The Grammy Award-winning Brooklyn Youth Chorus has announced the world premiere of “Port(al),” an innovative site-specific choral theater performance running from May 1-3 at the Agger Fish Building in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Exploring the history and cultural significance of the Brooklyn Navy Yard through music, movement, and storytelling, “Port(al)” a collaboration between co-composer Paola Prestini, co-composer and co-librettist Jad Abumrad, multidisciplinary director Jessica Grindstaff, and co-choreographer Ogemdi Ude.
“Port(al)” will immerse audiences in the layered histories of the Brooklyn Navy Yard, intertwining oral histories from figures like historian Howard Zinn and activist Clarence L. Irving, Sr. with contemporary reflections from Brooklyn Youth Chorus members. The performance also highlights the contributions of women, immigrants, and Black Americans in the Navy Yard’s history while exploring themes of identity, labor, and cultural intersections.
The production is designed as an interactive experience where the audience moves through the raw, industrial space of the Agger Fish Building, engaging with the choral and theatrical elements in a dynamic way. The work is structured as a “séance of text and song,” reviving the voices of the past while incorporating the present perspectives of young performers.
As Brooklyn Youth Chorus’ first independently produced evening-length work, “Port(al)” is a milestone in its history, continuing the Chorus’ tradition of innovative, socially engaged performances. Past works by the Chorus include “Silent Voices” (BAM), “Aging Magician” (New Victory Theater), and “Black Mountain Songs” (BAM Next Wave Festival). The creative team for “Port(al)” includes lighting designers Brian H Scott and Bruce Steinberg, sound designer Darron L West, and video projection designers S. Katy Tucker and Kylee Loera.
Tickets for “Port(al)” are now on sale, ranging from $35 to $45. Performances will be held at 8 PM on May 1 and 7:30 PM on May 2 and 3. Due to the nature of the performance space, audience members are advised to wear comfortable footwear.
Additionally, Brooklyn Youth Chorus will host its annual Spring Gala on May 1 at 6 PM at Building 303 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, honoring Board Chair Hank Gutman.
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