On March 26, 2021, Basilica Hudson rang with music, laughter and applause for the first time in 18 months. 

NY PopsUp — an expansive festival consisting of hundreds of pop up performances throughout NYS — presented the legendary performing artist Justin Vivian Bond and their band featuring  Matt Ray, Nath Ann Carrera and Claudia Chopek for three 30 minute performances throughout the evening. 

Thanks to NY PopsUp’s expertise and resources in hosting Covid-safe events, we were able to share in an evening of transportive energy that only comes from a live musical experience.

“A HUGE THANK YOU to all the amazing citizens of The Hudson Valley who showed up and graciously followed all of the protocols that kept us safe and secure and feeling respected and loved. Together, we all help space for art and love and a brighter future.” – Justin Vivian Bond

Justin Vivian Bond captivated the audience with the same powerful vocals and dynamic wit that graced our stage in 2018 for our Pioneering People Basilica Benefit honoring Courtney Love, and we were honored to have our factory reawakening happen under their artistic vision. 

Thank you NY PopsUp for the opportunity and for making this possible; thank you to our community for trusting us and choosing to spend what for many was their first live event in over a year with us, and of course, thank you Mx. Justin Vivian Bond for bringing your spirit and love to Basilica.

Photos by Nina Westervelt, video from NY PopsUp