Downtown Urban Arts Festival

A multicultural multitude of emerging artists are featured in the 17th edition of this diversity-spreading festival, overseen by artistic director Reg. E. Gaines (Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk). Along with works by 18 playwrights at the Wild Project (Apr 24–May 11), the schedule includes an opening concert by CeCe Peniston at Joe's Pub (Apr 11), a poetry slam at Nuyorican Poets Cafe (Apr 13) and a short-film festival at the Tribeca Film Center (May 15–18).