FirstWorks creates cultural programs that build the social, educational, and economic vitality of our community by engaging audiences with world-class performing arts. Launched in 2004, FirstWorks festivals and programs have attracted more than 500,000 participants. FirstWorks has offered Rhode Islanders unprecedented access to firsts in the arts from luminaries such as Yo-Yo Ma & The Silk Road Ensemble, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Wynton Marsalis, Regina Carter, Joffrey Ballet, and international masters from the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and Europe. FirstWorks is the proud Founding Partner of the City of Providence's signature arts festival, PVDFest. The FirstWorks Arts Learning Program works with over 30 public and charter schools across Rhode Island to provide 4,000 K-12 students direct connection with world-class performing artists.