New 42 and TDF have launched the Arts Access Pathway, a new program connecting families living in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) public housing with free and discounted tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, among other dance and music performances.
Arts Access Pathway Expands Theater Access for NYCHA Families
The newly established program builds on New 42’s existing FamilyTix initiative, which introduces young audiences to the performing arts. Since its founding in 2022, FamilyTix has distributed 4,804 free tickets to families living in NYCHA housing. The program provides up to four free tickets per production at the New Victory Theater, operated by New 42. Along with transportation provided by prepaid OMNY cards, the offering features sensory-friendly and American Sign Language-interpreted shows, post-show performer meet-and-greets, and complimentary workshops facilitated by professional teaching artists.
Under the new pathway, families who have attended at least three New Victory performances will receive invitations to TDF’s offerings. This grants them access to free and discounted tickets for Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, alongside performing arts programming at cultural institutions like Lincoln Center and New York City Center. Participants will also gain entry to community-based events, such as daytime performances and talkbacks.
Multiyear Study Tracks Impact of Regular Theater Attendance
Alongside ticket distributions, New 42 and TDF are partnering with Dr. Thalia R. Goldstein, who serves as an associate professor and heads the Play, Learning, Arts and Youth Lab at George Mason University, to conduct a multiyear study examining the impact of regular theater attendance. NYCHA residents can contribute to the research through voluntary surveys and focus groups.
“Every New Yorker deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts,” Lisa Bova-Hiatt said in a statement. “Through the Arts Access Pathway, NYCHA residents can build lasting connections to New York City’s unparalleled performing arts community, opening doors to new experiences, creative expression and cultural enrichment.”
Funding and Organizational Background
The FamilyTix initiative relies on support from several philanthropic organizations and public officials. Financial backers consist of the Ford Foundation, Great Hill, the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, New York City Council member Amanda Farias, the Shahara Ahmad-Llewellyn Family Foundation, the Society of American Magicians Magic Endowment Fund, and the TD Charitable Foundation.
New 42 originated in 1990 as an urban redevelopment organization focused on improving 42nd Street. Over the decades, it evolved into a cultural nonprofit operating the New Victory Theater, New 42 Studios, and a Youth Corps program that offers paid employment, job training, and career guidance to young adults in New York City. Its partner, TDF, is a nonprofit service organization that removes financial, physical and invisible barriers to the performing arts through accessibility programs and discounted ticketing services like TKTS booths and TDF memberships.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Arts Access Pathway
How do NYCHA families qualify for the Arts Access Pathway?
Families living in NYCHA housing must first participate in New 42’s FamilyTix program and attend at least three New Victory performances to receive an invitation to the new initiative.
What types of performances are included in the expanded ticketing offerings?
Participants receive access to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, as well as other dance and music performances at major New York City cultural institutions such as Lincoln Center and New York City Center.
Who is conducting the multiyear study on theater attendance?
Dr. Thalia R. Goldstein, an associate professor and director of the Play, Learning, Arts and Youth Lab at George Mason University, is leading the multiyear research project using voluntary surveys and focus groups.
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