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Evening Performances [clear filter]
Wednesday, December 31
 

6:00pm EST

Otis House Museum: Classical Guitar by Chris Renna
From 6-9pm, enjoy live classical guitar by Chris Renna.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 6:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Otis House Museum 141 Cambridge St Boston, MA 02114

6:30pm EST

Old South Brass, Organ & Percussion
Sponsored by Old South Church: The best of Boston’s brass and percussion artists join an organist with imagination and verve in a supersonic program of “Pipes and Pops”, playing electrifying arrangements of popular classics, as well as leading the audience in singing stirring favorites.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 6:30pm - 7:15pm EST
Old South Church 645 Boylston St. Boston, MA 02116

7:15pm EST

The Mercy Case

The Mercy Case is a Rock and Roll band from Boston in the vein of The Smoking Popes and Alkaline Trio. Their live shows are energetic and fun. They have plenty of songs to sing along to. Even if it's your first time seeing them!

Facebook.com/themercycase

Reverbnation.com/themercycase

@themercycase on Instagram and Twitter


Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:15pm - 8:00pm EST
CityPlace 8 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02166

7:30pm EST

Jamaica Plain Porchfest: Songs in the Key of JP
This documentary captures the magic of a vibrant, community-building music festival held in July 2014 on porches all around Boston's Jamaica Plain neighborhood. Sixty-five musicians played jazz, reggae, classical, R & B, country, rock, world, and more to a roving audience of 7,000+ people. The film illustrates the power of transforming personal spaces into public art venues, knitting the community together porch by porch. JPPorchfest producers offer a sneak preview of plans to add theater, circus arts, poetry, spoken word, and dance to future Porchfests.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 308 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Rainbow Tribe
Holidays with Tribe -- Tribe’s performances range from African to modern jazz and from swing to hip-hop and breakin'. New, local choreography and choreographers reflect popular dance forms by presenting works that draw from a variety of traditions.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

The First Night Lounge (Ages 21+): Sue Costello
Sue Costello: Sue brings you stories of her life growing up in Dorchester. Through conversations with others, we watch her come of age!

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 313 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Boston Poetry Slam
Poetry Slam is a thirty-year movement conventionally defined as “the art of competitive performance poetry.” It’s a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience: storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition. Volunteers will be selected to judge the slam, and other audience members are strongly encouraged to participate by cheering, whistling, or (gently) heckling the hosts or judges.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:05pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 103 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Brendan Little
Brendan Little has been performing under his own name since he was a teen. He was also the former frontman for the rock band The Painted Lights, and has performed with Frightened Rabbit, The Hold Steady, Cass McCombs, Fanfarlo, Albert Hammond Jr., Sloan, Au Revoir Simone, Buffalo Tom, Ben Lee, and Bettie Serveert.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:10pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Ballroom B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Live DJ
Live DJ music at the Liberty Mutual Copley Stage.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:10pm EST
Copley Square Boylston Street

7:30pm EST

Thalia Zedek Band
Thrill Jockey recording artists the Thalia Zedek Band are a local "super-group" of sorts, with the songs of veteran rocker Thalia Zedek at their core. The current lineup features members of Come, Fuzzy, Victory at Sea, and Willard Grant Conspiracy.


Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:10pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Ballroom B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

ImprovBoston
You provide the inspiration, we provide the laughs! The ImprovBoston National Touring Company returns to First Night to create fast-paced, high-energy, on-the-spot comedy in a show that is always new and never the same show twice.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall A 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Wax & Gold
Featuring Debo Band members Danny Mekonnen on saxophones and Adam Clark on drums, Wax & Gold is a group inspired by the large ensemble funk of 1970s Ethiopia at the heart of Debo Band's repertoire. With a set of original compositions, improvised music, and pared-down Ethiopian pop songs, the group seeks a dialogue with the great saxophone-drum duos of the last 30 years: John Coltrane & Rashid Ali, Dewey Redman & Ed Blackwell, Getachew Mekuria & Katherina Bornefeld, to name a few.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:15pm EST
Emmanuel Church 15 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116

