Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance

March 7, 2025

Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance (MSTDA). A non-profit performing arts organization on Roosevelt Island, New York City. Founded in 1983 by Worth and Nancy Howe, MSTDA provides theatre, dance, and fitness programs for individuals of all ages, with a mission to promote interest in dance, theatrical productions, music, and related cultural art forms. The organization serves the diverse Roosevelt Island community and beyond, offering classes, performances, and community engagement opportunities.

History

MSTDA was established in 1983 to foster artistic expression and cultural participation on Roosevelt Island, a narrow island in New York City’s East River between Manhattan and Queens. Housed in the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center, the organization grew from a small community initiative into a recognized hub for performing arts education and production. Over its 40-year history, MSTDA has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of classes and annual theatrical productions, supported by local funding and grants.

The alliance’s commitment to accessibility has been a cornerstone of its development, with scholarships ensuring no one is turned away due to financial constraints. Its programs have evolved to meet the needs of a changing community, incorporating online classes in recent years to reach a broader audience.

Programs

MSTDA offers a variety of programs designed to engage participants across age groups and skill levels:

Theatre: Classes range from introductory theatre for children as young as 18 months to advanced workshops for teens and adults. Topics include improvisation, stagecraft, scene study, and musical theatre. Annual productions, such as Matilda Jr. and Hello, Dolly!, provide performance opportunities.
Dance: Offerings include classical ballet, jazz, and creative movement, focusing on technique, strength, and musicality. Open classes allow families to observe student progress.
Fitness: Programs combine Pilates, yoga, and core movement to promote physical health and body alignment.
Comedy & Improv: Workshops emphasize creativity and team dynamics for all ages.

The organization’s signature spring productions involve collaborative efforts from directors, choreographers, and music directors, culminating in weekend performances that showcase student talent.

Mission and Community Impact

MSTDA’s mission is to “nourish creativity by providing high-quality music, theatrical, and dance training as well as performing opportunities to everyone in our diverse community.” It emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming participants regardless of race, socioeconomic status, age, or ability. The alliance supports this goal with a robust scholarship program and partnerships with local entities like the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.

The organization has been praised for creating a supportive environment where participants, particularly children, build resilience and self-esteem. Local leaders have described MSTDA as a “safety net” for youth, offering an artistic outlet that complements the island’s tight-knit community.

Facilities and Location

MSTDA operates out of the Roosevelt Island Cultural Center at 548 Main Street, accessible via the F Train, Roosevelt Island Tramway, or the 36th Avenue Bridge from Queens. The facility includes rehearsal studios, a performance space, and a lobby, located down a distinctive red staircase in a breezeway between 540 and 546 Main Street. Its location on Roosevelt Island places it in a unique urban setting, blending residential calm with proximity to Manhattan’s cultural hub.

Funding and Support

MSTDA’s programs are supported by public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation Public Purpose Funds. Additional revenue comes from tuition, ticket sales, and donations, reflecting its status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 13-3751906).

Recognition

In evaluations by Charity Navigator, MSTDA earned an 86% rating as of its latest review, securing a Three-Star designation for accountability and finance. This rating underscores its effective use of resources to fulfill its mission, though it has not yet been assessed for impact or cultural methodologies due to limited data.

Cultural Significance

MSTDA plays a vital role in Roosevelt Island’s cultural landscape, offering residents and visitors a local alternative to Manhattan’s larger arts institutions. Its focus on youth development and community engagement has made it a beloved fixture, with productions like A Midsummer Night’s Dream (2019) and The Fire Is Still Burning (2024) reflecting its artistic range. By providing accessible arts education, MSTDA contributes to the broader cultural vitality of New York City.