    4/13 – Madison WI – High Noon Saloon
    4/15 – Indianapolis, IN – HI-FI

    4/16 – Chattanooga, TN – Barrelhouse Ballroom

    4/18 – Charlottesville, VA – Jefferson Theater

    4/19 – Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theatre

    4/20 – Wilmington, NC – Bowstring Wilmington

    4/22 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House

    4/24 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Revolution

    4/25 – St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live
    4/26 – Orlando, FL – The Social
    4/27 – Jacksonville, FL – Jack Rabbits

    4/29 – New Orleans, LA – Chickie Wah Wah

  • Caffè Lena Launches New Peak Jazz Series to Showcase World-Class Jazz Talent

    Caffè Lena has announced the launch of the Peak Jazz Series, an exciting addition to its monthly concert offerings. Made possible by the generous support of Joseph and Luann Conlon, this series is dedicated to fueling the growth of jazz in Caffè Lena’s renowned listening room.

    Hailing from Saratoga Springs, the nation’s oldest continuously operating coffeehouse new Peak Jazz Series will focus on ensembles that lean toward cool jazz, fusion, and funk, offering audiences a dynamic and diverse jazz experience.

    Peak Jazz Series

    By ensuring a steady flow of world-class jazz acts, the series enriches Caffè Lena’s programming and reaffirms its commitment to fostering live music in an intimate and premium setting.

    The Peak Jazz Series joins the already thriving Jazz at Caffè Lena Series, hosted by accomplished jazz pianist Chuck Lamb. Each month, Chuck and his trio welcome a special guest to the stage, offering unique collaborations with some of the most remarkable names in jazz. Recent highlights include performances with Jimmy Greene and Stanley Jordan, showcasing the diversity and brilliance of the genre.

    “We’re thrilled to expand our jazz programming. With the Peak Jazz Series adding a fresh layer to our monthly offerings and Chuck Lamb’s Jazz Series continuing to bring in extraordinary guests, Caffè Lena is solidifying its place as a top destination for live jazz in the region.”

    Sarah Craig, Executive Director of Caffè Lena

    “Supporting the Peak Jazz Series at Caffè Lena is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the depth and diversity of jazz,”said Joseph Conlon, sponsor of the Peak Jazz Series. “We’re proud to help bring extraordinary ensembles to such an intimate venue, showcasing the energy, artistry, and innovation that define this genre. Our hope is to inspire both long-time jazz enthusiasts and new audiences to connect with the music in meaningful ways.”

    The Momentum Series, also made possible by the Conlons in honor of Thom O’Neil, will continue to bring high-energy performances—solo and band—that fill the room with electrifying energy. Together, these series provide unparalleled opportunities to experience the power of live music across genres at Caffè Lena.

    Caffè Lena invites jazz enthusiasts, music lovers, and the community to experience the debut of the Peak Jazz Series and its exceptional lineup of artists. For tickets and information, visit www.caffelena.org.

  • New Executive Director Named for Opera Saratoga

    Opera Saratoga has announced the establishment of a new executive leadership position, with Amanda Robie, formerly the company’s Managing Director, appointed to the role,

    Robie will collaborate closely with the General and Artistic Director, as well as the Board of Directors, to shape and advance the strategic direction of the company.

    opera saratoga
    Amanda Robie at Opera Saratoga / RPI/Empac’s workshop of The Other Side of Silence (Nua Photography Co.)

    Opera Saratoga, formerly known as Lake George Opera, began with a production of Die Fledermaus at the Diamond Point Theatre on July 5, 1962, playing to an audience of 230. The Company now calls Saratoga Springs home and performs for more than 25,000 people annually, celebratings its 60th anniversary this season.

    Serving the communities of Saratoga Springs, the Lower Adirondack and New York State Capital Region, Opera Saratoga provided access to world-class opera through the production of an annual Summer Festival, as well as year-round activities including extensive educational programs, mentorship of emerging operatic artists, and unique opportunities for the public to experience opera in both our home theater and non-traditional venues that leverage and embrace the unique cultural, historic, and natural resources of the area.