7:30pm EST

Tribe Vibe: Molt Corps
This is a neo-tribal space with bone & metal artworks and sculptures, human statues, video sculpture, body painting (while this performance does NOT include nudity, it is intended for mature audiences. Parental discretion is advised), and acro-yoga & LED spinning, and live experimental musical groups. MUSIC by
Living Light [NC] :: soundcloud.com/livinglight
Of The Sun [MA]:: futureshamans.com
Windhorse [NY]:: windhorsetheband.bandcamp.com
Molt Corps [MA] :: moltcorps.bandcamp.com

Art by
Bodypaint : Adam Giangregorio
Acro-yoga : Nicole Leeland & Adam Giangregorio
Lighting : Kerri Coburn [kerricoburn.com]
Video : Voojoo & Pat Chaney
Sound : Pat Chaney
Deco : Reliquarium [thereliquarium.com]

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 8:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 311 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Boston Saxophone Quartet
The BSQ, through its “Noteworthy Scholars” program, seeks out student composers in the Boston Public Schools to compose either an original musical work or arrange an existing music piece for the BSQ. The winning selection is then performed by this professional quartet whose members have appeared with the Boston Pops, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and leading Broadway theaters throughout New England.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 310 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Anime Marathon
Back by popular demand! The New England Anime Society, convention organizers of Anime Boston, presents the best and most popular Japanese animation. For information about titles, visit www.firstnightboston.org

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 200 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Boston Cyberarts
Aglow: Cyber and Fiber is a collection of installations by Rob Gonsalves and Kristina Goransson. The exhibit features brightly colored felt sculptures as well as interactive audio-visual installations. Visitors are invited to play and dance into the new year.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 301, 303 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Face | Face
Face | Face: John Crowley/Matt Walzak
Look into the portal. A Stranger is looking back at you. At the other end of the room a stranger is looking into another portal but the stranger looking back at them is you! The results will be projected. Crowley / Walczak, www.mattwalczak.com

Sylvie Agudelo - Media Installation XV
7:30 PM -11:00  PM 



Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 313 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

First Light 2015
A throne that reacts to your brain waves? Using dynamic science and interactive art, First Light fuses technology with creativity!

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 203 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Miz Jones’ House Party
Have a funky good time with soul-jazz vocalist Allyssa Jones and a parade of stellar Boston-based artists. Through classic soul, favorite hits and crazy new mash-ups, this party unites generations in a "groove-centric" celebration.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 309 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

Roger Miller and The Surrealists Games
Welcome to an evening of Exquisite Corpse games where individuals can learn and play riotous mind-bending games that were developed by Andre Breton and his co-conspirators during the 1920's and '30's, the heyday of surrealism. The consummate master of ceremonies, Miller will not only explain and lead the games to kick off the event, but he'll also DJ - providing a surrealistic soundtrack to the evening.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 201 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

First Night Playground: Block Party
BLOCK PARTY is a series of 200 custom-designed jumbo foam blocks that will engage visitors of all ages in inventing and building playful structures. Created by Katarzyna Balug and Maria Vidart-Delgado from the Department of Play.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

First Night Playground: Indoor Roller Skating Rink
Lace up your skates and get ready to roll! This family fun activity will put you in the party mood. Free skates available onsite.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:30pm EST

First Night Playground: Silent Disco by Silent Events
Welcome to the silent disco, with DJ Serge Gamesbourg! Grab your headphones and tune in to the live DJ or switch to the channel of your choice. Whether you’re dancing and singing with headphones on or watching the crowd from afar, this Silent Event is a very unique experience! DJ: Serge Gamesbourg (www.soundcloud.com/sergegamesbourg)

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:30pm - 11:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:45pm EST

Sons of Serendip
The quartet Sons of Serendip, finalists from "America's Got Talent" were called "the most musically talented act on the show" by Howie Mandel and Howard Stern. This unique and dynamic quartet consists of a harpist, cellist, pianist and a vocalist. Their "classical" arrangements of popular songs has taken the world by storm.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:45pm - 8:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Ballroom A 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

