A Lot to Do in Lincoln Square

After the recent slew of holidays—Lunar New Year, Valentine's Day, President's Day, etc.—it may feel as though there's a sudden lull in activity. Look a bit closer, though, and you'll find plenty to see and do in Lincoln Square over the next few weeks. 

First, Kaufman Music Center (129 W 67th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave) hosts almost daily concerts (find the full calendar of events here). On Saturday, February 24, attend a performance by the winners of the Camerata Artists International Competition (tickets available here). The following day, a concert on Transient Voices will delve into how music can grab something, even as it slips away. Then, on March 1, join the Center for one of its Kantuta Concerts. Bolivian pianist Sergio Escalera Soria will perform Western European classics alongside compositions that highlight the rich tapestry of Latin American piano sonorities. 

Meanwhile, consider having a Rendez-Vous with French Cinema at Film at Lincoln Center (festival showings will take place at the Walter Reade Theater located at 165 W 65 Street on the upper level). The 2024 lineup for this annual festival will showcase 21 of the very best films in contemporary French cinema from February 29 through March 10 (explore the full list of films online). The Opening Night selection, The Animal Kingdom, is a French box office hit and science fiction adventure film nominated for 12 César Awards. The movie is about a mysterious infection that selectively mutates humans into animal hybrids. While the 6:00pm showing on February 29 is already Standby Only, you can still purchase tickets for the 9:00pm showing online. Earlier in the day, enjoy a free talk with the film’s director, Thomas Cailley, and French-American director, Sophie Barthes, about the filmmakers’ experiments with genre and political examination. The event starts at 4:30pm, but head to the box office at the Elinor Bunim Munroe Film Center (144 West 65th Street) early to reserve your seats - tickets will be available beginning at 3:30pm on a first-come, first-served basis, and lines may form in advance. 

The NYC premiere of Théâtre de la Dame de Coeur's Acupunk, presented by Lincoln Center, will also begin on February 29. Come and witness giant puppets, Eria and Terrenis, metaphorically explore the theme of earth’s healing through acupuncture on Josie Robertson Plaza. The poetic parade performances incorporate projections, multimedia, and LED lighting at 7:15pm and 9:00pm on February 29, March 1, and March 2. Tickets are not required for this innovative and vibrant event – just show up!

From March 1 through 14, Lincoln Center’s Hearst Plaza will be home to a new installation as part of The Social Sculpture Project. Ebony M. Burton's Ultramarine will reflect issues surrounding ownership of color. The installation’s abstract figures, as well as a soundscape by composer Jeff Aaron Bryant, will explore value and accessibility by contemplating the color ultramarine, which was reserved for painting regal and religious figures in the Middle Ages. Stop by all day to view the installation – no tickets required.

Jazz at Lincoln Center will also kick March off with a bang as it welcomes six-time Grammy Award winner, Oscar nominee, trumpeter, and film and opera composer Terence Blanchard back to the Rose Theater (Broadway at 60th Street) for a highly anticipated Career Retrospective in Jazz. On March 1 and March 2 at 8:00pm, the 2024 NEA Jazz Master will perform alongside many special guests, including Benny Green, Christian McBride, Turtle Island Quartet, and Ben Wendel. You can even keep the party going after the show by taking your ticket stub to Dizzy's Club for a complimentary cover to that evening's Late Night Session at 11:15pm. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance for this event. 

For another unique classical experience, reserve tickets to one of the Jupiter Symphony's Baroque Bliss concerts on Monday, March 4 (2:00pm and 7:30pm). The Symphony, which performs each Monday with a new theme, showcases some of the City's most talented musicians in an intimate setting. To order tickets, call 212-799-1259, then get ready for an incredible concert at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church (152 W 66th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave). 

From French films to puppets, Lincoln Square’s cultural offerings are always changing. Be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming events, or continue to check our Events Calendar for even more events and activities as we transition to spring!

Photo: Théâtre de la Dame de Coeur's Acupunk