Belgian Waffles, Disney Animatronics, the Ford Mustang, push-button telephones, and videoconferencing debuted during the 1964 World’s Fair in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
And now to honor its 60th anniversary, Queens Theatre will debut Theaterama!, a series of monthly performances from April through October. (Editor’s note: Theaterama was the name for the World’s Fair venue that is now Queens Theatre.)
Thus Sunday, April 28, author Trav S.D. presents Remembering the 1964 New York World’s Fair at Queens Theatre’s Cabaret at 3 pm. This three-part exploration features a colorful visual history, followed by recollections from those who attended and worked there. Audience members share their memories, too. ($17, ASL interpretation.)
Next up is 1964/65 World’s Fanfare, Part I on Sunday, May 26, at 2 pm. After meeting at the Unisphere, participants enjoy a historical tour and international flag parade with popup dance performances and an Aikido demonstration. (This Japanese martial art was first introduced to the U.S. at the Fair.) Everything is free.
Then on Sunday, June 3, Queens Theatre’s Shulman Theater hosts Armstrong at the World’s Fair Revisited at 3 pm. Two-time Grammy-nominated trumpeter Alphonso Horne and the Gotham Kings showcase their talent and passion for Louis Armstrong’s music to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Satchmo’s iconic concert at the Fair. (Tickets cost $17.)
Modern Ruin screens at Queens Theatre’s Shulman Theater on Sunday, July 14, at 3 pm. Directed by Matthew Silva, this documentary chronicles the New York State Pavilion’s rise and demise. The Fair’s shining symbol is now dilapidating in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
After the film, Silva and Bill Cotter, co-author of The 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair, participate in a panel discussion moderated by Queens World Film Festival Executive Director Katha Cato. ($17, open captioning.)
Queensboro Dance Festival presents outdoor performances by Queens-based troupes during 1964/65 World’s Fanfare, Part II on Sunday, Aug. 4, at 6 pm at the Unisphere. (Free.)
Then on Sunday, Sept. 22, Queens Theatre hosts Taste the World’s Fare! at 3 pm. Attendees eat the Fair’s big hits, including waffles, falafel, Coca-Cola, and sangria. (Suggested donation at entrance. Food available for purchase.)
This final event is World’s Fair Plays – Revisited at Queens Theatre’s Shulman Theater on Sunday, Oct. 27. A full announcement will come this Summer, but the plan is to present readings of plays inspired by the World’s Fairs.
“Music, film, theater, history, storytelling, food – we have something for everyone to enjoy – just as the Fair did,” stated Queens Theatre Executive Director Taryn Sacramone.
“There is no better way to remember our history than through arts and culture,” added Queensboro Dance Festival Founding Executive Director, Karesia Batan.
Images: Queens Theatre