7:45pm EST

(Ages 18+) Alternative Culture Couture (Brooke Morgan)
Alternative Culture Couture: Fashion, Burlesque, and Photography. A multi-genre interactive experience showcasing the dark beauty and edgy fun of Massachusetts' gothic and alternative culture. Come take pictures with our gorgeous models and enjoy a sexy striptease! With musical guest Mei O'hara, and burlesque headliner Delilah Shameless.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 7:45pm - 8:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 312 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:00pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 8:20pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:00pm EST

Jo-Mé Dance Company
The company will be performing excerpts from Nervosa Along Attachment and Disconnect. The pieces draw out an emotional and physical journey in search for comfort in our own skin and with others.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 8:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:00pm EST

Old South Brass, Organ & Percussion
Sponsored by Old South Church: The best of Boston’s brass and percussion artists join an organist with imagination and verve in a supersonic program of “Pipes and Pops”, playing electrifying arrangements of popular classics, as well as leading the audience in singing stirring favorites.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 8:45pm EST
Old South Church 645 Boylston St. Boston, MA 02116

8:00pm EST

Storytelling with Massmouth: Story Slam hosted by Brendyn Schneider
Best of Greater Boston Story Slams 2014 True Life Stories from massmouth.org story slams. Story slam featuring short stories from slam winners with audience participation and prizes Season 6 story slam themes: nuts, mistaken identity, family tree, perfect storm, shelter, lust, leap of faith, games people play, near death, culture shock, beginner’s luck, power trip, like family, naked, date night, and game over.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 8:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 104 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:00pm EST

Dom Flemons
First Night Boston, Berklee College of Music, and WUMB-FM 91.9 present: Dom Flemons is the "American Songster," pulling from traditions of old-time folk music to create new sounds. Having performed music professionally since 2005, he has played live for over one million people just within the past three years. As part of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, which he co-founded with Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson, he has played at a variety of festivals spanning from the Newport Folk Festival to Bonnaroo, in addition to renowned venues such as the Grand Ole Opry. In July 2014, Dom released his third solo record with Music Maker Relief Foundation, and his first since leaving the Carolina Chocolate Drops. Prospect Hill finds Flemons digging deeply into ragtime, Piedmont blues, spirituals, southern folk music, string band music, jug band music, fife and drum music, and ballads idioms with showmanship and humor, reinterpreting the music to suit 21st century audiences. He was featured on NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross and his new album has received praise from The Boston Globe, Paste Magazine, Living Blues Magazine, and more.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 9:00pm EST
Berklee Performance Center 136 Massachusetts Avenue Boston, MA 02115-2602

8:00pm EST

Roxbury International Film Festival
TOP OF THE ROXANNUAL FIRST NIGHT FILM FESTIVALDECEMBER 31, 2014HYNES CONVENTION CENTER

The 2015 Roxbury International Film Festival takes place June 17, 2015 to June 27, 2015 at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston. Below are films that were featured at the 2014 festival and will be screening at Top of the Rox New Years Eve 2014.

 The Best, The Boldest – 17min Director Moon Molsen. Two Army Casualty Notification Officers arrive at the Harlem projects to deliver Sayeeda Porter some news about her son serving in the war in the Middle East. But whatever it is they have to say, Sayeeda ain't trying to hear it.  (sundance official submission as well as RIFF best short winner)

Escapement – 40 min, Director Jae Williams.  Brandon a 17 year old from Boston Massachusetts turns to his musical talents to help his family. Through his journey he struggles with self identity, peer pressure, and trust. He eventually finds guidance through a man of experience and he finds confidence through a man of his past. This is a story about 3 generations of African American men who converge through jazz to tell a story of appreciation, love, and family.  

Maestra
 15 min - Director Catherine Murphy. Maestro explores the experience of eight women who, as young girls, taught on the Cuban Literacy campaign of 2961.

