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free things to do in New York City
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Free Events, Free Things to Do in New York City! Read More
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 2, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
August 2, 2026. Free shows, concerts, movies, tours are New York (NYC) best kept secret! New York City never ceases to amaze you with quantity and quality of its free culture and free entertainment whether it's day or night, weekday or weekend, summer or winter, spring or fall, January or June, May or September. If you are looking for inexpensive things to do and where to go in Manhattan today, tonight, tomorrow, or any other time, or any other day of any week - you came to the right place: just click on any day on the calendar dispayed on the every page of our site and you will see how many events you can attend in Manhattan free of charge on that very day.
New York's cultural scene is at its busiest in October and March (and the same goes for free events, free things to do), but other months of the year still offer incredible amount of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away! So if you looking for something to do in April or November, December or February, you will find tons of free things to do, free events to go to. (In June, July and August lots of those free events take place outdoors, of course).
So do not wot till tomorrow, start using these unique New York City opportunities today, August 2, 2026!
Where else but in New York City can you listen to a world-class musician, discuss a book with a famous author, take a part in poetry reading, have a glass of wine at an art exhibition opening, and all that on the same day, and all that free of charge, and all of that on any day of the year, whether it's December or July, April or November!
The trick is to know about those free events, free things to do BEFORE they happen, not after the fact. That's where Club Free Time comes in handy! Become a Club Free Time member and start using these unique New York City (NYC) opportunities today, August 2, 2026!
Join the Club!
Club Free Time is your perfect guide to Free Entertainment and Free Culture in the City That Never Sleeps.
Join the Club!
Free things to do, free events that take place in the City every day of the year are truly amazing. So if you're looking for something interesting to do today (August 2, 2026) or on any other day of the year don't miss those free-of-charge opportunities that only New York provides! You can find lots of high quality, off the beaten path, unique free events, free things to do which will take your breath away!
In addition to providing information about free events, free things to do in New York, Club Free Time offers its members complimentary tickets to classical music concerts, dance performances and theater: when a producer wants that special buzz of the 'full house' - Club Free Time members are welcomed for their enthusiasm and sophistication!
Join the Club!
Get a taste of free culture and free entertainment in New York City (NYC)!
Join the Club!
Experience an entirely new perspective on New York. 'Open up a whole new cultural world... in one of the most vibrant capital cities in the world, sampling cultural delights beyond anyone's wildest dream.' Rupert Parker, journalist, photographer, cameraman, and TV producer
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!
Let New York City surprise, stimulate, entertain and excite you! Read More
Don't miss the opportunities that only New York provides:
- free concerts in NYC
- free movies in NYC
- free jazz in NYC
- free poetry readings in NYC
- free tours/hikes in NYC
- free city walks in NYC
- free Yoga /Tai Chi in NYC
- fairs and parades in NYC
- free theater in NYC
- free tickets to concerts, theater and dance performances in NYC
'New York is abuzz with so much culture that they're giving it away.' (The New York Times article about Club Free Time).
Editor's Picks
46 free things to do in New York City (NYC) today:
Sunday, August 2, 2026
All events are free unless otherwise noted.Workshop | Tai Chi in the Park
Silvana Pizzuti leads a session to learn and practice Tai Chi, a slow-moving martial art with health benefits for all fitness levels. 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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8:00 am
Free
Free
Birdwatching | Expert-Led Birdwatching on the Water
A walk around the pier to learn about the birds of Brooklyn.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Tour | Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Brooklyn Bridge, Financial District, 9/11 Memorial
This complimentary shuttle loops through more than 30 locations across Lower Manhattan, covering major sites from the Brooklyn Bridge to the Financial District and the World Trade Center area. Busses arrive about every 15 minutes throughout the day. Riders can board or exit at any marked stop, with unlimited trips at no cost. Dayly service.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Kayaking on the Hudson
A welcoming public kayaking experience and see New York City from the water. Guests will receive basic paddling and safety instruction, be fitted with safety gear, and paddle in a protected area with trained volunteers nearby. No experience is needed, and children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Guests must know how to swim. First-come, first-served, sign-up line often closes early due to high demand.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Screening | Most Watched International Events on the Big (30-foot!) Screen Outdoors: Tennis, Frisbee, & More
Today's Schedule:
10:00am - 11:00am Tennis- National Bank Open
11:00am - 5:00pm ESPN Ocho: Omega Ball and Cornhole Championship
5:00pm - 7:00pm Ultimate Frisbee Championship
7:00pm - 9:00pm ESPN Ocho: Wiffle Ball & KickBall
*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
Workshop | Reparation Session: Learn To Fix Your Items
With expert coaches guiding jewelry fixes, sewing and textile mending, small appliance repair, and more, you’ll learn new skills, save some money, and keep waste out of the landfill.
