LaGuardia Performing Arts Center Announces Fall Season
Lineup includes free dance classes for adults ages 50+, a choral performance and original works by emerging playwrights
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (October 2, 2024) — The LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC) at LaGuardia Community College/CUNY, a vibrant venue for events and cultural performances that engage and entertain the college and Long Island City communities, announces its Fall 2024 programming. The lineup features partnerships that highlight cultural diversity, providing inspiration and community, and the return of LPAC’s Rough Draft Festival supporting emerging playwrights.
Mexican Dance Workshops for Adults: LPAC is collaborating with Capulli Mexican Dance Company to present free weekly multicultural dance classes, for adults ages 50 and above. This is an opportunity to explore Mexican cultural traditions through dance while learning conversational English and Spanish. No prior experience is needed, and all levels are welcome. The workshops take place every Friday through November 1, from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in a dance studio in LaGuardia’s C-Building, located at 29-10 Thomson Avenue, Room C-401, Long Island City.
Away, You Ethiop! by David Samuel: “Away, You Ethiop!” is a line in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For David Samuel, it’s the title of his solo show, which he both wrote and performs. It follows his life growing up as the eldest son in an immigrant Habesha (Ethiopian/Eritrean) household in the Washington metropolitan area (also known as the DMV). The show uses film, music, and theater in a mythically autobiographical way to explore Samuel’s Ethiopian family’s journey to and through the American Dream. Reserve tickets here for the performance on Tuesday, October 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission (plus a $2 convenience fee).
New York City Musicians Collective Honors: This event celebrates the achievements of musical icons and performers. Honorees include: jazz saxophonist Najee; jazz guitarist Fareed Haque; Rolling Stones’ backup singer Bernard Fowler; R&B/soul singer-songwriter Meli’sa Morgan; R&B/pop songwriter and producer Barry Eastmond; radio personality Jeff Foxx; Australian country music singer-songwriter Buddy Williams (1918–1986); dancer and singer Inaya Day; producer, author, playwright, and radio personality Vy Higgensen, and poet, filmmaker and Oscar nominee Jamal Joseph. The event promises to be an inspiring night of tributes and performances. It will be hosted by radio personalities Lenny Greene (WBLS) and Shaila Scott. Reserve tickets here for the performance on Friday, November 1 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $35 for general admission or $45 VIP admission (plus a $2 convenience fee).
New York City Labor Chorus: The chorus, comprised of 50 members representing a diverse range of metropolitan area unions, has been singing for peace and justice since 1991. Its varied repertoire draws from folk, spiritual, classical, and Broadway music. Reserve tickets here for the performance on Saturday, November 2 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission (plus a $2 convenience fee).
Rough Draft Festival: Returning Artists: LPAC’s Rough Draft Festival, a celebration of original works being developed by New York artists, students, and organizations, returns with a showcase of compelling works-in-progress from returning artists. This year’s lineup includes a range of performances that explore unique narratives and human experiences:
- The After Wife by Sophie McIntosh: Set in 1963, this futuristic narrative delves into the complexities of family and identity. The After Wife follows the story of Nora, a humanoid robot undergoing a trial with a family coping with the mysterious disappearance of their real mother. This thought-provoking piece explores themes of motherhood, humanity, and the influence of technology on relationships. Performances are scheduled for Thursday, October 10 at 7:30 p.m., and Friday, October 11 at 3 p.m. Reserve tickets here. Tickets are $15 (plus a $2 convenience fee).
- Zeus 4 by Lauren Holmes: Zeus 4 takes audiences to a quirky dog park society where dog owners meet regularly despite park rules. As the seasons change, this lighthearted piece humorously examines the dynamics of community-building and human interaction, with “mimed” dogs adding a playful layer to the story. Performances are scheduled for Thursday, October 17 at 3 p.m., and Friday, October 18 at 3 p.m. Reserve tickets here. Tickets are $15 (plus a $2 convenience fee).
- Sarah: A Joyful Resistance by Hussein Smko: Sarah: A Joyful Resistance tells the powerful story of women in Iraq’s Kurdish region. Presented by Project TAG, this performance highlights the resilience of Kurdish women who are making positive changes in the face of adversity. This moving piece celebrates the strength and spirit of women fighting for justice and empowerment. Reserve tickets here for the performance on Tuesday, October 22 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 (plus a $2 convenience fee).
How to Attend a Show: Guests attending LPAC shows are encouraged to enter at 45-50 Van Dam Street, Long Island City, Queens (see Maps and Directions). For more information, please email lpacboxoffice@lagcc.cuny.edu or call (718) 482-5151.
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The LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC), located at LaGuardia Community College, is a cultural hub that fosters artistic excellence, education, and community engagement. LPAC provides a platform for dynamic artists and storytellers to create, collaborate, and inspire. Through diverse programming, LPAC continues to support its mission of making the arts accessible to all. It is the stage for productions of the award-winning Theater and Music Performance programs of LaGuardia Community College, as well as works from partner institutions, including Carnegie Hall, Joffrey Ballet School, and the Drama League of New York.
LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 associate degrees and academic certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to prepare New Yorkers for transfer to senior colleges and rewarding jobs and careers. An institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of the underserved. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students from Queens, NYC and beyond.
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