Happy Independence Day From Broadway Stages!

Happy Independence Day from Broadway Stages! We know, we can't believe it's already here either. We all love to celebrate with family, friends, a good barbecue, and some fireworks, but for those who want to spice things up a bit, there's a ton going on in Brooklyn this year. From Coney Island to Greenpoint there are events that are sure to shake things up. Check out the list below to see what's going on this year as we celebrate the 4th of July! Have fun and be safe.

1. Coney Island's Fourth of July Celebration + Fireworks

2. Macy's 4th of July Fireworks at Brooklyn Bridge

3. 4th of July Fest

P R I D E

Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue, And the dreams that you dare to dream Really do come true

During this month and throughout the year, Broadway Stages celebrates the experiences, talents, and cultures across our operations, and across our vibrant and diverse city.

Our ability to coexist, to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate our differences and the value they each bring makes NYC a cosmopolitan city like no other. Broadway Stages encourages you to dare to dream, and check out the New York Times who have compiled more than 25 options to celebrate Pride Month. Also take a look at WorldPride, hosted this year by NYC.

Celebrating Jewish and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

The month of May brings many reasons to celebrate — spring is in the air and we've finally put away our winter boots. School is winding down, Mother's Day is around the corner, and we're all looking forward to a fun summer. But it's also a time when we celebrate Jewish and Asian Pacific American Heritage month.

In New York, more than anywhere else in the world, ethnic and cultural diversity brings a vibrant mix of world influences that cannot be duplicated anywhere else. It's this amazing ability to coexist, understand, and respect that makes New York City (NYC) so spectacular. Our city is in essence the United Nations, with all five boroughs illustrating this melting pot of cultures and welcoming local residents and tourists alike.

Did you know that almost 200 languages are spoken in NYC and that 40 percent of the population was born outside of the United States? Our ability to coexist, to recognize and appreciate our differences, and the value they each bring makes NYC a cosmopolitan city like no other.

As an immigrant family with local roots dating back more than 35 years, Broadway Stages understands first hand the importance of diversity, and we promote the inclusion of experiences, talents, and culture across our operations and in the communities where we work and live.

This May, as we celebrate both Jewish American and Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we encourage you to learn about your neighbors, to recognize the achievements and contributions they have made, and to join in the celebration. To learn more about Jewish American heritage, click here, and find out about Asian Pacific American heritage, click here.

Easter Baskets Were Filled Thanks to Sen. Persaud and Broadway Stages!

We caught our first glimpse of spring last Saturday at the second annual Easter egg hunt hosted by Senator Roxanne Persaud at Canarsie Park. Families from across Brooklyn celebrated the Easter holiday and joined their neighbors in a morning of fun seasonal activities. A special thank you to Senator Persaud for hosting this family friendly event — it was a great success. "This was so much fun, the kids had a great time hunting for Easter eggs. It's wonderful to see our community come together to share in fellowship, and Broadway Stages was honored to be a sponsor," said Gina Argento, President and CEO Broadway Stages, Ltd. "At Broadway Stages our commitment to community is actionable and runs deep. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live."

Celebrating Earth Day 2019 - Doing Our Part to Protect the Environment

Observed every year on April 22, Earth Day promotes environmental literacy and awareness. U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day as an environmental teach-in held in 1970. Many consider this event the genesis of the "Going Green" movement. Coordinated by the Earth Day Network, there are now annual events held in 193 countries around the world to promote the idea that we, as humans, should protect the environment.

At Broadway Stages we're doing our part to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and we're walking the talk with the use of renewable technologies. From our green roofs, currently totaling 27,000 square feet, that help to advance ecosystem services that are critical to our habitat and community, to 50,000 square feet of solar panels that help improve air quality and decrease power grid demand. And later this year we'll be expanding our green roof garden program [Broadway Stages Green Corridor] by an additional 1.4 acres — or almost 61,000 square feet — thanks to a grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation's Green Innovation Grant Program, and the support of Alive Structures who will design and implement the green roofs.

There is so much that each of us can do to protect our earth, and we encourage you to lend a hand. It's easy and fun. Consider implementing a recycle, reduce, reuse approach, or plant some green. Earth Day is a great time to plant a tree or even add a plant to your home or office. Not only does a plant add some color to a room, but it also helps to clean the air.

Check out the Earth Day Network to see what other initiatives are underway and how you can get involved.

