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To the Editor:
The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center applauds Erica Varlese's very positive article of the two-play event hosted by us on Saturday, June 11 (“Audience packs house for ‘Down These Mean Streets’ and ‘The Brief and Wondrous Like of Oscar Wao,’” June 15, 2011). We would like to add that not only did we host this event but that we were partners in this magnificent production from the very beginning. This was a collective effort that brought together us, the American Place Theatre, Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance, TeatroStageFest, and, of course, the Bago Bunch. The Bago Bunch was the instigator from start to finish and they represent a new force in the cultural landscape Uptown. Watch out world!
Three more things need to be said. Firstly, the performances by Jamil Mena and Elvis Nolasco, two sons of Washington Heights, were phenomenal. Secondly, Washington Heights turned out in full force. A total of over five hundred attended the two plays. This was a community event of epic proportions. History was made.
Lastly, this was the kind of event that we love to partner with. It used art and culture as a springboard to initiate open dialogue with open minds. That dovetails with our mission: a commitment to bringing communities together through education and dialog in order to build a just society.
Let’s do it again!
Mark Harding
Interim Executive Director or the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial & Educational Center
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