Things to Do This Summer with NYC Audubon

Broadway Stages is proud to call NYC home, with film and TV production stages located in Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. As residents of these boroughs, we care about environmental sustainability in the region, including protecting wild birds and the areas in which they make their homes. New York City Audubon is a nonprofit that has worked to protect wild birds and habitat in the wetlands, forests, and grasslands across the City’s five boroughs for more than 40 years. Our own Gina Argento (Broadway Stages’ president and CEO) is proud to be part of NYC Audubon’s leadership team as a member of the board of directors. Read on for ways to get outside, learn about local birds, and have fun this summer with NYC Audubon. 

NYC Audubon offers over 200 public programs a year, including bird outings, lectures, overnight trips, volunteer opportunities, festivals, and a summer environmental center on Governors Island. Whether you are a veteran birder, new to bird watching, or just looking for a new way to enjoy the outdoors, NYC Audubon has something to offer you.

NYC Audubon’s seasonal nature center on Governors Island is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from May 5 to October 29, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visit to learn more about birds, make bird art, view exhibitions (including the Artist in Residence Showcase Exhibitions), and join the free Saturday afternoon guided bird outings. Find more information, including ferry information here.

Join the fun at festivals that NYC Audubon will be holding along with other environmental organizations! This weekend (Saturday, July 22), visit Broadway Stages’ native rooftop meadow in Greenpoint, Brooklyn for the 7th Annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival; and on Saturday, August 19 come out to Jamaica Bay for the 18th Annual Shorebird Festival. Both festivals are free. See website for more details and registration information.

Check out the schedule of upcoming Bird Outings and Classes. There, you will find event and registration information. Note, if not indicated as free, most outings are $28 for NYC Audubon members, $42 for non-members. Outings indicated as Members-Only are only available for registration to NYC Audubon contributing members.

The following events are coming up in the next two weeks; see website for these and more events in August and September, and you can bookmark the NYC Audubon event calendar found here:

●        Wildlife Outing at Madison Square Park With Alyssa Bueno (Free) Jul 20, 12 p.m.

●        Public Engagement Volunteer Orientation (Free) Jul 20, 6 p.m.

●        Intro To Birding in Marine Park With NYC Audubon (Free) Jul 22 and Jul 29, 9 a.m.

●        New York Botanical Garden Bird Tour With Haley Scott (Free) Jul 22, 11 a.m.

●        Governors Island Bird Tour (Free) Jul 22 and Jul 29, 2 p.m.

●        Vulture Tour at New York Botanical Garden (Free) Jul 29, 11 a.m.

●        Audubon Mural Project Tour With Leigh Hallingby Jul 30, 10 a.m.

In addition to the outings and classes mentioned above, NYC Audubon has virtual talks on various conservation, bird, and advocacy topics. Although the virtual Zoom series of lectures and talks takes place late fall through winter, you can get caught up this summer by watching previously recorded sessions on the NYC Audubon YouTube Channel.

How you can support the NYC Audubon

Consider supporting NYC Audubon by making a tax-deductible financial donation. Other ways to provide your support are by becoming a member or by volunteering. For more information about NYC Audubon, visit their website. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Staten Island Proud | Staten Island Economic Development Corporation

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series on Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood and rich culture. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation!

Broadway Stages has called Staten Island home since acquiring the former Arthur Kill correctional facility in 2017.  Investments made to this 69-acre campus have resulted in a state-of-the art film production facility, contributing to the economic development of the area.

When we joined the Staten Island business community, we also became members of the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC), which has served as an advocate for economic development on Staten Island since 1993. A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, SIEDC's mission is to enhance Staten Island's economy by promoting public and private investment, and encouraging responsible and sustainable development, all of which improve the quality of life and provide broad and diverse employment opportunities in the borough.

SIEDC’s efforts have yielded over $550 million in new investment, the creation of over 3,500 jobs, and the development of over 1,000 acres of vacant industrial land, accomplished by assisting developers and companies implementing projects and supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses with financing, procurement, and real estate assistance. Local businesses can receive free services such as financing assistance, job training, and technology assistance. SIEDC also offers free community events, such as the SIEDC Health & Wellness Expo and the SIEDC Annual Business Conference.