    A resident of Saratoga Springs, Ms. Robie began her career in opera as a mezzo-soprano, having studied voice at Bucknell University and The Boston Conservatory. A notable highlight of her performing career was her role as Cousin Hebe in Opera Saratoga’s 2013 production of H.M.S. Pinafore. Driven by a desire to influence the operatic world beyond the stage, she transitioned into arts administration, holding positions at the Boston Opera Collaborative, Fort Worth Opera, and Boston Lyric Opera. In 2019, she joined Opera Saratoga as Managing Director, where she played a pivotal role in navigating the company through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing its return to live performances, and leading the search for a new General Director.

    opera saratoga

    “I am honored to step into the role of Executive Director at Opera Saratoga,” said Ms. Robie. “I look forward to continuing my work with this extraordinary company and vibrant community to ensure the continued vitality and success of opera in the region.”

    “Amanda is an invaluable asset to Opera Saratoga, and both the Board and I are deeply appreciative that she has accepted this new leadership role,” said Mary Birnbaum, General and Artistic Director. “Her warmth, leadership, and in-depth knowledge of the art form make her a central figure at Opera Saratoga. Artists, technicians, and administrators alike consistently cite her as a major reason they choose to return to the company. I am excited to continue our partnership and to work alongside her in shaping the future of Opera Saratoga, beginning with the 2025 Summer Festival, which will run from May 20 to June 29.”

    For more information about Amanda Robie or to buy subscriptions to the Summer Season, please visit our website at operasaratoga.org

    Additionally, Opera Saratoga has announced the creative teams for its Summer Festival 2025. The musical She Loves Me, with music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and a book by Joe Masteroff, will be directed by John Matsumoto Giampietro. Jacques Offenbach’s La Vie Parisienne will be directed by Mary Birnbaum and conducted by Juliane Gallant, making her U.S. debut. Both productions feature scenic design by Krit Robinson and lighting design by Anshuman Bhatia.

    The cast of She Loves Me includes Festival Artists Christine Taylor Price (Amalia Balash), Kate Morton (Ilona Ritter), Shavon Lloyd (Steven Kodaly), Michael Segura (Ladislav Sipos), Jack O’Leary (Arpad Lazlo), Wagner Pastor (Head Waiter), and Guest Artist Peter Kazaras (Mr. Maraczek). Nathan Cicero will serve as assistant conductor, with Festival Artist Paige Dirks-Jacks as assistant director. June 21, 25, 27 at 7:30 pm and June 28 & 29 at 2:00 pm at Universal Preservation Hall.

    La Vie Parisienne features Festival Artists Sungyeun Kim (Gabrielle), Fantine Douilly (Pauline), Chase Sanders (Baroness), Sadie Spivey (Clara), Tivoli Treloar (Metella), Kate Morton (Mme. de Folle-Verdure), Brennan Martinez (Léonie), Chuanyuan Liu (Mme. de Quimper-Karadec), Randy Ho (Gardefeu), Wagner Pastor (Gontran/Prosper), Geoffrey Schmelzer (Le Baron), Michael Segura (Urbain), Jack O’Leary (Joseph), as well as guest artists Michael Hawk (Bobinet) and César Andrés Parreño (Frick/Bresélien). Gloria Yin will serve as assistant conductor, and Zoe Lesser will be the assistant director. The book for La Vie Parisienne will be translated and updated by Tim Drucker (director of Trixie and Katya Live!) June 20, 26 & 28 at 7:30 pm and June 22 at 2:00 pm at Universal Preservation Hall.

    A Mass for Women in Bathrooms, the work-in-progress presentation from composer Emma O’Halloran and librettist Naomi O’Connell will feature singers Brennan Martinez, Sadie Spivey and Chase Sanders, as well as electronics by Alex Dowling and music preparation by Laurie Rogers. June 22 at 7:30 pm and June 27 at 2:00 pm at Universal Preservation Hall.

    In a Grove composed by Chris Cerrone with libretto by Stephanie Fleischmann will feature Chase Sanders (Leona), Chuanyuan Liu (Priest/Medium), Sadie Spivey (Leona’s Mother), Shavon Lloyd (Luther), Randy Ho (Ambrose), Wagner Pastor (Policeman), Geoffrey Shmelzer (Woodcutter). This site specific installation will feature sound design by Sam Torres and will be conducted by Luke Poeppel. May 28 at 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm, and May 29 at 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm (Rain date: May 31 at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm) at the Ferndell Pavilion in Saratoga Spa State Park.

    Subscriptions to Opera Saratoga are on sale through February 1 at www.operasaratoga.org or by calling Proctors Box Office at 518-346-6204. Other special events include concerts, free family performances and a gala.

