Photo by Toby Tenenbaum


Pianist Jon Batiste took to the New York City streets on Saturday, Feb. 20 to kick of the statewide ‘NY PopsUp’ festival.

Batiste began by performing at the Javits Center in Hell’s Kitchen for the essential workers and medical professionals giving COVID-19 vaccinations at that location. He was joined by Anthony Roth Costanzo, Ceclie McLorin Salvant, Ayodele Casel and others.

Later in the day, Batiste staged a “love riot” in Cadman Plaza Park in Brooklyn. As the street performance hit a fever pitch, Batiste led the musicians and observers around Dumbo in a style reminiscent of Mardi Gras. He began the show with “New York, New York” and also performed “When The Saints Go Marching In,” among others.

Check out some photos from the day below (all by Toby Tenenbaum)!