ICYMI | Autumn in Review

As the leaves transformed into a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds, Broadway Stages embraced the spirit of autumn with a series of meaningful events that reflect our commitment to community, culture, and compassion. Let's take a stroll through the highlights of our fall season

In October, Broadway Stages recognized Arts and Humanities Month, Italian-American Heritage Month, and Polish-American Heritage Month. This threefold acknowledgment reflects our support of the many diverse cultures that make up the NYC communities we call home. Throughout the month, we highlighted various arts, Italian, and Polish organizations and events that nurture the unique cultural gift each brings to our city.

Since 2002, Newtown Creek Alliance (NCA) has served as a catalyst for effective community action dedicated to restoring, revealing, and revitalizing Newtown Creek. NCA is also the steward of educational programs at Broadway Stages’ Kingland Wildflowers Green Roof and Community Engagement Center, and home to their headquarters. Each Fall NCA hosts the Tidal Toast, an important fundraiser focused on directing attention and funding toward the cleanup of Newtown Creek and adjacent lands. Our on-kind, financial and philosophical support of NCA demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and the well-being of the local ecosystem.

As autumn continued to unfolded, we were delighted to host NOoSPHERE Arts' final "We Are Nature" performance of the season on the rooftop of Kingsland Wildflowers at Broadway Stages. This artistic endeavor explored the theme of Nature's Cycles, delving into the interconnected rhythms of seasons, life, and societal systems. The event encouraged reflection on the cyclical nature of existence and the patterns that weave through the world around us, providing a source of inspiration in times of uncertainty. Our support of NOoSPHERE Arts and it’s founder Sol Kjøk, who is also Broadway Stages Artist-in-Residence, and official Arts Producer and Presenter for Kingsland Wildflowers, goes back decades and serves as a testament to our support of the arts and it’s role in nature.

In November, we proudly sponsored the Greenpoint YMCA Community Spirit Awards. This annual event honors local leaders for their significant contributions to the community, recognizing their tireless efforts in making a positive impact. For years, Broadway Stages has proudly served on the board of the Greenpoint Y, a role we cherish as we work together to identify and meet the needs of our community.

We also collaborated with the Community Center Services Organization (CCSO) - Food Bank of Corona to bring warmth and joy to the community with a Thanksgiving celebration that included a coat giveaway,  turkey giveaway, and a Thanksgiving meal complete with turkey and all the fixings.  Together with other sponsors and volunteers, we served over 1000 people! This compassionate initiative not only provided a hot meal and essential items for the colder months, but also created a festive atmosphere of fellowship.  Our relationship with CCSO began early in the year and culminated in a year-long donation of a brick and mortar facility where the Food Bank of Corona is working to collect and distribute food, clothing, and services to our community.

As we welcomed December, we joined forces with the 94th Precinct Community Council to co-host a heartwarming community Christmas party for residents of all ages. The celebration featured an appearance from Santa and friends, fostering a sense of holiday spirit and community camaraderie.

And what’s the holiday season without lights? We’re proud to have played a role in lighting up the streets of Brooklyn and Queens. From Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint to the celebratory lighting of the menorah in North Brooklyn, and holiday lights in Maspeth, Queens, we helped contribute to the festive ambiance, bringing joy to neighborhoods throughout the city.

Our autumn journey was marked by a rich tapestry of community engagement, cultural celebration, and acts of compassion. We hope you all had a wonderful autumn and we can’t wait to see what this winter has in store for us!