Unassuming from the outside, The Brick holds a world of artistic innovation within its walls. This isn’t just another theater. The Brick is a launchpad for emerging artists.
Founded in 2002 by Michael Gardner and Robert Honeywell, The Brick transformed from a former garage and auto-body shop, also a yoga center, into a dynamic performance space. Imagine the yoga mats replaced by a stage, the scent of car oil replaced by the thrill of live performance. From the beginning, The Brick has been dedicated to presenting off-beat revivals, messy shows, and unique festivals.
The Brick quickly became known for its themed festivals. Ever heard of The Hell Festival? Or perhaps The Moral Values Festival? The Brick dared to explore unconventional themes. Game Play explored the convergence of video games and theater. The New York Clown Theater Festival brought laughter and absurdity.
In 2019, Theresa Buchheister stepped in as Artistic Director. Ryan William Downey and Travis Just joined her as Associate Artistic Directors. They renovated the space, improving its technical capabilities and accessibility. The Brick embraced a renewed vision, producing multi-week theatrical runs alongside one-off performances.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March 2020, The Brick adapted. Out of An Abundance of Caution, a livestreamed avant-garde microfestival, was born on Twitch. The Brick began releasing archival recordings of past shows on YouTube, ensuring that the art lived on.
The Brick has fostered countless artists and productions. Absence of Magic. Jeannine’s Abortion. These shows represent the daring spirit of The Brick. The theater has also won several awards, like the 2009 Caffe Cino Fellowship Award. Samuel and Alasdair: a Personal History of the Robot War won Outstanding Production of a Play in 2010.
The Brick isn’t just a theater. It is a community. It’s a place where artists can experiment and audiences can discover something new. The Brick welcomes adventurous audiences. It offers low-cost and sliding-scale ticket prices. The Brick makes performances accessible to all. The Brick presents 250 to 300 live performances each year. Over 10,000 audience members walk through its doors annually.
The Brick stands as a testament to the power of independent theater. It supports pioneering artists. It challenges conventions. The Brick invites you to experience the unexpected. Come explore the boundaries of performance at The Brick.