New York City, NY; NYC
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10:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | An Architect of her own Legacy: The Life of Marilyn Monroe
Experience a captivating cultural exhibit that presents a more complete story of one of history's most iconic figures. While Marilyn has often been portrayed in a certain light, this exhibit uncovers the untold aspects of her story. Beyond her famous image, Marilyn's private life reveals her as a reader, strategist, and businesswoman who dedicated herself to her craft, fought for better roles, established a production company, and took charge of her destiny. Upstairs, a carefully curated selection from her personal library features over 400 books spanning literature, poetry, psychology, philosophy, and more, highlighting the curious and introspective mind behind the legend.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Art-Making and Gallery Activities
Spend your Sunday at a museum with free talks, art-making workshops, storytimes, and family gallery tours. Designed for visitors of all ages, these Sunday sessions offer a welcoming space to explore art and creativity together.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Family Day: Art Crafts at NYC's Leading Museum
This Sunday make your own paper doll inspired by the elaborate costumes used in Cantonese Opera and learn about Kuo's new performance work that draws on the 400-year-old traditions of this performance form.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Workshop | Multi-Level Community Yoga in the Park
A welcome multi-level yoga class in the park open to everyone. Bring your own mat.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Fair | Outdoor Market
Celebrate community, creativity, and summer at this vibrant street fair! There will be an array of local vendors' booths. Enjoy delicious food and a variety of fun activities.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Museums | Tiffany Glass and Other Exhibitions
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, art, and culture of its area with a permanent collection of 10,000 items. One of the exhibitions includes famous Tiffany's leaded glass objects and a valuable insight into the development of the inuctry in the US at the turn of the 20th century.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
Pay-what-you-wish, reservation required
City Walk | Walking the Flatiron District
Take a stroll through the beautiful and iconic Flatiron District. The neighborhood is home to some of the city's most notable landmarks, such as the New York Life Building, the MetLife Clocktower, and the Flatiron Building. Expect to learn all about this district and its historical tidbits as you enjoy beautiful sights.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:00 am
Free
Free
Workshop | Play the Creative Word Game Scrabble in the Park
Sit for a spell and play a game of Scrabble!
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Museums | Sunday at a Unique Art Museum
Candid, genuine, and unexpected, this is New York City's only museum dedicated to folk & self-taught artists. The Museum celebrates the creativity of individuals whose singular talents have been refined largely through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. The museum's collection includes more than seven thousand works of art from four centuries and nearly every continent--from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works by living artists in a variety of mediums. From critically acclaimed exhibitions and publications to inspiring educational programs and robust community outreach, the museum's mission is to be the leading forum shaping the understanding and appreciation of folk and self-taught art across time and place.
New York City, NY; NYC
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11:30 am
Free
Free
Workshop | An Afternoon of Community Rowing in New York Harbor
At this community rowing session, after a brief orientation, participants will be assigned to a crew with an experienced coxswain to steer the boat and a mixture of experienced and new rowers. The boats, Whitehall gigs, are stable, traditional working boats for four rowers and a coxswain. No experience is necessary and rowers of all ability levels are welcome! The rowing sessions last several hours and are designed to be excursions: groups row against the tide to a destination, take a break onshore or in a protected cove, then return home with the tide. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please complete the waiver before
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Workshop | Family Kayaking on the East River
Glide along the water this summer in an East River embayment with a kayaking session! All levels are welcome including first-time kayakers -- life vests and all equipment provided, as well as instruction. This program is specifically geared for kids and families, allowing younger paddlers to go solo in single kayaks! Kids aged 7 and older can paddle solo (as long as a guardian is present) thanks to additional on-water safety boaters from The Kayak Foundation who are specially trained to work with kids. Children under 18 must have an adult guardian present. Register for a 20-minute time slot. Please note this event is subject to change due to weather or other extenuating circumstances
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
Park Walk | Women's Walk in the Park
This group brings together women from all walks of life to bond, exercise, and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Hundreds of women of all different ages and backgrounds meet to simply go for a walk in Central Park. About 80% of the women show up alone, so feel free to give it a try! Walk locations sometimes change, so make sure to check the group's Instagram page @citygirlswhowalk stories the day before and on Sunday to confirm the meet/walk spot. You are welcome to bring your leashed dog.
