Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA rallying the community in the name of art

SCOTCH PLAINS – “Arts Week is about celebrating the influence of art and culture on youth and adults alike,” said Sheri Cognetti, Senior Program Director of the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA. “It’s an opportunity to showcase artists’ work and to bring everyone together to experience and understand the pleasure and impact of the arts.” The community is invited to attend YMCA’s Arts Week and view the various displays.

All week long during the week of Sept. 29 to Oct. 6, the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA located at 1340 Martine Ave. in Scotch Plains will host a variety of activities for the community including artwork displayed from the Y’s members.

Guitarist John LaGrecca and Kevin Switek will play at Noon on Wednesday, Oct. 2 and Friday, Oct. 4 in our Café. Throughout the week, art from students in the Airbrush and Digital Photography classes from Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School will be on display. On Thursday, Oct. 3 at 6:30 p.m., members of the cast of Mulan will be performing at the Y.

On Friday, Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m., Adam Biner will offer a free beginners tap class. Biner, who is working with the Y as part of a residency program with New Jersey Youth Theatre, most recently has performed in New York City in Midnight Madness and Geek! The Musical. He has also done regional theater including performances in Carousel at the Paper Mill Playhouse, as well as Kiss Me Kate, Smokey Joe’s Café, 1776, and A Chorus Line. All are welcome to stay after the tap class and enjoy a free performance presented by the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA Dance Company.

As a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA works to help children, teens and adults discover their full potential by providing opportunities to learn, grow and thrive. By participating in the arts programs at the Y, children and adults have the opportunity to improve their creative and tactical skills, and wellbeing because arts can be a stress-reliever for adults. They also socialize and build relationships, learn the art of group work, and share their enjoyment and passion with each other.

To learn more about YMCA’s Arts Week or Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA’s arts programs, contact Sheri Cognetti at 908-889-8880 or email [email protected]. For information on membership or programs, visit the Y’s website at www.fanwoodscotchplainsymca.org. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.