Our Core Values compel us to inspire deeper understanding, welcome learning and growth, celebrate community and live our values.
Through our For The Culture Series, we seek to bridge the gap between the world we know and the world we’re actively striving to build—where we harness the power of theatre to deepen human connections by learning and growing from the lived experiences of each other; connect through art, shared customs, traditions and heritage(s); and where we amplify artists and work by traditionally underrepresented groups or individuals, creating access to the Workshop for historically marginalized communities in order to build and sustain authentic relationships with our fellow community members and theatergoers.
For the Culture: LIGHTS OUT: NAT "KING" COLE
MAY 4: Nat “King” Cole NightSunday, May 4 @ 8:30PM
New York Theatre Workshop – 3rd Floor Rehearsal Room
Register here
Join us after the evening performance for an intimate and sophisticated piano bar at New York Theatre Workshop. We’re transforming our third-floor rehearsal room into a cozy, cabaret-inspired space where you can unwind with live piano music, light bites, and great company. Whether you’re in the mood to mingle or simply soak in the atmosphere, this post-show hangout is the perfect way to end your night on a high note.
The event is co-sponsored by Black Theatre Tribe.
Please note that the 3rd Floor Rehearsal Room is accessed by climbing three flights of stairs. Unfortunately, the building is not equipped with an elevator.
Wednesday, May 7 @ 8:30 PM
New York Theatre Workshop
Join us for a special post-show panel featuring Dr. Joyce F. Brown, President of the Fashion Institute of Technology, in conversation with members of the Lights Out creative team. Together, they’ll explore the shared themes of the production and the work of FIT’s Social Justice Center (SJC)—a bold initiative dedicated to building pathways for BIPOC students and professionals in fashion, design, and the arts.
Thursday, May 8 @ 8:30 PM
New York Theatre Workshop – Fourth St Theatre
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Join us for Black Theatre Night at New York Theatre Workshop! Following the performance, celebrate the legacy of Nat “King” Cole and the brilliance of Black artistry with an unforgettable post-show gathering featuring music, dancing, and community vibes. Come ready to reflect, connect, and move—because the night doesn’t end when the curtain comes down!
The event is co-sponsored by Black Theatre Tribe.
This event will be held in the Fourth Street Theatre which is accessed by climbing eight steps from street level. Unfortunately, the building is not equipped with an elevator.
Monday, May 12 @ 5:30-7 PM
New York Theatre Workshop – Fourth St Theatre
Register here
Join Lights Out costume designer Katie O’Neill for a 90-minute masterclass at NYTW exploring how costume design can bring history, character, and Nat “King” Cole’s music to life onstage. O’Neill will walk participants through her research and creative process, sharing how dramaturgy, cultural specificity, and design intersect in her work. From fabric choices to historical references, discover how costume becomes a powerful storytelling tool in Lights Out. Ideal for artists and audiences interested in the deeper layers of theatrical design.
This event will be held in the Fourth Street Theatre which is accessed by climbing eight steps from street level. Unfortunately, the building is not equipped with an elevator.
Wednesday, May 14 @ 8:30 PM
Join us for an illuminating AfterWords conversation with members of the Lights Out cast. In this intimate panel, members of the cast offer behind-the-scenes insights into their creative process, the artistry they bring to the stage, and the personal stories that shape their work. This conversation is a celebration of Black women in theatre and the radical power of storytelling. Moderated by Kaisha Huguley of Kaisha Creates.
Wednesday, May 21 – Pre-Show
The Gray Mare (61 2nd Ave)
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Pull up and connect! Join us for a relaxed pre-show mixer designed for young Black professionals working across all corners of the arts—whether you’re backstage, onstage, behind the scenes, building the future, or not in theatre at all. Come vibe with fellow creatives, make new connections, and build community before we head in to watch Lights Out. Let’s gather, uplift, and celebrate each other.
The event is co-sponsored by Black Theatre Tribe & RISE Theatre.
Wednesday, May 28 @ 8:30 PM
Join us for a powerful post-show conversation led by Black Theatre Tribe, as they record a live episode of their brand-new podcast, “Going Off Script,” exploring the state—and future—of Black theatre in the U.S. This talkback will feature members of the Lights Out team, diving deep into the themes of the production while unpacking the challenges, triumphs, and visionary possibilities for Black theatre professionals today. Expect an honest dialogue rooted in joy, strategy, and bold dreaming. Come witness the making of history—and the envisioning of what’s next.
🗓️ Stay after the show and be part of the conversation.
Wednesday, June 4 @ 8:30 PM
Join us for an informal “book club” style discussion with fellow audience members, facilitated by an NYTW staff member.
Wednesday, June 11 @ 8:30 PM
Join us for an informal “book club” style discussion with fellow audience members, facilitated by an NYTW staff member.
Monday, June 16 @ 5:30-7 PM
New York Theatre Workshop – Fourth St Theatre
Register here
Join Tony Award-winning wig designer and actress Nikiya Mathis for an intimate masterclass exploring the intersection of theatrical storytelling, personal identity, and hair design. In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Nikiya will share her process for designing wigs that reflect character, culture, and narrative — particularly centering the beauty and complexity of textured hair on stage.
This special event will also offer a glimpse into Nikiya’s next chapter as she launches a new venture aimed at helping performers curate their wig wardrobes for auditions, red carpets, and everyday performance life. Attendees will leave with insight into the artistry behind wig design as well as tools for advocating for their hair needs in professional settings.
Whether you’re a performer, designer, student, or theater lover, this is a chance to learn from one of the leading voices shaping how Black beauty shows up on the stage and screen.
This event will be held in the Fourth Street Theatre which is accessed by climbing eight steps from street level. Unfortunately, the building is not equipped with an elevator.
Tuesday, June 17 @ 8:30 PM
Join us for a dynamic AfterWords conversation exploring the role of dance in Lights Out: Nat “King” Cole. Featuring members of the cast, this talkback delves into how movement becomes a vessel for Black storytelling, evoking cultural memory, and honoring Nat’s musical legacy. Together, we’ll reflect on how dance continues to be a form of resistance, resilience, and liberation.
Tuesday, June 17 @ 9:00 PM
Join us for Black Theatre Night at New York Theatre Workshop! Following the performance, celebrate the legacy of Nat “King” Cole and the brilliance of Black artistry with an unforgettable post-show gathering featuring music, dancing, and community vibes. Come ready to reflect, connect, and move—because the night doesn’t end when the curtain comes down!
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