Yellow Groove and Bissetti are 2 different plants both suitable both runners
The Fargesisa may survive CT's winters but will not like the heat of summer unless in cool semi shade.
Palmata once established might outlast the collapse of the universe.
Look also at Indocalmus tesselatus.

In coastal CT my yellowgroove runs 30+ ft tall and the Bisset about 20'
Palmata might make 4-5"

I've killed a few Fargesias on my way to finding suitable conditions for them.

Tom
New London

Thanks New London Tom! Are there any other plants - palms, tropical looking grasses, shrubs, trees, etc that you think would look good, serve the purpose and survive?
A grateful Jack

Try fargesia rufa. Not as tall as some, but will stay green in the winter more likely than other fargesias, and being a clumper, one doesn't have to worry about running.

If the friend doesn't mind rhizome pruning every fall, than your friend can use runners. Bissetii or Rubromarginata could work.

If you friend wants to make a tropical paradise he HAS to grow musa basjoo banana's. These are the best plants for a tropical effect and are hardy in your zone if protected.