Connecting Art with Audiences
FirstWorks’ mission is to enrich Rhode Island’s cultural, educational, and economic vitality by engaging diverse audiences with world-class performing arts and education.
Connecting Art with Audiences
FirstWorks’ mission is to enrich Rhode Island’s cultural, educational, and economic vitality by engaging diverse audiences with world-class performing arts and education.
Now in our 22nd year, we provide arts access and experiences to all audiences by…
AMPLIFYING diverse voices and celebrating differences
STRENGTHENING Rhode Island’s cultural fabric
ENGAGING artists, audiences, and students
EMPOWERING youth as creators, learners, and leaders
experience
Experience Artistic Excellence
Be uplifted by world-class artists, immersive experiences, and astounding performances on our live and virtual stages.
The People’s Festival of Art, Music and Culture is back!
Learn
EXPERIENCE
Experience Artistic Excellence
Be uplifted by world-class artists, immersive experiences, and astounding performances on our live and virtual stages.
The People’s Festival of Art, Music and Culture is back!
PVDFest, Providence’s premier music, arts, and cultural festival, returns September 18–19, 2026, transforming Downtown into a dynamic hub of creativity and community. Co-presented by the City of Providence and Producing Partner, FirstWorks. Visit the PVDFest website for updates
LEARN
We’re Teaching Kids to Dream with Their Eyes Wide Open
Youth need art to thrive. Engaging thousands of Rhode Island students and their teachers each year, we ignite creative learning by providing schools access to teaching artists, performances and an online platform for arts education. Our education program also offers professional development and lesson plans geared towards integrating the arts into classrooms.
We’re Teaching Kids to Dream with Their Eyes Wide Open
Youth need art to thrive. Engaging thousands of Rhode Island students and their teachers each year, we ignite creative learning by providing schools access to teaching artists, performances and an online platform for arts education. Our education program also offers professional development and lesson plans geared towards integrating the arts into classrooms.
support
Help Lift Rhode Island Through Culture, Creativity and Community
Be part of making the arts available to all. We can only continue to ignite creativity, break down barriers and connect outstanding world-class artists to Rhode Island audiences and schools with your support.
SUPPORT
Help Lift Rhode Island Through Culture, Creativity and Community
Be part of making the arts available to all. We can only continue to ignite creativity, break down barriers and connect outstanding world-class artists to Rhode Island audiences and schools with your support.
“We are so lucky to have such beautifully curated and soul soaring programming from FirstWorks that leaves us anxious for more.”
– Henrietta White-Holder, Higher Ground International
news
FirstWorks Names Collette’s Melissa Snape as new Board President