Kid-Friendly, Parent-Approved
38 NOVEMBER 2 0 1 9
BY ALLISON KRIDLE
Okabaloo FunArtFaktory
After being cooped up in a classroom all day,
most kids yearn to get their creative juices flowing
and engage in physical activity — at least that’s
how I felt as a child. What I really wish I had growing
up was Okabaloo FunArtFaktory in Astoria.
They promote a mixture of visual arts with creative
movement, acting and theater, STEAM activities,
music and singing, storytelling and “free play,” just
to name a few.
“We were always looking for a place like Okabaloo
for our own kids, a place that values the arts
and creativity, and provides quality over quantity.
When we couldn't find it we created it,” Okabaloo
founder Olta Dokle said.
Dokle co-founded the creative space in November
2017 with her sister Bora, who is a multitalented
musician and vocalist — she was even in
a European pop band. While Bora brought her
passion for music, while Dokle offered her love of
the visual arts and experience in business law and
development. The dynamic duo grew up in a family
of artists and dreamed of a place like Okabaloo
for years before they opened its doors.
“What makes Okabaloo memorable to those
who have joined our programs and activities is
when kids don't ever want to leave and give a very
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
In warmer weather, kids love visiting the local playgrounds and playing baseball in Astoria
Park. But with winter ahead, it’s time to discover indoor activities that let kids exercise, learn
and create — and give parents a well-deserved break. We rounded up some of the mostloved
kid-centric businesses in western Queens. This one’s for you, kiddos.
EXPLORE YOUR BORO
hard time to their parents at the end of the
day session,” Dokle said. “It's like a pat on
the back or … quiet applause that reminds
us every day how worth all the hard
work is involved and that we must keep up
our work and never stop giving our best.”
Okabaloo not only offers after-school
programs of expression and fun, but they
also have summer camp opportunities
and parties for your craft-loving kiddo.
Okabaloo FunArtFaktory
35-52 32ND ST., ASTORIA
718-274-2200
OKABALOO.COM
Photos courtesy of Okabaloo
/OKABALOO.COM
