New York is the city that never sleeps, and with so many events and activities each week across all five boroughs, it can be hard to know what’s actually worthwhile. Here are the events New York City actors should have on their radars this week.
March with (gay) pride.
At a time when equal rights are, unfortunately, under siege, it has never been more necessary for the LGBTQ community and its allies to stand strong. New York City’s Gay Pride March will strut the streets of Manhattan on June 25, beginning at 36th St. and Fifth Ave., and traveling southbound until it reaches Christopher St. in the historic Greenwich Village. Be loud; be proud. (And keep in mind surrounding bars in the area very often have drink specials to honor the momentous event!) (Free)
Savor Sondheim without bells 'n whistles.
Returning to Feinstein’s/54 Below for its seventh installment on June 25, “Sondheim Unplugged” will once again deliver selections from the songbook of one of the American theater’s greatest composers, Stephen Sondheim. Featuring cast members from original Broadway productions of “Into the Woods” and “Sweeney Todd,” this is a can’t-miss event for anyone who’s ever worshiped at the House of Sondheim. (Tickets: $35–$70)
Ben Platt will induct the next generation of Broadway stars.
Fresh off his 2017 Tony win, Ben Platt (a young actor, himself) will host the 2017 Jimmy Awards on June 26, celebrating theater arts education in schools. The event, now in its ninth year, will see 74 high school students from regional theater programs all across the country compete for Best Performance by an Actor and Actress, and will be held at Broadway’s Minskoff Theatre. (Tickets: $35–$95)
Summer swing your way to Lincoln Center.
“Midsummer Night Swing” kicks off on June 27, just in time to help you let loose on these warm summer nights. Ongoing through July 15, the three-week festival is held outdoors at Lincoln Center’s Damrosch Park, and features a different band (and corresponding musical style) each night, while attendees receive dance instruction from on-hand pros. Whether you want to get down to traditional swing, ballroom, Latin, or something else, there will be a designated night for you. (Tickets start at $17/dance)
Knock back one, two, or 10, at Beer Fest.
There are worse ways to spend a Saturday than sipping on dozens of fine ales. NYC Craft Beer Fest, the three-day brew-palooza at the Seaport, kicks off on June 23 and will feature 150 seasonal offerings of drink from 75 vendors. And don’t fret: there will also be plentiful solid options to ensure you stay grounded, including perfectly accompanying empanadas from Dos Toros. (Tickets: $45–$85)
Ready to get in on the action? Check out our New York City audition listings!