As mahjong becomes increasingly commercialized and aestheticized, a glam-filtered exotic backdrop for selfies, this year’s FZA x CBC Open Mic takes on the spirit of the game as part of everyday life. Daily huddles for older folks to keep their minds sharp. At weekend family gatherings in suburban homes. Intense high stakes sessions in Chinatown gaming halls. Mahjong ain’t actually dead. Just like basketball, it’s life.

To wit, we’re also celebrating this magical, historic year of Knicks basketball through poetry, music, storytelling, reflection, and performance. Come serenade Chinatown with your voice or other performative talent! Play us the real rhythm of mahjong. Sing a song for New York!