who-we-are

We launched FirstWorks in 2004 as a vehicle to build community, reach underserved audiences, and present extraordinary arts programs that elevate Providence's national profile.

In collaboration with the City of Providence's Department of Art, Culture + Tourism, FirstWorks has flourished. In the past six years we have:

  • - produced 10 groundbreaking arts festivals
  • - attracted more than 70,000 participants
  • - engaged more than 100 nonprofit community organizations and schools

FirstWorks has grown into a multidimensional arts organization recognized with ten National Endowment for the Arts grants.

FirstWorks has a long history of community impact. From our roots in 1985 as First Night Providence, the New Year's Eve festival that drew more than 500,000 people throughout its 18-year history, to our expanded year-round programming today, FirstWorks' record of producing arts events that serve the community is substantial.