CALENDAR OF bronx EVENTS

BCA EVENTS HAVE RED TITLES

*Organizations marked with an asterisk accept BCA's Bronx Cultural Card. An additional number of Bronx dining and business establishments also accept the Cultural Card. Click here for a list of those who accept the card and the discounts they offer

Special Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos Gallery Tours are Available
School groups, community-based organizations, clubs, cultural organizations, and senior citizens centers are invited to take a specially guided tour of the Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos current exhibition “Congos, Guloyas y Altares”, a multi-media exhibition celebrating Afro-Dominican culture.

Schedule a FREE, group gallery tour conducted by specially trained cultural guides who will meet your group, introduce them to this fascinating subject, and guide them step-by-step through the exhibition, answering questions and encouraging discussion. These guides are Hostos students who have conducted fieldwork in the Dominican Republic.

“Congos, Guloyas y Altares” celebrates three of the most fascinating traditions of Afro-Dominican culture: the so-called Cocolo culture of San Pedro de Macorís and the Congo and Salve traditions of the village of Mata los Indios, Villa Mella. These are living, breathing and growing expressions of Dominicans in their homeland and in the United States.

To schedule a gallery tour, call 718-518-6631 or email rdelossantos@hostos.cuny.edu

The Longwood Art Gallery is located on the campus of Hostos Community College at 450 Grand Concourse at 149 Street. The college is easily accessible by the IRT 2, 4, 5 and Bx1, Bx19 (to Grand Concourse & East 149th Street).

Thru Oct 28 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – Every Tuesday, the Bronx Zoo hosts moms and dads searching for a fun learning experience for their child. Registration is held each Tuesday. Each guest receives a Toddler Time map designed as a tour hour loop that highlights “child friendly” exhibits including information on places to eat, diaper changing stations and stroller access locations. Each child gets a free Fisher Price goody bag and is entitled to enter the Children’s Zoo where they can enjoy one of two half-hour programs in the Children’s Zoo Wildlife Theater programmed especially for toddlers. Click here to find out about all the events happening at the zoo. The Bronx Zoo is located at 2300 Southern Blvd. in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For other information, call 718-367-1010 or 718-220-5100.

May 1

May 1 / 10:00am-1:00pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature Photography Series: Nature’s Colors, Part 1 (Session 5 of 6 sessions) – Wave Hill’s gardens burst into exhilarating color in May. Capture the varieties of color filling the landscape, with nature photographer Benjamin Swett. 6 sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 2

May 2 / 5:30-8:00pm / Art & Music / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Enjoy the Art Exhibit Opening by Rosemarie Brueckner and listen to musician Jeff Ausfal who will enthrall all with his classical guitar skills! Botanical Artist, Rosemarie Brueckner was originally a textile designer with fifteen years experience as a designer and colorist in New York City. Botanical art became a natural progression for her. She started with watercolor lessons from a very fine watercolorist, Barbara Nechis of Larchmont, New York and took classes at the School of Visual Arts and College of New Rochelle, New York. Watercolor became her primary medium of choice. Then in the 1990s Ms. Brueckner discovered the Botanical Arts and Illustration classes at the New York Botanical Gardens, where she started with a summer drawing class. She received a certificate in Botanical Art and Illustration from the NYBG in 1998. Since then Ms. Brueckner has exhibited in group shows in Westchester County, NY. at the Mamaroneck Artists Guild, the Pelham Art Center, the Rye Art Center, the Harrison Public Library and most recently at Gallery Yellow, Cross River, NY. She is member of the American Society of Botanical Artists. Argentine American, Jeff Ausfahl, has performed in seven countries as a guitarist and singer. He has charmed audiences in 32 different states in the USA. His music has won the hearts of distinguished guests such as the Aga Khan of Yehmen and the Queen of England. Jeff received his first musical training as a drummer in the Boys Brigade Bagpipe Band, while growing up in Glasgow, Scotland. He later lived in Chicago, Boston and New York. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Guitar from Berklee College of Music, a master’s degree in Classical Guitar, and has done extended studies in Spain at the University of Valladolid, University of León and in Madrid, where his instruments were hand-made for him. Jeff specializes in Spanish classical music, Brazilian jazz and flamenco, adding some spice with the Beatles, Irish songs and The American Songbook of Broadway, whenever requested. Call for admission information. Bronx Cultural Cards accepted. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx in the Bronx. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call 718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

May 2 / 5:30-9:30pm / Bronx Seaside Trolley / Pelham Bay Park Station
The FREE City Island Seaside Trolley rides again every hour from 5:30-9:30pm. The trolley starts at Pelham Bay Train Station (#6 train)#29 bus stop and travels to the Bartow Pell Mansion Museum for a music, refreshments and tours at minimal cost, and on to City Island for an evening of gallery openings, store sales, and restaurant specials. Ride the trolley to pick up your trolley flyer for discounts and promotions. Focal Point Gallery: A new show/reception featuring works by Ron Terner "Portraits & More" (321 City Island Avenue / 718-885-1403). A new Workspace/Gallery will be open that evening "The Balloon Gallery" from 6:00-9:00pm featuring works by Cheryl Brinker, Lois Weingarten and Kathy Moses (282 City Island Avenue). Exotiqa International Arts features their new Valentine's Day collection of Jewelry. Trolley riders get an extra 10% off, with their Trolley Card (280 City Island Avenue / 718-885-3090). Midtown Antiques will offer Trolley riders 50% off all antique furniture and collectible jewelry (31 City Island Avenue / 718-885-2820). The Black Whale is offering Trolley riders a FREE bottle of wine with any Two Dinners (279 City Island Avenue / 718-885-3657. The Tree House Restaurant is offering Trolley riders a FREE House Dessert with any Dinner. (273 City Island Avenue / 718-885-0806). All offers require a trolley card, available free to all Trolley riders. Meet at the #6 train, Pelham Bay Park Station, at 5:30pm for the first run of the evening -- there will be 5 circuit runs. Each run is approximately 45 minutes long and departs from the Pelham Bay Park Station at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30pm. The last pick-up to leave Pelham Bay Station is at 9:30pm. The last pick-up to leave City Island is at 10:15pm at Le Refuge Inn at the Samuel Pell House dropping you back at the Pelham Bay Station around 10:25pm. Admission to the trolley is free. For more information on the Seaside Trolley, visit www.cityislandchamber.org or call 718-885-9100.