  • Shania Twain Extends Tour, Two Dates in New York

    Celebrated country pop artist Shania Twain has extended her current U.S. tour into the summer of 2025, including two shows in New York.

    A country superstar, celebrated songwriter, and style icon, Shania Twain has been making major waves across the industry for over 40 years now.

    With six albums and more than 100 million albums sold, Twain is the top-selling female country pop artist of all time- not to mention her five GRAMMY wins and several charting tracks including “You’re Still the One” and “Man! I Feel Like A Woman!”. 

    Releasing her sixth album Queen of Me in 2023, she embarked upon a tour of the same name in celebration- and this party hasn’t stopped. With an unprecedented two years of sold-out extensions to her travels thus far, Twain has announced one final leg that brings her to several spots across the east coast, including nights in Buffalo and Saratoga Springs.

    Gracing the stage of the Darien Lake Amphitheater in Buffalo on July 19 and the Broadview Stage at SPAC in Saratoga Springs on July 20, the conclusion to Shania’s two-year run of shows is not to be missed.

    Tickets for the two dates in New York as well as other spots along the east coast go live on Friday, December 20 at 10:00 AM. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit Shania Twain’s official website here..

    SHANIA TWAIN 2025 TOUR DATES

    Sat Jul 19 – Buffalo, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater

    Sun Jul 20 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC

    Tue Jul 22 – Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater

    Thu Jul 24 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion

    Sat Jul 26 – Hershey, PA – Hersheypark Stadium

    Tue Jul 29 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place

    Fri Aug 01 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live

  • Irish Arts Center Announces Spring 2025 Season

    New York City-based Irish Arts Center has announced their Spring 2025 season featuring bold and inventive new programming.

    The Irish Arts Center is renowned for its dynamic, inspiring, and collaborative experiences that showcase the evolving arts and culture of Ireland and Irish America in its environment of warm Irish hospitality.

    Founded in 1972 in Hell’s Kitchen, this year’s Spring 2025 season will be hosted in the Irish Arts Center’s recently opened state of the art facility as the organization platforms the newest works and artists of the future.

    Highlights for the season begin on February 12-16 with John Scott Dance and Mel Mercier’s Begin Anywhere. A response to the inspirations and methodologies of the iconic choreographer Merce Cunningham and composer John Cage, Scott and Mercier will debut a new piece inspired by their shared histories with Cunningham and Cage’s works. 

    This world premiere will feature a preceding performance of Four Solos by Merce Cunningham presented in a continuous dance event with music by John King.

    February 28-28 will host the GRAMMY-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill alongside the talents of the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra in an exploration of the intersection between Irish folk and Afro Latin music.

    Brothers Brían and Diarmuid Mac have expanded the lineup of Ye Vagabonds to feature Alain McFadden (concertina) and Caimin Gilmore (harmonium) for their first North American performance since the band’s sold-out debut at the Irish Arts Center on March 11 and 12.

    April 30-June 1 will feature the five-week North American premiere of Colin Murphy’s The United States vs Ulysses directed by Conall Morisson. 

    A funhouse vision of 1930s radio performers re-enacting the courtroom battle for the future of James Joyce’s Ulysses against U.S. censorship, this production captures the very same world-changing potential IAC has sought to emphasize throughout its entire existence as an organization.

    Arriving to the States with its original cast, The United States V. Ulysses celebrates the power of an idea on a page as it examines the forces that benefit from holding culture in stasis instead of allowing evolution of thought in the public eye. 

    In celebration of the famed Irish producer, composer, and performer Bill Whelan’s 75th birthday, the IAC will hit a two-day musical jubilee featuring fellow artists and special guests on June 26 and 27.

    Throughout the season, Dublin-based artist Paul Hughes’ paintings will be displayed in the I am here & I am unwaiting exhibition from February 1-June 21, filling the walls of the IAC with vibrant abstract landscapes. An artist talk will also be hosted on March 6.

    For further information on the IAC and their full calendar of events for the upcoming Spring 2025 season, be sure to visit their official website here.

  • Radio City Music Hall Unveils New Sensory Room

    Radio City Music Hall has unveiled their newest addition to the iconic venue, a completely renovated sensory room.

