use programming

USE believes that everyone deserves to feel valued, seen, and heard in their respective artistic communities.

Development Labs

Annual process that provides paid opportunities for a small ensemble and a devising facilitator to devise an original performance piece informed by a relevant and creative prompt.

Speak art series

SPEAK through your ART!

Our annual mainstage performance. This project empowers multidisciplinary artists to craft a new theatrical piece merging music, movement, and text. Artists use improvisation and experimental techniques to explore a culturally relevant theme and develop a piece reflective of their collective vision. This platform amplifies voices traditionally marginalized in professional arts spaces, fostering authentic narratives that provoke societal reflection and action. Together with mission-aligned community partners, Speak ART sparks dialogue and ignites change through the transformative power of newly devised theatre.

Evenings of Sharing

Evenings of Sharing are USE's version of open mic nights! These events provide recurring opportunities for community members to perform and share their work year-round. Each event is designed to create a connection between everyone in the room, breaking down the barriers between performers and observers, and between USE participants and donors/supporters. These identities are not mutually exclusive as everyone plays a crucial part in the artistic process. Evenings of Sharing also provides opportunities for community building and are great entry points for new and prospective community members. If you have a comedy set you’ve been crafting, an excerpt from a one-person show you want to test, or just want to come share a song, this is your space!

“grow your skillsets with use” Educational workshops

Guest artists from various artistic backgrounds design and lead free workshops where NY artists can safely enrich their artistic and practical skill sets. Past workshops have included Theatre Devising 101, TV Pilot Writing, Playwriting and Tax Prep and Financial Planning for Performers.