Over the last 4 decades, Performance Space New York (formerly Performance Space 122) has been propelling cultural, theoretical, and political discourse forward. Founded in 1980, Performance Space became a haven for many queer and radical voices shut out by a repressive, monocultural mainstream and conservative government whose neglect exacerbated the emerging AIDS epidemic’s devastation. Carrying forward the multitudinous visions of these artists who wielded the political momentum of self-expression amidst the intensifying American culture wars, Performance Space is one of the birthplaces of contemporary performance as it is known today. Together with our artists and communities, we have been presenting interdisciplinary works that dissolve the borders of performance art, dance, theater, music, visual art, poetry and prose, ritual, nightlife, food, film, and technology. We are committed to centering those who have been historically excluded from spaces like ours.
Join us this Spring as artists delve into the vestiges of our shared history and craft an innovative vision for the future, guiding audiences through non-linear and queer temporal experiences through song, dance, and visionary forms of performance.
Check out the full line-up!
Join us as we embrace the powers of intersecting networks, cross-pollination, and the fruitful contaminations that coalesce from our commingling biomes. More
Writers give us an intimate insight into their work-in-progress, long before publication or performances.
A guest-curated program that creates space for the exploration of ideas free from expectations. More
Luminaries talk about complex ideas with kids. More
A space for community members to meet, rest, and work. More