Council Member Joann Ariola continues to expand access to arts education across her district, with recent funding supporting live theatrical performances for students at schools in Howard Beach and Glendale.
As part of her ongoing commitment to cultural enrichment, Ariola’s office funded two school-based productions this May through the city’s Cultural After School Adventures (CASA) program—bringing professional-quality arts experiences directly to young learners in Council District 32.
On Thursday, May 15, students at PS/MS 207Q in Howard Beach took the stage in a spirited performance of Moana Jr., presented in collaboration with the nonprofit Inside Broadway. The student musical marked the culmination of an immersive theater residency that introduced children to key aspects of performing arts—from character development and stage presence to teamwork and production design.
Thanks to Ariola’s support, the CASA program provided students with a hands-on creative outlet and a rare opportunity to perform in front of an audience of peers, educators, and family members.
A second CASA-supported event took place at Sacred Heart Catholic Academy in Glendale, further showcasing Ariola’s emphasis on integrating cultural programming into educational spaces throughout the district.
“Knowing the kids at PS/MS 207 took the stage with confidence and talent was a reminder of why this program matters so much,” said Ariola.
“Every child deserves the chance to experience the arts in a meaningful way, and these performances allow that to happen. I’m incredibly proud to support this kind of work, and I look forward to our continued partnership with Inside Broadway for years to come, so that all students in District 32 can really have a chance to partake in theater and culture in ways that simply were not possible in the past.”
Inside Broadway Executive Director Katie McAllister praised the collaborative efforts behind the production and expressed gratitude for the Council Member’s role in making the event possible.
“Inside Broadway was thrilled to partner with PS/MS 207Q on their production of ‘Moana Jr.’ This is our second year working with the school-based team and students and we hope to continue our arts partnership for many years to come. Inside Broadway would like to thank Council Member Ariola for funding the CASA program at P.S./M.S. 207Q and for her enthusiasm, passion, and continued support of the arts for New York City students.”
School leadership was equally enthusiastic about the opportunity provided to their students.
“This was an incredible opportunity for our students,” said Principal Lisa Nevins of PS/MS 207Q. “Being part of a professionally produced show gives our kids a chance to really experience the magic of live theater firsthand, and gain all of the skills that go along with being part of such a great performance. We are thankful to Inside Broadway for the expertise and their dedication to our children, and to Councilwoman Ariola for making this all happen.”
The arts celebration continued the following week in Glendale, where on Monday, May 19, students at Sacred Heart Catholic Academy experienced a live performance of Peter and the Wolf by the Queens Symphony Orchestra. The event introduced students to classical music in an interactive and engaging setting.
“Introducing students to different types of music at a young age helps expand their understanding of the world, and shows them that art and storytelling comes in many forms,” said Ariola.
“I’m proud to support the Queens Symphony Orchestra, and I’m especially proud to help bring performances like this to our schools. Experiences like these stay with kids for a lifetime.”
The concert delighted students from 3K through Grade 8 and included a lively Q&A session, allowing students to interact with musicians and learn about the instruments featured in the performance.
“We are deeply grateful to Councilwoman Joann Ariola for her steadfast support of the Queens Symphony Orchestra,” said Executive Director Deborah Surdi.
“Her commitment this year has enabled us to bring live music into schools and community centers, giving children and families meaningful access to the transformative power of music. Her support also included our annual ‘Night at the Opera’ at Russo’s on the Bay, a treasured tradition in Howard Beach which brings our full orchestra and beautiful voices into the community.”
Assistant Principal Victoria Smallwood of Sacred Heart Catholic Academy added: “The Queens Symphony Orchestra’s performance impressed our students from Grades 3K–Grade 8. We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the office of Council Member Ariola for sponsoring this event. Supporting the arts in education aligns with the Academy’s mission to educate, empower, and motivate students.”
Through these initiatives, Ariola continues to champion arts access in schools, helping students build confidence, creativity, and cultural appreciation—one performance at a time.
