Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

Student Matinee Series

Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company

Red Firecrackers – The Legend of the First Chinese New Year

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Date
January 30
Event Starts
10:30 AM
Location
Concert Hall
Availability
On Sale Now

Event Details

THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT. A spectacular production of dazzling props, colorful costumes, mesmerizing music, fantastic acrobatics and lively dance by top-notch performers telling the story of the origin of the Chinese Lunar New Year celebration, where a group of villagers, working together, defeat a terrifying monster of the ages. The story highlights the intrinsic value of coming together, courage and ingenuity.

Recommended Age

Recommended for grades 3-8

Jun 2025

Tonight at 7pm tune into LIU’s very own radio station, WCWP 88.1 FM to listen to the legendary Steely Dan and Doobie Brothers’ guitarist, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter in an exclusive live interview! Listen using this link https://wcwp.liu.edu/content/wcwpfm.html and then afterwards, head to our website and grab tickets for his show here at the Tilles Center this Saturday at 8pm! We can’t wait to see you soon🎸 Season Sponsor: Catholic Health @catholichealthli #newyork #longisland #guitarists #wcwp #jeffbaxter #steelydan #doobiebrothers #catholichealthli #longlivelongisland

The countdown is officially on, only one more month until Tilles Jazz Fest 2025! Join us for this day full of great food, local vendors, and of course, live jazz. A day of fun for the whole family, with Day Passes at only $15 for those under 18 and children under 10 get in for free!! Day Passes include eight performances by renowned jazz artists. Make sure to also purchase tickets to see our evening headliners Arturo Sandoval and John Pizzarelli. Our range of activities make this a perfect family outing, date spot, or even solo adventure! Head to our website for more information and to purchase your tickets, you will not want to miss out on one of our biggest events of the season. We will see you soon! 🎺🎼🥁 Event Sponsor: Dime Community Bank @dimebankusa Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TCJazzFest #2025 #longisland #family #jazz #music #festival #catholichealthli #longlivelongisland #dimebankusa #dimecommunitybank

🎉May Usher of the Month: Mary Hall!🎉 Meet Mary— a hardworking, dedicated usher who has been with us for 3 years now! We are so happy to have her as a part of our team and we want to thank her for all of her hard work! If you see Mary around make sure to congratulate her for everything she does💙💛 Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #UsherOfTheMonth #TillesCenter #CatholicHealthLi #LongLiveLongIsland

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR TILLES CENTER’S 2025/26 SEASON! Buy early for the best seats at the best prices! The wait is over — tickets to Tilles Center’s 2025/26 season are now on sale to the general public! From Broadway blockbusters like TINA – The Tina Turner Musical and RENT in Concert to unforgettable evenings with talents like Dianne Reeves, Malcolm Gladwell, and Isaac Mizrahi, this season offers something for every interest. Enjoy thrilling dance from Ballet Hispánico, orchestral brilliance from the Royal Philharmonic, global music from Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens, family favorites like Peppa Pig: My First Concert - and so much more. PLUS - limited tickets still available for in-demand events like Elvis Costello, Foreigner, The Avett Brothers, and Ben Folds - grab them before they’re gone! Tickets in great locations start at $35 for most shows — but they go fast! Buy early to get the best seats and prices. Click below to check out the full season and get your tickets today! Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland #LongIsland

🎉 MEMBER PRESALE STARTS NOW! Tilles Center Members get first access to our 2025/26 Season— from Riverdance to TINA: The Tina Turner Musical, Arturo O’Farrill to the Royal Philharmonic, Malcolm Gladwell to Rhiannon Giddens, and much more. Early birds get the best seats at the best prices– but they go quickly! Join today for access, benefits, and unforgettable performances. #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #LongIsland #CatholicHealth #LongLiveLongIsland #LIUPost

Just added! Blippi: Join the Band on Sunday, December 7 at 2 pm! Gain early access! Tickets on sale to Blippi: Join the Band to Members and Subscribers only starting tomorrow, June 4. Become a member TODAY and gain exclusive early access before tickets go on sale to the public on June 6! Members and subscribers also gain early access to Tilles Center’s entire 2025/26 season, before it goes on sale to the public on June 11! Membership starts at just $100. More info at TillesCenter.org/membership. Subscribers also gain early access! Not a subscriber yet? Learn more about becoming a subscriber at TillesCenter.org/subscribe. Season Sponsor: Catholic Health Family programming sponsored by Northville Industries #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLI #Blippi #FamilyFun #BlippiOfficial

