Stunning Island of Warmth Interactive Light Installation Comes to NYC

This holiday season, the Island of Warmth, a fun and interactive art installation featuring a glowing urban bonfire is making its way to New York City for the first time.

Starting Wednesday, December 4, 2024, children and adults can marvel at this innovative installation at Manhattan West and participate in the fun themselves. It’s an ideal spot for families to make some holiday memories and enjoy the magic of the season.

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A Communal Urban Bonfire

The Island of Warmth is the work of ATOMIC3, a renowned Canadian design studio. The interactive installation stands over nine feet tall, featuring 220 light bulbs that flicker and shine in response to the movement of visitors.

It’s like a modern campfire where families can dance, sway, and “stir the virtual embers” to create a dazzling light show. What kid wouldn’t love to control hundreds of lights just by moving and dancing? Set in the center of the Plaza at Manhattan West, the installation offers a cozy, interactive spot for families to gather and enjoy the holiday spirit together.

“We are delighted to know that Island of Warmth will soon be shining among Manhattan’s skyscrapers, and we hope that it will warm the hearts of New Yorkers at the end of 2024,” said Félix Dagenais and Louis-Xavier Gagnon-Lebrun, creators of Island of Warmth.

Interactive Performances and Festive Events

Manhattan West is bringing even more excitement to the Island of Warmth with a series of live performances that will make the installation truly come to life on select Wednesdays between 5 and 7 pm. Each event will offer something unique, using the art piece as a backdrop for dance, music, and holiday cheer.

The first event, Dance Around the Campfire, takes place on December 4. It will feature performances by three NYC-based dance companies: Harlem Lite Feet with Chrybaby Cozie, the Maimouna Keita School of Dance, and Music from the Sole. As the dancers move around the installation, the lights will flicker and swirl in mesmerizing patterns. Plus, you can warm up with complimentary hot chocolate from Daily Provisions while you enjoy the show (while supplies last).

On December 11, it’s time to gather for Caroling Around the Campfire. The Mistletones, a fun group of carolers, will fill the air with classic holiday tunes, and Santa himself will be on hand for photos in front of the glowing installation. Don’t forget to grab your free hot chocolate, too!

On December 18, celebrate Hanukkah with Hanukkah Around the Campfire. The Brooklyn Klezmer Trio Plus, led by accordionist Ilya Shneyveys, will get everyone moving with lively music and a hora dance around the art piece. After all, Hanukkah is a Festival of Lights, and this event will certainly reflect that spirit!

The final event of the season, Community Around the Campfire, will be on January 8, 2025. This will be a fun community sing-along and a chance to set some positive intentions for the year ahead, with artists and special guests to be announced.

More Holiday Fun at Manhattan West

While you’re at Manhattan West enjoying the Island of Warmth, take in the beautiful holiday décor that makes the entire area feel like a winter wonderland. Trees are adorned with twinkling lights, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the food, drinks, and shopping. You can warm up with a drink at Chez Zou or Bar Pendry, indulge in some seasonal pastries at Daily Provisions, or even catch a show at Mastercard Midnight Theatre. Plus, if you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift, the NHL Shop is a great stop for hockey fans, and you can treat yourself to a relaxing facial at Silver Mirror.

For more details on the Island of Warmth, visit manhattanwestnyc.com.

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Here at New York Family, we could not love the holidays more and that’s why we’ve created A Very Merry New York Family Holiday Guide! We’ve got everything you need to make 2024 your family’s best holiday ever: Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa events, tree lightings, holiday light shows, gift guide, holiday shopping ideas, books, movies, elf ideas and so much more!

Laurissa Jane Music

<p>Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!</p>

Gaga Madness

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Gaga is the hottest new sport in NYC. We've taken the fun of GAGA and pushed it into overdrive. Energetic coaches, pumped up music, sideline commentary, gear giveaways and more. Stay active and keep fit with this new craze that's sweeping the city.</span></p>

