Street Stage at Roxbury’s Madison Park
Presented in partnership with Hibernian Hall
Saturday, August 17, 10:30am –12:00pm
60 Ruggles Street between Dewitt Drive and Sojourner Truth Court
Boston, MA 02120
Rain location: Hibernian Hall, 184 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA 02119
Boston Lyric Opera Musicians: Angela Yam, Soprano; Fred C. VanNess, Jr., Tenor; Brett Hodgdon, Pianist
FREE
Roxbury’s Madison Park becomes a multicultural music destination as Boston Lyric Opera and Hibernian Hall team up for a one-of-a-kind concert experience. Inspired by the theme RHYTHM, BLO opera singers will perform fan-favorite arias from Europe and the Americas intertwined with sets by Boston’s beloved Afro-Latin percussionist Cornell Coley and members of his ensemble. The event will culminate in a community dance party led by the traditional West African dancers of the Akwaaba Ensemble. Bring a chair or blanket to settle on the grass, or listen in while enjoying the park’s playground, chess tables, and basketball courts.
This program is free and is recommended for audiences of all ages. Texts and English translations of the multilingual program will be provided on site.
Street Stage is supported by the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture and the City of Boston through the Neighborhood and Downtown Activation Grant. The 2024 Street Stage season is sponsored by HarborOne Bank.
STREET STAGE: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!
Location
The performance will take place in Madison Park in the Boston neighborhood of Roxbury. Use 60 Ruggles Street, Boston, MA 02120 for GPS Mapping. The performance area is along Ruggles Street, between Dewitt Drive and Sojourner Truth Ct.
Arrival & Schedule
Early arrivals are encouraged. We will start promptly at 10:30, and the concert will end by 12:00 PM. BLO and Hibernian Hall staff will be on site to provide programs and answer questions. You are welcome to come and go during the concert.
Seating
Seating is available on the grass and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also patios near the performance site with cafe tables and chairs. You are welcome to bring a blanket or lawn chair.
Public Transit
The nearest MBTA stop is Ruggles (Orange Line).
Bus access is available via the #8, #19, or #47.
Parking
Limited street parking is available – please read signs for resident permit-only.
There is free parking at the Dudley Square Municipal Lot at 30 Ruggles Street (2 min walk). The closest parking garage is the Renaissance Park Garage on Northeastern campus located at 835 Columbus Avenue, Boston MA 02120 (9 minute walk).
Food & Beverages
Free “lymenade” made by local vendor Lymelyfe Juices will be provided on-site.
Food and beverages are welcome on site, and we encourage you to bring water.
Support Roxbury businesses and visit restaurants in nearby Nubian Square after the performance. Learn more at https://www.visitnubiansquare.com/.
Accessibility
The park is fully wheel accessible. If you need any special accommodation on site, please email access@blo.org.
Weather
Street Stage will proceed in a variety of weather conditions, including direct sun and light rain. In the case of severe inclement weather (including strong winds), BLO staff will update our website with the new performance time.
Pets
Pets are welcome at Street Stage events, but should be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
Here’s a suggested packing list!
What to bring:
- Lawn chair or blanket
- Sunscreen
- Hat, visor, sunglasses, personal fan
- Bug spray
- Water & snacks
- Masks (optional but always welcome)
What NOT to bring/do:
- Smoking and vaping are not allowed at Street Stage events.
- Please do not actively ride a bike, skateboard, or Segway during the performance.
- Do not use beach umbrellas or other items that obscure others’ view.
Questions? Contact access@blo.org.