The Theft  21min. Director – Gauri Adelkar. Arjun and his mother Ira have just moved from the US to Mumbai. Pandu, is their new 'servant' and shy 8 year old Bhima is Pandu's son. One afternoon, a large sum of money goes missing from Ira's home and a son's loyalty to his father is put to test, as they are all thrown into a storm of revelations when Ira accuses Pandu of the theft. 

Money Box
 -  5m Director Muzappar Osman.   Greed, money and human nature prevail in this captivating short.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:00pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 308 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:10pm EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Brite Lite Brite
Composed of award-winning singer-songwriter Andrea Stankevitch and electronics master Luke Johnson, both alumni of Berklee College of Music, Brite Lite Brite has taken live electronic music production and performance to new levels by creating innovative technologies and techniques for live sound design and real-time production.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:10pm - 9:00pm EST
Copley Square Boylston Street

8:15pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:15pm - 8:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:15pm EST

The First Night Lounge (Ages 21+): Divas After Dark
They're shiny. They're sassy. They're scintillatingly brassy! Ring in the New Year with the hilarious Deb Farrar-Parkman, Roz Browne and Kathe Farris, First Night's own Divas After Dark in their First Farewell Comedy Tour.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:15pm - 8:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 313 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:15pm EST

Boston Poetry Slam
Poetry Slam is a thirty-year movement conventionally defined as “the art of competitive performance poetry.” It’s a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience: storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition. Volunteers will be selected to judge the slam, and other audience members are strongly encouraged to participate by cheering, whistling, or (gently) heckling the hosts or judges.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:15pm - 8:50pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 103 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:15pm EST

Princeton Movement Theatre: 'Outside the Box'
“Outside the Box” This troupe will change the way you think about mime. In a series of wordless vignettes, ranging from hilarious to heartbreaking, they draw audiences into a performance that takes place as much inside the head as it does on stage.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:15pm - 9:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 202 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:30pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 8:50pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:30pm EST

Urbanity Dance
Inside Out -- Urbanity Dance leads an interactive performance featuring a variety of solos and duets. Dancers explore innovative contemporary movement and invite our audience to discover “inside out” dancing to bring in the New Year.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:30pm EST

Drew O'Doherty
A self-described "Cub Scout dropout born on the day "Never Mind The Bollocks" was released," Drew O'Doherty, formerly a member of Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, is a favorite Boston singer and songwriter.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:15pm EST
Emmanuel Church 15 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116

8:30pm EST

Sleeping Weazel: Birth, Breath, Bride Elizabeth
Revel in madness and cake in this runaway hit "lecture play," written and directed by Kenneth Prestininzi. A deconstructed Mary Shelley/Bride of Frankenstein, performed by Stephanie Burlington Daniels, gives a wackadoodle lecture to young brides/scholars -- she's never sure which, due to her alternating bi-polar mania and verbal short circuiting. 

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 206 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:30pm EST

The Pushups
The Push-Ups deliver a spirited show with a wide range of music, from blues to jazz, classical to Latin. The duet features Guitarist Omar Sosa, and Bassist David Arias, who have been playing together since they were kids. They are both currently studying at Berklee College of Music.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:15pm EST
CityPlace 8 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02166

8:30pm EST

Animal Hospital Ensemble
Altering traditional concert convention by situating the audience in the center of the room encircled by dozens of guitarists and drummers, Animal Hospital Ensemble performances provide a unique sonic experience for each listener.

This First Night performance will involve staging musicians on multiple levels of the main rotunda of the convention center inviting the audience to walk around and experience the music from different perspectives.

www.animalhospitalensemble.com

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Escalators 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

8:30pm EST

Tribe Vibe: Windhorse
This is a neo-tribal space with bone & metal artworks and sculptures, human statues, video sculpture, body painting (while this performance does NOT include nudity, it is intended for mature audiences. Parental discretion is advised), and acro-yoga & LED spinning, and live experimental musical groups. MUSIC by
Living Light [NC] :: soundcloud.com/livinglight
Of The Sun [MA]:: futureshamans.com
Windhorse [NY]:: windhorsetheband.bandcamp.com
Molt Corps [MA] :: moltcorps.bandcamp.com

