Symphony Space is thrilled to announce highlights of its 2022-23 season, an array of live events that bring literature to life, spark conversation, and provide intimate encounters with acclaimed musical artists. The programming features authors, actors, musicians, comedians, and other luminaries in original productions that, over the course of more than four decades, have made Symphony Space at the corner of 95th Street & Broadway a beloved New York City institution: thrilling events that happen one time only, and only at Symphony Space.
Season Highlights include:
Selected Shorts: Back to School
Wednesday, September 28 | 7PM
Selected Shorts gets nostalgic with an evening of hilarious and moving short fiction about making the grade. Hosted by Tara Westover (Educated), with readings by Broadway stars Santino Fontana (Tootsie), Nikki M. James (The Book of Mormon), Katrina Lenk (Company), and Maulik Pancholy (Grand Horizons).
Kelly Ripa, Live Wire with Anderson Cooper
Thursday, September 29 | 7PM
Join Daytime Emmy Award–winning host Kelly Ripa for the release of her new book. Surprising, at times savage, a little shameless and always humorous, Live Wire shows Kelly as she really is offscreen—a very wise woman who has something to say. In conversation with Anderson Cooper.
Thalia Kids Book Club: Kwame Alexander, The Door of No Return with Ainara Alleyne
Saturday, October 1 | 1PM
Newbery Medal winner and New York Times bestselling author Kwame Alexander (The Crossover) presents his latest novel that follows young Kofi and his friend Ama as they come of age in pre-colonial Ghana. Ainara Alleyne, thirteen-year-old book reviewer and curator of the Instagram page Ainara’s Bookshelf, joins as event moderator. For ages 10 and up.
Constance Wu, Making a Scene
Tuesday, October 4 | 7PM
The Golden Globe Award–nominated star of Crazy Rich Asians launches her first book—a raw and relatable essay collection that offers a behind-the-scenes look at being Asian American in the entertainment industry and the continuing evolution of her identity and influence in the public eye.
Tom Felton, Beyond the Wand
Monday, October 17 | 7PM
The real-life wizard and beloved Harry Potter star comes to Symphony Space to launch his new memoir, which offers a backstage pass to Tom Felton’s life—the challenges of growing up in the spotlight, and working with cinematic greats such as Alan Rickman, Dame Maggie Smith, and nine-year-old Emma Watson, who would become one of his dearest friends.
George Saunders, Liberation Day with Marlon James
Tuesday, October 18 | 7PM
Booker Prize-winning author George Saunders, hailed as the “best short story writer in English” (Time), returns to Symphony Space to discuss his newest collection with fellow Booker Prize winner Marlon James (Black Leopard, Red Wolf).
Toshi Reagon in Residence
November 5, 10 & 19
Singer, composer, musician, curator, and producer Toshi Reagon’s conviction that music can be transformative in consciousness and action is revealed through this intimate residency, exploring everything from disco music to the current challenges of our changing times, while introducing audiences to powerful new voices, all with the vision promoting positive social change.
Misty Copeland, The Wind at My Back with Gayle King
Tuesday, November 15 | 7PM
Misty Copeland, celebrated ballerina and New York Times bestselling author, discusses her latest book, a heartfelt memoir about her friendship with trailblazer Raven Wilkinson, and how two unapologetically Black ballerinas changed each other—and the dance world—forever. In conversation with Gayle King (CBS Mornings).
Richard Thompson: All Requests Live!
December 15, 16, and 17 | 8PM
“The finest rock songwriter after Dylan, and the best electric guitarist since Hendrix.”—The Los
Angeles Times
In this rare concert experience, it’s anyone’s guess what Thompson will play. Songs will be picked from selections submitted by the audience, and unknown to all (including Thompson) until the moment they’re presented to him onstage. A totally unique show each night.
Tickets are available now at symphonyspace.org.
Photo Credits: Anderson Cooper © CNN, Kwame Alexander © Portia Wiggins Photography, Constance Wu © Mark Seigler, Toshi Reagon © Desdemona Burgin, Misty Copeland © MasterClass, Richard Thompson © Kevin Yatarola
