The historic Bliss Theater on Greenpoint Avenue at 45th St., in the Sunnyside-Woodside area of Queens, NYC, opened in 1930, and is a cultural landmark that has been a key part of our community's fabric, first as a luxurious movie theater, and then beautifully preserved as a church.

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The Bliss Theater is currently under threat of loss and may be sold and razed for another use. In a breathtaking opportunity for local arts, we believe it should be preserved and given a new lease on life as the home of the established Thalia Spanish Theatre, providing excellence for 47 years. The Thalia has been an integral part of our community since 1977, providing high-quality performances and promoting Latin culture (NYC Department of Cultural Affairs).

Thalia has produced internationally-recognized events in a virtual shoebox, and this 4-block move up Greenpoint Avenue would provide them more space for their own productions and also other local cultural groups. There would be no need to set up a new untested 501-c-3, as the Thalia has proved its worth, dedication, excellence and service to the public in 47 years. They have presented 253 performing arts productions and garnered over 250 local,  national and international Awards for artistic excellence. They have already been proven trustworthy with local, state, and national grants and private foundations.

By moving into the Bliss Theater, with its amazing space, they could continue their valuable work, while committing to preserve an important piece of our local history. They already offer bi-lingual (English & Spanish) productions, preserve the classics and waning folklore, dance, poetry, music, cutting edge plays, free outdoor events for children, film festivals, and professional level instruction. It is time we give more than lip service to Spanish-speakers of 21 countries who live here and contribute to the arts and the economy.

This move would not only benefit arts and culture but also boost local economy by attracting more visitors to Queens (Americans for the Arts). We urge you to support this initiative that combines architectural preservation with cultural enrichment. Guests often come from all over the tri-state area and both airports to Thalia shows, and dine locally. Thalia is the only bilingual Hispanic/Latinx theater in Queens, NYC!

Please sign this petition to show your support for preserving Bliss Theater as the new home for Thalia Spanish Theatre!