JUST ADDED! Tilles Center is excited to announce the debut of Jeff “Skunk Baxter” on Saturday, June 21 at 8 pm! In 1972, Jeff became a founding member of Steely Dan, and played on their first three albums Can’t Buy A Thrill, Countdown To Ecstasy and Pretzel Logic, including the iconic guitar riff on the classic Rikki Don’t Lose That Number. In 1974 Jeff was asked to join The Doobie Brothers on Takin’ It To The Streets, Living’ On The Fault Line and Minute By Minute, which brought the Doobies a Grammy for Best Vocal Performance, and received a nomination for Album of the Year. What A Fool Believes earned three Grammys including Song and Record of the Year. Jeff was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Doobie Brothers in 2020. Jeff’s studio work includes the guitar work on 9 to 5, Donna Summer’s’ Hot Stuff. He has also toured or recorded with Barbra Streisand, Joni Mitchell, Elton John and Linda Ronstadt. Jeff released his first solo album “Speed of Heat” in 2020 and formed his own band. That band plays all the hits laced with great stories from his legendary career. Gain early access! Tickets on sale to this special event to Members and Subscribers only starting tomorrow, May 29. Become a member TODAY and gain exclusive early access to see Jeff “Skunk” Baxter before tickets go on sale to the public on May 30! Membership starts at just $100. Learn more at TillesCenter.org/membership Subscribers also gain early access! Not a subscriber yet? Learn more about becoming a subscriber at TillesCenter.org/subscribe Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #LongIsland #JeffSkunkBaxter #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLI

May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a time to celebrate the importance of communication, accessibility, and making sure everyone’s voice is heard! It’s also the perfect moment to shine a spotlight on one of our incredible sponsors, @lispeech. We’re lucky to have Long Island Speech as our sponsor! Their support helps us continue to present inclusive, multi-sensory events and performances that invite audiences of all abilities to experience the wonder of live performance in a safe and welcoming environment. Thank you to Long Island Speech for making the arts more accessible to our valuable community! Tilles Center’s Sensory Friendly Programming and Arts & Aging events are sponsored, in part, by Long Island Speech. Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TillesCenter #LongIslandEvents #PerformingArts #LivePerformances #nationalspeechlanguagehearingmonth #accessibility #speechpathology #longisland #LongLiveLongIsland #CatholicHealthLI

Brookville! Ben is heading out on the road this fall on his Ben Folds & A Piano Tour and will be coming to Tilles Center on October 23! Tickets on sale Wednesday! Gain early access! Tickets on sale to Members and Subscribers only starting tomorrow, May 20. Become a member TODAY and gain exclusive early access to see Ben Folds before tickets go on sale to the public on May 21! Membership starts at just $100. Subscribers also gain early access! Not a subscriber yet? Learn more about becoming a subscriber. #TillesCenter #LongIsland #LongIslandUniversity #BenFolds #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland

ONE DAY AWAY! Don’t miss this incredible afternoon of music, tomorrow, May 18 at 3 pm, in partnership with our friends at the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. With Wu Han on piano, Chad Hoopes on violin, and David Finckel on cello, get ready for an unforgettable afternoon of top-tier music by Mozart, Mendelssohn and more! To view the full program, head to Tilles Center’s website linked in our bio, and reserve your tickets for An Afternoon with David Finckel, Wu Han, and Chad Hoopes! Chamber music is sponsored by the Honorable Roger Tilles.

🎉 April Ushers of the Month: Lacey Minihan and Kimora Simpson! 🎉 Meet Lacey and Kimora— standout students and ushers. They’ve both ventured up the east coast to pursue what they love at LIU, and we’re so glad that their journeys have led them here! We are lucky to have both of these wonderful ushers on our team. Thanks for everything you do, Lacey and Kimora! 💙💛 Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #UsherOfTheMonth #TillesCenter #TeamTilles #LiveEntertainment

ON SALE NOW: Foreigner: The Hits Unplugged Friday, September 5 at 8 pm! Tilles Center for the Performing Arts is proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with legendary rock band FOREIGNER, Tilles Center, and Long Island University’s Post Theatre Company to develop and stage the world premiere production of “Feels Like The First Time – The Foreigner Musical.” To support the production, FOREIGNER will appear at an exclusive benefit concert hosted by original lead singer Lou Gramm at Tilles Center. For more information on how you can support the benefit, and view the Donor packages, visit tillescenter.org/ForeignerBenefit The multi-platinum band and 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee will perform all of their hits unplugged, including “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision,” “Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Juke Box Hero,” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want to Know What Love Is.” FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world, with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours, so don’t miss out! Proceeds from this concert will benefit the April 2026 world premiere of “Feels Like the First Time - the Foreigner Musical,” and the LIU Tilles Center New Works Initiative. #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #Foreigner #ForeignerBand #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland #Benefit #FeelsLikeTheFirstTime