Art by
Bodypaint : Adam Giangregorio
Acro-yoga : Nicole Leeland & Adam Giangregorio
Lighting : Kerri Coburn [kerricoburn.com]
Video : Voojoo & Pat Chaney
Sound : Pat Chaney
Deco : Reliquarium [thereliquarium.com]

Wednesday December 31, 2014 8:30pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 311 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

Intimations Dance
Intimations Dance is a collaborative interdisciplinary dance company. Telling stories with contemporary techniques, improvisation keeps the work alive in hopes of generating visceral responses from our audiences. We host the annual National Choreography Month Boston performance series to offer opportunities for other emerging and established choreographers in our community.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

The First Night Lounge (Ages 21+): Divas After Dark
They're shiny. They're sassy. They're scintillatingly brassy! Ring in the New Year with the hilarious Deb Farrar-Parkman, Roz Browne and Kathe Farris, First Night's own Divas After Dark in their First Farewell Comedy Tour.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 313 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

Boston Poetry Slam
Poetry Slam is a thirty-year movement conventionally defined as “the art of competitive performance poetry.” It’s a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience: storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition. Volunteers will be selected to judge the slam, and other audience members are strongly encouraged to participate by cheering, whistling, or (gently) heckling the hosts or judges.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:35pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 103 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

ImprovBoston
You provide the inspiration, we provide the laughs! The ImprovBoston National Touring Company returns to First Night to create fast-paced, high-energy, on-the-spot comedy in a show that is always new and never the same show twice.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall A 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

Organ Fireworks
Heinrich Christensen pulls out all the stops of King's Chapel's C.B. Fisk Organ with works by Bach, Mendelssohn, Dupré

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:45pm EST
King's Chapel 58 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02108

9:00pm EST

Storytelling with Massmouth: 1st Person Plural, hosted by Brendyn Schneider, Sue Schmidt, Peter Carcia and Michael Anderson
1st Person Plural – True Life Stories. Longer stories by best of Boston Story slam winners – 3 master storytellers emceed by a master storyteller.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 9:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 105 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:00pm EST

(Ages 18+) Alternative Culture Couture (Brooke Morgan)
Alternative Culture Couture: Fashion, Burlesque, and Photography. A multi-genre interactive experience showcasing the dark beauty and edgy fun of Massachusetts' gothic and alternative culture. Come take pictures with our gorgeous models and enjoy a sexy striptease! With musical guest Mei O'hara, and burlesque headliner Delilah Shameless.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:00pm - 10:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 312 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:15pm EST

Jon Bernhardt
Jon Bernhardt


Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:15pm - 9:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Ballroom B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:15pm EST

Arlington Street Church Tour
A program of varied organ works performed by organists Heinrich Christensen (organist at King's Chapel), Yevgenia Semeina-Maroyan (organist at Arlington Street Church), and Bryan Ashley (organist at the Christian Science "Mother Church")


Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:15pm - 9:45pm EST
Arlington Street Church 351 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02116-3399

9:15pm EST

Storytelling with Massmouth: Story Slam hosted by Diana Valentine
Best of Greater Boston Story Slams 2014 True Life Stories from massmouth.org story slams. Story slam featuring short stories from slam winners with audience participation and prizes Season 6 story slam themes: nuts, mistaken identity, family tree, perfect storm, shelter, lust, leap of faith, games people play, near death, culture shock, beginner’s luck, power trip, like family, naked, date night, and game over.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:15pm - 10:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 104 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:20pm EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Cask Mouse
Cask Mouse sifts the sand of time to bring alive new stories of American life with the love and craftsmanship that made this country what it is today. Its members draw from all aspects of their diverse musical and geographical experiences to truly express emotion and tell untold truths. With a sweeping love for all music they find themselves meandering the genres of country, folk, rock n roll, rhythm and blues, gospel and soul.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:20pm - 10:10pm EST
Copley Square Boylston Street

