There’s something special going on in downtown Jersey City, and so far it seems only the locals know about it. But things are slowly changing.
Victory Hall on Grand Street has recently emerged as a formidable venue for the visual and performing arts in the city. During the last couple of years, the center, which is part of Our Lady of Czestochowa’s (OLC) school, was transformed into a community space for residents to enjoy.
The Hall’s most recent event was the "Beauty of Big" art show on the third floor. Coordinated in part by manager James Pustorino, the show featured the works of almost a dozen local and regional artists who specialize in big pieces. It ran from May 11 through May 25.
"The show was a success. We had large scale paintings by local artists, and music by modern jazz trio Argama during our reception," Pustorino said.
Victory Hall is commonly referred to as the "neighborhood cultural center on the waterfront." It is a non-profit cultural center where community residents can join together in artistic, musical, theatrical, and other cultural pursuits, according to its public information officer Laura Rime. Originally the city’s Elks Club, the local OLC parish purchased it in 1919 and turned into a social hall. In 1998, parishioners and local residents turned it into the art center it is today. During the last two years, the Hall has undergone a facelift thanks to the work of volunteers, including men from the Harbor in Hoboken, Rime said. The interior has been painted, and parts of the wooden floors have been refinished.
"In 2000, the Hall was incorporated and plans were made to further open the site to all interested in making it a true cultural center on the waterfront," Rime said.
Alliteration Alley
In addition to the art and music shows, two local artists have placed a spotlight on poetry in the community. Residents can catch renowned poets the first and third Thursdays of the month on the second floor of Victory Hall. Coined "Alliteration Alley," by its co-founder Christine Goodman, the event is a fascinating chance to interact with talented poets, artists, performers and local residents. Goodman came up with the idea of creating a place where performing artists could showcase their talents. She met with representatives from Victory Hall and the administrators agreed to give the artists a chance.
"The space is a small intimate setting in the community," she said. "We feature artists who will spark a reaction with the people."
After some hard work, Jersey City has a vibrant and exciting venue for residents to catch a rising star and for young artists to perform before a live audience.
The event begins at 8 p.m. and the featured artist goes on for the first 20 minutes. Afterward, the microphone is open for poets to express themselves.
"We have acoustic players, poets, performers," Goodman said. "A wide range of artists perform."
Previous featured acts include renowned poet Reg E. Gaines, co-creator of the Broadway hit musical "Bring in Da’ Noise, Bring in Da’ Funk;" and Roberta L. Greening, president of Bergen Poets in Bergen County. On June 6, Joe Jacovino (Bluesdog) will be the feature performer.
There is a small $3 admissions contribution that is used to pay for the cost of refreshments and promotional material. The event has grown every time, according to Goodman. The importance of the venue is that it offers artists the opportunity to express themselves in an intimate setting.
"We give people a platform to take risks, learn something and share poetry with everybody. There should be more of this going on," Goodman said.
Also, every Monday and Wednesday from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Rasa O’Neill offers yoga classes for $13.
The Hall is located on 186 Grand St. near Marin Boulevard and York Street. The building has three floors. The first floor contains a small stage and an auditorium, the second level has a space for small events, and the third floor has a large stage and an auditorium that fits 300 people. For more information call (201) 946-9409 or visit them on the web at www.victoryhall.org. q