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651 Arts has recently celebrated the opening of its new headquarters at 10 Lafayette in Brooklyn. This significant achievement marks a pivotal moment in the organization's history, which spans 37 years. Executive director Toya Lillard emphasized that the new space empowers 651 Arts to shape its future and better serve the local community. The new location features essential facilities, including a black box theater and rehearsal studios, and is conveniently located near the Brooklyn Academy of Music and other cultural hubs. One of the first performances to grace this new venue will be André Zachery's multimedia solo performance 'Against Gravity: Flying Afrikans + Other Legends' on January
16. To combat the lack of affordable rehearsal and performance spaces for Black artists in Brooklyn, 651 Arts plans to offer subsidized rental options. Historically, the organization faced challenges finding stable venues, a struggle rooted in the Black community's demand for greater representation in the arts. This new headquarters aims to address those needs.
Key Takeaways
- 651 Arts has established a dedicated headquarters in Brooklyn that enhances its mission to celebrate African diasporic performance.
- The new venue will feature affordable rental options to help address the lack of performance spaces for Black artists in the area.
- The organization's first event at the new headquarters will be the premiere of André Zachery's performance on January 16, showcasing its commitment to innovation in the arts.
The Significance of 651 Arts' New Headquarters
651 Arts has recently established its first dedicated headquarters at 10 Lafayette in Brooklyn, a momentous development in the organization’s 37-year journey. Toya Lillard, the executive director, emphasized that this new venue enables 651 Arts to control its future and better meet the community's needs. The headquarters includes a black box theater and rehearsal studios, strategically located near the Brooklyn Academy of Music and other cultural institutions, enhancing accessibility for audiences and artists alike. The first event scheduled is the premiere of André Zachery's multimedia solo performance 'Against Gravity: Flying Afrikans + Other Legends' on January
16. The organization also aims to tackle the lack of affordable rehearsal and performance spaces for Black artists in Brooklyn through subsidized rental options. Historically, 651 Arts has faced challenges in securing stable venues, reflecting the Black community's demand for a dedicated arts platform that promotes cultural representation and engagement.
Upcoming Events and Community Impact
651 Arts will host a variety of events in its new headquarters to strengthen community ties. The organization plans to engage local artists and audiences through workshops, performances, and discussions that focus on African diasporic culture. With its new facilities, 651 Arts aims to become a hub for creativity and cultural exchange in Brooklyn. Toya Lillard emphasized the organization's commitment to inclusivity, stating that the space will encourage collaboration among artists from various backgrounds. As they move forward, 651 Arts hopes to inspire the next generation of performers and foster a deeper appreciation for Black artistry in the community.
