June 3, 2015 By Michael Florio
Two local organizations have teamed up to turn Sunnyside’s Bliss Plaza into a performance center once a month.
Sunnyside Shines and ReCreate Queens, a local group dedicated to putting on artistic performances, have joined forces to host a performance series every third Thursday each month from June to October at Bliss Plaza, located under the 46th Street train platform.
The performance series, which is called “Third Thursday in Bliss Plaza,” will kick off June 18, with the series featuring Queens-based artists/musicians.
The funding for the series will come via an online fundraising campaign and from the Queens Council for the Arts.
“We are really looking forward to programming this great new public space,” said Rachel Thieme, executive director of Sunnyside Shines.
Bliss Plaza
“Bringing arts programming to Bliss Plaza helps create a more dynamic place and generates foot traffic and activity,” Thieme said. “[It] benefits businesses, residents and visitors alike.”
Thieme said she hopes to make the series an annual tradition.
“With support from the community we are able to pay our artists what they deserve and establish an annual series that will grow over time,” said Nancy Kleaver, founding member of ReCreate Queens. “We can’t wait to launch this new tradition.”
ReCreate Queens said that more than 50 artists wanted to participate in the series. It cut the list down to five.
The monthly performances start at 6:30 pm:
Street Beat Brass Band – playing street music from around the world—June 18
Ali Bello & The Sweet Wire Band – a Latin Jazz Fusion Band – July 16
Dilmeastronauta – a Columbian band – August 20
McManus Irish Dance – Traditional Irish dance and music – September 17
Afro Latineers – Fusion of Afrobeat, Latin jazz and Salsa – October 15
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One Comment
Wish RCQ would un-select themselves. No talent.