The Hell's Kitchen Cultural Center Festival of Arts

William Hooker is a renowned drummer and composer, as well as the President of the Hell's Kitchen Cultural Center (a 501c3 arts organization), who has presented eight historic and unusually eclectic Rhythm in the Kitchen festivals.

These events have included acclaimed jazz, new music, literary, visual, and avant-garde pioneers, hosting artists like Sonny Simmons, Mary Halvorson, Phil Niblock, David First, Roy Campbell, Adam Lane, and many more. Last year’s festival was inter-generation and included male and female leaders with performances of dance, film, free jazz, heavy metal, new music, spoken word, experimental visuals, sound installations, experimental electronic music, electroacoustic music, and more.

"This festival offered three nights of music and art with a sense of purpose and community." (WIRE magazine)

Hooker says, “This is an effort to reconnect with our NYC community and the astounding artists and residents that make Hell's Kitchen and NYC such an incredible place to live and work.”

Our organization and festival is run completely by volunteers. Your donations will help us further this tradition, making it possible to present this year’s Rhythm in the Kitchen by covering festival expenses and paying the performers. Please give as generously as you can to help keep the vibrant and pulsating spirit of this event and community alive. Thank you.