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Brooklyn Artists Get Free Outdoor Rehearsal Space With New Residency Program

Downtown Brooklyn Partnership has announced a new initiative allowing artists to use 300 Ashland Plaza for outdoor rehearsals
300-ashland, BK Reader
The Plaza at 300 Ashland. Photo credit: Downtown Brooklyn

Brooklyn artists and arts organizations are being offered the chance to rehearse for free outdoors through a new residency program in Downtown Brooklyn.

Today, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership (DBP) announced the new artist residency initiative in response to the COVID-19 crisis, developed to address the devastating impacts the pandemic has had across the city's cultural landscape.

DBP is asking for proposals from artists and arts organizations for the program starting in September, which will give artists 15,000 square feet of space.

DBP President Regina Myer said as many artists struggled to continue working during the pandemic, the organization was searching for innovative ways to support the businesses, organizations and cultural institutions that made the neighborhood vibrant.

"The Downtown Brooklyn Rehearsal Residency Initiative will provide opportunities for artists to rehearse safely outdoors and help restore the exciting activity that the Brooklyn Cultural District is known for," she said.

Kate Gavriel, director of cultural affairs for ?Two Trees Management Co., said her team was committed to giving artists safe and affordable spaces to work, collaborate and create.

"In a time of such uncertainty, artists are eager to get back to work, to interrogate, process and respond to our current moment."

The Plaza at 300 Ashland holds over 50 cultural events annually, programmed by DBP, aimed at enlivening the neighborhood and showcasing the diverse array of talent and cultural institutions based in the Brooklyn Cultural District. Because of COVID-19, usual events and programs have been stalled, so the organizations have come together to continue their support for the arts.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, with the first round of resident artists selected in September. Program participants will have access to the Plaza at 300 Ashland up to three times per week for rehearsals up to three hours in length, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.  Preference will be given to Brooklyn-based artists




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