Spike Lee’s Dynamic Brooklyn Block Party
One event that stands out for fun seekers this weekend is Spike Lee’s celebratory Brooklyn block party. The renowned and Oscar-winning director who is known for organizing lively outdoor functions in memory of music legends like Michael Jackson and Prince will be marking the 45th anniversary of his important movie. The ‘Do The Right Thing’ Block Party will carry on into the evening at Stuyvesant Ave, Brooklyn, on June 30. The event symbolizes the spirit of Brooklyn, and entry is free.
Shakespeare in the Park Gets a Twist
Prospect Park serves as the venue for this year’s ‘GO PUBLIC! A Festival of Free Shakespeare in the Park’ event. The Public Theater Mobile Unit is set to entertain the crowd with a bilingual rendition of ‘The Comedy of Errors.’ The Latin American influenced adaptation is the brainchild of director Rebecca Martinez and musician Julian Mesri. Guests can look forward to live music, food trucks and family-friendly activities that lead up to a sunset screening of Shakespeare’s ‘Much Ado About Nothing.’
Alex Newell Sings the Gospel of a Diva
Fans of the performing arts can enjoy ‘Alex Newell and the Gospel of a Diva’ at the Minetta Lane Theatre in Manhattan. The Tony-award winner is known for his performances in ‘Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’ and ‘Chicken & Biscuits.’ In his latest show, the ‘Glee’ sensation will entertain attendees with personal stories and choice tunes. Tickets for the show, which runs through June 29, start at $45.
The Queer Butoh Dance Performance
The Queer Butoh performances by the Vangeline Theater and The Brick Theater are on until June 29. Incorporating the post World War II Japanese dance style along with neuroscience, the show primarily uses waves to portray female grace. Tickets for the performance available at The Brick, Brooklyn, start from $20.
Homage to Paul Robeson
Davóne Tines presents a new theatrical production focused on the life of Paul Robeson – a pioneer who was the first African-American to play Othello on Broadway. Tickets cost $25 for the production, ‘ROBESOИ,’ at Little Island in Hudson River Park in Manhattan.
A Little Night Music Concert by Stephen Sondheim
Musical lovers can head over to the David Geffen Hall for ‘A Little Night Music In Concert,’ featuring Stephen Sondheim’s remarkable works. Performances by Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Award winner Cynthia Erivo, Susan Graham, Marsha Mason and more are sure to captivate the audience. Tickets for these evenings of unparalleled musical prowess start at $99.
Movies Under the Stars: ‘The Little Mermaid’
A screening of ‘The Little Mermaid,’ Disney’s 2023 live-action remake, is scheduled for June 28 at Lemon Creek Park, Staten Island. Halle Bailey stars as Ariel in Rob Marshall’s blockbuster hit which pulled in a global gross revenue of over $550 million.
Every weekend holds endless possibilities in New York City. But, these lively and free or low-cost events that encompass theater, music, film, and dance stand out for their variety and cultural significance. Save the dates, grab tickets if necessary, and get ready for a vibrant weekend treat. Don’t forget, if you have an event in the pipeline and want to get the word out, reach out to us at nycevents@nydailynews.com. Please note that reaching out doesn’t guarantee inclusion, but we’d love to hear from you nonetheless.