Jazz & Swing during the Pandemic At the Culture Lab LIC (Long Island City)

Svetlana & the Delancey Five were invited by a CultureLab LIC to play an uplifting open air concert in the parking lot behind their main theater and events space / gallery.

Culture Lab LIC is a new nonprofit organization in New York City formed to support the efforts of local artists who have been running the Plaxall Gallery, and its significant community work and arts programming over the past three years. Since opening our doors in October 2016, thanks to the generous donation from Plaxall Inc. of a 12,000 square foot converted warehouse, the programs and community outreach have doubled every year.

In response to the pandemic, Thursday through Monday, every week through Summer and Fall, at The Plaxall Gallery, Culture Lab LIC is proud to present an outdoor beer garden and taco truck with pop-up musical performances - and Svetlana was so lucky to have been invited to perform!

The series goal during this unprecedented time was to help bring community together for the safe, socially distant music and social experience. The organizers created a truly magical atmosphere. The band was situated around the vintage truck. The sound was spectacular - and the parking lot ‘safe 6 ft social circles’ were packed with groups of friends and families (safely distant from each other). Everyone was masked and taking care to keep each other safe!

The atmosphere was truly magical. With NYC skyline, as a backdrop - magical lighting - and enthusiastic audience - this was a night to remember! The audience was so thrilled with this experience - and coming together united by friendships, music and the beautiful atmosphere that Culture Lab LIC created!

All photos by Richard Velasco