9:30pm EST

The Wondertwins
Get ready for the Wondertwins - six-time winners at the Apollo Theater! The Wondertwins have performed with Queen Latifah, MC Hammer, MC Lyte, Public Enemy and choreographed for New Kids on the Block. From hip hop to mime and popping to creative dance - make way for the Wondertwins.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 9:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:30pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 9:50pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:30pm EST

The Magic Lantern Picture Show
A delightful presentation of short films that will thrill and inspire audiences of all shapes and sizes you will thrill to mini-movies of wonder, whimsy and wit. Watch Animation and Live Action Short films that will take you on a ride to fun and festive places!

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 10:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 308 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:30pm EST

Anais Mitchell
Special concert featuring renowned Vermont songwriter Anais Mitchell, currently on tour in Europe in support of her recently released album XOA (Winterland Records 2014) receiving four starts in The Independent and The Telegraph. Her 2013 album Child Ballads (Winterland Records) recently won the BBC Folk Award for Best Traditional Song, broadcast live from London's Royal Albert Hall.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 10:15pm EST
Emmanuel Church 15 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116

9:30pm EST

Patty Larkin
First Night Boston, Berklee College of Music, and WUMB-FM 91.9 present: Patty Larkin redefines the boundaries of folk-urban pop music with her inventive guitar wizardry and uncompromising vocals and lyrics. Acoustic Guitar hails her “soundscape experiments” while Rolling Stone praises her “evocative and sonic shading.” She has been described as “riveting” (Chicago Tribune), “hypnotic” (Entertainment Weekly)and a “drop-dead brilliant” performer (Performing Songwriter). Patty is the recipient of an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music, where she is now an Artist in Residence. Patty has earned eleven Boston Music Awards and has been honored by Boston’s Mayor Thomas Menino with “Patty Larkin Appreciation Day” in recognition of her philanthropic contributions to non-profit organizations.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 10:30pm EST
Berklee Performance Center 136 Massachusetts Avenue Boston, MA 02115-2602

9:30pm EST

Tribe Vibe: Of the Sun
This is a neo-tribal space with bone & metal artworks and sculptures, human statues, video sculpture, body painting (while this performance does NOT include nudity, it is intended for mature audiences. Parental discretion is advised), and acro-yoga & LED spinning, and live experimental musical groups. MUSIC by
Living Light [NC] :: soundcloud.com/livinglight
Of The Sun [MA]:: futureshamans.com
Windhorse [NY]:: windhorsetheband.bandcamp.com
Molt Corps [MA] :: moltcorps.bandcamp.com

Art by
Bodypaint : Adam Giangregorio
Acro-yoga : Nicole Leeland & Adam Giangregorio
Lighting : Kerri Coburn [kerricoburn.com]
Video : Voojoo & Pat Chaney
Sound : Pat Chaney
Deco : Reliquarium [thereliquarium.com]

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 10:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 311 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:30pm EST

The Grownup Noise
Since releasing their self-titled debut in 2007, Boston's The Grownup Noise has evolved into a rousing and innovative pop-music outfit, bridging the gap between Americana and Indie music. Their new album is entitled "The Problem with Living in the Moment."

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 10:45pm EST
CityPlace 8 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02166

9:30pm EST

Yo La Tengo
Yo La Tengo is one of the most beloved and respected bands in America. For nearly thirty years, Ira Kaplan, Georgia Hubley and James McNew have enjoyed success entirely on their own terms — playing the world’s best concert halls, museums, and dives, dominating critics’ lists, doing a Simpsons theme, playing the Velvet Underground in “I Shot Andy Warhol,” sharing stages with some of the most important musicians of our time, and even creating a holiday tradition onto themselves with their yearly series of Hanukkah shows at Hoboken, New Jersey’s legendary club Maxwells, from which they've donated hundreds of thousands to charity.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Ballroom B 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:45pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:45pm - 10:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:45pm EST

