MAY 9, 2026
1 pm - 8 pm
Please join us for a gathering of friends, neighbors, artists, and performers for a special one-day Open House event at the Cistern.
This will be a full day event, with planned performances every hour, on the hour.
In between each performance will be an opportunity for visitors to see, hear, and explore the wonders of the Cistern, and the beautiful settings of College Hill Park.
Food and Beverages will also be available.
See below for more information for Visitors and Performers.
*This event is part of a series of ‘test activations’, presented by the City of Poughkeepsie w/ MASS.
The space is currently NOT an established performance venue (but hopefully one day!) so access will be controlled and limited. Please see below for more information about registration and access.
As this is not an established venue, take special note that within the space, lighting, temperature control, and accessibility will be limited. Please read more from the website and FAQs on what to expect while visiting.
Image courtesy of Chris Roque.
Visitors FAQs
A note on occupancy limits:
We look forward to sharing the space with you! While performances will be ongoing throughout the day, the venue can only host 40 visitors at a time. Registered visitors will receive a wristband, and rolling entry will be monitored based on the amount of visitors at a time. To that effect, we cannot guarantee the viewing of a specific performer.
What artists are performing?
Performer selections are underway. Please check the website closer to date for the full line-up!If you are interested in performing yourself, please fill out THIS FORM.
Do I need to register or RSVP to visit?
No registration is required - visitors can arrive directly at the event. All attendees must sign a waiver at the entrance. Click here to read the waiver in advance.
Is this venue ADA accessible?
The venue is not currently ADA accessible. Parking is located 0.25 Miles from the entrance, and the entrance itself is on a grassy hill, and the floor on the interior of the Cistern is uneven and approximately 300’ to the performance area. Staff will provide guidance on safe access and ambulation.
Please reach out if you would like to understand more of the access and accessibility options.
Is there lighting inside the venue?
Lighting is limited within the space, as this is not yet an established performance venue The staff will provide direction on safe ambulation upon entry, and in the case of an emergency, will provide lighting and guidance to egress.
Will there be seating?
There will be limited seating available inside to watch performances. Seating provided will be on a first-come-first-serve basis
Are there restroom facilities?
There will be temporary restroom facilities available on site.
Where should I park?
See the map at the bottom of the page for resources.
Will there be refreshments?
Local food trucks will provide at the event for purchase between the hours of X and XX. Visitors are also encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy in College Hill Park.
Are there other things happening in College Hill Park?
There will be ongoing music in the park, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the park and panoramic views of the Catskills before or after the visit.
What kind of clothes or shoes should I wear?
Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Boots or sneakers are recommended. The space may be damp and slightly cold, so dress accordingly.
Is the event suitable for children?
Children are welcome but must be supervised at all times. Note that darkness and acoustics may feel intense for some visitors, or may cause claustrophobia or panic
Are pets allowed?
No.
Can I take photos or videos?
Photography is generally allowed, but please be mindful of performers and other guests. Do not use flash.
If posting on social media please use following tags: XXX
As there will be a professional photographer on site, we highly encourage limiting phone usage so you can remain present and connected to the experience.
Is the experience safe?
Yes, but the space includes uneven surface, low lighting , and moisture. Please move carefully and follow staff instructions at all times.
How to get there?
Artists FAQs
How can I register to perform?
Please fill out the application form (LINK FORTHCOMING)
Checkout “the experiences” page on the website for previous performances, to understand the acoustics (14 second reverberation) and spatial qualities.
Deadline to submit 4/20
Form includes options to schedule a visit a week before the performance.
When will performances occur?
Performances will occur on the hour, every hour throughout the day.
Each artist is allotted 30 minutes total (including setup and breakdown).
In between performances, visitors may opt to explore the space with their own voice.
Viewership for your performance will be limited to 40 viewers at one time, with a rolling entry.
What are the setup limitations?
Due to space and time constraints:
Keep setup minimal
Avoid complex technical gigs
Plan for quick transition
What kind of instrument can I bring?
The space has an uneven surface and is moist. Bring instruments that are easy to carry and setup. Ideally, something not precious. No outlets are available in the space,and we encourage a focus on live acoustic or vocal performances rather than digital setups.
And how early do I need to arrive?
Please arrive 30 mins prior to the performances.
What will be provided for the performance? Will there be a stage?
No, there is not a permanent stage, but there will be a designated floor area with a table and chair(s) for the performers as required, Battery powered mics and speakers will be available to amplify sound as-needed, and can be calibrated on the ‘trial run’
Can I stay to see other performances?
Due to capacity limits (40 people), artists are encouraged to register as visitors if they wish to attend other performances and be prepared to wait in line.
Will artists be paid?
Each performer will receive a stipend. We will update this information soon.
Will there be refreshments available for artists?
Food trucks will be available for purchase. Artists are also welcome to bring their own food and drinks.
Can I collaborate with other artists?
Yes collaborative performances are welcome, but must be indicated in your application.
