BRIC CELEBRATE BROOKLYN! ANNOUNCES 2025 SEASON: “WHERE BROOKLYN MEETS… THE WORLD”

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BRIC CELEBRATE BROOKLYN! ANNOUNCES 2025 SEASON: 

“WHERE BROOKLYN MEETS… THE WORLD”

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Officially Kicks Off June 7 with BAYO in Brooklyn: A Conversation with Michaël Brun at BRIC House  

Opening Benefit Concert: Blue Note Jazz Festival & Live Nation Present Grace Jones & Janelle Monáe on June 9

Opening Free Concert: Mélissa Laveaux | Nathalie ‘TALIE’ Cerin | Riva Nyri Précil on June 13

Season Continues Through August with Performances from Gogol Bordello, Dinosaur Jr., Tributes to Quincy Jones and Musicians from Around the Globe

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BROOKLYN, NY (May 7, 2025) — BRIC has announced the 2025 BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! festival lineup, celebrating Brooklyn’s status as a global music crossroads with programming that spans continents, generations, and artistic disciplines. A renowned discovery platform that brings together emerging global artists and established talent, the festival embodies this year’s theme, “Where Brooklyn Meets… The World,” exploring the rich tapestry of global sounds and stories that define the borough’s cultural landscape. Running from June 7 through August 16, the season showcases the festival’s ongoing commitment to musical discovery and cultural exchange.

Mélissa Laveaux

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn, presented in partnership with Prospect Park Alliance and NYC Parks, includes 14 free shows and 4 benefit concerts at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park and 2 off-site events. The season will commence on June 7, with BAYO in Brooklyn at BRIC House: A Conversation with  DJ and global producer Michaël Brun, Council Member Rita Joseph, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Executive Producer 

Saidah Blount, and BRIC President Wes Jackson where they will discuss the importance of Haitian and Caribbean music to diasporic communities in New York. 

Programming at the Lena Horne Bandshell will kick off with a benefit concert on June 9, presented by Blue Note Jazz Festival and Live Nation in partnership with BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!, featuring cultural icon Grace Jonesco-headlining with multi hyphenate virtuoso Janelle Monáe. These legendary artists, fresh from their World Pride performances, embody the visionary spirit at the heart of the festival.

Mélissa Laveaux, Nathalie ‘TALIE’ Cerine, andRiva Nyri Précil headline the first free concert of the season on June 13, building on the momentum of the festival’s opening conversation with Michaël Brun on June 7. This powerful lineup celebrates Brooklyn’s vibrant Haitian community as these powerhouse singer-songwriters blend traditional Haitian folk music with contemporary pop, jazz, and funk influences—continuing the festival’s exploration of Haitian and Caribbean musical traditions.

Gogol Bordello

“WHERE BROOKLYN MEETS…THE WORLD” SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

Family Day on June 14 features a special celebration of Pippi Longstocking’s 80th birthday, a significant literary and cultural milestone being marked worldwide in 2025. The beloved Swedish children’s book character comes to life through puppet performances by the Parks PuppetMobile and a musical read along by writer Jacqueline Woodsonand Brownstone Brasspresentedby The Center for Fiction and Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, with support from the Swedish Consulate. The day culminates with a lively performance by NYC’s beloved Klezmatics, whose accordion-forward compositions nod to Pippi’s favorite instrument.

The season showcases a broad range of musical genres, bringing together artists from across cultures and musical traditions. For the second time, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! hosts a punk night, with legendary innovators Gogol Bordellobringing their explosive energy to the bandshell on August 2. Alternative rock pioneers Dinosaur Jr., a towering influence on the indie rock scene for decades, co-headline a benefit show with indie sensation Snail Mailon July 17.

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! continues its tradition of bridging musical worlds on August 1, showcasing unexpected connections between seemingly disparate genres. Latin Grammy-winning mariachi vocalist Mireya Ramos joins forces with country and western band The Poor Choices, revealing the surprising stylistic, cultural, and sonic connections between Mexican mariachi and American country traditions. This innovative collaboration, preceded by New York-based musician and activist Morley, and Memphis soul artist Talibah Safiya, exemplifies how Americana’s broad appeal transcends conventional boundaries—a perfect embodiment of the festival’s “Where Brooklyn Meets… The World” ethos.

