Local USA 829 Scenic Apprentice Program at Broadway Stages' Staten Island Campus

Standing from left to right Apprenticeship Administrator Kelsey Harro, (with baby Emerson Harro), Shane Ingersoll, Sarah Rigney, Deputy Borough President Ed Burke, Hanna Wellish, USA 829 President Beverly Miller, Sol Metcalfe-McDonald, Broadway Stages’ President Gina Argento, Jared Flynn, Instructor Jacquelyn Marolt, and Athena Parella. Sitting from left to right Rosalind McKelvey-Bunting, Martin Petrov, and Murphey Wilkins.

Founded in 1897, the United Scenic Artists, Local USA 829, an affiliate of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), is a labor union and professional association made up of over 4,000 members including designers, artists, craftspeople, and department coordinators. Organized to protect craft standards, working conditions, wages, and benefits for the entertainment and decorative arts industries, the members of Local USA 829 work in film, theatre, opera, ballet, television, industrial shows, commercials, and exhibitions.

In addition to negotiating agreements with major industry organizations, the Local offers its members a variety of courses, online training, and a three-year scenic artist apprenticeship program that is financed through a trust fund. As of September 2018, the program is being held in Staten Island at a facility donated by Broadway Stages and located at their new campus on Arthur Kill Road. The facility features a modern kitchen/lecture room, a separate tool room, and a large studio space with a brand-new paint deck. Surrounded by production studios, shops, and filming locations, the apprentices feel right at home.

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.

Congratulations Tony Award Nominees

Congratulations to all of the Tony Award nominees. On stage or behind the curtain, Broadway Stages thanks all who make the arts prosper!  

For a full list of nominees, click here.  Don't miss the Tony Award ceremony on June 9 at Radio City Music Hall.

Brooklyn's Premier Design Event Comes to the Navy Yard - Brooklyn Designs

Mark your calendar for May 10-12. The Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce will host the 16th annual Brooklyn Designs Expo at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Founded in 2003 by the Brooklyn Chamber, the Brooklyn Designs Expo is Brooklyn's premier design event showcasing a cross section of design, architecture, and art. This event spotlights the creative economy in Brooklyn and serves as an incubator for emerging designers as well as a platform for established brands producing a range of creative products across furniture, lighting, tableware, art, textiles, and jewelry.

As a longtime supporter of the arts community, Broadway Stages is thrilled to be among the sponsors and encourages you to attend this exciting event; explore interactive exhibits and marvels presented by leading figures in the design world.

For more information about the Brooklyn Designs Expo, check out their website. Tickets are on sale now so don't delay!

WHAT:  16th Annual Brooklyn Designs Expo

WHEN: May 10-12, 2019

WHERE:  Brooklyn Navy Yard, 141 Flushing Avenue, Queens - Building 77

Staten Island Children's Museum Carnival & Science Spectacular!

Broadway Stages is thrilled to be among the sponsors of this year's Carnival and Science Spectacular, a fundraiser that benefits the Staten Island Children's Museum. You won't want to miss the fun! This old-fashioned festival includes many fan favorites including carnival games and rides, bounce house, obstacle course, music, rock wall, science demonstrations, robots, solar cars, lasers, raffles, food, entry to the museum, and so much more!

Staten Island Children's Museum
Carnival & Science Spectacular

1000 Richmond Terrace
Staten Island, NY 10301
Saturday June 1 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at
www.sichildrensmuseum.org/carnival-and-science-spectacular or at the museum.

Discount tickets are available for $13 until May 30
Special early bird pricing is available to members for $10 until April 26  
Tickets at the gate are $16

The Staten Island Children's Museum was founded in 1974. Since that time they have worked to nurture the creativity and curiosity natural to all children. Their programming emphasizes direct and authentic hands-on experiences conducted in a welcoming and pleasing environment. The museum encourages participation by visitors of all abilities and endeavors to reach beyond its walls to serve as an educational resource for the members of our diverse community, especially families and schools. To learn more about the Staten Island Children's Museum, click here.

