Books
Literary Arts and Film Festival More than 40 authors will gather to talk about their works, do book signings, and participate in a series of planned panel discussions about books and writing. An evening film festival will round out the planned event. Featuring Aileen Barron, Alan Gordon, Carol Hoenig, Stephanie Cowell, Tibbi Duboys, and more.
When: June 7 and 8
Where: Gateway National Park, Fort Tilden, Rockaway
Contact: 718-318-4300
Classes
Join the Drumming Circle Bring your congas, bongos, djembe, kenkeni, sangban and doundoun to drum with master drummer Craig DePass and Eric Fungo.
When: Tuesdays, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: Bill Jacobs, 917-450-3319
Ballet International Africans Presents African and African American Cultural performing arts. Offering West African dance techniques, Feminine Healing African dance, Gang Gang African American dance and more. Directed by Amina Olushola Heckstall.
When: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: Adults: $10; Children under 13: $5
Contact: Amina, 646-404-1204
Musical Instrument Instruction With the Bill Jacobs Ensemble. Offering music classes to the community in beginning piano and guitar.
When: Wednesdays, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $25 per class; $150 for 8 sessions
Contact: Bill Jacobs, 917-450-3319
East African Warrior Dance Class “Mahujaa Wetu” (Our Warrior) A choreographed dance class experience. With instructor Eric Fungo. Lasts for 12 weeks.
When: Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $100 for all 12 classes or $12 per class
Contact: 646-202-3550
Concerts
Zikrayat Celebrate the Egyptian Movie Musical and the Art of Middle-Eastern Dance Zikrayat will bing its exciting stage show to the heart of Queens, where members will also lead four workshops in the art of Egyptian-Style “Raqs Sharqi,” also known as “Belly-dance.”
When: May 3; Workhops, 2 p.m. to 5:30; Performance, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: Performance, $10; One Class, $15; Two Classes, $25/$35; Two Classes and Performance, $30/$35
Contact: Rabin Dameshe Shumays, 718-679-3650; Sami Abu Shumays, 917-972-4557; Carrie O'Dell, 718-658-7400 ext. 128; Kesia Hudson, 718-658-7400 ext. 136; Margaret Farrell, 212-817-8607
Mariachi Real de Mexico Enjoy this concert of traditional Mexican mariachi music and dance, with performers in colorful costumes.
When: May 4, 3 p.m.
Where: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-990-0700
The Young Eight The string ensemble returns to York College this season by popular demand. An octet comprised of African-American musicians from the nations most prestigious schools, including Boston Conservatory and Mannes College of Music.
When: May 9, 8 p.m.
Where: York College Performing Arts Center, 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-262-2559 or visit www.york.cuny.edu and click on Performing Arts Center
Falu Indian vocalist Falu has taken NYC by storm with several high-profile and sold-out performances. She has created a unique sound, mixing classical Indian traditions with contemporary pop-rock. Influences include her legendary sarangi/vocal master Ustad Sultan Khan, John Lennon, U2, and R.E.M.
When: June 14, 3 p.m.
Where: Central Library Auditorium, 89-11 Merrick Blvd.,Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-990-0778
Dance
The Allure of Tango with Advantago Featuring a talented group of New York based Argentine performers, incorporating traditional and contemporary movements as well as jazz improvisation in this ever-evolving art form. RSVP and be sure to leave your name, number of guests and telephone number.
When: May 2, 7 p.m.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-658-7400 ext. 100 or visit www.jcal.org
African and African American Cultural Performing Arts Ballet International Africans. Offering West African dance techniques, Feminine Healing African dance, Gang Gang African American dance, and more. Amina Olushola Heckstall is the director.
When: Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre, 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $10 adults; $5 children under 13
Contact: 718-523-3312; Amina, 646-404-1204
Events
Big Apple Circus 30th Anniversary Groups of 15 or more saves up to 30% on select seats and dates.