TADA! Youth Theater

<div> <div style="text-align: center;">Endless Options-Endless Fun! TADA! is so excited to offer weekend and after school classes, week long private and public school camps, and our Broadway 1-Day camps available for ages 3-14! &nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Winter/Spring Semester Classes</strong><br />Gotta Sing! Gotta Dance! Gotta Act! Join TADA! Youth Theater this Winter and Spring for after-school and weekend musical theater classes available to students ages 3-14! Throughout the semester students will engage in musical theater training, learn vocals and choreography to the latest Broadway hits, and experience ensemble based instruction with two NYC teaching artists.&nbsp; Not only does our musical theater training inspire creativity, foster self-expression, and build confidence, but our classes also encourage students to explore and connect with others, creating lifelong friendships and a love for the arts.</div> <div style="text-align: center;">Limited spots available! All of our classes take place in person at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/15+W.+28th+Street?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/maps/search/15%2BW.%2B28th%2BStreet?entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1736890280366000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_eBpQuG9WbMH_ETP9cDKN">15 W. 28th Street</a> (between Broadway &amp; 5th) and culminate in a final sharing for an invited audience</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Classes Schedule:</strong><br />Mondays:<br />Mondays, Ages 4-5 | 3:45PM-5:15PM<br />Mondays, Ages 6-8 | 3:45PM-5:15PM<br />Tuesdays:<br />Tuesdays, Ages 12-14 | 4:15PM-5:45PM<br />Wednesdays:<br />Wednesday, Ages 8-12 | 4PM-5:30PM<br />Saturdays:<br />Saturdays, Ages 3-4 | 10AM-11AM<br />Saturdays, Ages 5-7 | 10AM-11:30AM<br />Saturday, Ages 8-12 | 12N-1:30PM</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Class Descriptions:</strong><br />AGES 3-5, MUSICAL THEATER MINIS: Creativity takes center stage! In this upbeat, high-energy class, your Musical Theater Mini will learn new introductory skills in the areas of singing, dancing, and acting. Each session, students participate in fun, creative-play activities as well as learn vocals and choreography to popular Broadway songs. At the end of the semester, your young star will belt out their favorite show tunes for an invited audience.</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">AGES 5-8, JAZZY JUNIORS and AGES 8-12, RISING STARS: This class offers the perfect blend of musical theater exploration and fun theater games to keep kids creative and active all semester long!&nbsp; Each session, students participate in musical theater training as well as learn vocals and choreography to popular Broadway songs. By the end of the semester, they&rsquo;ll be ready to confidently shine in their final sharing for an invited audience.</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">AGES 12-14, BROADWAY BOUND: Let passion ignite, talent soar, and dreams take center stage!&nbsp; Watch as students step into the spotlight and unleash their inner Broadway star in our advanced musical theater class for tweens &amp; teens!&nbsp; Throughout the semester, students will immerse themselves in the world of Broadway, learning iconic songs and exploring diverse theatrical styles. By the semester&rsquo;s end, they&rsquo;ll proudly showcase their talents in a spectacular cabaret-style musical revue. This isn&rsquo;t just about performing&mdash;it&rsquo;s about embracing the magic of musical theater, forging lasting friendships with fellow performers, and stepping into a world where every moment onstage feels like a standing ovation.</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Week Long Private and Public School Camps:</strong><br />When School is out, TADA! is in!&nbsp; Now offering Week-long Public &amp; Private School Break Camps for ages 4-5 &amp; 5-9 this February, March, and April! &nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">Write it! Rehearse it! Perform it! Immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling. Each week, students co-create an original musical in just five days!&nbsp; Have your child unleash their inner star, share their voice, and create memories that will last a lifetime.&nbsp; Join us for a week of laughter, creativity, and applause! Don't miss out on the most epic musical theater adventure of the school year!</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">Spots are limited so don&rsquo;t miss out! Our in-person camps take place at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/15+W.+28th+Street?entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/maps/search/15%2BW.%2B28th%2BStreet?entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1736890280366000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2_eBpQuG9WbMH_ETP9cDKN">15 W. 28th Street</a> (between Broadway &amp; 5th). &nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">*On the last day of all camps, we invite friends and family to attend the debut of your child&rsquo;s original mini-musical!</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Week-long Public School Break Camps:</strong></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br />February 17-21 | &nbsp;Ages 5-9, M-F, 9AM-5PM | I Wish My Life Was A Musical! | | $795&nbsp;<br />April 22-26 | Ages 5-9, M-F, 9AM-5PM | The Show Must Go On! | | $795</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Week-long Private School Break Camps:</strong></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br />March 17-21<br />Ages 4-5, M-F, 9AM-1:30PM | Pirates &amp; Princesses! | | $500&nbsp;<br />Ages 5-9, M-F, 9AM-5PM | The Show Must Go On! | | | $795&nbsp;<br />March 24-28<br />Ages 4-5, M-F, 9AM-1:30PM | Unicorns, Mermaids, Dinosaurs, OH MY! | | $500<br />Ages 5-9, M-F, 9AM-5PM | I Wish My Life Was A Musical! | $795</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Learn more &amp; register today!&nbsp;</strong></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/school-break-camps-3/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/school-break-camps-3/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1736890280366000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2R13yNUGcd6RlQy0FsVMm1">https://tadatheater.com/<wbr />education-overview/school-<wbr />break-camps-3/</a></div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">Looking for a sample class? Join us at our In-person Open House on January 11th, 2025!<br /><a href="https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/open-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/open-house/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1736890280366000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Nt2sRC86LUUhaw4DgKX5N">https://tadatheater.com/<wbr />education-overview/open-house/</a></div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">No child should be turned away because of their inability to pay. Financial Assistance available.<br /><a href="https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/financial-assistance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tadatheater.com/education-overview/financial-assistance/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1736890280366000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0W6olBN_Kib7HEmnv4Bq3Y">https://tadatheater.com/<wbr />education-overview/financial-<wbr />assistance/</a></div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Broadway 1-Day Camps</strong></div> <div style="text-align: center;">When School is out, TADA! is in! Join us for a fun-filled day learning vocals and choreography to a show-stopping musical number from a hit Broadway or movie musical. Our 1-day camps include vocal training, dance technique, exhilarating choreography, and fun theater activities led by two professional NYC Teaching Artists. Don&rsquo;t miss a jam-packed day of musical theater fun!</div> <div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div> <div style="text-align: center;">Monday, January 20th (MLK Day) | Wicked&nbsp;<br />Wednesday, January 29th (Lunar New Year) | The Little Mermaid&nbsp;<br />Monday, March 31 (Eidal-Fitr) | Frozen&nbsp;<br />Thursday, June 5th (Eidal-Adha) | Matilda&nbsp;<br />Friday, June 6th (Clerical Day) | The Greatest Showman&nbsp;<br />Thursday, June 19th (Juneteenth) | Moana&nbsp;<br />Friday, June 27th (Public School is out) | The Lion King&nbsp;<br />Monday, June 30th (July 4th week) | Trolls&nbsp;<br />Tuesday, July 1st &nbsp;(July 4th week) | Wicked&nbsp;<br />Wednesday, July 2nd (July 4th week) | Newsies&nbsp;<br /><br /></div> </div> <div> <div dir="ltr" data-smartmail="gmail_signature"> <div dir="ltr"> <div dir="ltr"> <div dir="ltr"> <div dir="ltr"> <div dir="ltr"> <div dir="ltr"> <div>&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>