May 2 / 6:00-9:00pm / Opening Reception / Bronx River Art Center* (BRAC)
Opening Reception for Graphite on Paper: Still Life with a Side of Cheese by Benjamin Entner (Gallery 1) and Sancochos a la Cimabue by Omar Chacón (Gallery 2). Both shows were curated by José Ruiz. Known for their whimsical and explosive contributions to sculpture and painting, New York artists Benjamin Entner and Omar Chacón extend the conventional notions of these historical mediums by embracing the saturated and animated qualities of society, cultures and everyday life.  Each artist approaches their work with a grain of salt embedded in art historical notions, such as Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism, while offering new departures lines for contemporary concerns and updated aesthetics. Click here for more information about the current exhibition. The Bronx River Art Center is located at 1087 East Tremont Avenue in the Bronx. Click here to view a map of the area. Gallery Hours are Mon-Fri, 3:00-6:00pm; Sat 11:00am-5:00pm. For more information, contact Jose Ruiz at 718-589-5819 x14, e-mail jruiz@bronxriverart.org, or visit www.bronxriverart.org.

May 2 / 6:00-10:00pm / First Fridays at the Bronx Museum of the Arts*
The Bronx Underground – The Bronx's amazing underground music scene and rising arts scene will come together for an event to be remembered. DJs, bands, art, free food and drinks! Come out and experience the revolution happening in The Bronx! The evening includes "The Bangers" spinning indie rock and more, rock band "Bangers of Zynth" and more!  For information on The Bronx Underground, contact Anita Colby at 917-804-3541 or bronxunderground@gmail.com. Bronx Museum’s Lower Gallery in the South Building. Admission is Free. For information on the Bronx Museum and its many events and activities, call 718-681-6000 or visit www.bronxmuseum.org. The Bronx Museum of the Arts is located at 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street. Click here for printable flyer.

May 2 / 7:30pm / Musical Theater / Riverdale Community Center
The Wizard of Oz – The Riverdale Community Center presents The Wizard of Oz, their annual Teen Theater spring musical. The Riverdale Community Center is located at 660 West 237th Street, between Independence Ave and Hudson Manor. For ticket and other information, call 718-796-4724.

May 2 / 7:30pm / Seaside Trolley / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
First Fridays Seaside Trolley – Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is your first stop every First Friday when you ride the Seaside Trolley to City Island. We feature guided tours and music, free with admission to museum. Bronx Cultural Cards accepted. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx in the Bronx. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call 718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

May 3

May 3 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – Young readers ages 3-8 are invited to join us at Paperback Plus every Saturday and Sunday when we’ll read aloud from new picture books, old favorites, and a chapter or two from a chapter book that we’ll continue ‘til it’s done. Paperback Plus is located at 3700 Riverdale Avenue (at W. 236th St.) in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. For information, call 718-796-3119 or visit Paperback Plus’ website at www.paperbacks-plus.com.

May 3 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – Enjoy a guided tour during regular public hours. Docents are eager to greet visitors and escort you on a one-hour tour of this richly crafted Greek Revival Mansion. The tour will focus on the life and times of the Bartow family and those who lived and worked on the family estate. It also will include a tour of the mansion's 19th-Century Carriage House. Last tour will begin at 3:15pm. Tours will take place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and will also be an activity of the Bronx Seaside Trolley, which rides from Pelham Bay Park Subway Station on the first Friday of each month beginning at 5:30pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx, NY. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

May 3 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Roll out the Patterns / Elabore su diseño – View Joanne Howard’s video projection of a vine’s ever-changing, patterned growth. Observe the way Wave Hill’s vines grow, the shapes of their leaves and flowers. Cover a length of patterned floral wallpaper with drawn and stenciled viney growth then roll out your patterned scroll like a paper movie. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 3 / 2:00pm / Concert / Hostos Repertory Theater
The Bronx Symphony Orchestra in Concert – Alejandro Guzman Music Director Alejandro Guzman presents Meliset Abreu in Concierto de Ajanjuez by Joaquin Rodrigo. The program also includes music by Rossini and Schubert. Tickets: $12, general admission; $7 Tickets with student or senior citizen ID are available at the Hostos' Box Office. For information, call 718-518-4455. Hostos is located at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street and is easily accessible by the #2, #4, and #5 IRT Trains. Click here for additional directions. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 3 / 7:30pm / Musical Theater / Riverdale Community Center
The Wizard of Oz – See May 2 listing for details.

May 4

May 4 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 4 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Roll out the Patterns / Elabore su diseño ­– See May 3 listing for details.

May 4 / 2:00pm / Concert / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Cabaret at Wave Hill – The husband and wife team of Barbara Fasano and Eric Comstock offer A Little Romance to complete Wave Hill’s first Cabaret series. Admission: $15 for members, $24 for non-members, $21 for Senior 65+ and students. For tickets, call 718-549-3200 x385. Advanced purchase recommended. Call 718.549.3200 x385. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 4 / 5:00pm / Music / The Uptown Coffeehouse*
An Evening with Tom Pacheco – Master singer-songwriter Tom Pacheco wears his world on his sleeve. In a career spanning more than 35 years, 15 albums and 2500 original songs, Pacheco has addressed social and political issues, depicted a gallery of real and imagined characters from the past, present and future, and created a living treasury of unforgettable images. He played folk rock in Greenwich Village, NY in the late 60's and alternative country in Austin Texas in the early 80s.  He walked out on the Nashville songwriting factories and spent 10 years in Dublin Ireland recording and touring extensively in Europe.  Tom's first American-released album in six years, "There Was a Time", was released by Appleseed Recordings last fall and greeted by enthusiastic reviews. Tom now lives in Woodstock, NY and tours both America and Europe. The Uptown Coffeehouse, located at 4450 Fieldston Road at the Riverdale-Yonkers Society for Ethical Culture, presents the best in traditional and contemporary folk music with intimate live performances. Admission: $15. Bronx Cultural Card accepted. Free Parking. Check website for directions. For information, call 718-885-2955.

May 6

May 6 thru Oct 28 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – Every Tuesday, the Bronx Zoo hosts moms and dads searching for a fun learning experience for their child. Registration is held each Tuesday. Each guest receives a Toddler Time map designed as a tour hour loop that highlights “child friendly” exhibits including information on places to eat, diaper changing stations and stroller access locations. Each child gets a free Fisher Price goody bag and is entitled to enter the Children’s Zoo where they can enjoy one of two half-hour programs in the Children’s Zoo Wildlife Theater programmed especially for toddlers. Click here to find out about all the events happening at the zoo. The Bronx Zoo is located at 2300 Southern Blvd. in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For other information, call 718-367-1010 or 718-220-5100.

May 6 / 11:00am – 4:00pm / AIE Round Table Symposium / Lehman College Art Gallery
Get It Together 2008 – The Bronx Council on the Arts presents “Get It Together 2008”, an Arts-in-Education (AIE) round table symposium, held on National Teacher’s Day, at the Lehman College Art Gallery located in the Art Building, Lehman College, 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West. Click here for directions. This annual county-wide AIE round table is a symposium where both the education and arts communities gather to raise and address pertinent issues while sharing best practices in the field. Professionals come together from the field to facilitate panel presentations, breakout workshops, and participate in a gallery tour and reception. The symposium will afford participants the opportunity to network before and after the presentations. In addition to individual networking and a showcase of 2007-08 BCA/NYSCA AIE/LCB Student Projects, the day will consist of two sessions and two breakout groups, followed by a gallery tour and an informal networking / wine & cheese reception. For information and to RSVP, contact Americo Casiano Jr. at 718-931-9500 x19 or americo@bronxarts.org. Click here for printable flyer.