WE WON! Last night, some members of Tilles Center’s team attended the 2025 Herald Long Island Choice Awards, presented by PSEG Long Island, where Tilles Center won in the category of Best Performing Arts Venue! We couldn’t be more honored to win this special award. Thanks to everyone that voted, and congratulations to all of our fellow nominees. 👏 #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #LIHerald #LIChoiceAwards #PSEGLI #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLI

The Domo Branch Trio with special guest, saxophonist Abdias Armenteros, this Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 pm in the Jazz Lounge at the Goldsmith Atrium. Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Domo Branch is a Portland-raised New Yorker, known for his musical talent, especially in relation to the modern jazz movement. Branch combines rhythm, emotion, and sophistication, creating his own groundbreaking twist on the jazz genre which explores themes such as identity, community, and the human experience. When he is not making music, Branch is a motivational speaker and educator, sharing his passion and positivity with the next generation of people. Prepare for a night of incredible musical talent, electric energy, and a retelling of the jazz tradition, in the jazz club atmosphere of the Goldsmith Atrium! Tickets are on sale already, so check out the Tilles Center’s website, and get out your jazziest attire for The Domo Branch Trio on Thursday, May 15th at 7:30 pm. Jazz programming sponsored by Sandy and Eric Krasnoff. Sponsored by DIME Bank. Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland #JazzAtLincolnCenter #Jazz

JUST ADDED: Foreigner: The Hits Unplugged Friday, September 5 at 8 pm! Tilles Center for the Performing Arts is proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with legendary rock band FOREIGNER, Tilles Center, and Long Island University’s Post Theatre Company to develop and stage the world premiere production of “Feels Like The First Time – The Foreigner Musical.” To support the production, FOREIGNER will appear at an exclusive benefit concert hosted by original lead singer Lou Gramm at Tilles Center. For more information on how you can support the benefit, and view the Donor packages, visit tillescenter.org/ForeignerBenefit The multi-platinum band and 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee will perform all of their hits unplugged, including “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision,” “Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Juke Box Hero,” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want to Know What Love Is.” FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world, with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours, so don’t miss out! Proceeds from this concert will benefit the April 2026 world premiere of “Feels Like the First Time - the Foreigner Musical,” and the LIU Tilles Center New Works Initiative. Gain early access! Tickets on sale to this special event to Members Subscribers only starting today, May 12, and Subscribers on May 13. Become a member TODAY and gain exclusive early access to see FOREIGNER: The Hits Unplugged before tickets go on sale to the public on May 16! Membership starts at just $100. More info at tillescenter.org/Membership Subscribers also gain early access! Not a subscriber yet? Learn more about becoming a subscriber at tillescenter.org/Subscribe #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #Foreigner #ForeignerBand #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland #Benefit #FeelsLikeTheFirstTime

The wait is over—Tilles Center’s 2025/26 season is here! This landmark lineup features powerhouse performances across every genre, including Foreigner, Malcolm Gladwell, Isaac Mizrahi, Arturo O’Farrill, Dianne Reeves, Adam Pascal, The Avett Brothers, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, RENT in Concert, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Rhiannon Giddens, Riverdance, Ballet Hispánico, Peppa Pig, and many, many more. We’re also thrilled to launch two bold new programs: A New Works Initiative debuting with the world premiere of Feels Like the First Time – The Foreigner Musical Our first Artist-in-Residence, Broadway’s Adam Pascal, performing and directing throughout the season. When Can I Buy? Members presale begins Monday, June 2 Subscribers presale begins Wednesday, June 4 General public on sale starts Wednesday, June 11 Subscribe or become a Member today to unlock early access, exclusive benefits, and up to 25% savings across six themed series. With so many must-see events, now is the time to secure your seats! Become a Member and gain exclusive first access to our exciting 2025/26 Season, before tickets go on sale to the public on June 11, plus other exciting benefits! Membership starts at just $100. More information at TillesCenter.org/Membership Become a Subscriber to save up to 25% on series events, and get early access to the 2025/26 Season before the public, waived fees, exchange privileges, and more! Season Sponsor: Catholic Health Elvis Costello 📷: Mark Selige #TillesCenter #LongIslandUniversity #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland #LongIsland

