By The Times/Ledger
Afrikan Poetry Theatre
176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica * 523-3312
Afrikan Poetry Theater began as a collection of poets, singers and musicians dedicated to making people aware of the lyrics to their songs. The theater has been non-profit since 1977 and has provided the borough with jazz concerts, films, youth programs, an art gallery and computer programs. Parking is available near the theater. Ticket prices vary.
Black Spectrum Theatre
177th Street and Baisley Boulevard * 723-1800
Founded in 1970, Black Spectrum Theater has produced and presented more than 100 plays and 15 films. The theater operates in a city-owned building in Roy Wilkins Park that includes a four-seat theater that doubles as a film studio and a lounge. The primary goal of the theater is to target issues affecting African-Americans. Parking available at the theater. Tickets range from $12.50 to $15; $4 to $7.50 for children and seniors. Group rates and special prices for children's events available.
Colden Center for the Performing Arts
65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing * Tel. 544-2996
Fax 261-7063
One of the major cultural institutions in Queens for more than 35 years, Colden Center for the Performing Arts houses Colden Auditorium, LeFrak Concert Hall and Goldstein Theatre. Although on the Queens College campus, Colden Center is a self-supporting institution that brings classical, pop and jazz concerts as well as family and children's performances to more than 300,000 people each year. Free parking available for most events. Classical and jazz concert tickets range from $20 to $25; $8 for children and family performances. Season subscriptions also available at a discounted price. The center is wheelchair accessible and has facilities for the hearing impaired.
LaGuardia Performing Arts Center
31-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City * Tel. 482-5151
Fax 482-5155
Offers a variety of cultural and educational programs in music, dance and theater, including concerts and family matinees. The center features the 740-seat Main Stage Theatre and the 220-seat Little Theatre. The center is wheelchair accessible. It does not offer bus parking. The center is in season from September to May.
Queensborough Community College Theater
22-05 56th Ave., Bayside *
Queens Community College Theater is home to a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including an annual performing arts series in the fall with music, theatrical and musical performances established by artists. There is also an annual theater festival produced by Queens Community College students who work with professional actors, designers and directors. For more information, call 631-6311. Parking is free and available for weekend events only.
Thalia Spanish Theater
41-17 Greenpoint Ave., Sunnyside * 729-3880
The museum was established in 1978 to serve Queens' rapidly-growing Spanish-speaking community; Thalia Spanish Theater serves 10,000 residents. The theater is committed to preserving the history of the zarzuela, the only lyrical heritage of the Spanish stage. Most of the performances are in both Spanish and English. Free parking is ample near the theater. Ticket prices range from $13 to $25 with discounts available for students and seniors.