May 6 / 6:30pm / Bronx Museum of the Arts* 2008 Spring Gala
A Bronx Feast: Diversity in Dining -- Save the Date for the Bronx Museum of the Arts 2008 Spring Gala. Honorees are artists John Ahearn and Rigoberto Torres and flutist Dave Valentin. Co-chairs: Alice Kosmin, Ruth Corn Roth, and Nydia and Robert Sancho. For more information or to purchase tickets, please contact Esther McGowan at 718-681-6000 x155 or e-mail emcgowan@bronxmuseum.org.

May 7

May 7 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 7 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature and Imagination: Session 1 – Celebrate the splendor of springtime’s botanical subjects and scenery at Wave Hill through traditional and modern Chinese brush painting with artist Mansheng Wang. Series continues Wednesdays: May 14, 21 and 28, and June 4 and 11. Six sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 7 / 5:00pm / Bronx Culture Trolley / Hostos Community College
Bronx Culture Trolley – Hop on the trolley and enjoy attractions at some of the hottest cultural spots along the lower Grand Concourse. Visit BCA's website at www.bronxarts.org to find out more about this month’s trolley attractions as well as other BCA programs and events. Trolley riders meet at Hostos Community College on the first Wednesday of each month (except January & September). Hostos is located at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street and is easily accessible by the #2, #4, and #5 IRT Trains. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For trolley reservations and information, call 718-931-9500 x33 or e-mail trolley@bronxarts.org. The First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley is a free activity of the Bronx Council on the Arts.

May 7 / 5:00-9:00pm / Art Exhibition / Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos
Congos, Guloyas y Altares: Afro-Dominican Images – Presented by the Longwood Arts Project and Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, this multi-media exhibition celebrates Afro-Domincan Culture and features documentary photographs, drawings by Nadal Walcot, an installation by Juan Fernando Morales, and videography by Michael Max Knobbe. Congos, Guloyas y Altares: Afro-Dominican Images is part of a wider celebration of Dominican History Week.
Cultural Connections – An exhibition of works by members of BCA's Artisans Initiative. The Bronx Council on the Arts, as Event Partners with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, celebrates Immigrant Heritage Week with the exhibit Cultural Connections at Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos. A showcase of craft based art and objects that express our cultural connections as immigrant artists/artisans. The featured artists are members of the Artisans Initiative and the local Bronx artisan community.  Join us in the celebration! Discover talented local makers of traditional ethnic art and contemporary craft forms. Both shows will be view thru May 10th. The Longwood Art Gallery is located at Hostos Community College at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street in the Bronx. Transportation: IRT 4 & 5, Bx1, Bx19 to Grand Concourse and 149 Street. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For information on this exhibit, call 718-518-6700. For further information on Longwood and its exhibitions, call 718-518-6728 or visit www.longwoodcyber.org. For further information on the Bronx Culture Trolley, call 718-931-9500 x33. www.bronxarts.org. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:00-9:00pm / Artisans Boutique / Hostos Community College Lobby
The Artisans Boutique offers imaginative bronxArtworks creations in all price ranges that are yours for the browsing and for the buying. Items included are Korean knot tying novelties by Karen Ahn, Orisha art & crafts by Luis Pagan, hand-cast jewelry by Hector Menendez, art cards and prints by Francisco Vallejo and Stephanie Chisholm, original ceramics by Toby Liederman, and silver jewelry by Liz Ortiz, and much more. View the work of our talented team of Bronx Artisans in a quaint, charming atmosphere. Hostos is located at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street in the Bronx. Transportation: IRT 4 & 5, Bx1, Bx19 to Grand Concourse and 149 Street. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For additional information, contact Lisa Curran at 718-931-9500 x21, lisa@bronxarts.org, or visit www.bronxarts.org. This is a segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:30-7:45pm / Art Exhibitions / Bronx Museum of the Arts
Making It Together – Making It Together explores an important chapter in recent history when women artists, inspired by the 1970s Feminist Movement, worked collectively in new ways to engage communities and address social issues. Guest-curator: Carey Lovelace. This exhibit is on view thru Aug 4, 2008.
Photographs by Jamel Shabazz – The Bronx Museum’s Teen Council class of 2007-2008 organizes a small exhibition of photographs by Jamel Shabazz based on the theme of community. During their tenure, the Teen Council conducted an interview with Shabazz for the education department’s DVD series. The teens worked in collaboration with Shabazz and assistant curator Erin Riley-Lopez to put the exhibition together. This exhibit is on view thru Aug 4, 2008.
Permanent Collection: Women Artists – Conceived as a counterpart to Making It Together, The Bronx Museum features Highlights of the Permanent Collection: Women Artists, a special exhibition from its permanent collection of women artists whose works comment on social and political situations. Artists include Tania Bruguera, Ana Mendieta, Adrian Piper, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Graciela Sacco, Gary Simmons and Rachel Lachowicz, and Carrie Mae Weems. This exhibit is on view thru Aug 4, 2008. Click here for more on these exhibitions.
Jamel Shabazz Book Signing – The Bronx Museum of the Arts proudly presents its monthly First Wednesday book signings featuring Bronx–based writers and/or books about the Bronx. The series kicks off with a book signing for famed photographer Jamel Shabazz, who is currently being honored with an exhibition by The Bronx Museum’s Teen Council. Shabazz will be signing his three publications Back in the Days, A Time Before Crack, and Seconds of My Life from 5:30-7:30pm. For information on the Bronx Museum and its many events and activities, call 718-681-6000 or visit www.bronxmuseum.org. The Bronx Museum of the Arts is located at 1040 Grand Concourse at 165th Street. This is a free event of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

