In a vibrant and colorful atmosphere, where the heartbeat of the city merges with the arts, stories are read aloud under the glowing dome of David Geffen Hall, enchanting an audience of children and families. With expressive and engaging voices, the young readers bring to life the pages of illustrated books like Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills, shedding light on the stories of legendary yet often forgotten figures from the Harlem Renaissance.
The reading is part of a series curated by the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, which this summer celebrates its 60th anniversary and plays an integral role in the “Summer for the City” festival, a major cultural event at Lincoln Center that, since its launch in 2022, has welcomed over one million visitors.
Amid concerts, interactive performances, and creative workshops, the program offers hundreds of free and ticketed events through August 9. Among the most popular initiatives are the return of the iconic silent discos, open-air concerts in Damrosch Park, and dance evenings beneath the giant disco ball at Josie Robertson Plaza, scenographically transformed by visual director Clint Ramos.
Shanta Thake, chief artistic officer of Lincoln Center, emphasized the importance of inclusion and diversity in the event. She explained that the goal is to reflect the many faces of New York City by bringing to the stage stories, sounds, and languages that represent the richness of its communities. She also described the center as “an urban miracle,” where eleven artistic organizations share a single space and, during the summer season, create a true city of culture.
For those wishing to explore this universe of music, art, and words, a visit can be planned at lincolncenter.org.
