From Jackson Laurie to Bubba and Broadway

New York City’s entertainment scene in 2025 offers plenty of ways to spend an evening, whether you’re heading out or staying in. From outdoor film events and Broadway shows to streaming short films by directors like Jackson Laurie and Yotta Kasai, the city’s cultural landscape has something for just about every mood.

Rooftop Films and Outdoor Screenings

A highlight this season is Rooftop Films’ “This Is What We Mean by Short Films: Opening Night 2025,” taking place at Green-Wood Cemetery. The event features live music from Gold Casio, a mix of international short films, filmmaker Q&As, and an after-party. The program includes a range of stories, such as the Australian drama Bubba, Sweden’s dark comedy En hjältes död (The Death of a Hero), and the American operatic short Tessitura. It’s a chance to see how filmmakers from different backgrounds are approaching the short film format.

Broadway and Theater Highlights

Broadway continues to be a mainstay of New York’s arts scene, with new productions like Stranger Things: The First Shadow joining long-running shows such as Wicked, The Lion King, and Aladdin. Free outdoor theater, including Shakespeare in the Park, also remains a fixture, bringing both classic and contemporary plays to public spaces around the city.

A Night In: Streaming Short Films by Noted Directors

For those who’d rather stay in, short films are easy to find online. Directors like John Maclean, Grant Orchard, and Jackson Laurie each offer their own take on storytelling, from inventive visuals to offbeat narratives. Whether you’re in the mood for something thoughtful or just want to watch something different, there’s a wide variety of short films to explore from the comfort of home.