LABA FAQ

What is LABA? 

LABA is a laboratory for Jewish culture in which classic Jewish texts inspire the creation of new art. Developed by the 14th Street Y in 2007, LABA programming includes original theater productions, live events, gallery shows, salons, and performances for children and adults.

OUR VARIOUS LABA PROGRMS INCLUDE:

LABA House of Study

LABA: House of Study (or beit midrash) is an artist fellowship program that brings together top culture-makers at the 14th Street Y. Every year the Y selects a group of fellows — a mix of visual artists, writers, dancers, musicians, actors, and others — to partake in a yearlong study of classic Jewish texts centered around a theme. The fellows interpret these texts in work featured in the quarterly LABA Journal and our year-end multidisciplinary LABA FESTIVAL. They also provide sources of inspiration, connection, and learning throughout the 14th Street Y community.

LABAlive

LABAlive is a series of original productions presented to the public throughout the course of the year. These include the LABA FESTIVAL, our annual multidisciplinary festival featuring large-scale versions of the works created by fellows in the House of Study, gallery shows, plays, salons, and concerts. Like everything we do at LABA, all LABAlive events feature new work inspired by classic Jewish texts.

LABA Journal

LABA Journal is a quarterly, online publication featuring creative commentary on classic Jewish texts by the fellows including art, music, comics, and writing. The Journal provides an opportunity for the public to experience the work of LABA Fellows as they engage with the yearly theme. Click here to visit LABA Journal. 

LABA Kids

LABA Kids engages children and their families in programming that mirrors the experience LABA Fellows have in the House of Study. In the 14th Street Y preschool, LABA teaching artists lead students through hands-on art creation, storytelling, and movement classes combining creativity and text study. LABA Kids also features a program series including kid-friendly performances like puppet shows and rock concerts as well as original productions that both educate and excite our youngest audiences. 

What is the mission of LABA?

LABA seeks to transform the cultural landscape of New York and the Jewish world by giving artists and culture-makers, as well as children and teens, an opportunity to engage classical texts and create work in dialogue with ancient wisdom, without compromising contemporary vision.

 Why is it called LABA?   

The word LABA means “lava” in Hebrew, and reflects the way in which we place the arts in the center of our experience so that they may flow outward throughout the entire community.

How can I become a LABA fellow and join the House of Study? 

Each summer, artists apply to the LABA program.  If you are interested in receiving notices about applications and other events, please email Artists@14StreetY.org to join our mailing list.

How can I see the LABA fellows’ work? 

Every spring, LABA celebrates the end of a year of study with a multi-disciplinary festival. 

How can I enroll my child in LABA programming?

If your child is currently enrolled in our Afterschool, Preschool, New Town Day Camp, New Country Day Camp or Teen Theater Summer Institute, they are already having an experience that mirrors what our artists participate in throught the LABA House of Study.  

Is there LABA programming for adults?

During 2013 we are planning to offer opportunities to study and experience the work of the LABA fellows throughout the year. This will be in addition to the year-end festival. Please stay tuned for more information about our upcoming programming for adults.