The First Night Lounge (Ages 21+): Divas After Dark
They're shiny. They're sassy. They're scintillatingly brassy! Ring in the New Year with the hilarious Deb Farrar-Parkman, Roz Browne and Kathe Farris, First Night's own Divas After Dark in their First Farewell Comedy Tour.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:45pm - 10:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 313 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:45pm EST

Boston Poetry Slam
Poetry Slam is a thirty-year movement conventionally defined as “the art of competitive performance poetry.” It’s a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience: storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition. Volunteers will be selected to judge the slam, and other audience members are strongly encouraged to participate by cheering, whistling, or (gently) heckling the hosts or judges.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:45pm - 10:20pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 103 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

9:45pm EST

Princeton Movement Theatre: 'Outside the Box'
“Outside the Box”: This troupe will change the way you think about mime. In a series of wordless vignettes, ranging from hilarious to heartbreaking, they draw audiences into a performance that takes place as much inside the head as it does on stage.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 9:45pm - 10:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 202 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:00pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:00pm - 10:20pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:00pm EST

The Magic Lantern Picture Show
A delightful presentation of short films that will thrill and inspire audiences of all shapes and sizes you will thrill to mini-movies of wonder, whimsy and wit. Watch Animation and Live Action Short films that will take you on a ride to fun and festive places!

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:00pm - 10:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 308 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:00pm EST

American Guild of Organists
A program of varied organ works performed by organists Heinrich Christensen (organist at King's Chapel), Yevgenia Semeina-Maroyan (organist at Arlington Street Church), and Bryan Ashley (organist at the Christian Science "Mother Church")


Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Arlington Street Church 351 Boylston Street Boston, MA 02116-3399

10:00pm EST

Rumba Y Timbal Salsa Social
Now it’s your turn to dance! Work out with the dancers of Rumba Y Timbal as they perform and teach one large salsa class!

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:00pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 302 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:15pm EST

Storytelling with Massmouth: 1st Person Plural, hosted by HR Britton, Brendyn Schneider, Diana Valentine and Justin Werfel
1st Person Plural – True Life Stories. Longer stories by best of Boston Story slam winners – 3 master storytellers emceed by a master storyteller.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:15pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 105 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:15pm EST

(Ages 18+) Alternative Culture Couture (Brooke Morgan)
Alternative Culture Couture: Fashion, Burlesque, and Photography. A multi-genre interactive experience showcasing the dark beauty and edgy fun of Massachusetts' gothic and alternative culture. Come take pictures with our gorgeous models and enjoy a sexy striptease! With musical guest Mei O'hara, and burlesque headliner Delilah Shameless.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:15pm - 11:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 312 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Boston Poetry Slam
Poetry Slam is a thirty-year movement conventionally defined as “the art of competitive performance poetry.” It’s a fast-paced competition where poets have a limited amount of time to impress judges randomly selected from the audience: storytelling, lyricism, and stand-up comedy all come together in what’s evolved to a modern oral tradition. Volunteers will be selected to judge the slam, and other audience members are strongly encouraged to participate by cheering, whistling, or (gently) heckling the hosts or judges.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 103 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:00pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Street Dogs (acoustic)
Street Dogs are a Boston-based punk rock band featuring Mike McColgan, formerly of the Dropkick Murphys on lead vocals. They bring a special acoustic performance with their motto "Not without a purpose, not without a fight!" to the Copley Stage for First Night. They've recorded five albums and  five EPs, and their songs appear on dozens of singles and compilations.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:10pm EST
Copley Square Boylston Street

10:30pm EST

ImprovBoston
You provide the inspiration, we provide the laughs! The ImprovBoston National Touring Company returns to First Night to create fast-paced, high-energy, on-the-spot comedy in a show that is always new and never the same show twice.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Hall A 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Sleeping Weazel: Birth, Breath, Bride Elizabeth
Revel in madness and cake in this runaway hit "lecture play," written and directed by Kenneth Prestininzi. A deconstructed Mary Shelley/Bride of Frankenstein, performed by Stephanie Burlington Daniels, gives a wackadoodle lecture to young brides/scholars -- she's never sure which, due to her alternating bi-polar mania and verbal short circuiting. 