    Radio City Sensory Room

    Engaging with the vibrancy and volume of theater may be exciting, but it can also be exceedingly overwhelming- especially for those with particular sensory needs. A passion for attending live performance may be hindered or completely prevented by uncontrollable and overwhelming experiences- which is exactly what Radio City and donors Christopher and Veronica Jackson seek to remediate.

    A GRAMMY and Emmy-award winning songwriter, composer, and actor, Christopher and his wife Veronica understand just how overwhelming such experiences can be, as their son CJ is one of many individuals to be diagnosed with autism. Since the diagnosis in 2007, the couple have become staunch supporters of KultureCity, the world’s leading nonprofit on the acceptance and accommodation of invisible disabilities and sensory needs.

    “This sensory room reflects our shared dedication to creating an inclusive environment for everyone – ensuring that the magic of Radio City is accessible to all. Our son CJ has been an inspiration to so many and we are honored for him to represent our family at Radio City Music Hall!”

    – Chris and Veronica Jackson

    Donated and created in honor of CJ, the Radio City Music Hall’s completely renovated sensory room features adjustable lighting, comfortable seating, calming visuals including a piece created inspired by Radio City’s architecture by an artist with autism, and a wide range of sensory tools such as bubble walls, Yogibo bean bags, and a vast range of tactile objects.

    Designed to be fully accessible for folks of all abilities and ages including wheelchair users, the Chris and Veronica Jackson Sensory Room joins several other sensory rooms under the MSG Family of Companies in partnership with KultureCity.

    Radio City Sensory Room

    Thus far, Radio City, Madison Square Garden, and Sphere feature sensory rooms, have been certified by KultureCity, and feature guest-facing staff that have all completed KultureCity training. 

    This renovation marks a major step towards a universally enjoyable live performance experience, not just within Radio City’s walls but across the entertainment industry in New York City and beyond.

    For more information on Radio City Music Hall’s full range of accessibility resources and services, visit their official website here.

  • Coachella 2025 Lineup to Feature 11 artists from New York; Lady Gaga and Post Malone to headline

    At the 2025 Coachella Music and Arts Festival, 11 recording artists from New York State are set to perform. This includes headliners Lady Gaga and Post Malone, of Manhattan and Syracuse respectively. The festival is scheduled for Friday-Sunday, April 11-13, and April 18-20, and will feature the same acts across both weekends. Last year, five artists from New York performed at Coachella, including headliner Lana Del Rey. Significantly, Coachella 2025 will feature recording artists from New York across all three festival days.

    Coachella 2025 Headliners

    Manhattan-born Lady Gaga will headline Coachella 2025 on the first night of the festival, on Friday, April 11 and 18. Gaga first rose to prominence in 2008, with the release of her debut album The Fame. The album spawned several of Gaga’s hit singles including “Just Dance”, “Poker Face” and “Paparazzi.” Significantly, the 2025 festival will mark the second time Gaga has performed at Coachella and her second time headlining. Gaga first appeared at the 2017 festival, replacing Beyonce as a headliner.

    Lady Gaga performs at the 2017 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Credit: Getty Images.

    Rock Band Green Day of California will headline Coachella 2025 on Saturday, April 12 and 19. It will be the band’s first time headlining as well as their first performing at Coachella. Green Day has released over 14 studio albums, most recently Saviors (2024.)

    Green Day lead singer Billy Joe Armstrong. Credit: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

    Singer Post Malone of Syracuse will headline Coachella 2025 on Sunday, April 13 and 20. Malone released his debut album, Stoney, in 2016, which spawned his hit, diamond-certified single “Congratulations.” He has since released a total of six albums, most recently F-1 Trillion (2024) which sees him expanding his music to the country genre. Malone has performed at the festival twice: in 2018, he was on the official lineup and closed out the Sahara tent, bringing out Ty Dolla $ign and 21 Savage, and in 2023, he made a surprise appearance during Bad Bunny’s Set. The 2025 festival will be Malone’s first appearance at Coachella as a headliner.

    Syracuse native Post Malone performs at the 2018 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Credit: Billboard.

    Coachella 2025: Friday, April 11 and 18

    Guyanese-American rapper and singer Saint Jhn of Brooklyn will perform at Coachella 2025 for the opening nights of both weekends on Friday, April 11 and 18, which will be his first appearance at the festival. Throughout his childhood, Saint Jhn split his time living in Guyana and the East New York Neighborhood of Brooklyn. He released his debut album, Collection One (2018), and has since released a total of three albums, most recently 2020’s While the World Was Burning.

