Downtown Alliance kicks off free lunchtime concert series at Oculus Plaza next week
Every Wednesday at noon through July 9, a new act will take over either the World Trade Center's North Oculus Plaza or 140 Broadway, bringing everything from salsa to soul, swing to funk. The series, programmed by acclaimed jazz vocalist and producer Svetlana Shmulyian, blends live music with professional dance performances—think tap, cha-cha-cha and modern jazz, all unfolding in the middle of the Financial District.
The opening show on June 4 features Lulada Club, a powerhouse group specializing in vintage tropical rhythms like bolero and salsa, reimagined for modern audiences. They'll be followed the next week by Svetlana herself and the New York Collective, whose interactive jazz performance includes both audience participation and live tap dancing by Lisa La Touche. The third concert on June 18 brings the party courtesy of Norman Edwards Jr. and his band SpinKicK, with infectious grooves inspired by Jamiroquai and Prince, and dancer Michela Marino Lerman helping bring it all to life.
After that, the series shifts to 140 Broadway. Highlights include Ginita y La Orquesta Esa's Latin jazz set on June 25, a high-energy New Orleans-inspired show from Alphonso Horne and His Gotham Kings on July 2 and a rousing finale on July 9 featuring trumpeter Wayne Tucker and the Bad Mothas, joined by dancer Bianca Delli Priscoli.
'Whether you're taking a lunch break from the office or out exploring the neighborhood, these performances are an energizing and uplifting way to enjoy summer in the city,' said Downtown Alliance President Jessica Lappin.
The concert series is part of the Alliance's larger "Art Is All Around" initiative, which brings public art and performances to the streets of Lower Manhattan. No tickets are required, and all performances are free—just show up and enjoy the show.
With this much rhythm packed into an hour, don't be surprised if your casual lunch run turns into a full-on dance break.
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