All of It Podcast Summary: "Big Season For Arts Events On Little Island"

Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Zach Winoker, Producing Artistic Director of Little Island
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Episode Title: Big Season For Arts Events On Little Island

Introduction to Little Island’s 2025 Season

In this engaging episode of All of It, host Alison Stewart welcomes Zach Winoker, the Producing Artistic Director of Little Island, to discuss the upcoming 2025 season at the iconic New York City venue. Little Island, a unique amphitheater perched above the Hudson River, is set to unveil a diverse and ambitious lineup of performances that promise to captivate the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Reflecting on Last Season’s Success

Zach Winoker opens the conversation by reflecting on the previous season's programming. Last summer, Little Island hosted nine world premieres, setting a high standard for future events. Zach highlights the importance of creating memorable moments that resonate uniquely with New York City's dynamic audience.

“We’re trying to make moments out of all of these shows that really register like big events that only happen once.”
— Zach Winoker [01:19]

He also mentions enhancements made to the venue’s amenities, including the introduction of a liquor license and new snack offerings, aimed at elevating the overall visitor experience.

The Unique Charm of Little Island’s Venue

Alison Stewart probes into what makes Little Island’s performance space stand out. Zach enthusiastically describes the amphitheater’s distinctive features:

“It is really a kind of Greek style amphitheater. It’s a thrust stage. The audience is on three sides... surrounded by nature and there are no walls.”
— Zach Winoker [02:25]

Seating approximately 750 people with an intimate setup—where the first row sits directly on the stage—the venue offers unparalleled proximity to performances. The absence of physical barriers allows attendees to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Hudson River sunsets, making each event uniquely "New Yorky."

Crafting the 2025 Artistic Vision

When asked about the conception of the 2025 season, Zach emphasizes collaboration and artistic freedom. Inspired by the success of last year's production, The Marriage of Figaro, Zach sought to bring back the talented team to spearhead new, innovative projects.

“We started by thinking about the team that actually gave us the last show of the season... and following their lead to bring it to beautiful fruition.”
— Zach Winoker [03:22]

This approach ensures that each production is a reflection of the artists’ visions, resulting in a season that is both diverse and deeply rooted in creative expression.

Season Highlights: Diverse and Innovative Programming

1. A Beggar’s Opera for a Grifter’s City

One of the season’s marquee events is A Beggar’s Opera for a Grifter’s City, which reimagines the classic Beggar’s Opera within the context of 1855 New York’s meatpacking district.

“It’s basically to reconfigure and rethink the Beggar’s Opera, the original anti-hero entertainment for 1855 New York meatpacking district.”
— Zach Winoker [04:27]

The production features new music by Dan Schlossberg, a libretto by Kate Tarker, and a stellar cast including Damon Dono, Lauren Patton, and Ann Harada. This modern twist pays homage to the original while infusing it with contemporary relevance.

2. Colonus: A Gospel Adaptation of Oedipus

Another standout production is Colonus, a gospel-infused retelling of the Oedipus myth. Zach explains the creative inspiration behind this piece:

“It transposes the story of Oedipus in a gospel sermon.”
— Zach Winoker [05:42]

Featuring bass baritone Devon Tynes in the role of Oedipus, Colonus merges classical storytelling with soulful musical elements, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless narrative.

3. The Tune Up by Susan Laurie Parks

In late July and early August, audiences can experience The Tune Up, a collaborative work by the renowned artist Susan Laurie Parks. This performance combines new plays and monologues with lively funk music, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking evening.

“It’s a series of new plays and monologues stitched together by funk music. It’s a fun night. It really speaks to the moment we’re living in.”
— Zach Winoker [06:43]

Parks’ signature depth and creativity promise to deliver an evening that is both entertaining and introspective.

4. Seven Scenes: Dance Performances by Bobby Jean Smith and Ora Schreiber

The season also features Seven Scenes, a groundbreaking dance performance by acclaimed choreographers Bobby Jean Smith and Ora Schreiber from Israel’s Batsheva Dance Company.

“This cast is just the most extraordinarily virtuosic group of dancers. It’s a once in a generation moment for all of these people to be together.”
— Zach Winoker [07:29]

With original music by Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw and Danny Lee Parpin, Seven Scenes promises to be a mesmerizing display of contemporary dance and musical synergy.

Commitment to Accessibility: Affordable Ticket Pricing

A notable aspect of Little Island’s 2025 season is its commitment to accessibility through affordable ticket pricing. Zach underscores the importance of making high-quality art available to all:

“We are keeping this $25 ticket for the season and it means that everyone is able to experience this inside of a majestic setting.”
— Zach Winoker [08:28]

By maintaining ticket prices at $25 or less, Little Island ensures that a wide audience can enjoy its diverse range of performances without financial barriers.

Season Finale: Gallus

Concluding the season is Gallus, a wild play by downtown theater icon Charles Ludlum, featuring Anthony Roth Costanzo reprising his role in a transformative portrayal of Maria Magdalena Gallas. Zach highlights the uniqueness of this production:

“It is something that I don’t think has been seen in a while and probably won’t be seen in a while.”
— Zach Winoker [09:08]

Gallus promises to be a fitting and unforgettable end to the season, showcasing innovative theater and exceptional performances.

Conclusion

Alison Stewart and Zach Winoker wrap up the discussion by expressing excitement for the forthcoming season. Little Island’s 2025 lineup is set to offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, blending tradition with innovation in one of New York City’s most picturesque venues.

“Have a great summer.”
— Zach Winoker [09:40]

Listeners are encouraged to mark their calendars for May 29th, the kickoff of a season filled with groundbreaking performances and transformative artistic expressions at Little Island.

For more information on the 2025 season and to purchase tickets, visit Little Island’s official website.