A crowd gathers to hear performances at the Solar 1 Arts and Education Center on the East River. (solaronenyc/flickr)

NEW YORK, NY August 04, 2008 —On 23rd St, between the FDR Drive and the East river, sits a small unassuming building, about the size of a one bedroom loft, with a patio out back that doubles as a stage. The Solar 1 Arts and Education center, presents dance troupes, comedians, bands and theatre groups. What sets it apart from other venues? The place runs on sunshine.

Solar 1's website