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.

Broadway Stages Encourages Students to SING!

Broadway Stages is proud to support SING!, an annual student musical production that showcases collective student talent. With attendance that easily fills the auditoriums of dozens of schools, SING! is one of the most popular events in participating high schools.

The production is fully run by students, from creative script writing to unique dance choreography and song selection. SING! challenges students to work in harmony for a greater cause. Most importantly, it is a great a way for students to build long-lasting friendships and learn teamwork skills through sharing the desire to create the best performance.

Created to spark student school spirit, SING! has accomplished itself beyond that capacity, with parents and school faculty rallying behind the event with just as much excitement. In fact over 5,480 parents, staff, and grads attend the annual SING! across 23 high schools to show their support and enthusiasm for the semester rehearsal and practice. The event is also a great opportunity for students to tie up the school year by showcasing their artistic talents to their parents and teachers.

As one of New York's largest full-service film and production companies, Broadway Stages seeks to help and support student education in musical productions that develop strong friendships and explore individual creative expressions. Staying true to our commitment to education, Broadway Stages has financially supported this year's SING! by covering over a thirdd of SING's expenses. Happily assisting in sponsoring production supplies and production consultants from ArtsConnection, Broadway Stages understands that productions require ample financial resources to properly operate. Broadway Stages is proud to support 23 school's student-run musical productions this year, so each student can showcase his or her individual and collective talents.

Astoria Performing Arts Center and Broadway Stages Bring Theater to Astoria

Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) is a community-based theater organization with the founding mission to be the center of dramatic and musical enrichment for Astoria residents. With shows that range from cultural performances to classical revivals, APAC reflects the diverse cultures and people of Astoria through its various theatrical showcases. The organization has won more than 40 New York Innovative Theatre Award nominations and an Off-Off Broadway Review Award.

Recognizing the immense popularity of theater in Astoria, Broadway Stages President Gina Argento has teamed up with APAC to help deliver incredible performances to local audiences at no charge. Gina's financial contributions are also used to help organize annual summer camps provided by APAC to educate students in playwriting.

By sponsoring APAC events, Gina hopes to increase community interest in theater and provide New Yorkers with the opportunity to attend world-class theatrical performances without any financial barriers. Her financial support for APAC helps support actors and actresses, maintenance, and general operations costs, which allows community members to attend for free.

Broadway Stages Congratulates NYWIFT and Designing Women Honorees 2017 With Amy Schumer, David Costabile, Rosario Dawson, and Variety Magazine!

Broadway Stages would love to give a big shoutout to the lovely presenters Rosario Dawson, Krysten Ritter, David Costabile, Carmen Ejogo, and Amy Schumer and a big round of applause to New York Women in Film & Television (NYWIFT) Designing Women honorees Sarit Klein, Pamela May, Stephanie Maslansky, and the rest of the Jessica Jones team for their exceptional work! Congratulations on a well-deserved award and long overdue recognition for your individual commitments and sacrifices to make Jessica Jones happen. Broadway Stages is thankful for your continued dedication and your revolutionary contributions to the TV and film industry.

The night was truly a one-of-a-kind experience as celebrities came together to celebrate the achievements of outstanding women in the film and television industry. The event recognizes the many hours of hard work that go into designing the minute details of an on-screen character's hair, makeup, and clothes. The artists behind these details often create the personality of characters as much as the actors and actresses playing them. Actress Krysten Ritter, who plays Jessica Jones, agrees that the tremendous efforts by Designing Women honorees truly breathe life into the characters on the big screen.

After the ceremony, NYWIFT members shared their incredible energy with attendees, discussing the amazing work of the Jessica Jones team and the impressive teamwork that goes into a production like Jessica Jones. To top off the night, the Jessica Jones team shared funny and embarrassing behind-the-scenes stories that led to laughter for the whole crowd in attendance.

Once again, Broadway Stages would like to thank NYWIFT for sharing this incredible night with us, and we hope to be back again soon!

