New York City Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña announced on Friday, May 5 the kickoff of the third annual Borough Arts Festivals, marking the start of a four week-long series of visual and performing arts events that celebrate the works of more than 2,700 students from pre-K to 12th grade.
Throughout the festivals, students will have the chance to showcase their work at art galleries, theaters, museums and other cultural locations across the five boroughs, such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Apollo Theatre and Brooklyn Borough Hall, among others.
“The arts are an essential part of all students’ comprehensive education, and this is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the many talents of New York City students and teachers,” said Fariña. “The arts are not frills, instead they inspire us and reenergize us. I congratulate the talent and creativity of our students and urge community members to join in celebrating their achievements.”
“We remain committed to bringing the arts and culture to every public school classroom, and providing students with the opportunity to develop their academic and creative passions,” said Paul King, the Department of Education’s executive director of the office of arts and special projects. “I’m proud to serve in an Administration that understands the transformative benefits of quality, sequential arts education, and I applaud these students whose creative energy is the single best indicator of our city’s bright future.”
The festival will make its way to Brooklyn on Wednesday, May 24 for a Performing Arts Showcase at the Brooklyn Performing Arts Center at Brooklyn College (2900 Avenue H) at 6 p.m. and again on May 31 for a the kickoff of a Visual Arts Exhibition at Brooklyn Borough Hall (209 Joralemon Street) at 6 p.m. The latter will run through June 3 at the venue.
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