Mar 7 / Time TBD / Staged Reading / Pregones Theater
Staged Reading – Information on this reading is forthcoming. Pregones Theater is located at 571-575 Walton Avenue, between 149th & 150 Streets. For information on this performance or about Pregones Theater and its upcoming performances, call 718-585-1202 or visit www.pregones.org. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:30-8:00 / Art Exhibition / Bronx Museum Project Space
Dream: An Installation By Skowmon Hastanan – For Dream, found texts and images from the Village Voice classified ads are transformed into bright and colorful neon signage and works on paper. The installation combines abstract and figurative images to create narrative involving immigrant experience, labor, sex industry, humor, horror movie and religion. Skowmon Hastanan moved from Bangkok to New York at the end of the Vietnam War. Her works derive from memories of the American military presence in Thailand and her experience growing up in New York City. She explores feminine identity by examining the media’s use of cliché Asian mystiques to sell sexual fantasy. This past year she participated in the “Global Feminisms” exhibition at the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center For Feminist Art, Brooklyn Museum, and Davis Museum, Wellesley College, MA, as well as group exhibitions at Wave Hill, The Bronx.  Hastanan is a 2007-09 recipient of The Lambent Fellowships in the Arts at Tides Foundation. This show will be on view through June 18th with an opening reception on Saturday, May 10th, from 2:00-4:00pm. The Bronx Museum Project Space is located at 11 Bruckner Boulevard at the corner of Lincoln Avenue. For information, call 718-681-6000. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:30-8:00pm / Art Exhibition / Haven Arts Gallery
Solos features new works by 15 artists who previously had solo exhibitions in Haven’s original location.  Works in painting, photography, mixed media, sculpture and video will showcase how these artists have developed, revisited or expanded upon the various themes and styles explored in their previous exhibitions. Participating artists:  Jaq Belcher, Tim Blum, Chris Bors, Brent Crothers, Linda Cunningham, Darcy Dahl, Steve Fishman, David Gimbel, Anne Humanfeld, Aristides Logothetis, John Mascaro, Luis Pagan, Kurt Perschke, J.C. Rice, and Alison Ward. This show will be on view thru May 10. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12-6pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:30-8:30pm / Art Exhibition / Bruckner Gallery at the Bruckner Bar & Grill
Urban Studio – A special exhibition by the collective artists known as Urban Studio. Urban Studio was founded on the observation that the art world has rapidly changed from the traditional route of museums and galleries. Success is now based on artists courageous enough to seize their own destiny, create, and foster relationships with their audience. Making art about the unconventional, the interactive and redefining what it means rather than the manufacturing of a commodity. Urban Studio creates and nourishes professional development through emphasizing participation and collaboration. Artists are engaged in a broad range of issues and topics, and are encouraged to find new and diverse venues for their work. For information on this show, visit the Bruckner Gallery website. For information, contact Gallery Director Assa Bigger at 718-665-2001 or info@brucknerartgallery.com. The Bruckner Bar & Grill is located at 1 Bruckner Blvd. Click here for directions. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 5:30-8:30pm / Alexander Avenue Art & Antiques District
This month’s trolley includes a visit to the Art & Antiques District around Alexander Avenue, including Thrift World Antique at 122 Alexander Avenue, Custom Design Studio, 49 Bruckner Blvd., Alexander’s Café at 129 Alexander Avenue, and Books, Notes & News at 137 Alexander Avenue, and an artist studio visit to LR Studio upstairs at 137 Alexander Avenue. For information about the Alexander Avenue Antiques District, contact Laura at 718-401-7866 or LauraN@bronxarts.org. This is a segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 6:00 & 7:00pm / Performance / Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos
Performance by the NuyoRican School Original Poetry Jazz Ensemble, a theater ensemble that presents literary works of Puerto Rican authors through performance. Featured performers are actors Luis Enrique Flores and Amauris Munoz; with Desmar Guevara (keyboard), Andy Gonzalez (bass), Abe Rodriguez (congas & vocals), Gene Golden (congas), Wendy Fernandez-Rossi (vocals) and group founder, director, and recipient of the New York Foundation for the Arts’ 2003 Poetry Fellowship Americo Casiano Jr. The ensemble has performed at venues throughout the tri-state. Among them, Aaron Davis Performing Arts Center, Hostos Center Art and Culture, the Nuyorican Poets Café, and the Julia De Burgos Latino Cultural Center. The Longwood Art Gallery is located at Hostos Community College at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street in the Bronx. Transportation: IRT 4 & 5, Bx1, Bx19 to Grand Concourse and 149 Street. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For information on this exhibit, call 718-518-6700. For further information on Longwood and its exhibits, call 718-518-6728 or visit www.longwoodcyber.org. For further information on the Bronx Culture Trolley, call 718-931-9500 x33. www.bronxarts.org. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 6:30pm / Literary Reading / Longwood Art Gallery @ Hostos
Reading by Author and Bronx Native Abraham Rodriguez – Bronx native Abraham Rodriguez unleashes a poetic, urban, Hitchcock-riff with a new literary thriller SOUTH BY SOUTH BRONX. When Puerto Rican ladies' man Alex awakes one morning to find a mysterious woman in his bed, he assumes he's suffered another embarrassing blackout. He soon learns, however, that Ava is no one-night stand – in fact, he's never met her before. As her story begins to unfold, and her reason for appearing in his bed emerges, it is not just Alex's life that she risks, nor her own, but the entire character of the South Bronx… Abraham Rodriguez was born and raised in the South Bronx. His first book, The Boy without a Flag, was a 1993 New York Times Notable Book of the Year. His novel Spidertown won a 1995 American Book Award and was optioned by Columbia Pictures. His next novel, The Buddha Book, was published by Picador in 2001. The Longwood Art Gallery is located at Hostos Community College at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street in the Bronx. Transportation: IRT 4 & 5, Bx1, Bx19 to Grand Concourse and 149 Street. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For information on this exhibit, call 718-518-6700. For further information on Longwood and its exhibits, call 718-518-6728 or visit www.longwoodcyber.org. For further information on the Bronx Culture Trolley, call 718-931-9500 x33. www.bronxarts.org. This is a free segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 7 / 8:30pm / Jazz Performance / Maxson’s Bar & Grill
Jazz Performance featuring the Ethereal Jazz Quartet. Led by Richard Fells on tenor sax, they are a very present force in the jazz scene of New York City’s jazz clubs and restaurants that feature live music. The repertoire consists of jazz standards, performed in a way that satisfies everyone, from the most astute jazz fan, to the casual listener. For information on J. Maxson’s and/or this performance, call J.B. Reed at 718-665-1416. Maxson’s Bar & Grill is located at 2576 Third Avenue (at 139th Street). For more information on Maxson’s and/or this performance, call J.B. Reed at 718-665-1416. This is a segment of BCA's First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley.

May 8

May 8 / 10:00am-1:00pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature Photography Series: Nature’s Colors, Part 2 (Session 6 of 6 sessions) – Wave Hill’s gardens burst into exhilarating color in May. Capture the varieties of color filling the landscape, with nature photographer Benjamin Swett. 6 sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 8 / 7:30pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – Game Over is a musical theater piece about the choices we make when confronted with the unexpected.  The play is conceived and directed by Alvan Colón Lespier and the musical score is composed by Pregones Theater’s Musical Director Desmar Guevara. Game Over is the story of J, a man who had everything. Suddenly, everything is taken away from him and he is driven to the depth of despair. What he doesn’t know is that it is all a game of chance being played by two powerful beings. J is the pawn. Game Over is about a wager between two super powers. Super D bets that J will resist all punishment. Super P bets that J will be destroyed by it. The game is on. Who will win the bet? Game Over will delight audiences with a cast headlined by José Joaguín García in the role of J along with veterans Jorge B. Merced, Rosalba Rolón, Sol Marina Crespo and Yarani Del Valle. Live music is played by Desmar Guevara in piano, Juan Carlos Acosta in string bass, Anthony Garcia in percussion and Milton Ruiz in electric guitar. Call 718-585-1202 for ticket information. Pregones is located at 571-575 Walton Avenue in the Bronx (between 149th & 150th Streets). For tickets or additional information on Pregones and its performances, visit www.pregones.org or call 718-585-1202.

