Community

What community means to us

We’re todo vanguardia—and that means a radical commitment to our community.
For 50 years, we've been at the forefront of change. From fighting AIDS stigma to supporting BLM protesters, we believe in taking action.

Join us in uplifting underserved communities and creating a better NYC for all. Let's make a difference together!

Text graphic with the words 'Quantum' and 'Echos' in large, blurred teal font and smaller text reading 'BIPOC REHEARSAL SPACE ACCESS PROGRAM' logo for the "Quantum Echoes" program.

Rehearsal Space Access Program

In response to the need for inclusivity and equitable access within the theater community, and with the generous support of the New York State Council on the Arts, IATI Theater is proud to announce the launch of Quantum Echoes: BIPOC Rehearsal Space Access Program.

This program is designed to offer subsidized rehearsal space at our theater for qualifying BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) artists at a flat rate of $10 per hour. This new rehearsal space access program aims to amplify underrepresented voices and foster a more diverse and inclusive artistic landscape, supporting non-profit companies and individual performing artists.

Join the Echo!

We invite you to join us on this transformative journey.
Whether you are an emerging BIPOC artist or an industry professional, if you’re searching for a rehearsal space, we want to hear from you!

REGISTRATION FORM

  • The name Quantum Echoes evokes the power of transformation, reflection, and interconnectedness within the BIPOC community. Just as quantum physics reveals the intricate relationship between particles and their entangled states, our program seeks to create a ripple effect, amplifying the impact of marginalized voices and elevating their presence in the performing arts sphere. These Echoes symbolize the resonating effect of one's voice, carrying their story across time and space

  • Recognizing the historical inequities and limited opportunities faced by BIPOC arts organizations and artists, this program serves as a crucial step toward rectifying these disparities. Quantum Echoes is more than just a rehearsal space access program; it is a platform for artists to reclaim their narratives, explore their creativity, and unlock their full potential. Our vision is to dismantle the structural barriers that often prevent BIPOC artists from fully engaging in the creative process while fostering an environment that celebrates their diverse identities and artistic expressions.

    Through this program, we aim to strengthen the network of support for BIPOC artists and forge lasting connections. By fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity, Quantum Echoes encourages artists to create their most authentic and bold work, propelling the theater world toward a more equitable and inclusive future. Our company caters primarily to theater, performance, dance, and playwriting disciplines, enabling activities related to music, dance, dramatic arts, and musical theater.

    With this subsidized rehearsal space opportunity and a focus on BIPOC artists, IATI Theater aims to contribute to the realization of an arts community that embraces antiracism, equitable funding, and structural support. By addressing the ongoing challenges faced by BIPOC artists and organizations, this program strives to create a more inclusive and vibrant performing arts landscape while providing BIPOC artists with a level playing field that levels the opportunity gap and empowers them to freely express their stories and truths.

  • Our Studio at IATI Theater is situated in the heart of the vibrant artistic scene of NYC's East Village. Boasting hardwood flooring, 11-foot-high ceilings, and subtle natural lighting, this renovated rehearsal space spans 800 square feet and provides a haven for performing artists to hone their skills and unleash their creativity.

    To learn more about our rehearsal space, please visit our rentals page.

    Please be aware that the rehearsal studio is on the second floor and is not currently wheelchair accessible. Visit our accessibility page for more information.

  • Eligibility

    • Any individual artists, groups, and organizations are welcome to apply.

    • We consider every artist in need of affordable space to be eligible. However, we will prioritize access to BIPOC communities in recognition of historic inequality and systemic racism.

    • Artists must use the space to rehearse theater, music, dance, or playwriting disciplines.

    We highly encourage early registration due to high demand and limited space availability.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Quantum Echoes is a subsidized rehearsal space access program.

    • Registration: To access this program, registration is mandatory. Please fill out the form below and wait for a staff member to contact you shortly.

    • Cost: Applying is free, and participants will pay $10 per hour of rehearsal time.

    • Payment: Once approved, payment will be required to participate in the program. Our staff will coordinate billing. Just a little heads up - this program is separate from our regular rentals, so please don't use our online rentals system to book space for Quantum Echoes.

    • Refunds: This program is considered a grant/subsidy, and we can't offer refunds.

    • Rescheduling: Rehearsal times are final. There are no rescheduling or cancelations once participants accept the final rehearsal times offered by IATI Theater.

    • Booking: Applicants must submit the form at least 72h before their desired rehearsal time. Please check the current availability of our space here.
      Availability is subject to change. Our coordinators will assign the next available time slot if your time slot is unavailable.

    Questions? Compliments? Please email us at community@iatitheater.org with the subject Quantum Echoes, and one of our program coordinators will get back to you shortly!

Studio Availability

A logo with the outline of the state of New York on the left, and the text "NEW YORK STATE OF OPPORTUNITY" in the center, followed by a vertical line, and "Council on the Arts" on the right.

Sponsored by

Street Milongas

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of tango at our open-air milongas. Bringing the spirit of Rio de la Plata all the way to E 4th St, we invite you to experience the allure of this quintessential Latin dance and learn its basic moves. Whether you're a seasoned tanguero or taking your first steps. Let the rhythm guide your feet as skilled instructors unlock the elegance and grace within you. Tango awaits – come and be swept away!

People dancing in a street outside a theater with a colorful mural in the background. Several women are wearing colorful dresses, and a man is wearing a patterned jacket. A sign advertises a tango performance and live music at a nearby venue.
Couples dancing outside on a street with trees and brick buildings, some wearing face masks.
A jazz band performing outdoors on a city sidewalk with a colorful mural in the background. The band members include a vibraphone player, a violinist, a double bassist, and a keyboard player. There are speakers and a microphone stand on stage.
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Children’s Theater

We bring inspiring children’s shows directly to schools across New York City through our touring program. Educators can book a performance for their school, making it easy for students to experience live theater without leaving campus. We also offer special group discounts for teachers who wish to bring their class to our theater, making a field trip to IATI both affordable and memorable.

Contact us to inquire about organizing a Children’s show at your school or bringing a group to see one of our shows.

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Performer in a colorful, ornate headdress with orange feathers, holding a wooden stick on stage against a blue background.

Senior Classes

Our senior classes are presented at public libraries and community centers all around the city, creating welcoming spaces for seniors to explore the arts and connect through creative workshops. These programs are designed for accessibility and enrichment, offering lifelong learning and joyful community engagement at convenient locations close to home.

An elderly man and woman dancing together in a festive indoor setting.
A group of people dancing indoors, some smiling and others focused, with colorful decorations hanging from the ceiling.