Thanks to funding from…
In keeping with its reputation as a “civic theater,” the Astoria Performing Arts Center has enrolled nearly 30 children from Queens, grades 3-5, in a free, six-week intensive musical theater workshop called “APAC’s Summer Stars.”
Thanks to funding from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, there is no fee for the classes to the children or families. The Summer Stars will present a performance open to the public on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Astoria, 31-30 33rd St.
“Since APAC’s inception, it has been the Presbyterian Church of Astoria’s and my goal to work with youth.” said APAC Executive Producer Susan Scannell. “Prior to this point, APAC developed a show for pre-K to 6-year-olds, incorporating puppets, singing and story-telling, and we provided four performances of Viva Stage’s bilingual children’s theater, which were very popular. Now I’ve got two wonderful ladies who are working through APAC developing programs where the kids are on stage instead of watching. We all love it.”
The first woman Scannell spoke of is Summer Stars Program Director Gina Holland, a resident of Astoria and APAC’s resident casting director. Holland is one of APAC’s most popular performers, having won hearts with her portrayal of Amnesia in APAC’s “Nunsense.” She is also a partner with her husband David Madore in their successful company Madland Music, which provides private voice and piano lessons.
The other woman is Creative Director Alisa Schiff, also a resident of Astoria, who became aware of APAC when she was cast as Sister Hubert in “Nunsense.” Schiff has been teaching young performers for the past 10 years, recently finishing six years as musical director and associate program director for the Centenary Young Performer’s Workshop in New Jersey. She has also taught at the Big & Loud Theater, Broadway To Go Productions, and Hunter College Elementary School.
Part time teaching artist Justin Bocitto, an instructor at the Astoria Dance Centre, has taught master tap classes at the Juilliard School, and instructed for The Circle in the Square Theatre School Summer Intensive and others. He is working with Holland and Schiff.
Along with strong resumes, the high-energy trio brings passion, love and high expectations to each class, and Scannell said the children are responding accordingly.
“I’ve only seen a bit of the rehearsals, but what I’ve seen is top notch and the kids are working together so who knows? They may knock my ‘big kids’ off the stage and end up as part of APAC’s next season.”
The performance will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Presbyterian Church of Astoria, 31-30 33rd St. Call 718-278-5925 for information.
