Seeking senior stars, must be over 60

Seniors under 60 need not apply!
Those 60 and over will be given a chance to shine in a newly formed “Senior Stars” program, launched by the Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC).
For the last four years, APAC has held “Summer Stars,” a program that teaches children about the theatre. Based on its success, “Senior Stars” was born to give Queens’ residents who are 60 and over a chance to showcase their talents.
“It’s sort of an experiment but not one that I think could possibly go wrong,” said Taryn Drongowski, APAC’s Executive Director.
The program will begin with auditions on Thursday, March 30 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Greek Cultural Center located at 27-18 Hoyt Avenue South in Astoria. Following the auditions, between 20 and 30 seniors will be selected to take part in “Senior Stars.”
Those chosen will participate in a seven-week training program. The group will meet every Thursday from April 13 to May 25 and receive musical and theatrical training.
“Senior Stars” will conclude on May 27 with two performances that will demonstrate all the hard work put in during the training and highlight their talents.
This program is free to seniors because of funding received from Councilman Peter Vallone, Jr., the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the Queens Community Arts Fund.
Drongowski said that she hopes to give senior citizens a chance to fulfill their desire to be on the stage and give their families a chance to enjoy the talents of their loved ones.
“It’s [performing] a bug and sometimes it’s a matter of offering somebody an opportunity,” she said. “I’m hoping that audiences see . . . that this show has a lot of value.”
APAC will invite casting agents to the final performances.
“It will be really phenomenal to have people get some gigs out of this,” Drongowski said. “There’s no reason why they can’t discover a new passion/career that will bring them some satisfaction.”
For more information on “Senior Stars” or to schedule an audition, call (718) 393-7505. To learn more about the Astoria Performing Arts Center, visit www.apacny