Works & Process at Manhattan West / Liz Ligon
If you’ve been looking for a reason to put on your dancing shoes before the weather cools down, we have the perfect midweek escape for you.
The Works & Process pop-up dance and music series is officially returning to Manhattan West for its fourth year.
Known for curating stellar performing arts programming at the Guggenheim, it is bringing the magic outdoors with a brand-new season: Gather Round: Let’s Dance.
Expect live bands, expert dance lessons, and breathtaking performances by some of New York’s most celebrated artists. These performances are completely free and open to the public.
When and where to join the fun
You can catch the action on Wednesdays from September 9 through September 30. The events run from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. right on the Manhattan West Plaza (385 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001).
Whether you are an experienced dancer or just looking to learn a few new steps, every week offers a completely different vibe—from Afro-Latin and Swing to Contra and freestyle.
The September 2026 lineup
LayeRhythm at Manhattan West / Sean Chee
September 9: LayeRhythm The series kicks off with the raw energy of street and club music. Rooted in freestyle movements like house dance, litefeet, flexN, and breaking, LayeRhythm thrives on live improvisation. The crowd’s energy directly shapes what happens on the floor, and the night ends with an open dance floor for everyone led by founder Mai Lê Hô.
September 16: Sekou McMiller & Friends Step back in time to the legendary Palladium Ballroom! Sekou McMiller is hosting a massive intergenerational Mambo social dance party. You’ll get a dance lesson featuring elders from the Palladium, all set to live music by the Palladium Mambo Band.
September 23: A Barn Dance with Brooklyn Contra Get ready to whirl away the night! Brooklyn Contra is bringing New York’s most approachable social dance to Midtown. You will dance to live Appalachian and Irish tunes by the Some Assembly Required Quintet. Contra is an easy-to-learn folk dance, and no partner is necessary—all the steps are taught right before the dance begins.
September 30: New York Swings with Josh Lee and the Family Close out the month with the pure excitement of Lindy Hop and Authentic Jazz. Choreographer Gaby Cook leads a talented cast of dancers, while Grammy-winning saxophonist Josh Lee and his ensemble play swing-era classics from legends like Count Basie and Duke Ellington.
Don’t miss your chance to spectate, participate, and celebrate the city’s incredible dance community next month. See you on the plaza!