Jesús Hilario-Reyes Opens 'Cavernous Shoal' at Performance Space New York

Jesús Hilario-Reyes, a CULTURED Young Artists list alum, has transformed Performance Space's OPEN ROOM lobby and community space into 'Cavernous Shoal,' a listening room featuring a bespoke sound system and a sculpture made of mangroves. The installation is part of the New York institution's 2026/2027 season and opens on Sept. 19 from 7–9 p.m., running through June 16, 2027. Community hours are Monday through Thursday, 12–6 p.m. Ahead of the unveiling, Hilario-Reyes shared hosting tips with CULTURED, including turning off the AC to make people sweat and dance more, a trick learned from Ley, a manager at Nowadays. They also recommended starting with ambient music by The Future Sound of London or Thievery Corporation, then escalating to vocal house, specifically Mariah Carey's 2003 album 'The Remixes,' which they call the best remix album ever made. Hilario-Reyes emphasized working the room, inviting friends to bring someone new, and knowing when to leave the party. They described their approach to creating belonging in any space, an idea they brought to 'Cavernous Shoal,' which is based on a moving sandbank that shifts with the tides. The installation reflects their belief in creating belonging with people around them rather than through historical ties to land or family. The work is part of their residency at Performance Space.