Global rhythms take center stage throughout the season. Habibi Festival returns on June 20 with an expanded focus featuring artists from across the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region, opening with Palestinian-born, Berlin-based rock artist Rasha Nahas, followed by a genre-blurring set led by French-Tunisian saxophonist and composer Yacine Boulares featuring Sofiane Saidi and Israa Shalaby. Adrian Quesadaof Black Pumas explores psychedelic boleros on August 8 with collaborator Trish Toledo, while Buscabullaheadlines a night of Puerto Rican musicians on June 26, showcasing the remarkable diversity within Latin music.

The performing arts extend beyond music with an innovative performance by Yup’ik artist, activist, and choreographer Emily Johnson / Catalyst on August 7. By immersing the audience in over 4,000 square feet of handmade quilts and movement that extends beyond the stage, Johnson uplifts the words of Indigenous writers and storytellers and calls us to reconnect with nature, adding an important dimension to the festival’s international dialogue.

Film and music intersect in a two-part tribute to the late, great composer, musician and producer Quincy Jones. The celebration begins June 27 with a screening of The Greatest Night in Pop, documenting Jones’ production of “We Are the World,” preceded by an 80’s themed DJ set from Rontronik and a conversation with director Bao Nguyen. The tribute continues July 26 with a screening of The Wiz, showcasing Jones’ iconic soundtrack and cinematic legacy.

Jazz enthusiasts will be treated to a powerhouse double bill on August 15, opening with vibraphonist Nikara Warren’s project NIKARA presentsBlack Wall Street a sound collage weaving Hip-Hop, jazz, neo-soul, and Afro-Caribbean influences, followed by free jazz legend William Parker‘s masterful interpretations of Duke Ellington compositions.

The 3rd Annual Juneteenth in the Park celebration (June 19) presentsGhost-Notewith supporting acts including Voices of a People’s History and DJ Flash Gordon Parks, centering Texas artists and underrepresented histories, while the Lyricist Lounge Anniversary Show on August 9 will celebrate the 34th anniversary of Lyricist Lounge and the 30th anniversary of an iconic Hip-Hop album to be revealed in July.

Pop innovation comes to the forefront with Still Woozy‘s synth-driven soundscapes (July 12) and the atmospheric indie pop of Men I Trust supported by strongboi (July 18), demonstrating how today’s trailblazing artists continue Brooklyn’s tradition of musical exploration.

The 2025 season culminates with Brooklyn-based psychedelic soul innovator Nick Hakim, who blends psychedelia, R&B, and soul into hazy, richly textured songs that feel both intimate and otherworldly. Emmy-winning drummer, rapper, and producerKarriem Riggins, known for his work with jazz and Hip-Hop legends, opens with a dynamic DJ set. Curated by Jill Newman Productions.

Beyond the Lena Horne Bandshell, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! expands its Brooklyn footprint this season, collaborating with local elected officials and Rooftop Films to bring a dynamic mix of film, Hip-Hop, and reggae to Brower Park on July 19.

“The magic of the performing arts lies in their power to move, unite, and inspire,” said Saidah Blount, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Executive Director. “This season, the Lena Horne Bandshell transforms into a global gathering place – where rhythms, stories, and cultures from around the world meet to form Brooklyn’s creative heartbeat. We’re proud to celebrate the diversity and depth of our borough through artists who reflect the many ways music and performance connect us all.”

“Every summer for the last forty-seven years, BRIC has been proud to showcase the best talent from around the world  at the Lena Horne Bandshell in our beloved Prospect Park in partnership with our friends at the Prospect Park Alliance,” said Wes Jackson, BRIC President. “In these days and times we are proud to provide a space where communities can come together and enjoy a few moments of respite. For three generations we have remained committed to providing free and low cost programming to all of Brooklyn and New York City. Let’s do it again! See you at the Bandshell.”

“BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park is a beloved flagship event, and a clear sign of summer for our community,” said Morgan Monaco, President of Prospect Park Alliance. “Music and performing arts are a powerful uniting force, and do so much to help keep us thriving in good times and in bad. I’m grateful that Prospect Park is a source of inspiration for artists of all kinds and a haven for our community to come together to enjoy music and performances. The festival has brought a wide range of free music, performances and family programming to Brooklyn’s Backyard and we look forward to an exciting season ahead with the many diverse communities that call Brooklyn home.“

“Every year, BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! fills Prospect Park with music, energy, and community, demonstrating the power of our public spaces to bring people together,” said Sue Donoghue, NYC Parks Commissioner. “I’m grateful to our partners at BRIC and Prospect Park Alliance for organizing this iconic summertime event, enhancing Brooklyn’s Backyard with free performances by artists from around the world.”

2025 BRIC CELEBRATE BROOKLYN! SEASON AT-A-GLANCE

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The festival’s programming – from Haitian folk traditions to Puerto Rican electronic music, from punk to jazz, from puppetry to dance – collectively illustrates how Brooklyn continues to be a place where global cultures converge, converse, and create: Where Brooklyn Meets…The World.” For the complete schedule and ticket information for benefit shows, visit here.

MEDIA & SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION

BRIC is excited to work with a wide array of media partners across the 2025 season, including WABC, City Point, WFUV, WNYC, Schneps, Park Slope Parents, and Hearing Things.

Public support for BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! is provided by the New York State Council for the Arts with the support of the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature with special thanks to New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie and Andrew Gounardes and New York State Assembly Member Robert Carroll and Phara Souffrant-Forrest, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the New York City Council with special thanks to Commissioner Laurie Cumbo and New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Council Member Crystal Hudson, Rita Joseph, Shahana Hanif, Farah Louis, and Chris Banks. In-kind marketing support is provided by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment.

BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn at Brower Park is presented in partnership with New York City Council Member Chi Osse, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Assemblymember Brian Cunningham, and Rooftop Films. 

Lead support for performing arts at BRIC comes from the Howard Gilman Foundation. BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! is made possible in part by support from our sponsors, members, and BRIC Board of Directions. Additional support for BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! comes from the Shubert Organization, the Mertz Gilmore Foundation, the Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, and the Scherman Foundation.

Follow BRIC on social media:

Instagram: @BRICCelebrateBK
Facebook: @BRICCelebrateBK
YouTube: BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!

Media interviews and coverage are available upon request. Apply for media credentials HERE 

For More Information Contact:

Decota LetmanWendy Washington

[email protected][email protected] 

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ABOUT BRIC

BRIC is a leading arts and media institution anchored in Downtown Brooklyn whose work spans contemporary visual and performing arts, media, and civic action. For over forty-six years, BRIC has shaped Brooklyn’s cultural and media landscape by presenting and incubating artists, creators, students, and media makers. As a creative catalyst for our community, BRIC ignites learning in people of all ages and centralizes diverse voices that take risks and drive culture forward.

ABOUT PROSPECT PARK ALLIANCE

Prospect Park Alliance is the non-profit organization that sustains, restores and advances Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s Backyard, in partnership with the City of New York. The Alliance provides critical staff and resources that keep the park green and vibrant for the diverse communities that call Brooklyn home. The Alliance cares for the woodlands and natural areas; restores the park’s buildings and landscapes; creates new park destinations; and provides free or low-cost volunteer, education and recreation programs. Through the work of the Alliance, Prospect Park is an international model for the care of urban parks, and one of the premier green spaces in the United States. Learn more at www.prospectpark.org. 

ABOUT BUD LIGHT

Enjoying a summer concert is as easy as drinking a Bud Light. Easy to Drink, Easy to Enjoy. Bud Light is proud to be returning as a sponsor of the 2025 BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! season. For more information, visit https://www.budlight.com/beers/blue 

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 10 largest banks in the U.S. by assets, providing over 10 million customers with a full range of retail, small business and commercial banking products and services at more than 1,100 convenient locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Metro D.C., the Carolinas and Florida. In addition, TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, N.A., offers vehicle financing and dealer commercial services. TD Bank and its subsidiaries also offer customized private banking and wealth management services through TD Wealth®. TD Bank is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J. To learn more, visit www.td.com/us. Find TD Bank on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TDBank and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/TDBank_US/.