🚌🐦 Buckle up for laughter and fun—Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is pulling into Tilles Center this Saturday, May 10 at 11 AM & 1 PM! (Relaxed Performance for ages 4 and up) Based on the beloved book by Mo Willems, this high-energy show features catchy songs, hilarious hijinks, and one very determined bird. When the Bus Driver faces a big problem, will the Pigeon finally get his chance behind the wheel? 🎶 Feathers will fly and little ones will soar with joy—perfect for kids and families! Join us before or after the show for a free Family Workshop from 11:45 am – 12:45 pm! Workshops are unique opportunities for families to play and explore the arts together. Activities include crafts, games, story-theater and more! This event is complimentary for all ticket buyers and take place in the Herbert and Dolores Goldsmith Atrium. Tilles Center presents relaxed performances with modified sound and light levels, specially adapted pre-performance materials, and quiet lobby areas with sensory toys for patrons who wish to move around. These performances are “non-shushing” and provide a comfortable environment for individuals on the autism spectrum and those who may have limited movement, sensory and/or complex communication needs. Relaxed performances are open to all neurodivergent and neurotypical audiences and take place throughout the season as part of our Family Fun! series of performances. Produced by Theaterworks USA Based on the book written and illustrated by Mo Willems Sensory Friendly Initiatives are made possible, in part, by The Fay J. Lindner Foundation and New York Community Trust – Long Island Sponsored by Northville Industries Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #DontLetThePigeonDriveTheBus #TillesCenter #FamilyFun #KidsTheatre #LongIslandEvents #ChildrensTheatre #TheatreForYoungAudiences #CatholicHealthLI #LongLiveLongIsland

🎷 Happy International Jazz Day! 🎶 At Tilles Center, we’re proud to celebrate the power and legacy of jazz—not just today, but all season long. Through our ongoing collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, we’ve welcomed some of the world’s finest jazz artists to our stage, including Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, Branford Marsalis, Brandee Younger, Matt Wilson, Etienne Charles, Alexa Tarantino, and more. And the music doesn’t stop there... 🎺 Join us for our upcoming Jazz Fest, where we continue to honor this rich tradition with unforgettable performances by artists like Arturo Sandoval and John Pizzarelli that celebrate the soul, rhythm, and innovation of jazz. Here’s to the artists who inspire, the music that moves us, and the audiences who make it all possible. 💛 Jazz Fest Sponsors: Sandy & Eric Krasnoff Dime Bank Additional support provided by McLaughlin & Stern Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #InternationalJazzDay #JazzAtTilles #JazzAtLincolnCenter #JazzFest #TillesCenter #LiveJazz #LongIslandEvents #CelebrateJazz #JazzLegend

Just a few days away - Join us for A Musical Tribute to Zakir Hussain – Uniting Traditions, Celebrating a Legend on Sunday, May 4 at 6 PM at the Krasnoff Theater. Co-presented by the Indo-American Arts Council and Tilles Center, this special evening honors the legendary Zakir Hussain with a stunning fusion of Hindustani and Carnatic classical music. Featuring a world-class lineup: 🎵 Rakesh Chaurasia and Shashank Subramanyam on flute 🎵 Anubrata Chatterjee on tabla 🎵 Parupalli Phalgun on mridangam Celebrate the life, music, and legacy of a true maestro. ✨For tickets and more information, visit TillesCenter.org or click the link in our bio. Presented in collaboration with the Indo-American Arts Council Sponsored by Guru Krupa Foundation Inc Sponsored by TD Bank Season Sponsor: Catholic Health #TillesCenter #ZakirHussain #IndoAmericanArtsCouncil #LiveMusic #KrasnoffTheater

The Imagine Awards are just a few days away! Join us for the Long Island Imagine Awards, where we celebrate the incredible impact of our region’s top nonprofits. ✨ Don’t wait—only a limited number of tickets remain! Secure your spot today and be there for a night of inspiration, recognition, and community. 📅 Tuesday, April 29, 2025 📍 Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, NY 🍸 Cocktail Reception: 5:30 PM 🍽️ Dinner & Awards: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM 🎟️ Tickets: $200 | Nonprofit Rate: $125 For over a decade, the Long Island Imagine Awards has honored the innovation, leadership, and community impact of local nonprofits. Now in its 13th year, the tradition continues—bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever. We hope to see you there! #ImagineAwards #LongIsland #nonprofit #TillesCenter