2026 PREVIEW: These are the rising New York stars of stage and screen to watch this new year

As New York City continues its relentless march of cultural innovation, a new wave of artists, comedians, and performers is set to emerge in 2026.

From budding comedians to established visual artists, these are the creatives and projects New Yorkers should keep on their radar this year.

A 2026 preview

Corey Bonalewicz

Corey Bonalewicz, known by his stage name, Corey B., stands out by crafting comedy that he says resonates with the modern New Yorker’s fast-paced, skeptical and discerning sensibility. His humor often reflects the chaos of urban life—family, relationships, parenting—and the authenticity that New Yorkers crave.

“I bridge the gap between digital and live comedy in a way that feels seamless and intentional. I didn’t just “go viral”—I built a community,” he told amNewYork. “I’m a storyteller first, a comedian second, and a performer always—whether I’m on a stage in NYC or reaching millions on their phones.”

Bonalewicz is known for seamlessly bridging the gap between digital virality and live performance. His social media presence is built on storytelling grounded in truth, timing and perspective. Corey emphasizes community-building throughout his work, ensuring his comedy isn’t just fleeting but enduring.

“My comedy and energy blends observational humor with real-life storytelling that reflects modern New York: family, relationships, parenting, life and the chaos that comes with all of it. New Yorkers don’t need more noise—they want authenticity, and that’s what I bring every time,” he said.

The new year promises a substantial year for Corey as he continues touring nationally, expanding his NYC stand-up shows and developing longer-form projects, including stand-up specials and scripted comedy. His goal is to craft work that outlasts fleeting trends, resonating with audiences in the long term.

“The end goal isn’t just to be successful—it’s to create comedy that has longevity, evolve into film and television, and build something meaningful that outlives algorithms,” he said.

Casey Balsham

Casey Balsham’s sharp wit and relatable humor about womanhood, parenthood and the messiness of life make her a must-watch in 2026. Her viral joke “Childbirth = Women’s Super Bowl” has over 10 million views, making her a voice for millennial women navigating the chaos.

Balsham unapologetically champions the female experience. Her honesty and humor create a space where women—and anyone who relates—feel seen and heard.

“I want to scream about the things women go through and what it feels like right now to be a woman. I want to be the voice of the millennial girlie. The 40-something who has no savings account, smokes the occasional cigarette, and doesn’t quite have it figured out yet. I want to be a beacon of light to the messy mommies who definitely allow screen time and sugar and are too tired to gentle parent,” Balsham told amNewYork. “I will stand out to them because I am them and them is me.”

Her stand-up offers laughs and healing, often drawing from her own IVF journey, which she explores in her solo show *Inconceivable* which will hit City Winery in March.

Casey’s path to comedy was unconventional—she admits she got into stand-up after a night of cheap wine and a dare in college. Her goal? To keep doing what she loves, making enough money to enjoy good wine and gigs on her terms.

Annabelle Dinda

Annabelle Dinda is a singer-songwriter based in New York whose catchy, emotionally honest songs have taken TikTok by storm. Her viral hit “The Hand” captured millions of viewers and established her as a fresh voice in the music scene. Dinda’s music combines vulnerable lyrics with good melodies, making her a favorite among Gen Z audiences.

Dinda’s ability to craft relatable, heartfelt songs that resonate with younger audiences has already gained her a dedicated fanbase. As she continues to develop her sound and release new material, her influence is makes her one of the city’s most promising emerging artists. In 2026, look out for more of Dinda’s work, which promises to showcase her evolving artistry beyond TikTok clips.

TaTa Sherise

TaTa Sherise’s raw, high-energy comedy reflects her lived experience as a Black woman navigating life in New York. Sherise’s comedy is rooted in her authenticity.

Her physicality and theatricality, combined with her ability to tackle uncomfortable truths humorously, make her performances unforgettable. She’s known for her role as the first Black woman to win Philly’s Phunniest and her appearances on “The Drew Barrymore Show” and Facebook’s “Mastery of Comedy.”

“I bring heart, resilience, and humor shaped by real life. My storytelling cuts across cultures and backgrounds, and my comedy finds common ground in a city where everyone comes from somewhere else,” she said. “I tell stories people recognize themselves in. If I can make New Yorkers laugh, I can make anyone laugh.”

Sherise announces she’ll be filming new roles in 2026, including a lead in an independent film and a project debuting on Netflix. She’s also launching digital series like “Big Girl Small World”, documenting her weight loss journey with humor.

“I say the things people are thinking, including the uncomfortable things, with intention and a touch of shock value—without alienating the room. No group is off-limits, but my comedy brings people together rather than pushing them apart,” she told amNewYork.

Though her comedy was born from personal hardship — loss, heartbreak, and resilience — Sherise aims to become a household name, creating work that not only makes people laugh but also helps them see their own strength reflected on stage.

Stephen Brower

Stephen Brower’s versatility as a Broadway actor and comedian makes him a true Renaissance figure. His recent appearance in “Lempicka” and starring roles in touring productions showcase his range and his social media presence, with over 400K followers, amplifies his influence.

Brower’s background in musical theater combined with his stand-up comedy creates a unique blend of performance styles. His online content is sharp, funny, and relatable, making him a multi-platform star.

This year, Stephen will star in more stage productions and expand his digital footprint with new comedy videos and sketches.

Walter Masterson

Walter Masterson’s satirical man-on-the-street interviews and viral videos have made him an influential voice in political satire and social commentary. His appearances at SXSW and features in The Wall Street Journal underscore his relevance. His fearless approach—questioning power and exposing truths—resonates in a city like New York, where satire is part of the fabric of political discourse.

Alaire Thomas

With over 2 million followers across platforms, Alaire Thomas’ comedic insights into her life, relationships, and social observations make her a rising star in the NYC scene.

“I bring people into my world through my stories, making them feel like they’re living the moment with me,” they told amNewYork. “I’m not just delivering jokes, I’m performing experiences, full of personality and movement, so audiences connect emotionally as well as laugh. My enthusiasm is contagious, and I use it to turn everyday observations into something relatable, memorable, and fun.”

Her debut comedy tour is highly anticipated, and her relatable, heartfelt humor promises to connect with diverse audiences.

‘Proof’ with Ayo Edebiri and Don Cheadle

Broadway’s “Proof” is making a triumphant return with a fresh cast led by Emmy Winner Ayo Edebiri and Golden Globe Winner Don Cheadle. Directed by Tony winner Thomas Kail, this revival reimagines the Pulitzer-winning story of brilliance, inheritance, and self-discovery. Edebiri’s portrayal of Catherine, the brilliant daughter of a mathematician, explores the weight of legacy and the struggle for independence, while Cheadle’s role as her father adds depth and gravitas. The show has garnered rave reviews for its emotional power and stellar performances. It’s poised to be a highlight of the theater season.