May 9

May 9 / 7:30pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 9 / 8:00pm / Opera / Bronx Opera Company* / Lehman College’s Lovinger Theater
Mozart's The Impresario and Leoncavallo's immortal Pagliacci – In the spirit of the theatrical-masque symbols — comedy & tragedy — The Bronx Opera will culminate its 40th season with an uproarious comedy and a truly memorable tragedy. Mozart's comic operetta, The Impresario, is the story of a producer besieged by wild and wooly divas and other "artistic-types." Mozart wrote this as his entry in a musical competition in which his chief competitor was none other than Antonio Salieri. For this production, an impresario will be playing an Impresario as Deputy Director of the Bronx Council on the Arts, Ed Friedman, makes a special appearance as Max Scruples, the producer of the off-the-wall opera troupe in Mozart's comedy. He joins cast members Gary Giardina, Matthew Pena, Nicole Lee Aiossa, and Katherine Wessinger. Mr. Friedman is no stranger to the stage with credential spanning many genres. He appeared in Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing and Taming of the Shrew; off-Broadway in the premiere of Roadsigns at the American Theatre of Actors; and musical star-turns in Lincoln Center Out-of-Doors Festival productions of Fiddler on the Roof and Grease. The second entry is Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. Obscure composer Ruggero Leoncavallo soared to immortality with this operatic masterpiece about a pagliacci — a clown — and his heart-breaking discovery of his wife's infidelity. One of Enrico Caruso's recordings of the famed "Vesti la giubba" was the first record to sell one million copies; Pagliacci became the first entire opera to be recorded; and it became the first complete opera to be filmed with sound. Pagliacci features a company of powerful young artists including Kirsten Chambers, Jenny Searles, Juan Jose Ibarra, Jerrett Gieseler, Jacob Feldman, Matthew Pena, Jeremy J. Moore, Justin Ryan, and sharing the role of Canio, the pagliacci, is Percy Martinez and Roger Ohlson. Conducted by Michael Spierman, the company's founder and artistic director (along with Elizabeth W. Scott), the production also has the distinction of being directed by Benjamin Spierman — Maestro Michael Spierman's son — a nationally acclaimed operatic stage director in his own right. Ben Spierman also translated both operas into English. All productions being performed in English is a trademark of The Bronx Opera. Lehman College is located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West. Click here for directions. For ticket information, call 718-960-8833. To learn more about the Bronx Opera Company, call 718-365-4209 or e-mail info@bronxopera.org.

May 10

May 10 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – See May 3 listing for details.

May 10 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 10 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Momma and Her Nest / Madres y nidos – Mark Mother’s Day weekend with a tribute to feathered mommas.  With guidance from artist Esperanza Cortés, use clay and sticks to make a tiny nest.  Then shape some clay eggs, a colorful mother bird to sit on them and maybe add some baby chicks, too. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 10 / 2:00-5:00pm / Art Exhibition / Haven Arts Gallery
Closing Reception for Solos – This exhibition features new works by 15 artists who previously had solo exhibitions in Haven’s original location.  Works in painting, photography, mixed media, sculpture and video will showcase how these artists have developed, revisited or expanded upon the various themes and styles explored in their previous exhibitions. Participating artists:  Jaq Belcher, Tim Blum, Chris Bors, Brent Crothers, Linda Cunningham, Darcy Dahl, Steve Fishman, David Gimbel, Anne Humanfeld, Aristides Logothetis, John Mascaro, Luis Pagan, Kurt Perschke, J.C. Rice, and Alison Ward. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

May 10 / 7:30pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 10 / 8:00pm / Opera / Bronx Opera Company* / Lehman College’s Lovinger Theater
Mozart's The Impresario and Leoncavallo's immortal Pagliacci – See May 9, 8:00pm listing for details.

May 11

May 11 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 11 / 1:00pm & 3:00pm / Children’s Performance / New York Botanical Garden*
Sleeping Beauty – The classic tale of the beautiful princess who is put under a spell by a wicked witch ~ who can only be awakened by the love of a pure heart. Written by Dante Albertie. Performed by the Children's Theatre Company at Lehman and presented by the Just for Kids series of the Bronx Arts Ensemble*. The performance takes place in NYBG’s Arthur and Janet Ross Lecture Hall. The New York Botanical Garden is a museum of plants located at Bronx River Parkway (Exit 7W) and Fordham Road. It is easy to reach by Metro-North Railroad or subway. Click here for directions. For general information call 718-817-8700. For a complete listing of the Garden's events, visit www.nybg.org. For information about upcoming Bronx Arts Ensemble events, call 718-601-7399 weekdays between 9:30am and 4:30pm or visit www.bronxartsensemble.org.

May 11 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Momma and Her Nest / Madres y nidos – See May 10 listing for details.

May 11 / 3:00pm / Children’s Performance / New York Botanical Garden*
Sleeping Beauty – See 1:00pm listing for details.

May 11 / 3:00pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 12

May 12 / 7:00-9:00pm / Artists’ Town Hall Meeting / Savoy Room at Hostos Community College
Artists’ Town Hall Meeting for Mott Haven artists and friends. We will discuss: (1) Opportunities for Artists, (2) Current Issues and Concerns, (3) Upcoming Project: Open Studio Tour (tentatively scheduled for Saturday, June 28). Collaboration encouraged with artists and businesses in Mott Haven for those located out of area. Hostos’ Savoy Room is located at 120 East 149th Street (at Walton Avenue, near the Grand Concourse). It is easily accessible by the #2, #4 & #5 trains and BX1 & BX19 buses. Call 718-401-7866 for more info or email lauran@bronxarts.org to RSVP. Admission is free and all are welcome.

May 13

May 13 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – See May 6 listing for details.

May 14

May 14 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature and Imagination: Session 2 – Celebrate the splendor of springtime’s botanical subjects and scenery at Wave Hill through traditional and modern Chinese brush painting with artist Mansheng Wang. Series continues Wednesdays: May 21 and 28, and June 4 and 11. Six sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 14 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 14 / 6:00-7:00pm / Artisans Initiative Monthly Meeting / Longwood Art Gallery at Hostos
Artisans Initiative Monthly Meeting – The Artisans Initiative is a program designed to provide earned income opportunities and training to Bronx crafts artisans as well as underrepresented artisans of the Diaspora. At our monthly meeting you can learn about becoming a member, meet like-minded people, and find out about new business opportunities. The Longwood Art Gallery is located on the campus of Hostos Community College at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street in the Bronx. Transportation: IRT 4 & 5, Bx1, Bx19 to Grand Concourse and 149 Street. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For additional information, contact Lisa Curran at 718-931-9500 x21 or lisa@bronxarts.org.