New York City, NY; NYC
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12:00 pm
Free
Free
12:30 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
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1:00 pm
Regular: $25
Member: $0
Regular: $25
Member: $0
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1:00 pm
Regular: $58.50
Member: $0
Regular: $58.50
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Workshop | Kayaking in a Hudson River Cove
This event provides the equipment, instruction, and oversight you need to experience a safe and fun afternoon of kayaking on the Hudson River. The program is beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or guardian) and know how to swim. Come dressed to get wet! Lockers and locks will be provided to keep valuables dry, and on-site changing rooms will be available for use. To save time, you can also sign a waiver before arriving to save time, available at the link provided. Be sure to allow time for waiting in line when planning your visit. You may not get a chance to kayak if you arrive less than an hour before the boathouse closes.
New York City, NY; NYC
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1:00 pm
Free
Free
Screening | i was 8814 (2025): Holocaust Documentary (+ Filmmaker Discussion)
In the film i was 8814, Hanna sits down at 92 years old to personally narrate her story in breathtaking detail. She recounts the childhood experience of seeing Hitler parade through her hometown, the heartbreaking journey of discovering her parents' fate, facing the bitter truth, and turning her vengeful hatred to forgiveness. Directors: David Peters and Kathi Peters Following the screening, there will be a talkback with directors David Peters and Kathi Peters.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
donations suggested, tickets...
donations suggested, tickets...
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: $86
Member: $0
Regular: $86
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Dancing | Entire Day of Dance: Exploring the World of Street Dancing
A daylong celebration that highlights multigenerational artists and culture-makers from New York City and beyond--featuring a thrilling all-styles battle, a concert dance performance, interactive performances that showcase the elements and evolution of Hip-Hop, and an African street dance workshop for you to show off your dance moves. Guests experience the ways breaking and other street dance forms empower, inspire joy, and redefine culture. Full schedule available at the link provided. 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 for all.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Tour | Historical House of The Distinguished American President of the Early 20th Century
This historic site honors the early life of a renowned American figure. The restored brownstone reflects late 19th-century architecture and offers insights into the family's daily life. Learn about various exhibits and artifacts that showcase the cultural and historical context of the era, providing a glimpse into the formative years of this visionary leader-to-be. This guided tour is first-come, first-served. It may reach capacity before your desired tour time, so please be sure to arrive early. Tour duration: 45 minutes. This tour takes place at 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Let the Music Play in the Park: Local Jazz Artists
Berta Indeed presents a community jazz concert featuring an array of local musicians and vocalists. Seating 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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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Music Festival in the Park: Jazz, Rap, R&B, & Funk Saxophonist
This festival brings the best local talent to the stage each summer, filling the park with music and movement. Bring your friends, family, and dance moves--all ages are welcome! This performance features saxophonist Kobie Dozier, who meshes genres ranging from the roots of jazz, rap, R&B, and funk.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Classical Music | Music on the Water: "Intoxicating" Piano Trio Performs Works by Haydn, Shostakovich, & More
Horszowski Trio: Jesse Mills, violin, Ole Akohoshi, cello, and Rieko Aizawa, piano. Program: Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) Piano Trio in E Minor, Hob. XV:12 Jan Swafford (1946-) (They That Mourn), in commemoration of 9/11 Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975) Piano Trio No. 2 in E minor, op. 67
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Sea Chanteys: Singing Maritime Traditions (In Personn AND Online!)
Celebrate centuries of seafaring music in this hybrid monthly gathering. Join a joyful community singing traditional maritime work songs and ballads, whether you participate live or listen online. Each session invites everyone to sing along, lead a tune, or simply soak in the sound, keeping the rich traditions of sea chanteys alive in a warm and welcoming environment.