SIEDC’s key areas of economic development are Neighborhood Development, Industrial Business Zone, Brownfield Opportunity Area, Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Solar Initiatives, Offshore Wind, and Skyway Project. Check out their events schedule, which include the upcoming August 3 Annual Awards Gala.

SIEDC recognized Broadway Stages in 2019 as one of the top 31 growing companies in the borough. Broadway Stages president and CEO Gina Argento is proud to be on the SIEDC Board of Directors. By becoming a member, you can join nearly 200 businesses in supporting local economic development, and you can also get some great member benefits! For more information about SIEDC, click here.

Broadway Stages is on Social Media

Broadway Stages is here to keep you connected to the film and television industry, community news, and local organizations across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. Through our monthly newsletter and active presence on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, we offer captivating content and topical industry updates! We provide exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates on popular TV shows and movies, keeping you informed about the dynamic world of entertainment.

Be sure to check our Instagram account that provides stories about our history, our commitment to environmental sustainability, and local business spotlights. We also feature routine blog posts on our website that include information about the entertainment industry, the economy, arts and environmental news, and organizations we support across Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island. Be sure to follow us and stay connected with behind-the-scenes content, and news about our commitment to community and economic development! 

Spotlight | Staten Island Proud - Mark’s Bake Shoppe

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, we are set to enjoy a cheat day with the delicious baked goods at Mark’s Bake Shoppe in Richmondtown on Staten Island!

As Broadway Stages becomes more at home on Staten Island over the years, Mark’s Bake Shoppe in Richmondtown has quickly become one of our favorite indulgences. And we are not alone! The Staten Island Advance and SILive.com named them one of the Top five Bakeries on Staten Island. Also, the College of Staten Island awarded them the Best Dessert in their Savor the Flavors scholarship fundraiser. And the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation listed Mark’s Bake Shoppe as one of 20 under 40 successful businesses. Owner Mark Intoccia has even been featured on the Netflix program Sugar Rush!

It has always been Mark’s dream to own his own bakery. He took his first job in a bakery at age 15. Working side by side with the lead baker and owner, watching and learning, he developed his skill set and cultivated his craft. Soon, he was taking classes in Cake Design at The International Culinary Center in New York City.

Life’s path would eventually steer him toward a full-time job in Market Research Sales in NYC. But he never gave up doing what he truly loved. He worked there for eight years while simultaneously learning how to bake professionally.

Finally, after much thought and consideration, Mark and his wife Amanda decided to take a chance, sell their house, and pursue his passion. Richmondtown had been home to the couple (and most recently) their two small children for the past 10 years. As they looked around at the neighborhood and their neighbors, they knew this was the perfect location.

As fate would have it, Mark has roots in this line of work. “We found out his grandfather was a baker from Italy,” said Amanda, Mark’s wife and shop co-owner. “We felt like it was a sign that we were on the right path.”

But the true story of Mark’s Bake Shoppe is told in the cakes, cookies, doughnuts, cupcakes, etc. If you are like Broadway Stages, you enjoy a feast with your eyes. So, we suggest you follow the Shoppe on Instagram and YouTube. While you are at it, include Facebook for special deals and offers!

When you have let your eyes build up your appetite, give the Shoppe a call at (718) 668-2600, Order Online, or stop in Tuesday through Saturday, 7 am to 6 pm, and Sunday, 7 am to 3 pm. And don’t forget to tell them Broadway Stages sent you!

Staten Island Proud | Angelina’s Ristorante

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series on Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood and rich culture. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to Angelina’s Ristorante in Tottenville!

In Staten Island, savor the fine Italian food at Angelina’s Ristorante, located at 399 Ellis Street in Tottenville. Housed in a beautiful Victorian home with waterfront views, this family-owned restaurant not only serves classic Italian dishes but has an innovative menu, including appetizers, salad, pasta, fish, meat, and side dishes, as well as dessert and wine. In addition to a catering menu, Angelina’s offers special menus for various events, from brunch, business events, and cocktail parties, to weddings and showers. They also have a spectacular tent where they can host your special event. See their website for details and a picture gallery that displays the unique and welcoming atmosphere that is Angelina’s (Tel. 718.227.2900).

Also check out Angelina’s Kitchen, located at 280 Marsh Ave, Staten Island, which “offers a new casual dining experience that captures some of the original Angelina’s Ristorante favorites while drawing new inspiration from Sicily.”

