Write a commentOn Saturday, November 16th, a Mayoral Proclamation for the inaugural Neil R. Jones Astronaut Award was presented to Nicholas Gentile and the cast and crew of SPACE RACE by Fulton Mayor Jim Rice.
The award was created to help immortalize the legacy of Fulton native Neil R. Jones, a visionary science fiction author who coined the word "astronaut" and whose imaginative works not only inspired such writers as Isaac Asimov, but still continue to captivate readers worldwide today.
SPACE RACE, a science-fiction comedy written and directed by Gentile, retells the story of the lunar landing as an alternate futuristic version of American history. The play originally debuted in NYC in 2018, but was able to be find new life at Fulton's The Art Scene courtesy of a grant from New York State through CNY Arts, Inc. Audiences marveled throughout four sold-out performances at the robotic costumes, indoor fireworks, and live holographic projections accompanied by surf-rock trio The Underwater Bosses.
"This award recognizes individuals and groups who embody the spirit of innovation, creativity, and storytelling that characterized the work of Neil R. Jones," said Mayor Rice in his speech, "SPACE RACE not only showcased the talent, dedication, and artistic vision of its cast and crew, but it elevated the cultural landscape of our city while demonstrating the power of science fiction to engage and inspire.
"The cast and crew were present to receive the honor at the newly renovated theater of The Art Scene during its Annual Charity Art Auction. "Their work has not only entertained but also inspired," continued the Mayor," setting a new standard for excellence in local theater and reigniting our city's passion for the stars."