When: May 10, 11 17, 18, 24, 25, and 26, @ 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.; May 13 and 14, 11 a.m.; May 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, and 23, @ 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; May 12 and 19, No Show
Where: Cunningham Park, Queens
Cost: Group Rates start at $14; 11 a.m. Group Rates start at $10; Children under 3 are free on the lap of a paid adult. One child per lap.
Contact: 800-922-3772, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Annual The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond 2008 Food and Wine Gala Attendees will sample bites and libations from over 50 local restaurants, gourmet shops, bakeries, and wine and beer companies. This year's participants include Arthur Schwartz, 2007 James Beard, Chef Terrance Brennan of Picholine Restaurant and Artisanal Chees & Wine Bistro, and Phoebe Damrosch, author of “Service Included: Four Star Secrets of an Eavesdropping Waiter.” The Astoria World Manor is Handicap accessible.
When: May 20, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Astoria
Cost: $55 per person in advance, $65 at the door
Contact: 718-777-7918 or visit www.dishdujourmagazine.com
Goddesses Public Access TV Show
When: Second Thursday of the month, 8 p.m.; Wednesdays, 11 p.m.; Thursdays, 11:30 p.m.
Where: Thursdays (8 p.m.) and Wednesdays: Channel 34; Thursdays (11:30 p.m.): Channel 35
Contact: 718-456-9119
Exhibits
Art of Africa with the Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Elizabeth LaBlanc presents a slide-illustrated lecture on works of art from Africa's western Sudan, the Guinea coast, the equatorial forest and the southern savanna.
When: May 6, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-990-0700
This Case of Conscience: Spiritual Flushing and the Remonstrance The exhibit explores the continued relevance of the historic document that is considered to be the precursor of the Bill of Rights within the vibrant and diverse neighborhood of Flushing. Featuring the work of Emmy Catedral, Takashi Horisaki, Sara Rahbar, Jose Ruiz, Tattfoo Tan, Kim Badawi, Jenny Jozwiak, Stephanie Keith, and Scott Lewis.
When: Through June 29; Reception, May 18, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Queens Museum of Art, New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Cost: Adults, $5; Seniors/students/children, $2.50; Members and children under 5, Free
Contact: 718-592-9700 or visit www.queensmuseum.org
475 KENT Lives A thriving arts community, 475 Kent Avenue is home to over 200 artists, curators, musicians and other creative professionals who are at the heart of the city's creative pulse. 475 KENT Lives, is a group exhibition of 23 artists at the Bulova Corporate Center celebrates the vital contributions of these artists as they battle to return to their homes and workplaces while calling attention to the increasing vulnerability of New York's creative communities.
When: Through July 13
Where: Bulova Corporate Center, 75-20 Astoria Blvd., Jackson Heights
Contact: Krista N. Saunders, 718-592-9700 ext. 221, e-mail ksaunders@queensmuseum.org or visit www.queensmuseum.org
Film
Mathematically Alive: A Story of Fandom This documentary is for all New York Mets fans and for anyone who is a devoted fan of a sports team. Directors Joseph Coburn and Katherine Foronjy reveal the stories of a spectrum of Mets devotees and takes viewers on their roller coaster ride of emotion through the 2006 playoffs.
When: May 10, 5 p.m.
Where: Queens Musuem of Art, Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Contact: 917-930-6830 or visit www.mathematicallyalive.com
Kids & Family
Teen Spot Performing and visual arts classes for youth grades 9 to 12, ages 13 and over. Classes meet two days per week.
When: Monday to Thursday, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, Inc., 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $25 registration fee required.
Contact: 718-658-7400 ext. 153 or 113; www.jcal.org
Line Workshop: Explorations in Charcoal, Ink and Pencil Children in grades 3-7 use charcoal, ink and pencil to create figure studies, landscapes and portraits. 20 children will be admitted in a ticketed basis only. Tickets will be distributed 15 before the program.
When: Thursdays, 4 p.m.
