Qween Jean made history at the 2026 Tonys as the first openly trans woman to win Broadway's top honor, and she brings that eye back to Little Island for a full ball staged on a pier deck with the Hudson going pink behind it. The night honors Miss Major Griffin-Gracy and Kiara St. James, with Infinite Coles headlining and Haus of Telfar walking. If you take one free performance gamble this week, make it the one with a runway.
What to expect
Categories, runway walks and floor performance run from a scenic build by Simean Carpenter under Cha See's lighting, with DJ Potts on sound. The crowd is loud and participatory — expect chanting, judging and standing during the biggest walks. Between categories, honorees are called out and the tone shifts from spectacle to tribute.
Good to know
- Reserve the free ticket online in advance; a standby line also forms at the park entrance before the show
- The A/C/E and L to 14th Street plus a walk west, or the 1 to 18th Street, get you closest to Pier 55
- The Amph is open-air with backless bench seating — bring a layer for wind off the Hudson
- Little Island fills up on summer evenings, so enter the park early and walk up to the amphitheater
- The amphitheater is wheelchair accessible with step-free routes from both bridges into the park
- Loud sound, strobing light and adult language make this a better fit for teens and up
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Common questions
Do I need a ticket if it's free?
Yes — free tickets are released in advance through Little Island's site, and unclaimed seats go to a standby line that forms at the park before the performance.
What actually happens at a ball?
Performers compete and present in categories, walking a runway for judges and the crowd while commentators call the action. Honorees from the ballroom community are recognized between categories.
Is there anywhere to eat on Little Island?
Yes, the park has a seasonal food and drink kiosk, but lines are long before evening shows — eating in the Meatpacking District first is faster.
More this weekend
