P.S. 122

P.S. 122, also known as Performance Space 122, is a renowned Off-Off-Broadway venue located in the East Village, Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. The space has a rich history, dating back to its origins as a Public School 122 building, which was later converted into a performance space by Ellen Stewart, founder of the La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club. Over the years, P.S. 122 has hosted a wide range of performances, including works by John Cage, Meredith Monk, and Philip Glass, as well as Dance Theater Workshop and The Kitchen productions.

● History

The history of P.S. 122 is closely tied to the development of the Off-Off-Broadway movement, which emerged in the 1960s with the establishment of venues like Cafe Cino and La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club. In the 1970s, P.S. 122 became a hub for experimental performance, hosting works by artists such as Robert Wilson, Laurie Anderson, and Spalding Gray. The space was also home to the Wooster Group, a renowned experimental theater company founded by Elizabeth LeCompte, Spalding Gray, and Willem Dafoe. Throughout its history, P.S. 122 has been supported by organizations like the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.

● Performance Space

As a performance space, P.S. 122 has played host to a diverse range of artists and companies, including Trisha Brown Dance Company, Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company, and St. Vincent. The space has also been used for music performances, featuring artists like Lou Reed, John Zorn, and Laurie Anderson. In addition to its role as a performance venue, P.S. 122 has also served as a hub for theater and dance companies, providing resources and support for artists like Anne Bogart, Tina Landau, and Eiko & Koma. The space has been recognized for its contributions to the New York City arts scene, receiving awards from organizations like the Drama Desk Awards and the Obie Awards.

● Notable Artists

P.S. 122 has been home to a wide range of notable artists, including Karen Finley, Tim Miller, and Holly Hughes, who have all been associated with the NEA Four controversy. Other notable artists who have performed at P.S. 122 include Blue Man Group, Eric Bogosian, and Ethan Hawke. The space has also hosted performances by companies like The Builders Association, Big Art Group, and Radiohole, which have all been recognized for their innovative and experimental approaches to theater and performance art. Additionally, P.S. 122 has been a platform for artists like Marina Abramovic, Carolee Schneemann, and Yvonne Rainer, who have all been influential figures in the development of performance art.

● Community Impact

The community impact of P.S. 122 has been significant, with the space serving as a hub for East Village, Manhattan residents and artists. The venue has hosted a range of community events, including benefit performances for organizations like Act Up and Gay Men's Health Crisis. P.S. 122 has also been involved in educational initiatives, partnering with institutions like New York University and The New School to provide resources and support for emerging artists. The space has been recognized for its contributions to the New York City community, receiving awards from organizations like the Village Voice and the New York City Council.

● Venue Information

P.S. 122 is located at 150 First Avenue in the East Village, Manhattan neighborhood of New York City. The venue is easily accessible by public transportation, with several New York City Subway lines and bus routes nearby. The space is also within walking distance of other notable Off-Off-Broadway venues, including La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club and The Public Theater. P.S. 122 has a seating capacity of approximately 200, making it an intimate and unique space for performances. The venue is operated by Performance Space New York, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting experimental and innovative performance in New York City. Category:Theater in New York City