View fullsize

Broadway Stages General Counsel Anthony K.C. Fong Esq. with Rosario Dawson, Recipient of the varIEty emsemble award

View fullsize

NYWIFT Executive Director Terry Lawler with Rosario Dawson

View fullsize

Broadway Stages Guest and Friend Bronx Supreme court hon. marc whiten and actor david costabile

View fullsize

Amy Schumer at the NYWIFT Designing WomEn Ceremony

Broadway Stages President Gina Argento Sponsors Forte New York Chamber Music Series

Broadway Stages President Gina Argento is sponsoring the Master Series concert presented by Forte New York Chamber Music Series (FNCMS) with renowned violinist Ian Swensen and Artistic Director Vicky HyunJin Lee. The project, created by Fractured Atlas, hopes to inspire a generation of world-class musicians and introduce communities across the New York City metropolitan area to classical music.

Producing 10 concerts each season at New York Presbyterian Church, FNCMS offers New York's most talented young musicians the rare opportunity to showcase their musical genius atop a world stage in front of a live audience. FNCMS's mission is to continuously improve instrumental techniques and orchestral harmony by focusing on some of the world's youngest orchestral protégées.

Created as a community-based organization, FNCMS seeks to expose a wide range of audiences to the beauty of classical notes by providing free admission and parking to all seeking an evening of classical indulgence.

Believing in the importance of musical expression and providing the opportunity for young talents to creatively study their passions, Gina seeks to improve musical apprenticeship and encourage young musicians to pursue their dreams. Gina hopes her contributions will allow more young musicians the opportunity to showcase their passion in front of a live audience.

Join Gina and Broadway Stages in donating so that young, exceptional musical geniuses will have the opportunity to bring brilliant performances to you and the New York City community. Remember to stop by and enjoy a show if you haven't already. It's free!

Don't Miss the New Season of Master of None, Filmed at Broadway Stages

Starring popular comedian Aziz Ansari, Master of None's second season is set to premiere at midnight on May 12. The second installment continues to follow the journey of aspiring actor Dev (Ansari) with his three friends Arnold Bauhesier (Eric Wareheim), Brian Cheng (Kelvin Yu), and Denise (Lena Waithe) while pursuing his love interest Rachel (Noel Wells).

The Netflix original series, filmed at Broadway Stages, has scored positive reviews from NY Post writer Andrea Morabito, who commented, "Master of None… perfected its recipe for success: it will make you laugh, think, and crave a plate of pasta." Rob Sheffield of Rolling Stone calls it "one of the year's most bold and moving TV moments, with Ansari pitching in as a support player." And Broadway Stages Gina Argento assures "it’s going to be amazing!"

Be sure to tune in at midnight for the second installment of the Emmy-winning Master of None.

Broadway Stages Founder Tony Argento Excited for the Ziemia Greenpoint Project

Broadway Stages founder Tony Argento calls for Brooklynites to unite and participate in Ziemia, a cultural collaboration among Greenpoint residents. Tony believes the distinct cultural atmosphere of residents in North Brooklyn contributes to its exciting environment.

Ziemia will tell a cultural story distinct to the Greeenpoint identity through a public art installation by local conceptual artist Martynka Wawrzyniak. Centered around the theme that "our stories are written in soil," Ziemia appropriately embodies Greenpoint community's heritage and culture by symbolically representing our universal connection through soil.

Asking Brooklynites to contribute soil in destinations that express their personal moments, the project seeks to mold together the intimacy of personal experiences symbolized through soil into a single ceramic sphere. The sphere will serve as a community portrait reflecting Greenpoint residents. The deadline to submit soil samples is June 21, 2017, so send yours today!

As a longtime Greenpoint community promoter and benefactor, Broadway Stages founder Tony Argento has made a commitment to sponsor the project to advance community adhesion. Tony sees the cultural exchange and community involvement of the Ziemia project to benefit the community. Join Tony and Broadway Stages to create a more intimate environment to encourage cultural exchange and bring together the diverse community in Greenpoint.

To learn more about the Ziemia Project please click here.