Astoria Performing Arts Center receives Donn Russell Fund Grant

Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) was founded in 2001 and is celebrating its 15 Year Anniversary on March 21st. 

APAC receives the 2012 Caffe Cino Fellowship Award. Photo by Anton Nickely

During its 15 years, APAC has received many awards including the New York Innovative Theatre Awards the Caffe  Cino Fellowship Award in 2012 and the Outstanding Production of a Musical Award in 2015 for Merrily We Roll Along. As part of the Outstanding Production Award, APAC is also the recipient of a grant from the Donn Russell Fund.

These funds will be used to support APAC's comprehensive repertoire which includes revivals and premieres of plays and musicals, as well as developing new works through readings and workshops.

They use theatre to engage with and contribute to their community by offering free annual community programs, including: a summer performance camp for children, an after school playwriting program for middle school students, and a performance program for Queens residents over the age of 60. They are one of the most diverse and respected companies working Off-Off-Broadway and a company that truly knows the meaning of the word “community”. However, they aren’t just a part of the community; they create community, attracting theatre artists and enthusiasts from throughout the city and growing a loyal audience following.

   * See photo captions below

APAC has become an integral part of the Indie Theatre scene; working with hundreds of theatre artists, and participating in community organizations and events. This adventurous company pushes the limit of what theater can achieve, and consistently produces thrilling and outstanding work.

“I adored working with the entire team of In the Bones at APAC -- everyone brought something beautiful and profound to the process!” ~ Mel House

“I loved getting to work at APAC. They are so giving and smart and fun, that every rehearsal was a joy to be a part of.” ~ Emily Koch

“I have worked for the Astoria Performing Arts Center and know the high quality of work that they produce. Dev Bondarin is a spectacular director, she is smart and collaborative, she challenges you to get outside of your comfort zone, but also makes sure you feel safe.” ~ Rachel Rhodes-Deve

Congratulations to Astoria Performing Arts Center for receiving a Donn Russell Fund grant!

Learn more about Donn Russell...

* Photos of APAC's productions of Merrily We Roll Along and In The Bones (Photos by Michael Dekker) and Photo from 2015 IT Awards Nominee Announcement (Photo by Meredith Jones)