Even though spring has just arrived, the annual SummerStage concert series has New Yorkers counting down till opening night. Celebrating the 30th anniversary, SummerStage has offered free concerts throughout all five boroughs with internationally known musicians. In honor of the milestone, this year’s series will be longer, starting on May 18th and running through October 4th, and will have over 140 performances.
Organized by the City Parks Foundation, the series focuses on paying homage to the cultural diversity that can be found in the city. “By presenting artist and genres that reflect the cultures and communities in these parks, we are building new audiences and fostering a broader interest in the arts here in New York City,” Heather Lubov, Executive Director of City Parks Foundation, said.
Throughout the years some of the artist that have graced the stages, included Jack Johnson, Florence & the Machine and The Black Keys. The series starts with the blues-rock group, Tedeschi Trucks Band, performing in Central Park. There are endless cultural celebrations that can be found from the Bronx to Staten Island, including The Metropolitan Opera Summer Recital which is a great way to see parts of a world renowned opera company for no charge.
While the list of concerts may seem hard to choose from, some of highlights include the iconic African singer-songwriter Angelique Kidjo and Brazil’s mangue-beat superstar Nacao Zumbi, who will be back after his US debut 20 years ago. There is one performer that will bring you back to the freestyle days in the boogie down Bronx, the Queen of Freestyle Judy Torres, who has had countless number ones and can be currently heard on KTU.
“SummerStage is the festival that truly celebrates New York City,” Ian Noble, Director of Arts and Cultural Programs for City Parks Foundation, said. “From the iconic to the avant garde, from opera to hip-hop, film to circus, there is no other festival like it.”
In addition to the free concerts there are 10 benefit shows, and people can purchase tickets to attend the concerts in Central Park. One of the highly anticipated concerts features alternative musician Father John Misty, who just released his album entitled “I Love You, Honeybear.” Another concert that is sure to bring a big is is music sensation Ingrid Michaelson, whose catchy tunes can be heard all over the radio including Girl Chase Boys and Afterlife. Foodies will be in heaven when they attend Smorgasburg, which brings back the iconic Brooklyn food market for one night to the park and people can try food and drinks from 25 of the best vendors. Tickets for the events vary but can be purchased online and for the complete list of concerts click here.
TwistedTalk: Have you been to one of the SummerStage concerts? Which performer was your favorite? Discuss below!
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