Some venues are more than just stages—they’re living tributes to the legends who came before us. The Maria Callas Memorial Amphitheater in Astoria Park is one of those places, should it come to fruition as part of District 22's Participatory Budgeting Initiative here in New York City.

Named after the iconic soprano Maria Callas, this open-air amphitheater would sit against the backdrop of the East River, creating a breathtaking setting for music, storytelling, and celebration.

This project not only honors our district’s rich cultural history but also fosters safety, equity, and inclusion for all members of our community.

How This Project Enhances Safety
Public safety extends beyond infrastructure—it’s about creating spaces where people feel secure, engaged, and connected. This amphitheater would:
Increase Positive Public Presence: Well-designed, well-lit public spaces with regular programming deter crime and create a safer environment. Instead of dark, underutilized corners of the park, we would have an inviting, active gathering space.
Provide a Safe Haven for Marginalized Voices: Many of us in this district—LGBTQ+ individuals, artists, immigrants—often feel unseen in civic projects. This amphitheater would be a dedicated place where people can gather, share their stories, and feel a sense of belonging.

A Space for Equity and Representation
Astoria has long been a cultural melting pot, yet our public spaces don’t always reflect the diverse voices of our district. This amphitheater would:
Celebrate Underrepresented Communities: Maria Callas, a Greek-American woman who broke barriers in the opera world, represents the perseverance and artistry of many immigrants and marginalized voices in our neighborhood. The amphitheater would be a landmark celebrating her legacy while uplifting local artists who, like her, push boundaries and redefine art.
Create Free, Accessible Programming: Unlike private venues that charge high ticket prices, this space could host free concerts, poetry slams, LGBTQ+ pride events, multilingual storytelling nights, and cultural celebrations that represent the full spectrum of our district’s identity.
Serve All Generations: While school renovations primarily benefit children, this amphitheater is for everyone—seniors seeking community, young professionals looking for cultural connection, and families wanting safe, enriching outdoor activities.

A Lasting Investment in the District
Unlike school-specific projects that benefit only enrolled students, the Maria Callas Memorial Amphitheater would be an intergenerational and intercultural asset for decades. It would turn Astoria Park into a global landmark, bringing pride and economic vitality to our neighborhood.

This project ensures that people like me—and countless others who feel overlooked in civic decisions—have a space that reflects our identities, history, and artistic contributions. It’s not just about honoring Maria Callas; it’s about honoring all of us who have struggled to find a place where we belong.

Let’s build a safer, more inclusive Astoria together.

New York City's 2025 Participatory Budgeting Idea for District 22. Please visit https://tourdefierce.vip/nyc-participatory-budgeting-2025-maria-callas-memorial-amphitheater for full information.