May 16

May 16 / 5:00-9:00pm / Opening Reception / Haven Arts Gallery
Opening Reception for Salad Days by three chamber ensembles from Brooklyn High School of the Arts. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

May 16 / 7:30pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 16 / 8:00pm / Opera / Bronx Opera Company* / Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse
Mozart's The Impresario and Leoncavallo's immortal Pagliacci – In the spirit of the theatrical-masque symbols — comedy & tragedy — The Bronx Opera will culminate its 40th season with an uproarious comedy and a truly memorable tragedy. Mozart's comic operetta, The Impresario, is the story of a producer besieged by wild and wooly divas and other "artistic-types." Mozart wrote this as his entry in a musical competition in which his chief competitor was none other than Antonio Salieri. For this production, an impresario will be playing an Impresario as Deputy Director of the Bronx Council on the Arts, Ed Friedman, makes a special appearance as Max Scruples, the producer of the off-the-wall opera troupe in Mozart's comedy. He joins cast members Gary Giardina, Matthew Pena, Nicole Lee Aiossa, and Katherine Wessinger. Mr. Friedman is no stranger to the stage with credential spanning many genres. He appeared in Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing and Taming of the Shrew; off-Broadway in the premiere of Roadsigns at the American Theatre of Actors; and musical star-turns in Lincoln Center Out-of-Doors Festival productions of Fiddler on the Roof and Grease. The second entry is Leoncavallo's Pagliacci. Obscure composer Ruggero Leoncavallo soared to immortality with this operatic masterpiece about a pagliacci — a clown — and his heart-breaking discovery of his wife's infidelity. One of Enrico Caruso's recordings of the famed "Vesti la giubba" was the first record to sell one million copies; Pagliacci became the first entire opera to be recorded; and it became the first complete opera to be filmed with sound. Pagliacci features a company of powerful young artists including Kirsten Chambers, Jenny Searles, Juan Jose Ibarra, Jerrett Gieseler, Jacob Feldman, Matthew Pena, Jeremy J. Moore, Justin Ryan, and sharing the role of Canio, the pagliacci, is Percy Martinez and Roger Ohlson. Conducted by Michael Spierman, the company's founder and artistic director (along with Elizabeth W. Scott), the production also has the distinction of being directed by Benjamin Spierman — Maestro Michael Spierman's son — a nationally acclaimed operatic stage director in his own right. Ben Spierman also translated both operas into English. All productions being performed in English is a trademark of The Bronx Opera. Hofstra University is located Hempstead, New York. Click here for directions. For ticket information, call 718-960-8833. To learn more about the Bronx Opera Company, call 718-365-4209 or e-mail info@bronxopera.org.

May 17

May 17 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – See May 3 listing for details.

May 17 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 17 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Layers and Layers of Landscape / Capas y capas de paisaje – See one thing behind another and another and another, everywhere at Wave Hill. Cut and paste your visions into a 3-D, multi-layered, landscape construction. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 17 / 2:00pm / Opera / Bronx Opera Company* / Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse
Mozart's The Impresario and Leoncavallo's immortal Pagliacci – See May 16, 8:00pm listing for details.

May 17 / 7:30pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 17 / 8:00pm / Concert / Lehman Center for the Performing Arts*
Natalie Cole in Concert – The sultry, strength of Natalie Cole’s voice and her music have an inherent ease that enchants audiences around the world. Backed by deluxe arrangements for orchestra and big band, Natalie Cole’s inspired jazz/pop and R&B stylings confirm her royal lineage as one of the most elegant, gutsy interpreters of American popular song, ever. Tickets: $85, $75, $65, $55. Lehman Center is located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West in the Bronx. Box Office Hours: M-F: 10:00am-5:00pm and the day of the event from 12:00 noon. You can also purchase tickets online 24/7 at www.lehmancenter.org. Click here for directions to Lehman. For additional information, call 718-960-8833 or visit their website.

May 18

May 18 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 18 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Layers and Layers of Landscape / Capas y capas de paisaje – See May 17 listing for details.

Apr 18 / 2:00pm / Exhibition Reception / Glyndor House at Wave Hill*
Meet the Artists & Curators – Artist Joanne Howard discusses her animated projection that conveys rapidly growing vines on the walls of the Sunroom Project Space. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 18 / 3:00pm / Concert / Bronx Arts Ensemble* / Home of George & Katrin Phocas
Concerts in the Home Series continues at the home of George and Katrin Phocas (5020 Goodridge Avenue in the Riverdale section of the Bronx). Presented by the Bronx Arts Ensemble*, the concert features Stewart Goodyear (New Work) and Elliott Carter (Woodwind Quintet) and include Brahms’ Piano Quartet No. 1 in G Minor. For information and travel directions, call 718-601-7399 weekdays between 9:30am and 4:30pm or visit www.bronxartsensemble.org.

May 18 / 3:00pm / Concert / Riverdale Choral Society
Music of War and Peace – Guest Conductor John Lettieri leads the Riverdale Choral Society in a concert of Music of War and Peace. Featured selections will include Haydn's Missa Brevis Sti Joannis de Deo; Samuel Barber's Agnus Dei (transcribed from his Adagio for Strings) excerpts from Claudio Monteverdi's Madrigali Guerrieri Et Amorosi, Psalm 23 from James Bassi's Four Latin Psalms, and spirituals. Guest musicians will include Anne Myers, soprano, Mavis Pan, piano and the Claremont Strings Chamber Ensemble. The concert will take place at Christ Church Riverdale which is located at 252nd Street and Henry Hudson Parkway East. Tickets: $15, $13, with Bronx Arts Card. For additional information, call 718-543-2219 or visit their website www.riverdalechoral.org.

May 18 / 3:00pm / Musical / Pregones Theater*
Game Over – See May 8, 7:30pm listing for details.

May 18 / 4:30pm / Concert / St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
A Wider Baroque World -- The Bronx Concert Singers presents their spring 2008 concert with Musical Director Robert René Galván. The Program: Bach, Handel, Purcell, Zelenka (Laudate Dominum, Miserere), and works by Haydn. Performed with orchestra and with guest artists from the Brooklyn-Queens Conservatory Chorale Joyce Smith (keyboardist) and Heather Peyton (oboist). General Admission: $20; Two General Admission tickets for $35; Seniors (62+) and College Students $15; Children through HS: $5; Advanced Group Sales discounts start at 5 (Five) or more tickets. St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church is located at 1891 McGraw Avenue in the Parkchester section of the Bronx (between White Plains Road & Metropolitan Avenue). For more information, call 917-743-4641or e-mail BCS_info@bronxconcertsingers.org.

