The Stunning Sheen Center Is A Creative Hub For Theatre, Music And Performance

The Sheen Center for Thought & Culture is a stunning historical building that blends Gothic Revival style architecture like intricate and ornate stone carvings with a modern style. The building has been around since the mid-19th century when it was home to St. Alphonsus Church. Ever since it’s played an important religious and secular role in the community. Becoming The Sheen Centre in 2015, it is a place that embraces and celebrates creativity, culture, faith, and contemporary thought with performances and much more. These include beautiful Candlelight concerts that pay tribute to both classical composers and modern artists. 

Although the iconic Sheen Centre certainly stands out in the NoHo (North of Houston Street) neighborhood in downtown Manhattan, it’s surrounded by beautiful 19th-century buildings. In fact, it’s an area known for its rich architectural and historical heritage and also a thriving hub for creative minds. Cast iron elements give NoHo a truly unique aesthetic. Located just minutes from Bleeker Street, 2nd Avenue, and Broadway-Lafayette subway stations, it’s super easy to get to and there are loads of parking lots nearby. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants nearby after a concert at The Sheen Center. 

Facts, curiosities, and interesting things about The Sheen Center

1. Named after a TV-famous bishop

Fulton John Sheen was an American Catholic bishop, theologian, author, and famous television personality known for his Emmy Award-Winning TV Show Life is Worth Living which promoted a positive Catholic message. He authored many books and in the ‘30s and ‘40s often appeared on a radio show named The Catholic Hour, reaching a massive audience. He served as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New York and consistently advocated for social justice, speaking on issues like civil rights and equality.

2. It promotes thought with a diverse program of events

The Sheen Center reflects John Sheen’s commitment to open-mindedness by offering a huge variety of opportunities for people to grow not just spiritually but intellectually and creatively. There you can enjoy theatre productions, film screenings, art exhibitions, lectures, musical performances, and much more besides. This place is an open book – a place where people come to explore and experience life – a truly unique spot.

3. The area has some of the best restaurants in the city

Just around the corner from The Sheen Center, you’ll find Sláinte Bar, which is the perfect place for a tipple after an evening of entertainment. You can also head to Von across the road for some delicious craft beer. If you’re looking for a real standup meal then head to C as in Charlie for a Korean feast or Fish Cheeks for some irresistible Thai seafood. Il Buco, however, is a real standout in the neighborhood. It’s one of the best restaurants in NoHo, serving up delicious Mediterranean fare and it’s just a two-minute walk from The Sheen Center.

Candlelight concerts at The Sheen Center

Imagine this historic, iconic building illuminated with hundreds of flickering candles as talented musicians perform. Well, you don’t have to imagine it – you can see for yourself as The Sheen Center regularly hosts Candlelight concerts paying tribute to a whole host of different musicians, from classical composers to modern pop artists and more.

What else can you do at The Sheen Center?

There’s always something going on at The Sheen Center. Right now you can visit an exhibit dedicated to the artwork of Rafael Colón – a New York City artist who uses skateboards, guitars, violins, and other wooden items as canvases on which to paint everything from Italian Renaissance-style paintings to characters from Naruto. You’ll find the exhibit at the Janet Hennessy Dilenschneider Gallery which is open weekdays 10 am – 5 pm.

New York City is a feast for the eyes. On the streets, life moves quickly with a buzzing vibrancy and beautiful buildings. Within these gorgeous structures, you can find soul-stirring Candlelight concerts where life stands still for 90 minutes as you listen to incredible renditions of your favorite songs by candlelight. You’ll find them at The Opera House, Irondale, St. Ann and the Holy Trinity Church, and many more iconic venues.

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