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New York is the home to many forms of theatre, from the Broadway musicals, to the off Broadway dramas, to the new and innovative, sometimes experimental productions of off-off Broadway.  One company took what was at the time and abandoned school building and turned it into one of the most esteemed art and theatre institutions; Performance Space 122 has become a world leader in the world of alternative and experimental theatre, and has become home to some of the most talented, up and coming artists of today’s generation.

Just as corporate companies such as hotel chains, are challenged by the innovative and artistic concept of boutique hotels, New York traditional forms of art are being challenged by the work that is pushing the boundaries in the worlds of music, theatre, dance and performance art.  Known as PS 122, the name reflects the previous inhabitants of the building, Public School 122.  The school was abandoned in the 1970′s, and many visual artists began renting out the classrooms for painting studios.

Abandoned public schools have long been the perfect place for artist studios, and for rehearsal spaces for dance and theatre companies.  What happened at PS 122 however, went beyond the simple rehearsal spaces, and in 1980 opened to the public a series of presentations, which illustrated the work of those who had been involved with the school for years.  It was a multidisciplinary show, that evolved into classes and workshops being offered by the artists in residence.

In 1986, the old gym was converted into a performance space that other companies were renting out in order to put up longer running shows.  The mission of PS 122 is to seek out new talent, and to support and nurture new artists in all fields, those who are defying traditional conventions and pushing the bounds of performance art.  The history of the evolution of this institution is illustrated in the 2000 film, “Homecoming”, and provides a wonderful look into the lives of the artist who have made this innovative space in New York come to life.