By Tammy Scileppi
As the spectrum of diversity in Queens evolves, the concept of “vive la difference” is redefined, and throughout LGBTQ communities everyone is celebrated for who they are.
So, what better way to kick off Pride Month than with an event that honors all aspects of the borough’s LGBTQ residents?
On Saturday, June 6, Flushing Town Hall will present LGBTQ Voices, a celebration of gay, lesbian and transgender performers, sponsored in part by New York City Councilman Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights), at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights.
“LGBT Pride activities promote multicultural understanding and positive intergroup relations. I am excited to see Flushing Town Hall sponsor a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender concert in Diversity Plaza,” said Dromm, who actively supports LGBTQ groups in Jackson Heights, and is a former activist and schoolteacher. “Pride activities have been increasing citywide and now New Yorkers have another opportunity to celebrate our diversity in the world’s most diverse neighborhood.”
All Queens-based LGBTQ musicians, dancers, poets, actors and other performers can submit an application to Flushing Town Hall to snag a spot.
“Last year, we did the event at Flushing Town Hall itself, but this year, Council Member Dromm thought it would be better if it happened in Diversity Plaza, as a kickoff to the Pride Parade the next day,” said Flushing Town Hall Deputy Director, Sami Abu Shumays. “This is already the second year of the event, so we hope it will continue annually.”
Flushing Town Hall will select the applicants to perform, and all artists will receive a modest honorarium. Artists will be notified the week of May 11.
“We are hoping for applicants from all around the borough. Last year we had performers from Jamaica, Hollis, Flushing, Astoria and Jackson Heights,” said Shumays. “We expect a mix of performing arts, including music, poetry, spoken-word and performance art – to be determined as a result of which artists submit.” Shumays said there could be anywhere from four to eight different performers or groups of performers.
There are no auditions – people are asked to submit a link to videos or recordings as part of the application, along with a brief biography, program description, and links to performances or websites, via e-mail to sshum
The deadline to apply is May 8.
“This special concert event gives up-and-coming LGBTQ-identified artists the opportunity to be seen by their peers, while allowing the community to see themselves represented positively in the performing arts,” Shumays said. “It also provides a festive atmosphere on the eve of the Pride events.”
If You Go
LGBTQ Voices
When: Saturday June 6, 5 p.m.
Where: Diversity Plaza, 37th Road between 73rd and 74th Streets, Jackson Heights
Cost: Free
Contact: (718) 463-7700 ext. 226
Website: www.flush
