Review Fix Exclusive: Mary Elizabeth Micari Talks About Her New Studio in Brooklyn

Review Fix chats with Mary Elizabeth Micari, who discusses the the opening of our her The M Center for Arts & Wellness in Bay Ridge Brooklyn. One of the only centers for those interested in music and theatre to get their start, The M Center for Arts & Wellness fills a much-needed void in Brooklyn.

Review Fix: When and why did you decide to open a studio in Brooklyn?

Mary Elizabeth Micari: I originally opened a studio in my home in Brooklyn about seven years ago, but had been also teaching in Astoria, Queens,and in Manhattan for at least seven years before that. I opened the M Center Studio out of my home on 83rd Street and 5th to house not only my burgeoning vocal studio, but also to add other types of music lessons including guitar, piano and wind instruments. I also wanted to offer play writing and acting courses. I felt there was a strong need in the neighborhood for what I and Genesis could offer.  There is little art or next to no theater instruction in the area of Bay Ridge and its neighbors.  

Review Fix: What are your goals with it?

Micari: Genesis Repertory, our theatrical company, is the nonprofit sponsor for the M Center. Now they both serve as arts & education organizations dedicated to providing accessibility to artist and audience.  We bring art instruction to those less fortunate or seeking a better arts education, and those here who are hungry for a chance to learn in a safe and supportive environment. I also aim to combine not only the performing arts, which are known to provide healing for many with the healing arts. I use both sides of this coin in all my work in the studio. 

Review Fix: What are some of the things standing in your way from accomplishing those goals?

Micari: Money. We need financial help. I’d very much like to begin to offer scholarships to under privileged children and adults.  

Review Fix: How would you describe the Brooklyn theatre scene?

Micari: There are some really good community based non-professional theaters out here but not many.  We hope to provide the next level … professional training. Brooklyn is growing as an artistic entity, in neighborhoods like Downtown and Greenpoint but not out here in Bay Ridge.  Many think that there is NO art south of Park Slope. 

Review Fix: How can your studio bolster and change those conceptions?

Micari: There is art here, artists of all types.  We are here to teach what we know to those that seek it, provide ways for our students to work in their chosen art, mentor those that ask for and need it and begin to shine a light on the un-tapped talent here and in other parts of Brooklyn. One of my students said that we are invisible.  Not any longer. 

Review Fix: In a perfect world, how would you think the studio to be looked at?

Micari: As a safe haven for those looking for expression in art, music and singing as well as a place for the community to come for healing and exploring other types of though and healing work than they might have thus far.  I would like to see singers planting herb gardens and herbalists taking guitar lessons, Tarot Card reading guitar players and healers learning to draw. I’d like to see children here learning that not only are they special but that they are exceptional.  I’d like to see art and healing pull together diverse ethnic groups and shine the light of joy upon all.

That is a perfect world to me.