Harlem Stage ignites the artistic freedom of performing artists of the Global Majority who are poised to create new works, new ideas, and a world in which ALL people can flourish. For over 40 years, Harlem Stage’s singular mission has been to perpetuate and celebrate the unique and diverse artistic legacy of Harlem and the indelible impression it has made on American culture.

In 1983, Harlem Stage, (then named Aaron Davis Hall, Inc.) was founded in part on the principle that artists of color, particularly Black Artists’ voices were censored, not treated equitably, not given the resources, not provided the platforms that were commensurate with their talents. In short, they were denied equal access. Harlem Stage has presented and commissioned their work for over 40 years and continues that work at the intersection of Art and Social Justice. Following 25 years of Patricia Cruz’s visionary leadership, Harlem Stage is currently led by CEO and Artistic Director Dr. Indira Etwaroo. Harlem Stage fulfills their mission through commissioning, incubating, and presenting innovative and vital work that responds to the historical and contemporary conditions that shape our lives and the communities they serve. WaterWorks is a commissioning series for artists at all career stages that pays homage to the organization’s reimagined venue, once part of New York’s Water Supply System. Harlem Stage’s Presenting Programming of world-class artists from across the globe connects audiences to 50-60 live shows annually. Their 25-year signature dance series, E-Moves, presents phenomenal choreographers and dancers. Harlem Stage’s Education Program exists to ignite creative expression for all and connect community to the stories they tell. Their Create Endlessly Education Program has served over 150,000 public school children over the last 40 years in Harlem, Uptown, and beyond.

Jerome Foundation supports Harlem Stage’s WaterWorks commissioning program. The WaterWorks Emerging Artists program awards five early-career artists of color per year with a commissioning and development budget, space among a multidisciplinary cohort of artists, mentorship, critical feedback, professional development workshops led by Harlem Stage staff, and production support. Throughout the duration of WaterWorks, artists develop an original performance piece, presented as part of a work-in-progress showcase at the historic Harlem Stage Gatehouse.