Before Angélique Kidjo takes the Central Park stage, the same lawn hosts a panel of African women who run newsrooms, film sets and diplomatic desks — a lineup that would be a paid conference anywhere else. Speakers range from South African broadcaster Unathi Nkayi to banking executive Chinwe Esimai and a former UN General Assembly spokesperson. If you were already coming for the show, this is a free reason to arrive early.
What to expect
Seating on the SummerStage lawn at Rumsey Playfield for a moderated discussion running about ninety minutes, which rolls straight into the evening concert on the same site. Expect seven panelists plus a moderator and host, spanning music, film, broadcasting, banking and diplomacy, audience questions at the end, and a crowd that mostly stays put for Kidjo afterward.
Good to know
- B or C to 72nd Street, or the 6 to 68th Street; the Rumsey Playfield gate is near Fifth Avenue and 69th Street.
- Free, but RSVP through the City Parks Foundation listing — the panel is capped in a way the concert is not.
- Staying for the Kidjo show afterward costs nothing extra and saves you queueing twice.
- It is an outdoor lawn, so bring something to sit on and sun protection for the late afternoon.
- Best suited to anyone working in media, film or international policy, but it is pitched at a general audience.
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Common questions
Do I need to register?
Yes. The panel is free with RSVP through City Parks Foundation, unlike the concert that follows, which is open entry.
Is this part of the concert?
It is a separate pre-show program on the same SummerStage site, held before Angélique Kidjo, Cimafunk and DJ Freshy K perform.
Who is on the panel?
Seven panelists — Unathi Nkayi, Naomi Achu, Dr. Amanda Ota, Habiba Sinare, Chinwe Esimai, Dr. Bernice Onome Dema and Dr. Djibril Diallo — with Aisha Diori hosting.
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