Nominations | Emmy Awards and Hollywood Critics Association

While Hollywood writers and actors remain on strike, the awards calendar moves on. The Television Academy recently announced the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards nominations, and the Hollywood Critics Association (HCA) announced nominees for its third annual TV Awards. We are proud to report that several Broadway Stages productions earned nominations.

"Fire Island," a Hulu original film starring Joel Kim Booster and Bowen Yang, earned Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Television Movie and Outstanding Writing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. The gay romcom that included scenes filmed at our facilities also earned an HCA TV Awards nod for Best Streaming Movie.

Several of our productions earned nominations in the HCA TV Awards category Best Broadcast Network Drama Series, including NBC's recently rebooted "Law & Order" and the network's recently canceled "New Amsterdam."

"The Good Fight," which recently aired its final season on Paramount+, earned an HCA TV Awards nod for Alan Cumming in the category Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series. CBS's "FBI" earned a nomination for Jeremy Sisto in the category Best Supporting Actor in a Broadcast Network or Cable Drama Series.

Both awarding bodies favored cable and streaming networks over broadcast television. Netflix leads the HCA TV Awards with 56 nominations, while HBO led the cable networks with 53. Among broadcast networks, ABC leads the pack with 44 nominations, led by the hit comedy "Abbott Elementary." The two programs earning the most HCA TV Awards nominations are Showtime's "Yellowjackets" and Prime's "The Boys," with 14 each.

Due to the ongoing WGA and SAG/AFTRA strikes, the HCA TV Awards will no longer be presented on August 12 and 13, as previously scheduled. The HCA has not announced a new presentation date.

HBO dominated the 75th Emmy Awards nominations with three of its dramas leading the way. "Succession" earned 27 nominations for its final season; "The Last of Us," which aired its first season earlier this year, racked up 24; and the second season of "The White Lotus" netted 23 nods. Among comedies, Apple TV+'s "Ted Lasso" is the frontrunner, earning 21 nominations for its final season. The Emmy Awards are scheduled to take place Monday, September 18, but they are expected to be delayed due to the ongoing strikes. Stay tuned to Broadway Stages' blog for updates on the strike and our productions. We hope that a fair resolution comes soon so everyone can get back to work creating the films and television shows that we all love.

SI Proud | The Staten Island Ferry

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Join us as we explore the rich history of one of New York City’s last remaining ferry services. The Staten Island Ferry!

Long before the introduction of bridges, the Staten Island Ferry emerged as one of the first operating ferry systems in New York City. It traces its roots back to 1810 when a young entrepreneur named Cornelius Vanderbilt established a ferry service between Staten Island and Manhattan. Vanderbilt, later known as the "Commodore," navigated the waters of the New York Harbor, transporting passengers from Staten Island to the Battery in Manhattan. This marked the beginning of a transportation legacy that has endured for over two centuries. Today, the Staten Island Ferry remains an indispensable mode of transport, carrying nearly 22 million passengers annually. With approximately 70,000 passengers boarding daily, this ferry serves as the sole non-vehicular connection between Staten Island's St. George Terminal and Manhattan's Whitehall Street Terminal. Managed by the New York City Department of Transportation, the ferry system boasts a fleet of ten vessels, supported by various facilities, including terminals, maintenance centers, and the iconic Battery Maritime Building.

While the Staten Island Ferry primarily serves as a means of transportation, it offers a multitude of additional benefits. For one, the ferry provides passengers with a picturesque journey through the New York Harbor, offering panoramic views of renowned landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry thus serves as a no-cost vantage point, allowing locals and tourists alike to soak in the beauty of the city. Beyond its intrinsic beauty, the Staten Island Ferry plays a crucial role in bolstering the local economies of both Staten Island and Manhattan. The continuous flow of passengers creates opportunities for businesses, restaurants, and attractions in the vicinity of the ferry terminals. Visitors arriving at either end of the journey have the chance to explore the vibrant neighborhoods, savor local cuisines, and support local businesses. This symbiotic relationship between the ferry and the surrounding communities stimulates economic growth and enhances the overall vitality of the region.