New York City, NY; NYC
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2:00 pm
Free
Free
Party | Roller Dance Social In a Park 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
3:00 pm
Regular: $27
Member: $0
Regular: $27
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Museums | Explore Memorial Museum and Reconnect with History
Reconnect with the feeling of community and cohesion that blanketed our city and nation in the wake of 9/11. This is a monument to human dignity, courage, and sacrifice, this museum honors the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993, recognizes the courage of those who survived, and salutes those who risked their lives to help others.
New York City, NY; NYC
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4:00 pm
Free
Free
Performance | Fruit-Themed Live-Radio Romp with Radiolab
Host Latif Nasser and guest musician Rafiq Bhatia take audiences on a journey that reveals the surprising histories, mysteries, and marvels behind our most beloved natural sugarbombs. Seating opens 30 minutes before showtime and is available on the grass or benches.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
Free
Free
Museums | Step Inside a Historic Mansion and Explore Centuries of Design Evolution
The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history, influence, and importance of design in everyday life. Housed in a historic mansion, the museum features a diverse collection of design objects, including decorative arts, architecture, graphic design, textiles, and industrial design.
New York City, NY; NYC
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5:00 pm
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
pay-what-you-wish from 5pm...
5:30 pm
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Regular: $30
Member: $0
Join the Club!
Screening | Navigators (2022): Historical Documentary
In 1919, the American government deported 249 anarchists and radicals on the “Soviet Ark,” including Emma Goldman and Alexander Berkman. Five years later, this same ship became the setting of Buster Keaton’s slapstick comedy, The Navigator. This coincidence was the starting point for this original film. Director: Noah Teichner
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Jazz | Personal Storytelling through Music with Afro-Cuban Rhythms
This jazz program features original compositions from Zahili Zamora's latest album, Overcoming, alongside carefully crafted arrangements that reflect her distinct artistic identity. Together, these works trace a journey through Afro-Cuban roots, jazz language, and personal storytelling. 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 for all.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor: Comedy in the Park
Imagining that Mistress Ford and Mistress Page have each fallen for him, the fat knight Sir John Falstaff decides to seduce them both, as much for their husbands' money as for their personal charms. Wise to the old rogue's tricks, the women turn the tables on him with a series of humiliating assignations and a very damp, extremely smelly laundry basket. Written by William Shakespeare
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | The Dancing Men: Sherlock Holmes Mystery in the Park
Hilton Cubitt seeks the help of Sherlock Holmes when he comes across a series of mysterious stick figure drawings resembling "dancing men" about his garden. These drawings are linked to his wife, Elsie Patrick, an American woman who harbors a secret past. Holmes needs to decipher these "dancing men" before tragedy strikes. Written by Susane Lee, adapted from the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Directors: Susane Lee and Nicholas Martin-Smith.
New York City, NY; NYC
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6:30 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Future-Facing Chinese Pop Groups Light Up the Park
The stage welcomes two takes on the progressive sounds of Chinese pop. The K-pop boy band NCT is so massive that it's become its own ecosystem, spinning off members into their own sub-groups that establish their own voice. WayV are the fourth such to spin off--and its first China-based collective--recording pop songs that fuse hip-hop and dance with R&B-stylized vocals sung in Mandarin since their 2019 debut EP, The Vision. They're joined by THE EITHER, formed in New York in 2017. Their sound -- Post-Orientalism -- rebuilds Eastern elements for today, blending electrified traditional instruments, Chinese opera-inspired vocals, progressive rock energy, and compositions with a strong Eastern melodic identity into a bold, future-facing performance.
New York City, NY; NYC
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7:00 pm
Free
Free
Concert | Live Acoustic Evening
Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music with Odd Shaped Swimmers.
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
Play | Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale: Tony-Winning Director's Romantic Tragicomedy
When the King of Sicilia becomes convinced his pregnant wife has been unfaithful, the royal baby is smuggled to the coast of Bohemia where an old shepherd finds her and renames her Perdita. Sixteen years later, Perdita falls in love with another young shepherd, Doricles, who turns out to be a prince in disguise. Honesty is a fool and true love the only answer in this mysterious, romantic tale of defiance and destiny. Written by William Shakespeare. Choreography by Mimi Lieber. Directed by Daniel Sullivan. Cast: Heschel Bay, Marsha Stephanie Blake, Teagle F. Bougere, Chuck Cooper, Peter Douskalis, Matthew Eby, Raúl Esparza, Isabela Ferrer, Katie Griffith, Alex Hernandez,
New York City, NY; NYC
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8:00 pm
Free
Free
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