Avi Perets returned to Cunningham Park on Wednesday evening, August 19, for another Queens Jewish Community Council concert, drawing a broad cross-section of Jewish Queens for an evening of music, dancing, and ruach. Amid the celebration, however, Assembly Member David Weprin warned that future funding for the program may be in jeopardy. Taking the stage, Weprin warned that future budget cuts could jeopardize funding for the concert and urged the community to speak up in support of the program.
The loss of funding could threaten an event that has brought together families and generations from across Jewish Queens.
Following the warm reception he received at last year’s concert, Perets returned with a mix of Mizrachi tunes, Jewish classics, and contemporary Hebrew favorites. The Queens resident had members of the crowd singing and dancing on the lawn throughout the evening.
Perets was once again joined by keyboardist Ouri Bitan, a longtime collaborator. Drummer Yosef and a lead guitarist rounded out the ensemble.
The free outdoor concert drew families, young adults, children, and seniors to the grass near Cunningham Park’s tennis courts. Attendees came from nearby neighborhoods as well as communities across Central Queens.
The strong turnout again highlighted the demand for free community programming that gives local residents an opportunity to gather for Jewish music and culture.
This year’s concert was made possible through the sponsorship of the New York City Council, including Speaker Julie Menin and Council Members James Gennaro, Lynn Schulman, and Linda Lee. Additional backing came from Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, JCRC-NY, and the Northeast Queens Jewish Community Council, with public funding administered through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.
Perets closed the evening before an enthusiastic crowd, but the question of whether the concert will return next year remains unresolved. Much may depend on whether funding for the program is preserved in the next budget.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
