LMCC X The Center Presents Nic Kay Performance

lil BLK invites you into a deeply personal exploration of Black and queer identity through the lens of NIC Kay’s lived experiences. This live experimental solo performance delves into moments of pain, loss, and the quest for healing. Set against the backdrop of a twenty-year shift in public attitude toward the LGBTQ community, everchanging queer cultures, and the evolving and reimagined landscape of the dancefloor–NIC Kay’s narrative unfolds with raw honesty and vulnerability, inviting reflection and connection with the audience. Prepare to be immersed in a journey that is equal parts intimate, thought-provoking, and deeply human.

Embark on a journey with lil BLK’24! This River to River presentation of NIC Kay’s first solo work will be a reimagined version of lil BLK, which debuted at Links Hall in Chicago in 2015. Trace lil BLK’s path from the prestigious 2018 American Realness Festival at Abrons Arts Center, New York, to its feature in the OTV’s (opentv) Bronx Cunt Tour, and captivating performances at AfroPunk Atlanta 2016, Creating Change Conference 2016, Buddies in Bad Times, Dixon Place, and beyond. Engage with the captivating narrative using #lilBLK.

Presented in partnership with The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center (The Center) and The Monster Bar.

NIC Kay is part of LMCC’s Extended Life Dance Development Program supported, in part, by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. NIC Kay is presented as part of the 2024 River to River Festival, with the support of Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels. Profoundly attached to the world of dance since its origins, the High Jewelry Maison strengthens its commitment with Dance Reflections by Van Cleef & Arpels.

Guided by the values of creation, transmission, and education, this initiative aims to support artists and institutions in presenting choreographic heritage, while also promoting new productions.

NIC Kay is a performer, dancer, conceptual choreographer, and all-around artist who uses creative movement, performing arts history, and performance art theory to explore relationality and yearning. Their work has been presented Nationally and Internationally. They are currently an Artist-in-Residence at the Stone Quarry Art Hill Park in Cazenovia, New York.

INFO ABOUT RIVER TO RIVER

Lower Manhattan Cultural Council presents the 23rd annual River To River Festival, Downtown New York City’s leading free summer arts festival from June 7-23, 2024! This year’s River To River Festival aligns with LMCC’s 50th anniversary celebrations. In honor of this milestone, the 2024 festival features LMCC residency and grants alumni from the Extended Life program working across disciplines, with a captivating array of dance, music, video, installation, and exhibitions that reflects the interdisciplinary, diverse ethos of LMCC.

Featuring 13 projects of live art, performances, and participatory events in public spaces throughout Downtown New York, the 2024 River To River Festival explores themes of resonance, reconsideration, and resistance.

All events are free and open to all. Reservations are requested for some performances and events with limited capacity.