Queens senior citizens have been taking center stage this spring, thanks to Inside Broadway’s vibrant and engaging arts programs made possible through a partnership with the NYC Council’s SU-CASA initiative.
The nonprofit, long celebrated for its work with public school students across New York City, is once again bringing its signature blend of creativity and community to older adults throughout the borough.
This year, 250 senior participants across Queens are exploring their artistic sides through free programming that began in February and runs through June. The residencies, led by Inside Broadway’s teaching artists, are held once or twice a week at senior centers throughout the borough.
Each program will culminate in a final showcase or exhibition, offering participants the chance to share their accomplishments with family, friends, and the broader community.
Inside Broadway has been a staple in New York’s cultural education scene since its founding 43 years ago. Best known for introducing nearly 3 million public school students to Broadway through in-class residencies, touring productions, after-school workshops, and summer camps, the nonprofit expanded its reach in 2007 to include senior programming.
With support from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs and local council members, these senior programs now serve as a valuable outlet for creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.
Among the most popular offerings is the Broadway Zumba Classes, an energetic workshop that combines Broadway music, theater, and choreography with the fitness elements of Zumba. Seniors dance to musical numbers inspired by classic and contemporary Broadway shows while engaging in group discussions and theater-related activities.
Participating centers include Ridgewood Older Adult Center and Services, Inc., and Newtown Italian Senior Citizen Center, Inc. (both funded by Council Member Robert Holden), along with CCNS Seaside and JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Centers (funded by Council Member Joann Ariola).
For those inclined toward the visual arts, Inside Broadway’s Visual Arts Program offers hands-on workshops in painting and drawing. Seniors flex their creative muscles and “brush up” on their artistic skills in a supportive setting. The program will conclude with an exhibition showcasing the artwork of each participant.
Sites include Young Israel Wavecrest & Bayswater Senior League (funded by Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers), Kew Gardens Community Center Older Adult Center (funded by Council Member Lynn Schulman), and CCNS Woodhaven-Richmond Hill Older Adult Center (funded by Council Member Ariola).
The Improv/Musical Theatre Program gives participants an opportunity to explore performance through movement, song, and acting exercises. Participants learn theater terminology, engage in warmups, and take part in theatrical games, all leading up to a showcase at the end of the residency. This program is offered at CCNS Howard Beach Older Adult Center, funded by Council Member Ariola.