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 206 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Storytelling with Massmouth: Story Slam hosted by Audra Jamai
Best of Greater Boston Story Slams 2014 True Life Stories from massmouth.org story slams. Story slam featuring short stories from slam winners with audience participation and prizes Season 6 story slam themes: nuts, mistaken identity, family tree, perfect storm, shelter, lust, leap of faith, games people play, near death, culture shock, beginner’s luck, power trip, like family, naked, date night, and game over.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:15pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 104 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

10:30pm EST

Tribe Vibe: Living Light (Eartha Harris)
This is a neo-tribal space with bone & metal artworks and sculptures, human statues, video sculpture, body painting (while this performance does NOT include nudity, it is intended for mature audiences. Parental discretion is advised), and acro-yoga & LED spinning, and live experimental musical groups. MUSIC by
Living Light [NC] :: soundcloud.com/livinglight
Of The Sun [MA]:: futureshamans.com
Windhorse [NY]:: windhorsetheband.bandcamp.com
Molt Corps [MA] :: moltcorps.bandcamp.com

Art by
Bodypaint : Adam Giangregorio
Acro-yoga : Nicole Leeland & Adam Giangregorio
Lighting : Kerri Coburn [kerricoburn.com]
Video : Voojoo & Pat Chaney
Sound : Pat Chaney
Deco : Reliquarium [thereliquarium.com]

Wednesday December 31, 2014 10:30pm - 11:30pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 311 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

11:00pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 11:00pm - 11:20pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

11:10pm EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Live DJ
Live DJ music at the Liberty Mutual Copley Stage.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 11:10pm - 11:30pm EST
Copley Square Boylston Street

11:15pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Late Night Puppet Cabaret
The First Night Puppet Slam is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever! This “Late Night Puppet Cabaret” features irreverent and astonishing puppetry acts for adult and teen audiences. Featured performances include National Marionette Theater's Marionette Cabaret, a teddy bear odyssey called "Winning Higgins' Love," and Puppet Master Jake’s outrageous “Punch and Judy.” Hosted by acclaimed (and hilarious) shadow puppeteer Uncle Nappy. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 11:15pm - 11:45pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 102 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

11:30pm EST

Puppet Showplace Theater: Puppet Improv!
NEW for First Night 2015: The “Puppet Improv!” slam lets you get in on the action through the incredible, innovative work of puppeteer Brad Shur and his team of nimble manipulators. Improv acts include Furry Monster Gibberish Debate, Choose-Your-Own Cardboard Adventure, Shadow Puppet Improv, and more! Hosted by Joshua Holden (AKA “The Hipster Mr. Rogers”) with sock-puppet sidekick Mr. Nicholas, with live music by Phil Berman. Not recommended for audiences under 13 years old.

Wednesday December 31, 2014 11:30pm - 11:50pm EST
Hynes Convention Center Room 101 900 Boylston St Boston, Massachusetts 02115

11:30pm EST

Countdown to Midnight: Elijah Rock (Liberty Mutual Copley Stage)

Elijah Rock is an award-winning actor, singer, writer, producer and entrepreneur. In January he will play Roland Hayes in Daniel Beaty's Breath & Imagination at the Emerson/Paramount Center (ArtsEmerson.org), a role that won him the 2014 NAACP Theatre Award recipient for Best Male Equity performer. He's also a recurring guest star in Masters of Sex (Showtime) and co-produced the biopic Lincoln Perry. elijahrock.com. On the Liberty Mutual Copley Stage.


Wednesday December 31, 2014 11:30pm - Thursday January 1, 2015 12:05am EST
Copley Square Boylston Street
 
Thursday, January 1
 

12:05am EST

Liberty Mutual Copley Stage: Live DJ
Live DJ music at the Liberty Mutual Copley Stage.

Thursday January 1, 2015 12:05am - 12:30am EST
Copley Square Boylston Street
 


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