NEW YORK Lincoln Center has partnered with Queens Library in the launch of a new initiative, Lincoln Center Local, which will bring free music, dance, and theater to local communities. Developed from the its popular "Meet the Artist" series, the hour-long programs in this new initiative, which include a Q&A session with the performers, will showcase world-class artists in disciplines ranging from classical music to Broadway, modern to world dance, and theater to spoken word.
Seven different programs have just been announced for the launch of Lincoln Center Local at seven different Queens Library branches this summer, with performances beginning on July 7 and continuing through September 15.
The programs, chosen from a list of nearly 20 possible presentations, were selected by a public ballot conducted within the Queens Library community, who voted on the performances they'd most like to see via descriptions posted on the Library and Lincoln Center websites, and in person at their local library.
The show that garnered the most votes -- "Latin Beat" -- will have a free encore presentation on September 29 at Lincoln Center's David Rubenstein Atrium. Queens Library cardholders may enter a raffle at each Lincoln Center Local show in Queens to win guaranteed entry and a round-trip MetroCard to this special presentation. Winners will be contacted after the September 15 Lincoln Center Local performance.
The encore presentation will also be live-streamed to viewing parties at select Queens Library branches so that Queens community members unable to make the Lincoln Center performance will be able to share the experience.
The schedule is as follows:
Latin Beat
July 7, Queens Central Library, Double Set: 3:00pm and 5:00pm
August 18, Queens Library at Ridgewood, 2:30 pm
September 29, Lincoln Center David Rubenstein Atrium, 2:30pm
Alexander Wu and the ZigZag Quartet take audiences of all ages on a journey to find the threads of salsa, samba, tango, and meringue throughout classical, jazz, and modern music. Latin influences abound, and top tango dancers Carolina Jaurena and Diego Blanco bring Argentine music to life with their smooth moves. Performances include a Q&A with the artists.
Resurgence of Spanish Dance
July 14, Queens Library at Broadway, 2:30pm
September 15, Queens Library at Flushing, Double Set: 2:00pm and 4:00pm
Flamenco is an art form that grew from Andalusia, a province in southern Spain. The unique interplay among Moors, Jews, Andalusians, and Gypsies shaped this culturally rich genre of song, music, and dance. Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana has continued the traditions of flamenco while taking on an ambassadorial role. Under the direction of Carlota Santana, the Company's dancers, singers, and musicians trace the development of flamenco, revealing visions of life full of pride, passion, honor, love, and sorrow. Performances include a Q&A with the artists.
AHammerstep+DEORO
July 21, Queens Library at Flushing, Double Set: 2:00pm and 4:00pm
A dynamic collaboration between world champion dancers and a Grammy nominated band. Hammerstep, led by Garrett Coleman and Jason Oremus, choreographs a dance extravaganza integrating traditional Irish step, tap, and hip hop. Deoro, a musical ensemble led by celebrated artists Dave Eggar and Chuck Palmer, combines traditional music and live beat with hip hop flare to create a unique sound that mingles beautifully with the dance. Performances include a Q&A with the artists.
Fascinating Gershwin
July 28, Queens Library at Forest Hills, Double Set: 2:00pm and 4:00pm
America's legendary songwriting brothers, born and raised in Brooklyn, led the way for many great Broadway musicals. The vibrant Broadway singer Teri Dale Hansen and her extraordinary pianist explore the timeless songs of the Gershwin brothers so that audiences come away with a new appreciation of what it takes to compose fascinating words and music in the style of George and Ira Gershwin. Performances include a Q&A session with the artists.
Mario the Magician
August 4, Queens Library at Jackson Heights, 2:30 pm
Inspired by Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin, and Vaudeville-style theater, the talent and creativity of Mario the Magician is clearly on display in this show that is at once ridiculously silly and meticulously crafted. Mario performs a variety of magic tricks that encourage kids to discover their own artistic spirit in a fun, accessible way. The performance will be accompanied by Mario's Sleight of Hand Band, a three piece jazz combo featuring celebrated bassist Chris Donohue. Performance includes a Q&A with the artists.
Champian Fulton Quartet
August 11, Queen Library at Forest Hills, Double Set: 2:00pm and 4:00pm
Pianist and vocalist Champian Fulton brings her quartet fresh from its first tour in Germany to local stages. A professional performer since elementary school, she has a distinct sound blending Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and her own delightful twist. Performances include a Q&A with the artists.
It's All About Armstrong
September 8, Queens Library at Peninsula, 2:30pm
Armstrong's recordings forever altered popular music and redefined elements of life the world over. Join Grammy Award-winning jazz historian Loren Schoenberg and his young band of musicians, The National Jazz Museum in Harlem All Stars, for an adventure through the tunes of the world's most beloved trumpeter. Performance includes a Q&A with the artists.
For more information, visit about.lincolncenter.org/lclocal.
