The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)

The Brooklyn Academy of Music, or BAM as it is affectionately known, is a cultural institution in Brooklyn, NYC. Opening in 1861, it was a response to a demand for entertainment for Brooklyn’s ever growing, diversifying citizenry. For nearly 200 years, BAM has brought and continues to bring world-class performances to the masses. Originally founded as the Brooklyn Academy of Music, BAM has undergone many transformations over the years. But one thing has remained constant: its commitment to showcasing the best in live theater, dance, music, and film.

Brooklyn Academy of Music’s origins go back to the 19th century. During the 19th Century, Brooklyn was a rapidly growing city in its own right. As Brooklyn’s citizenry grew and diversified there was a growing need for entertainment and intellectual stimulation. This was a time of great development for cultural institutions. Brooklyn Academy of Music naturally catered to the diversifying interests of forward thinking residents. In 1861, a group of local leaders founded the Brooklyn Academy of Music with the goal of creating a hub of intellectual and cultural activity.

Initially, the Brooklyn Academy of Music was housed in a modest building on Montague Street.

It hosted lectures, concerts, and exhibitions there. But as Brooklyn grew and prospered, so did BAM. In the early 20th century, the academy moved to a grander location on Lafayette Avenue, where it hosted everything from vaudeville acts to opera performances.

But it was in the 1960s and ’70s that the Brooklyn Academy of Music truly came into its own as a cultural force. Under the leadership of Harvey Lichtenstein, programming at BAM underwent a swift change in direction. It began to focus on presenting cutting-edge theater, dance, and music from around the world. The academy’s programming became more experimental and boundary-pushing, reflecting the social and cultural changes of the time.

A key event in BAM’s history was the launch of the Next Wave Festival.

Launched in 1983, it has been a fixture of the academy’s programming ever since. The festival features works by up-and-coming artists from a range of disciplines. It’s established the Brooklyn Academy of Music as a hub of innovation and creativity.

Today, BAM continues to be a vital part of Brooklyn’s cultural landscape, attracting audiences from all over the city and beyond. The academy’s programming is diverse and eclectic. It features everything from classic plays, ballets, puppet shows, to cutting-edge multimedia performances. In recent years, BAM has also become a destination for film lovers. The annual BAMcinemaFest showcases independent and international cinema.

What can audiences expect from Brooklyn Academy of Music this spring?

As always, the lineup is diverse and exciting. Brooklyn Academy of Music will have music, film, theater and dancing galore with the DanceAfrica festival. Whatever your interests, there’s something for everyone at BAM.

Dance enthusiasts won’t want to miss DanceAfrica or the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Running for its 46th year, this DanceAfrica focuses on the vibrant, intricate rhythms and dances of Ghana. From May 13 and running until May 29, DanceAfrica will offer multiple classes and performances. Connect with your tribal roots at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will be returning to the Brooklyn Academy of Music for the first time since 2010. The Ailey dance company blends modern and African dance styles. Their performances are dynamic and inspiring and represent the best of African-American culture. Ailey will be presenting their programs “Brooklyn Bonds” and “All Ailey”.

African-inspired art. Black figures in colorful, elaborate dress, dance and drum.

Fans of theater will want to check out Dimanche at the Brooklyn Academy of Music this May.

Dimanche is a play featuring two stories. The theme of the stories is the havoc wrought by humans against nature and ultimately ourselves. Manmade disasters abound while scientists document the little wildlife left. Though a heavy subject matter, it highlights humanity’s frailty with humor and a bit of magic. Dimanche will deliver a catastrophically funny time.

There will be multiple jazz artists and performances for the month of May. Don’t miss Michael Olatuja, who fuses West-African beats with jazz, on May 12. On May 13 the Brooklyn Raga Massive will be performing.

Fans of opera can catch a screening of a Ivo van Hove directed Don Giovanni on May 20.

Two-time Tony Award recipient Ivo van Hove has a modern take on this Mozart classic. It’s about reckless young Don Giovanni, who sets the fuse for his own destruction within a single day. The opera displays Giovanni’s amoral nature and exploits as a ladies man. It will be on view at the Peter Jay Sharp building.

Cinephiles can look forward to BAMcinemaFest sometime in June. The dates haven’t been announced. Launched in 2009, it showcases the best of new independent films. Collecting superb independent cinema from the US and the world, it is a hit with movie buffs. With the rising summer heat, a cool, dark movie at the Brooklyn Academy of Music is the perfect escape.

The Brooklyn Academy of Music has a long and storied history as a cultural institution.

It has been and continues to be a vital part of Brooklyn’s cultural heritage and landscape. Its commitment to presenting the best in theater, dance, music, and film from around the world is a testament to its enduring relevance and importance. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, BAM is sure to inspire, challenge, and entertain you.