Where: Central Library, Area B, Lower Level, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-990-0700
Visual Mixed Media This class includes, but is not limited to drawing, collage-making, painting, mask-making and 3-D designing. There will be sketchbook exercises, individual and group projects to help you understand creative concepts and materials used to make art. Learn about how art, history and culture relate to you and what you see every day in your community, books, movies, the media and fashion. Then express your views about art. Call to receive an application or for further information.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, Inc., 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Contact: 718-658-7400 ext. 153 or 113; www.jcal.org
Dance This class combines different styles of dance from traditional African to Modern, Ballet, Hip-Hop and Jazz. Learn the moves and gain an understanding of the history and origins of dance. Build endurance and practice techniques necessary to become a dancer and choreographer. Call to receive an application or for further information.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, Inc., 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Contact: 718-658-7400 ext. 153 or 113; www.jcal.org
Poetry
Early Poet Special, MAD Hour, Performances, and More A performance blend of poetry and music for the multi-talented. This revival features Mo Beasley, poet and founder of The Love Storm Entertainment Group, LLC, and recording artist, Maritri, a raising vocalist and musician performing together. The microphone will be open to the public. Sign-up is required.
When: Thursdays: Refresh, mingle, food and drinks served: 6 p.m.; Show: 7 p.m.
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 153 St. and Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: General: $10; Early Poet Special before 6:30 p.m.: $8; Student: $6
Contact: 718-658-7400 ext. 152 or visit www.jcal.org or www.myspace.com/gimmeseries
Poet-in-Residence George Edward Tait's Poetry: From the Page to the Stage The Black Heritage Reference Center of Queens County invites you to join a 10-week series on Thursdays. Creative writing workshop series in poetry covers the origins of poetry as a conduit for communication, celebration, commentary and criticism, while concentrating on the dynamics of its development in the 20th and 21st centuries of the US Poet-in-residence and workshop instructor is George Edward Tait. Concludes May 22.
When: Thursdays, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Langston Hughes Public Library, 100-01 Northern blvd., Corona
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-651-1100
Open Poetry Reading Concludes June 20, 2008.
When: Third Friday of every month, 8 p.m.
Where: The Afrikan Poetry Theatre, Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $10
Contact: 718-523-3312
Sarah & Friends
When: First Friday of every month. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Where: The Afrikan Poetry Theatre, Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $10
Contact: 718-523-3312
Open Mic Night
When: Last Friday of every other month. Doors open at 9 p.m.
Where: The Afrikan Poetry Theatre, Inc., 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: $10
Contact: 718-523-3312
Tours
King Manor
When: Thursday and Friday, noon to 2 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Groups of 10 or more must call ahead.
Where: Rufus King Park, 150th to 153rd Streets, Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica
Contact: 718-206-0545
Workshops
PowerPoint for Beginners In this 2-session workshop, ages 12 and up with basic keyboarding and mouse skills will learn how to create a slide presentation, add photos, images and charts and create handouts. Pre-registration required in person at the Cyber Center Desk. Must attend both sessions.
When: May 6 and 13, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica
Cost: Free
Contact: 718-990-0700
Art and Literacy with New New Yorker Workshop Season Through English language literacy programs and art courses which encourage dialogue about artists, artworks and at production, the New New Yorkers initiative also facilitates intercultural exchange and familiarity with the Museum and the Queens Library, two vital resources for recent immigrants.
When: Photography II: Sundays, 10 a.m. to 12 noon; Advance Seminars in Photography: Sundays, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.; English as a Second Language: Sundays, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Painting: Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 12 noon; Creative Web Design: Saturdays, 12 noon to 2 p.m.; Graphic Design: Saturdays, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Queens Museum of Art, New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Cost:
Contact: 718-592-9700 ext. 135 or 130
Spring 2008 Registration Schedule Registration fee will be waived for returning fall 2007 students. Seniors will receive a 20% discount off each workshop for which they register. The staff must be informed of age at the time of registration. Discounts must be requested and applied at the time of registration.
When: Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Workshops Schedule: Saturday Classes, Through May 31; Tuesday Classes, Through May 13; Wednesday Classes, Through May 14; Thursday Classes, Through May 15
Where: Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica
Cost: Varies on workshop
Contact: 718-658-7400 or visit www.jcal.org