    Guyanese-American rapper and singer Saint Jhn. Credit: IMDB.

    American DJ, producer, and songwriter Austin Millz of Harlem will perform on the first night of Coachella 2025 for both weekends on Friday, April 11 and 18. The 2025 festival will be his first performance at Coachella. Career highlights of Millz include DJ-ing Beyonce’s Homecoming Coachella performance in 2018, and he made his debut for Boiler Room NYC in 2023.

    American DJ, producer, and songwriter Austin Millz. Credit: Insomniac.

    Brooklyn-born DJ and producer Moon Boots is set to perform at Coachella 2025 on Friday, April 11 and 13. Born in Prospect Heights and raised in the suburbs of Connecticut, he attended Princeton University where originally studied electrical engineering before switching to music. After graduating, he moved to Chicago, and his since released several independent albums.

    DJ and producer Moon Boots. Credit: Insomniac.

    Coachella 2025: Saturday, April 12 and 19

    Alternative rock band Blonde Redhead is scheduled to perform at the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on Saturday, April 12 and 19. The band is composed of Kazu Makino (vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar) and identical twin brothers Simone (drums, keyboards) and Amedeo Pace (lead guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals) and was formed in 1993 in New York City. The 2025 festival will be Blonde Redhead’s second performance at Coachella, after 2007.

    The three members of Blonde Redhead, from left to right: Kazu Makino (vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar), and identical twin brothers Simone (drums, keyboards) and Amedeo Pace (lead guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals.) Credit: Office Magazine.

    Indo Warehouse is a New York City-based record label and event series formed in 2022 by Kahani and Kunal Merchant. The 2025 festival will be the record label’s first appearance at Coachella on Saturday, April 12 and 19. Indo Warehouse was formed to bring South Asian culture and influences to the forefront of dance music, and the 2023 short documentary Renaissance in the Realm: Indo Warehouse explores the label’s origins and future.

    Founders of Indo Warehouse Kunal and Kahani Merchant. Credit: Insomniac.

    New York City musician Layton Giordani will mark his debut performance at Coachella on Saturday, April 12 and 19. Giordani is a mostly dance/electronic artist who debuted on the music scene in 2017 with his debut LP on Drumcode, Where it Begins. His hard work and dedication have gotten Giordani a performance at Coachella, which may be a turning point in his career.

    Musician Layton Giordani. Credit: Insomniac.

    Sunday, April 13 and 20

    American-Ghanaian singer and songwriter Amaarae of The Bronx will mark her Coachella debut on Sunday, April 13 and 20. Known for her fusion of pop, R&B, afro beats, and alté, Amaarae released her debut EP, Passionfruit Summers, in 2017, and her debut album, The Angel You Don’t Know to critical acclaim in 2020. Her second and most recent album, Fountain Baby, was released in 2023.

    American-Ghanaian singer and songwriter Amaarae. Credit: Lauren Dunn.

    NYC-based electronic band Fckers will make their debut Coachella appearance on Sunday, April 13 and 20. The band was originally formed in 2022 by musicians Shannon Wise (vocals) Jayson Walker Lewis (bass, keyboards, production), and Ben Scharf (drums.) Lewis and Scharf were originally in the band Spud Cannon for five years, and Wise was a frontwoman for the band The Shacks, before leaving their respective groups to form Fckers together, and ultimately released their debut EP, Baggy$$, in September.

    The members of Fckers, from top to bottom: Ben Scharf, Shannon Wise, and Jason Walker Lewis. Credit: Georgia Mitropoulos.

    West African-born DJ AMÉMÉ will perform at Coachella 2025 on Sunday, April 13 and 20. The DJ, who splits his time between Brooklyn and Berlin, made his first Coachella appearance in 2022, opening the Sunday festival both weekends inside the Yuma Tent. AMÉMÉ moved to NYC to fulfill his dream of becoming a DJ, and eventually connected New York’s highly influential House Of Yes, and now runs One Tribe, a multifaceted platform that includes an events wing and a fashion label, in addition to his career as a DJ.

    West African-born DJ AMÉMÉ. Credit: Insomniac.

    Tickets for Coachella 2025 are selling quickly. Separate tickets must be purchased for both weekends. The festival is open to all ages and kids aged five and under are granted free admission.