Two artists with big hearts take center stage to talk about building a true home for kids in the South Bronx. Casimar Valles shares how The Haus of Performing Arts grew from an uncle’s dream into a community hub that picks students up after school, feeds them, and lets them stand up and create instead of being told to sit still. Broadway powerhouse Nasia Thomas jumps in with lived proof of what early arts access can do, reflecting on mentors who poured into her and why representation matters when a dark-skinned Black girl sees someone like her headed to rehearsal. Together they unpack real needs on the ground from mirrors to meals to hygiene supplies while celebrating the kids’ artwork, dancing, and the joy of a safe space to go and grow.

They also invite us to show up for “A Night in December,” a fundraiser on December 1 at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square, doors at 6:00 PM, with Broadway friends slated to perform and all proceeds supporting The Haus’s programs. If you cannot attend, you can still donate here.

Listen for how The Haus celebrates neurodivergent students, why community grandmothers helped it blossom, and the moment Casimar decided that every child deserves a place in the front row.

Nasia Thomas is a Broadway artist and educator whose credits include Six, Ain’t Too Proud, and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Casimar Valles is a co-founder of The Haus of Performing Arts in the South Bronx, a multi-disciplinary nonprofit for ages 5 to 17; a ballroom and Latin dancer; and an educator with a master’s in education committed to making arts training accessible, affirming, and safe.

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Connect with Nasia, Casimar and The Hause:

• Nasia Thomas: Instagram @nasiathomas


• Casimar Valles: Instagram @casimar


• The Haus of Performing Arts: thehaus.nyc
  

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