Dance Theatre Of Harlem's FIREBIRD To Feature Live Gateways Festival Orchestra

The performance will mark the first collaboration between the two institutions.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Dance Theatre of Harlem has announced that its signature classic FIREBIRD will be performed to Igor Stravinsky's score played live by the Gateways Festival Orchestra during its New York season, April 16–19 at New York City Center. The 58-person orchestra will be led by conductors Jeri Lynne Johnson and Tania León.

Why it matters

This collaboration between Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Gateways Festival Orchestra, which features Black professional classical musicians, represents a historic partnership that celebrates diversity and inclusion in the performing arts.

The details

The Gateways Festival Orchestra is the flagship ensemble of the Gateways Music Festival, and the performance will mark the first time the two institutions have partnered. The production will feature a full live orchestra, distinguishing this presentation of FIREBIRD within the New York dance season.

  • The performances will take place from April 16 to 19, 2026 at New York City Center.
  • The Vision Gala will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026.

The players

Dance Theatre of Harlem

A professional dance company, studio school, and arts education organization founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook.

Gateways Festival Orchestra

The flagship ensemble of the Gateways Music Festival, comprised of 58 Black professional classical musicians drawn from leading symphony orchestras, conservatory faculties, and the international freelance community.

Jeri Lynne Johnson

An award-winning conductor who will lead the Gateways Festival Orchestra on April 16, 18, and 19.

Tania León

A Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and conductor who will conduct the Gateways Festival Orchestra on Vision Gala Night, April 17.

Fatima Robinson

A choreographer and creative director who will be honored with the Arthur Mitchell Vision Award at the Vision Gala.

Scott Mills

A media executive and philanthropist who will receive the Virtuoso Award at the Vision Gala.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This performance of FIREBIRD showcases the power of collaboration and the importance of representation in the classical music and dance worlds, as Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Gateways Festival Orchestra come together to present this iconic work.