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New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

Performing Arts

The Ambassador Theater is located at 219 W. 49th St. Starting April 2, 2021, entertainment and arts venues that hold less than 10,000 people will open at 33% capacity, allowing select Broadway theaters to open their doors next month. (Photo by Sheridan Smith)

Bringing back Broadway

Exploring what the reopening of Broadway means for fans of theater in New York City.
Maya Mehrara, Staff Writer March 24, 2021

After more than a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, the spotlight at the end of the tunnel is finally visible. Yet, the spotlights in theaters across New York have...

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many NYU actors are completing their semester at home. NYU actors outside of the U.S. have found ways to adapt and stay positive, despite the lack of on-screen and on-stage productions. (Staff Illustration by Manasa Gudavalli)

NYU actors living abroad: the show must go on

On a wing and a prayer, NYU actors outside of the U.S. have found ways to stay positive.
Jennifer Ren, Performing Arts Editor March 15, 2021

Seren Jang was about to finish her first year in Tisch Drama at the Meisner Studio when COVID-19 moved her class to Zoom.  Jang flew back home to New Zealand. Due to the lack...

Amidst everyone’s transition to remote learning, Tisch’s drama students have not had an easy time. Students discuss the change in their class routines and the advantages and disadvantages of online learning. (Staff Illustration by Alexandra Chan)

Two Tisch Drama Students Find Silver Linings in Remote Learning

While the shift to online classes has led to unprecedented adjustments in curricula, two acting students have found that there can be advantages to online learning.
Dani Herrera, Staff Writer May 5, 2020

In a typical week, drama students in Tisch manage two days of classes and three days of studio work. Though studio days vary, they are generally a mix of singing, dancing, acting...

The Gallatin Theatre Troupe will present their new production “Uncharted: A Virtual Musical Theatre Cabaret” over Zoom. The show features original work and the team hopes to bring their art to a larger audience. (Illustration by Josh Finkel)

Gallatin Theatre Troupe Presents: ‘Uncharted: A Virtual Individualized Musical Theatre Cabaret’

NYU musicians, directors, producers and performers are using Zoom to keep an annual musical tradition alive.
Dani Herrera, Staff Writer April 28, 2020

If there’s one thing that any theater group knows, it’s that the show must go on. Though familiar to most, those words are representative of the determination that Gallatin...

Humor is one way to cope with this lockdown at home. NYU’s comedy groups Free Beer and Hammerkatz discuss changes to their content and methods of distribution since the pandemic. (Staff Illustration by Alexandra Chan)

How NYU’s Comedy Scene is Finding Ways to Laugh

NYU sketch groups “Free Beer” and “Hammerkatz” discuss their future plans and the role of humor in a time of global crisis.
Dani Herrera, Staff Writer April 21, 2020

They say laughter is the best medicine, and lately it seems like everyone has gotten the memo. People all over the world are turning to social media platforms to share all types...

Netflix comedy specials are one way to laugh and pass time with ease. Here are some recommendations for your enjoyment. (Staff Illustration by Alexandra Chan)

Six Comedy Specials to Watch While Social Distancing

If you’re going stir-crazy, here are six Netflix Comedy specials guaranteed to make anyone laugh.
Liv Rocklin, Contributing Writer April 14, 2020

20 days ago, I was on an airplane from Paris to Chicago, a result of COVID-19 cutting my four-month study abroad down to six weeks. This is the same story as most college students...

“Outside The Box” was choreographed by Garet Wierdsma to “Little Boxes” by Malvina Reynolds and original composition by Zilu Chen, performed by Tisch dancers at the Jack Crystal Theater before spring break. With remote instruction comes the challenges of online dance classes as Tisch dancers share their experiences. (Staff Photo by Alexandra Chan)

Dancing Through Distress: Tisch Dancers on Remote Learning

Three Tisch dance students share their experiences with online dance instruction.
Rachel Lee, Staff Illustrator April 13, 2020

Since the university announced that the rest of the semester would be happening remotely due to the COVID-19 outbreak, NYU students have been adapting to new routines to enable...

Dave Malloy posted a video of his original production “Ghost Quartet” on YouTube for all to enjoy during this time period. Featuring a five-part harmony and accompanied by a harp, cello, piano and violin, the characters tell their life stories in a musical song cycle. (Staff Photo by Alexandra Chan)

‘Ghost Quartet’ Is in All of Us

Dave Malloy’s “Ghost Quartet” is just the gift the world needs during this time of reflection.
Hope Cassandra, Contributing Writer April 7, 2020

In what seems to be a swanky, hole-in-the-wall lounge at the McKittrick Hotel, lit only by the candles on each table, a voice rises up from the shadows. With no pause, he launches...

While their main stage on Astor Place is closed, the Public Theater is making sure their audiences have access to thespian art through monthly podcasts. Each episode ranges from 24-45 minutes and features different individuals working with the theater and revolves around a different topic. (Photo by Taylor Williams)

The Public Theater Talks Show Business and Social Issues

The Public Theater’s “Public Square” podcast highlights artists and professionals as they share their experiences with The Public and discuss important issues affecting the arts community.
Dani Herrera, Staff Writer April 6, 2020

Remember the days when you could go out and enjoy live theatrical performances? From classic Broadway shows and funny off-Broadway shows in Midtown to experimental acts on local...

Playwright Terrence McNally has recently passed away due to complications from COVID-19. His award-winning work such as “Ragtime” should be celebrated and remembered, as his writing is still relevant today. (Staff Illustration by Alexandra Chan)

Terrence McNally’s Writing Must Live On

As we say a final farewell to Terrence McNally, we must not forget his writing in “Ragtime” and how relevant its vital message remains today.
Sasha Cohen, Performing Arts Editor March 31, 2020

When I learned Terrence McNally recently died of COVID-19 complications at 81 years old, my body went numb. McNally was one of Broadway’s most talented playwrights, writing...

There are many streaming services available on different platforms that are accessible to people staying home. The performing arts could be enjoyed digitally from home, and that should be taken advantage of during this time. (Staff Photo by Alexandra Chan)

The Pros and Cons of Streaming Performance

As streaming services for plays, dance and other performing arts continue to surface, people must evaluate the pros and cons behind watching performance online.
Sasha Cohen, Performing Arts Editor March 24, 2020

As people wait to be admitted into a theater, nothing builds anticipation more than colorful Playbills, anxious audience members and bright flashing lights boasting a show’s...

The Richard Rodgers Theater on Broadway hosts the award-winning musical Hamilton created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Since a Broadway usher has reported testing positive for COVID-19, Broadway is now shutting down.(Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Coronavirus Closes the Curtains on Broadway

New York restricts gatherings that consist of 500 people or more, which is forcing Broadway to go dark for a month.
Sasha Cohen, Performing Arts Editor March 13, 2020

The Great White Way is going dark for the first time in 19 years since 9/11. From March 12 through April 12, Broadway will be closed as New York attempts to prevent more coronavirus...