NOT JUST JAZZ (1998 - 2009)
Tracing the roots of jazz and suggesting directions for its future, this highly acclaimed series is an exciting blend of jazz, blues, prose, poetry, film and dance. From ethnic explorations to radical swing, from beat poetry to dance influences, Not Just Jazz does it all.
Since its inception in 1988, Town Hall has presented such legendary acts as Cassandra Wilson, Max Roach, Cecil Taylor, Allen Ginsberg, Don Cherry Quartet, David Amram, Bill Cosby, Lionel Hampton, Art Ensemble of Chicago, The Lounge Lizards, Steve Reich, Robert Lockwood, Paquito d’Rivera, Meredith Monk, Tito Puente, Mose Allison, Fred Hersch, Bill Irwin, Richard Move, The Persuasions and The Conga Kings.
What the Critics Said …
Past Seasons
SUNDAY AFTERNOON OPERA SERIES (1999- 2002)
What began as a series focusing on traditional European operas evolved into a forum for South American and Latin flavored works. When we began our collaboration with Uruguayan maestro Pablo Zinger in 1999, we enjoyed continued success with our Latin classical opera series. Mr. Zinger - a renowned expert on the subject - conducted, directed and accompanied all of our zarzuelas and operitas. Productions included Cecilia Valdes, Maria La O, Maria de Buenos Aires, Pueblo Joven and El Barberillo de Lavapies, all of which received large audiences and critical acclaim from several of the city's major publications. Most of these were New York City or American premieres.
Recognizing the need for these types of performances, Town Hall became a "home for the zarzuela". We were breathing life into smaller Latin works that otherwise would not have the kind of exposure they deserve. We are virtually the only institution in New York City that was presenting a series of this kind on an annual basis.
WORLD MUSIC AND DANCE (1998-2004)
There are as many styles of music and dance as there are lands, cultures and people. This series, begun in 1998, offered audiences a musical travelogue, exploring music, dance and heritage from various points on the globe. They were able to discover the roots of indigenous music, learn the meanings of songs passed down through generations, understand ethnic rituals and life celebrations, and watch how a dance tells a story. From sensual belly-dancing to the passions of Tango, from vigorous step-dances to the rhythms of tap, this series had something for everyone.
What began as a series focusing on traditional European operas evolved into a forum for South American and Latin flavored works. When we began our collaboration with Uruguayan maestro Pablo Zinger in 1999, we enjoyed continued success with our Latin classical opera series. Mr. Zinger - a renowned expert on the subject - conducted, directed and accompanied all of our zarzuelas and operitas. Productions included Cecilia Valdes, Maria La O, Maria de Buenos Aires, Pueblo Joven and El Barberillo de Lavapies, all of which received large audiences and critical acclaim from several of the city's major publications. Most of these were New York City or American premieres.
Recognizing the need for these types of performances, Town Hall became a "home for the zarzuela". We were breathing life into smaller Latin works that otherwise would not have the kind of exposure they deserve. We are virtually the only institution in New York City that was presenting a series of this kind on an annual basis.