May 20

May 20 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – See May 6 listing for details.

May 21

May 21 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature and Imagination: Session 3 – Celebrate the splendor of springtime’s botanical subjects and scenery at Wave Hill through traditional and modern Chinese brush painting with artist Mansheng Wang. Series continues Wednesdays: May 28 and June 4 and 11. Six sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 21 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 21 / 5:00-9:00pm / Performance / Haven Arts Gallery
Performances: Theatrical, musical, and more.  Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

May 23

May 23 / Evening Poetry & Music / Art Exhibition / Haven Arts Gallery
Readnex Poetry Squad – A one-evening music event at Haven. Readnex Poetry Squad hosts a three-band music showcase. Ticket price is approximately $30, and all money raised will go toward The Front Line Tour, a national tour uniting communities through Hip Hop and Poetry. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

May 24

May 24 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – See May 3 listing for details.

May 24 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 24 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – Let the colors of flowers brighten your world.  Leave a mark on spring by using your own handprint as a starting point for creating a colorfully decorated bouquet of paper flowers. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 25

May 25 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 25 / 1:00-4:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – See May 24 listing for details.

May 25 / 2:00pm / Outdoor Concert / Van Cortlandt Park
Annual Memorial Day Concert – The Bronx Arts Ensemble presents a free concert of holiday patriotic music, Broadway show tunes and more. This is an outdoor tent concert (rain or shine). Seating is provided or you can bring your own picnic and blanket. Van Cortlandt Park near the Park Rangers' Ecology Center (enter park at Broadway near 246th Street). For information on all BAE concerts, call 718 601-7399 or visit www.bronxartsensemble.org.

May 27

May 27 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – See May 6 listing for details.

May 28

May 28 / Multi-Media Installation / Haven Arts Gallery
What Do We See / What is Really Happening? – A multi-media installation presented by DreamYard, an innovative arts-in-education organization that integrates arts into the curricula of elementary, middle, and high school students in the Bronx. They will present a one-day installation exploring the media, the home, and the education system. Questions of truth and accountability are addressed in this multi-media installation with interactive ballot boxes, found objects, photos, and large-scale drawings. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

May 28 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature and Imagination: Session 4 – Celebrate the splendor of springtime’s botanical subjects and scenery at Wave Hill through traditional and modern Chinese brush painting with artist Mansheng Wang. Series continues Wednesdays: June 4 and 11. Six sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 28 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 30

May 30 / 6:00-9:00pm / Opening Reception for New Works #11 / El Taller Boricua Gallery
Opening Reception for New Works #11 – A major exhibition celebrating the 11th Anniversary of En Foco’s New Works Photography Awards. Featured photographers and recipients of this year’s award include Kesha Bruce, Adriana Katzew, Donald Daedalus, Charlie Grosso, Esther Hidalgo, Wanda Acosta and Myra Greene. Juror: Melissa Harris, Aperture Magazine. This show will be on view through July 5th at El Taller Boricua Gallery is located at the Julia De Burgos Latino Cultural Center, 1680 Lexington Ave at 106th Street in NYC. Admission is free and all are welcome. For information on this exhibit, call En Foco at 718-931-9311 or e-mail info@enfoco.org.

May 31

May 31 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – See May 3 listing for details.

May 31 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See May 3 listing for details.

May 31 / 1:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – Let the colors of flowers brighten your world.  Leave a mark on spring by using your own handprint as a starting point for creating a colorfully decorated bouquet of paper flowers. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

May 31 / 2:30pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – See 1:00pm listing for details.

May 31 / 8:00pm / Concert / Lehman Center for the Performing Arts*
The Lat Pack – Featuring Gilberto Santa Rosa, Tito Nieves and a special invited artist. Tickets: $85, $75, $65, $55. Lehman Center is located at 250 Bedford Park Blvd. West in the Bronx. Box Office Hours: M-F: 10:00am-5:00pm and the day of the event from 12:00 noon. You can also purchase tickets online 24/7 at www.lehmancenter.org. Click here for directions to Lehman. For additional information, call 718-960-8833 or visit their website.

Jun 1

Jun 1 / 1:00pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – Let the colors of flowers brighten your world.  Leave a mark on spring by using your own handprint as a starting point for creating a colorfully decorated bouquet of paper flowers. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds admission: Tuesday: free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, free members and children under 6; Saturday: free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at west 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

Jun 1 / 2:30pm / Family Art Project / Kerlin Learning Center at Wave Hill*
Hands-a-Blooming / Primavera a la mano – See 1:00pm listing for details.

Jun 3

Jun 3 thru Oct 28 / Family Activities / Bronx Zoo / Wildlife Conservation Society*
Toddler Time Tuesdays Launch Presented by Fisher Price – Every Tuesday, the Bronx Zoo hosts moms and dads searching for a fun learning experience for their child. Registration is held each Tuesday. Each guest receives a Toddler Time map designed as a tour hour loop that highlights “child friendly” exhibits including information on places to eat, diaper changing stations and stroller access locations. Each child gets a free Fisher Price goody bag and is entitled to enter the Children’s Zoo where they can enjoy one of two half-hour programs in the Children’s Zoo Wildlife Theater programmed especially for toddlers. Click here to find out about all the events happening at the zoo. The Bronx Zoo is located at 2300 Southern Blvd. in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For other information, call 718-367-1010 or 718-220-5100.

Jun 4

Jun 4 / 10:00am-12:30pm / Art Workshop / Wave Hill House at Wave Hill*
Nature and Imagination: Session 5 – Celebrate the splendor of springtime’s botanical subjects and scenery at Wave Hill through traditional and modern Chinese brush painting with artist Mansheng Wang. Series concludes on Wednesday, June 11. Six sessions: $105 Member; $160 Non-member. Single session: $20 Member; $30 Non-member. Registration required; call 718-549-3200 x305. Grounds hours: April 15-October 14: 9am-5:30pm, Tuesday-Sunday; Closed Mondays. Grounds Admission: Tuesday: Free all day; Wednesday-Sunday: $4/general, $2/students and seniors 65+, Free Members and children under 6; Saturday: Free 9:00am to noon. Wave Hill is located at West 249th Street and Independence Avenue in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For general information, call 718-549-3200 or visit www.wavehill.org.

