This vibrant musical evening celebrates one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world – Bukharians. Hailing from the Uzbek city of Bukhar, this tight-knit community has resided in Central Asia from over two millennia. Today, 70,000 Bukharians have immigrated to the United States – and 50,000 have settled in Queens. These enclaves, dubbed “Little Bukharia” and “Bukharian Broadway,” are brimming with Bukharian’s distinctive dress, music, and cuisine.

Now we’re bringing Little Bukharia downtown and transforming the sanctuary into a traditional Central Asian chaikhana (teahouse). Saxophonist and scholar Evan Rapport will join celebrated ensemble Shashmaqam to bring the sounds of Bukharian culture to life. Shashmaqam music is an essential part of Bukharian life and this string-based ensemble is inspired by the band’s native cultures of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Before the musical celebration begins, enjoy a spread of traditional Bukharian food and drink.

This event celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Center for Traditional Music and Dance (CTMD) and is co-presented as part of Made in NYC, an expansive interdisciplinary, intergenerational and inter-community project that focuses on next generation traditional music and dance practitioners. Programming shares CTMD’s history of promoting and advocating for the traditional arts of immigrant New York that have now become integral parts of the city’s soundscape.

Sponsored in part by Lyla Glener in celebration of her 80th birthday.

Tickets: $25 adults/$15 students and seniors. Click here to purchase tickets.