Canarsie Park Easter Egg Hunt Hosted by Senator Persaud - Sponsored by BWS

Spring is in full swing with Easter right around the corner, so what better way to celebrate than with an Easter egg hunt for the kids? Broadway Stages invites you to attend the Senate District 19 Easter Egg Hunt hosted by Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.

Carnarsie Park
Senator Roxanne J. Persaud Free Easter Egg Hunt

Seaview Ave &, E 102nd St (East 88th Street and Seaview Avenue)
Brooklyn, NY 11236
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

"SD-19 Easter Egg Hunt is one more way to serve the community. I am happy with the response and support from the community because families in the 19th senatorial district deserve opportunities for physical and social activities outdoors. I am proud to be able to host this egg hunt in the district for a second year," Senator Persaud said.

This fun family event will feature giveaways and refreshments, games for the kids, as well as a visit from the Easter Bunny! Admission is FREE, and we can't wait to see you there. Just don't forget to bring a basket!

RSVP via goo.gl/forms/CChl5logefycqHlA3

Celebrating Women's History Month and Recipients of the "Made in NY" Women's Film, TV, and Theatre Fund Grant

On February 28, 2019, Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen and the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) Acting Commissioner Anne del Castillo kicked off Women's History Month with the announcement of the first round of grant recipients of the "Made in NY" Women's Film, TV, and Theatre Fund.

Funds totaling $1.5 million were awarded to 63 film, television, theatre, and digital media women-led projects. This is the first round of a $5 million, three-year program funded by MOME and administered by New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA).

Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages, congratulates the grant recipients for their creativity, drive, and perseverance in making a mark in this challenging industry and celebrates the importance of Women's History Month. "At Broadway Stages, we value diversity and promote the inclusion of experiences, talents, and culture across our operations, and we support efforts to advance opportunities for women and minorities in the television and film industry and beyond," Gina said. "I applaud the efforts of Deputy Mayor Glen and MOME Acting Commissioner Anne del Castillo for their leadership in bringing attention and support to the underrepresented women in this industry. I am proud of what New York City is doing to help advance women in television, film, and theater and hope to see continued progress. Throughout the year, and especially during Women's History Month, it's important to understand the contributions of women across the globe, the value of our experiences and perspectives, and the obligation we all have to advance equality and inclusion."

A full list of projects that were funded by this grant can be found here.  

Read more about the Women's Film, TV, and Theater Fund and Women's History Month.

Celebrating Black History Month and Local Hero #42 Jackie Robinson

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams Hosts Jackie Robinson Essay Contest
The first two months of the new year have special significance – in January we recognize the 100th birthday of a local hero, Jackie Roosevelt Robinson, and in February we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Black History Month.

On April 15, 1947 Jackie Robinson became the first black athlete to play Major League Baseball (MLB) in the modern era, playing first base for the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field in the Flatbush neighborhood of New York. From pioneering integration of professional athletics in America to playing a critical role in the Civil Rights movement, Robinson helped change the landscape of race relations in the United States. But his influence goes beyond the baseball field. Robinson was also the first black television analyst in MLB and the first black vice president of a major American corporation, Chock full o'Nuts. In addition, in the 1960s, he helped establish the Freedom National Bank, an African American-owned financial institution based in Harlem, New York. Robinson passed away in 1972 at the age of 53, but his memory continues to be celebrated.

On January 31, 2019, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, together with Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo, kicked off Black History Month with a tribute to Jackie Robinson. At a celebration at Brooklyn Borough Hall, a proclamation and posthumous "Key to Brooklyn" were presented to the family of Jackie Robinson (accepted by his granddaughter Sonya Pankey) on what would have been the 100th birthday of the hall of famer. In addition, the winners of an essay contest acknowledging the character and achievements of Jackie Robinson were recognized. The essay contest was held at three local schools named after the famous baseball player and civil rights leader. The schools involved in the essay contest were M.S. 352 - Brooklyn, P.S. 375 – Brooklyn, and P.S. 15 - Queens.   

Judges for the essay contest included community leaders, educators, a Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice, an attorney, and Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages. As a company with local roots, Broadway Stages is committed to giving back and welcomed the opportunity to join in the celebration and serve as a judge for the essay contest. Gina applauds the efforts of Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo for kicking off Black History Month with this ceremonial event. "Celebrating culture, and accomplishments, helps build awareness, and reminds us all of the value that our diverse experiences and talents bring to our world," Gina said. Broadway Stages congratulates all the students who participated in the essay contest and recognizes the winners on a job well done.