Jun 4 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – Enjoy a guided tour during regular public hours. Docents are eager to greet visitors and escort you on a one-hour tour of this richly crafted Greek Revival Mansion. The tour will focus on the life and times of the Bartow family and those who lived and worked on the family estate. It also will include a tour of the mansion's 19th-Century Carriage House. Last tour will begin at 3:15pm. Tours will take place on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and will also be an activity of the Bronx Seaside Trolley, which rides from Pelham Bay Park Subway Station on the first Friday of each month beginning at 5:30pm. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx, NY. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

Jun 4 / 5:00pm / Bronx Culture Trolley / Hostos Community College
Bronx Culture Trolley – Join us as we celebrate the Bronx Council on the Arts 45th anniversary with new exhibitions, our 2008 BRIO winners, and special treats! Then hop on the trolley and enjoy attractions at some of the hottest cultural spots along the lower Grand Concourse. Visit BCA's website at www.bronxarts.org to find out more about this month’s trolley attractions as well as other BCA programs and events. Trolley riders meet at Hostos Community College on the first Wednesday of each month (except January & September). Hostos is located at 450 Grand Concourse at 149th Street and is easily accessible by the #2, #4, and #5 IRT Trains. Click here for directions. Click here for map of the Hostos area. For trolley reservations and information, call 718-931-9500 x33 or e-mail trolley@bronxarts.org. The First Wednesdays Bronx Culture Trolley is a free activity of the Bronx Council on the Arts.

Jun 6

Jun 6 / 5:30-8:00pm / Concert / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Join us as we welcome the Bronx Symphony Orchestra Woodwinds as we open the doors to summer! Artists include:  Richard Parately on the flute, Ellen Bardekoff on the oboe, Monte Morgenstern on the clarinet and Amy Fraser on the bassoon. Amy Fraser is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music. Among her orchestral credits, she has performed with the New Philharmonic of New Jersey, Albany Symphony, New York Virtuosi, and the Harrisburg Symphony. Ms. Fraser is now in her 6th season as Principal Bassoonist of the Bronx Symphony. Her love of chamber music encouraged her to form Winds Tatu, a woodwind trio. Monte Morgenstern, clarinetist, has been a professional musician in the New York area for many years. His has had numerous performances with dozens of ensembles including, the Orchestra of St. Lukes, the New York City Ballet Orchestra, Broadway musicals and many others. He is currently in two chamber music groups, Englewinds and Serio Divertimenti, both of which perform diverse repertoire and support the music of living composers. Monte has been principal clarinetist of the Bronx Symphony, originally from 1971 to 1976, and from 1982 to the present. Call for admission information. Bronx Cultural Cards accepted. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx in the Bronx. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call 718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

Jun 6 / 5:30-9:30pm / Bronx Seaside Trolley / Pelham Bay Park Station
The FREE City Island Seaside Trolley rides again every hour from 5:30-9:30pm. The trolley starts at Pelham Bay Train Station (#6 train)#29 bus stop and travels to the Bartow Pell Mansion Museum for a music, refreshments and tours at minimal cost, and on to City Island for an evening of gallery openings, store sales, and restaurant specials. Ride the trolley to pick up your trolley flyer for discounts and promotions. Focal Point Gallery: A new show/reception featuring works by Ron Terner "Portraits & More" (321 City Island Avenue / 718-885-1403). A new Workspace/Gallery will be open that evening "The Balloon Gallery" from 6:00-9:00pm featuring works by Cheryl Brinker, Lois Weingarten and Kathy Moses (282 City Island Avenue). Exotiqa International Arts features their new Valentine's Day collection of Jewelry. Trolley riders get an extra 10% off, with their Trolley Card (280 City Island Avenue / 718-885-3090). Midtown Antiques will offer Trolley riders 50% off all antique furniture and collectible jewelry (31 City Island Avenue / 718-885-2820). The Black Whale is offering Trolley riders a FREE bottle of wine with any Two Dinners (279 City Island Avenue / 718-885-3657. The Tree House Restaurant is offering Trolley riders a FREE House Dessert with any Dinner. (273 City Island Avenue / 718-885-0806). All offers require a trolley card, available free to all Trolley riders. Meet at the #6 train, Pelham Bay Park Station, at 5:30pm for the first run of the evening -- there will be 5 circuit runs. Each run is approximately 45 minutes long and departs from the Pelham Bay Park Station at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30pm. The last pick-up to leave Pelham Bay Station is at 9:30pm. The last pick-up to leave City Island is at 10:15pm at Le Refuge Inn at the Samuel Pell House dropping you back at the Pelham Bay Station around 10:25pm. Admission to the trolley is free. For more information on the Seaside Trolley, visit www.cityislandchamber.org or call 718-885-9100.

Jun 6 / 5:00-9:00pm / Opening Reception / Haven Arts Gallery
Opening Reception for New York Press on the Wall – An exhibition of the work of twenty New York press photographers. Haven Gallery is located at 50 Bruckner Blvd. Building A. Haven is open daily 12:00-6:00pm and by appointment. For further information please e-mail info@havenarts.org or call 718-585-5753.

Jun 6 / 7:30pm / Seaside Trolley / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
First Fridays Seaside Trolley – Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is your first stop every First Friday when you ride the Seaside Trolley to City Island. We feature guided tours and music, free with admission to museum. Bronx Cultural Cards accepted. Bartow-Pell Mansion is located at 895 Shore Road, Bronx in the Bronx. Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is located at 895 Shore Road in the Bronx. Click here for directions. For additional information, call 718-885-1461 or e-mail info@bpmm.org.

Jun 7

Jun 7 / 12:00 noon / Children’s Storytime / Paperback Plus in Riverdale
Paperback Plus Pals Storytime – Young readers ages 3-8 are invited to join us at Paperback Plus every Saturday and Sunday when we’ll read aloud from new picture books, old favorites, and a chapter or two from a chapter book that we’ll continue ‘til it’s done. Paperback Plus is located at 3700 Riverdale Avenue (at W. 236th St.) in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. For information, call 718-796-3119 or visit Paperback Plus’ website at www.paperbacks-plus.com.

Jun 7 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See Jun 4 listing for details.

Jun 8

Jun 8 / 12:00-4:00pm / Tour / Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum*
Guided Tours of Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum – See Jun 4 listing for details.

BCA events have red title

Digital Exhibition / Longwood Cyber Residency Program
Digital Matrix Commission and Longwood Cyber Residency Program present new web-based projects by Manuel Acevedo, Monika Bravo, Gaye Chan, William Crow, Nicolás Dumit Estévez, Kenta Furusho, Shih-Chieh Huang, Prema Murthy, Wanda Raimundi-Ortíz. Visit the Longwood Arts Project website for updated information on this program.

Thru May 4 / Pen World Voices Festival of International Literature
Public Lives/Private Lives -- A Celebration of World Literature: 170 writers, 51 countries, 82 events. Endless possibilities! Join Umberto Eco, Péter Esterházy, Nuruddin Farah, Ian McEwan, Catherine Millet, Ma Jian, Mario Vargas Llosa, Michael Ondaatje, Annie Proulx, A.B. Yehoshua, and many more for six days of exciting literary exchange featuring conversations, panel discussions, readings, film screenings, a translation slam and a cabaret night! PEN WORLD VOICES brings together a stellar line-up of international and U.S. writers, from the most distinguished names to the freshest new voices, to mine the rich and timely theme: "Public Lives/Private Lives." Where do we draw the lines between o