Culture Guide: Flushing Town Hall

By Edible Queens

New Orleans might be the birthplace of jazz but Queens is its home. Countless legends–Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie and Dizzie Gillespie–lived in the borough at some point in their storied careers. Jazz is alive and kicking at Flushing Town Hall, a dynamic cultural venue with in-residence musicians and artists. Built in 1862 and designated a landmark in 1967, FTH presents high-quality, award-winning performances and visual arts programs, including theater, classical and world music, dance, puppetry arts, exhibitions and family programs with interactive workshops. Visitors can step into a stunning 308-seat concert hall and theater, gallery, gift shop and classroom, and explore a tranquil garden that hosts everything from drum circles to yoga classes.

INSIDE SCOOP!

In the 1840s, legendary showman P.T. Barnum was the hall’s impresario and Tom Thumb (aka General Tom Thumb the Dwarf) was its star performer. 

In 1898, Flushing Town Hall became a courthouse complete with jail cells, one of which has been repurposed as a backstage dressing room. 

GETTING THERE!

SUBWAY 7 Train to Main Street–Flushing

TRAIN LIRR to Flushing–Main Street

THINGS TO EAT!

Click here to find out more about Edible Queen’s favorite restaurants by Flushing Town Hall!

Angelina Sun

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