M.S. 352, Ebbets Field Middle P.S. 375, Jackie Robinson Primary          P.S. 15, Jackie Robinson Primary
1st  – Merlik Alleyne 1st – Kamryn Bennett                      1st – Anaelle Pierre Charles
2nd – Ragiyata Bah   2nd – Victoria Rolon             2nd – Madison St. Claire
3rd – Brianna Pettiford     3rd – N/A             3rd – Jasmine Jackson

For information about the Jackie Robinson Foundation, click here. To view the award ceremony at Brooklyn Borough Hall, click here. 

Children's Christmas Celebration Host to Over 500!

On Saturday, December 8 Broadway Stages and the 94th Precinct Community Council hosted their 8th children's Christmas celebration. We welcomed over 500 guests who enjoyed a day full of fun activities including face painting, balloon animals, a photo booth, and arts and crafts. Delicious kid-inspired sweet and savory snacks were available for our guests to enjoy, and each child was given a goody bag of arts and crafts to continue the fun when they got home. But the best part of the day was a meeting with Santa, complete with a gift from his toy shop at Broadway Stages.  

Together with the 94th Precinct, Broadway Stages is grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with our community.  

Merry Christmas!
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Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York's premier television and film production company, manages over three million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 sound stages, unique locations, production services, and over seven acres of parking throughout three boroughs in New York City. As a responsible company with local roots, we actively support economic and social growth, education, community betterment, and environmental sustainability throughout Brooklyn and greater NYC. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live.

You're invited! Bushwick Winter Celebration and Tree Lighting – December 8

You're invited! Come to the Bushwick winter celebration and Christmas tree lighting on Saturday, December 8, 2018 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Join your community leaders and neighbors as we gather 'round the tree, delight in the Christmas music played by the acclaimed L Train Brass Band, and sing Christmas carols.  

Hosted by New York City Council Member Rafael Espinal, Broadway Stages is proud to once again be among the supporters of this fun, family-friendly holiday event. We are pleased as Santa's elves to have donated the tree with all the trimmings and to provide sweet gingerbread cookies for the community to snack on while we wait for the Christmas tree lighting!

We encourage you to come out for an evening of community fellowship and Christmas spirit.

Irving Square Park
Knickerbocker Ave., and Weirfield Streets
Brooklyn, NY 11207
December 8, 2018  from 4 – 6 p.m.
Public Transportation: L Train to Halsey Street For more information, please contact the NYC City Council district office at (718) 642-8664

Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York's premier television and film production company, manages over three million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 sound stages, unique locations, production services, and over seven acres of parking throughout three boroughs in New York City. As a responsible company with local roots, we actively support economic and social growth, education, community betterment, and environmental sustainability throughout Brooklyn and greater NYC. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live.

'Tis the Season - Children's Christmas Party December 8

Believe it or not, Christmas is just around the corner! That means Broadway Stages and the 94th Precinct Community Council are busy as Santa's elves gearing up for another fun-filled Children's Christmas party.  

This year's event will take place on Saturday, December 8 from noon to 3 p.m. at 25 Nassau Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Children age 10 and under are invited along with their families for a day of Christmas cheer. Enjoy snacks and fun activities such as arts and crafts and holiday-inspired games. Then make your way to have a chat with none other than Santa himself!

Please note that doors will close promptly at 2:30 p.m. in order to accommodate our guests and ensure they are able to enjoy the festivities, especially Santa. In addition, due to space restrictions there will be no seating.

We hope to see you there. Happy holidays and merry Christmas!

Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York's premiere television and film production company, manages over 1.5 million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 sound stages, unique locations, production services, and over seven acres of parking throughout three boroughs in New York City. As a responsible company with local roots, we actively generate economic growth and support social programs, education, community betterment, and environmental sustainability throughout Brooklyn and greater NYC. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live.

Boo! Spooktacular at the Staten Island Zoo

Hundreds of ghosts and goblins attended the 2018 Staten Island Spooktacular, Staten Island's largest Halloween themed event that took place on October 13 and 14 at Barrett Park's Staten Island Zoo in West Brighton. The two-day Halloween tradition was frighteningly fun as evidenced by the photos! Broadway Stages was thrilled to be a sponsor of the Spooktacular and thoroughly enjoyed the festivities along with its neighbors. 

Broadway Stages, New York's premier film and television production company, expanded to Staten Island in 2017. As a company with roots in NYC, we understand the needs of our neighbors and the importance of giving back. We are excited to be in Staten Island and helping to make a positive impact on the individual lives of our neighbors.
Read the full article by Derek Alvez in SI Live here.