TD Bank is a subsidiary of The Toronto-Dominion Bank, a top 10 North American bank. The Toronto-Dominion Bank trades on the New York and Toronto stock exchanges under the ticker symbol “TD”. To learn more, visit wwww.td.com/us.

About Con Edison

Con Edison is a subsidiary of Consolidated Edison, Inc. [NYSE: ED], one of the nation’s largest investor-owned energy companies, with approximately $15 billion in annual revenues and $71 billion in assets. The utility delivers electricity, natural gas and steam, and serves 3.7 million customers in New York City and Westchester County. For financial, operations and customer service information, visit conEd.com.

ABOUT WABC-TV

WABC-TV has been the leader in local news and entertainment programming in the New York City area for more than 60 years. Producing more than 45 hours of live, local news and weather each week, Channel 7 Eyewitness News is the most watched local news in New York and the United States. WABC-TV also produces “Live with Kelly and Mark,” weekdays at 9:00 a.m., which is seen in more than 200 markets across the United States. Relevant, informative news, quality programming, and passionate community outreach are the hallmarks of excellence that have defined WABC-TV for generations.

ABOUT WFUV

WFUV (90.7 FM, wfuv.org), New York’s source for music discovery, is a noncommercial, member-supported public media service of Fordham University for over 70 years. WFUV has received national recognition for its award-winning weekday format of adult album alternative music, award-winning local news and sports, and a diverse weekend lineup. WFUV’s robust website has extensive audio archives, videos, song playlists and other resources.

ABOUT WNYC

Every Neighborhood, Every New Yorker.

wnyc.org | 93.9FM | Download the WNYC App on your device’s app store today!

ABOUT SCHNEPS MEDIA

Schneps Media is the leader in local news and information throughout Brooklyn and the region. Their media outlets in Brooklyn include Brooklyn Paper, Caribbean Life, Brownstoner, Brooklyn Family, NoticiaNY and amNewYork. For more information visit SchnepsMedia.com

About the Howard Gilman Foundation

Howard Gilman believed in the power of the arts to transform lives. In honoring his legacy, the Foundation provides funding and support to over 250 New York City-based performing arts organizations that are reflective of our City’s vibrant cultural community. www.howardgilmanfoundation.org

Sponsor Quotes

Laurie Cumbo, Commissioner of New York City Department of Cultural Affairs states: “Celebrate Brooklyn! is a cornerstone of NYC’s summer cultural season, bringing the energy of artists from around the world to the best audiences on the planet here in New York. From their main stage at the Lena Horne Bandshell in Prospect Park, to events in Brower Park and Brownsville, BRIC’s Celebrate Brooklyn! connects to neighborhoods all across a borough that is defined by its artistic awesomeness. DCLA is proud to support this affordable, accessible festival of culture and creative expression. I’ll see you at the show!!”

Pat Swinney Kaufman,Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment states: “We are proud once again to support the BRIC 2025 Celebrate Brooklyn! festival, which takes place during New York Music Month in June, the City’s official month-long celebration of our vibrant and dynamic music ecosystem featuring concerts, panels, talks and more. Our partnership with BRIC extends beyond support of the iconic Celebrate Brooklyn! festival, as the City’s broadcast network, NYC Media, and BRIC work together to provide premium content for Brooklynites – and all New Yorkers – to enjoy, including via the Brooklyn Made series.”

Paige Carlson-Heim, Head of Social Impact at TD Bank states: “We are truly excited to not only continue TD Bank’s support of BRIC’s Celebrate Brooklyn! festival, but to also deepen our impact by advancing opportunities for these incredible artists to strengthen the skills they need to thrive in a digital economy. Our investment in the small business adult education programs underscores our commitment to amplifying the voices of emerging local artists while providing resources for them to expand and enhance their businesses long-term. TD is honored to help create economic stability and growth for these brilliant entrepreneurs, strengthen the economic landscape of our shared communities, and celebrate the vibrant culture of art that defines Brooklyn.”