5
Performance Venues
ASTORIA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Founded in 2001, the Astoria Performing Arts Center strives to
provide high-quality theater and support local youth and senior
citizens. APAC has received a total of 51 New York Innovative
Theatre Award nominations and 11 wins, as well as an Off-Off
Broadway Theatre Review Award for Outstanding Production of
a Musical. APAC also gives exposure to emerging talent through
readings and workshops and accepts new play and musical
submissions on an ongoing basis.
Inside scoop: APAC offers free community programs, including
a summer performance camp for children ages 8 to 13, afterschool
playwriting classes for middle school students, and acting
for those over age 60.
Address: 34-12 36th St., Ste. 1/232, Astoria, and www.apacny.org.
BLACK SPECTRUM THEATRE COMPANY
The Black Spectrum Theatre Company produces and presents
works relating to the African Diaspora with an emphasis on
the African-American and Caribbean-American experiences.
Roughly 20,000 people attend events at the 325-seat theater
every year.
Founded in 1970, the company strives to involve local residents
in its projects. It has a youth company that has produced such
stars as Lisa Nicole Carson from the TV show Ally McBeal and
Desiree Coleman from Mama I Want to Sing.
Inside scoop: The venue lies within Roy Wilkins Park, a 54-acre
spread of playgrounds, baseball fields, basketball courts, handball
courts, tennis courts, picnic areas, and a jogging track.
Address: 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard, Jamaica, and
www.blackspectrum.com.
FLUSHING TOWN HALL
Built in 1862 and designated a landmark in 1967, Flushing
Town Hall once served as a civic hub, but has evolved into a
dynamic cultural venue presenting high-quality, award-winning
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