At the core of KinoSaito’s physical space, and its mission, is the theater. A 1500sf vaulted space, the theater is the site of original new works of theater and performance, as well works from Kikuo Saito’s theater oeuvre reimagined by contemporary performance groups. Regular programming includes dance performances, film screenings and concert recitals, along with performances, installations and new media work by artists in residence and visiting artists and companies.

THEATRE GALLERY

Lin Esser with Kathy Ridl and Jim Ridl

22 Mar. 2026 | 3pm

$20 | Member discounts* | RSVP required

Cellist Lin Esser, pianist Jim Ridl and bassist Kathy Ridl bring their diverse influences, creative philosophy and highly engaging skillsets to KinoSaito’s main performance space. The program celebrates the wide-ranging and long standing creative link these three artists have enjoyed over their many years of collaboration. The ensemble’s Southwestern and Midwestern American origins serve to inform and inspire the often vast harmonic landscapes typical of the trio's unique character.

As a classical violist and vocalist, Kathy Ridl brings a vibrant melodic element to the double bass. Her deep insight into American bluegrass, jazz, and world folk traditions, coalesce to form the sturdiest of musical foundations for the trio. Also a visual artist and accomplished designer of CD and album covers for countless artists, Kathy shares the group’s painterly approach to music.

Jim Ridl’s outstanding recordings and active touring has brought him to jazz enthusiasts’ attention worldwide. His impressive musical history places him squarely in the ranks of some of the most highly respected musicians, composers and teachers in jazz and contemporary music today. New Yorkers will know Jim for his tenure with the Mingus Big Band, a long running residency at the celebrated 55 Jazz bar, and his essential musical partnership with the late jazz guitarist Pat Martino.

Lin Esser’s career as a noted visual artist underpins the picturesque crafting of his musical concept. Most recently KinoSaito hosted A True Story, a solo cello performance in which Esser demonstrated his innate ability as a musical storyteller. This performance of Lin’s musical ideas together with the expert, creative input of the group as a whole, intersects and amplifies the many themes, styles and artforms on display at KinoSaito.

*Discounts for Supporter level members and above apply.

RSVP

THEATRE GALLERY

Westchester Jazz Alliance Quartet

17 May 2026 | 3pm

$20 | Member discounts* | RSVP required

The Westchester Jazz Alliance Quartet is a premier jazz quartet that includes Charley Krachy, sax, Dave Frank, piano, Joe Solomon, bass, and Takashi Inuoe, drums. Two of the members were closely associated with the legendary jazz pianist/educator, Lennie Tristano. The mission of the Westchester Jazz Alliance and WAJQ is, through education, performances, and jazz parties, to increase awareness, participation, and enjoyment of jazz in the New York area and beyond.

About Charley Krachy
A native son of Verplanck, Charley left at age 17 to join the US Navy. Charley has been playing the saxophone since the age of 10 and professionally for the last 35 years. During this time, he has performed at venues throughout New York - including Birdland and the Blue Note with jazz greats Ted Brown, Connie Crothers, Virg Dzurinko, Kazzrie Jaxen, Roger Mancuso, and Ratzo Harris. In 2016 Charley performed with the Kazzrie Jaxen Quartet at Lincoln Center. Charley has also performed in Stockholm, and Uppsala Sweden with Swedish pianist Boel Dirke and Guitarist Andy Fite.

*Discounts for Supporter level members and above apply.

RSVP

Past Performances