Operating around the clock, the ferry schedule ensures frequent departures throughout the day, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors. Typically, the ferry runs every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour during off-peak times. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the stunning Manhattan skyline during the approximately 25-minute journey. The Staten Island Ferry stands as an enduring testament to the rich history and vibrant spirit of New York City. As it shuttles millions of passengers annually, this iconic transportation system serves as a catalyst for local economies, enriching communities on both ends of its journey. So, the next time you find yourself in the Big Apple, hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry and embark on a memorable voyage that combines history, scenic beauty, and the rhythm of a city that never sleeps.

Broadway Stages Gives Back | Environmental Sustainability

Broadway Stages has a long history of supporting initiatives that benefit the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the community. As early adopters of the green roof movement, we have partnered with organizations that have helped to realize the value of green roof infrastructure and the benefits it brings to our operations, environment and our community.

Broadway Stages is dedicated to build a strong and sustainable television and film culture in New York; one that brings mutual value to our clients, our operations, the community, and our environment. Our commitment to environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of our business philosophy that helps make us a studio-production and community partner-of-choice. From remediating brownfield sites and repurposing them for economically beneficial soundstages, to the installation of 50,000 square feet of solar panels, and over 55,000 square feet of garden rooftops, we support green initiatives that help improve the air, make our buildings more temperate, reduce stormwater runoff and broaden environmental education.

Through green infrastructure and renewable energy projects including Kingsland Wildflowers at Broadway Stages, Eagle Street Rooftop Farm, Broadway Stages Green Corridor, and our solar panel rooftops that offset about one third of our annual electricity consumption, we are able to utilize our soundstages in a way that benefits our operations, environment and community.  This also includes the arts, under the direction of  Sol Kjøk, Broadway Stages’ Artist-in-Residence and a key partner in our commitment to promoting the arts, nature and artists across NYC and beyond. 

We encourage you to read more about our commitment to environmental sustainability and ask that you join us in thanking our partners for their continued support.  Our sincere appreciation to our friends at Newtown Creek Alliance who steward the educational programing at Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof and Community Engagement Center, Alive Structures who designed and maintain our green roof corridor including Kingsland Wildflowers, Growing Chefs who manage, plant and harvest produce and herbs at Eagle Street Rooftop Farm, and NOoSPHERE Arts who curate performances (many produced on our rooftop at Kingsland Wildflowers) that are influenced by nature.  We are inspired by your dedication and grateful for your continued support. 

Staten Island Proud | All Shore Industries

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we take a look at All Shore Industries and their long and storied history!

In the ever-evolving world of electronics, companies that adapt and innovate are the ones that thrive. All Shore Industries (ASI) on Staten Island is a prime example of such a company. With a rich history spanning nearly five decades, ASI has established itself as a leader in electronics design and manufacturing, particularly in the fields of LCD, TFT, and OLED displays, as well as power supplies. ASI traces its origins back to 1974 when it was initially known as Cynex Manufacturing, a domestic contract manufacturing company in Hillside, NJ. Specializing in telecom products, power supplies, and motor controllers, Cynex Manufacturing quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality and reliability.

In 1981, the company underwent significant changes, including an IPO and a renaming to Planum Technology. These transformations set the stage for further growth and expansion. In 1988, All Shore Industries acquired Planum Technology, incorporating it as a privately held company with a new focus on offshore contract manufacturing. The early 1990s marked a period of remarkable growth for All Shore Industries. Expanding its portfolio, ASI began offering AC Adaptors and LCD glass panels and modules. Soon after, they incorporated TFT modules, OLED displays, and touch panels, both capacitive (CTP) and resistive (RTP). Today, All Shore Industries stands at the front of various electronics design and manufacturing domains. Their team boasts expertise in LCD, TFT, and OLED development, working closely with OEMs to supplement their engineering capabilities or bring completed designs to life. With a strong emphasis on flexibility, experience, and competitive pricing, ASI consistently delivers the highest quality products.

All Shore Industries takes great pride in its role as a catalyst for economic growth in surrounding communities. As a global electronics manufacturing company, the company contributes significantly to the local economy, providing employment opportunities and supporting the growth of related industries. Their presence on Staten Island serves as a testament to their commitment to the region and its prosperity. At All Shore Industries, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships is a key objective. They prioritize understanding and meeting their customers' requirements, going above and beyond to ensure the power supplies and electronics they provide exceed expectations. Private labeling options further strengthen the relationship between ASI and its customers, allowing for branding customization.

All Shore Industries has come a long way since its inception as Cynex Manufacturing in 1974. Through strategic acquisitions, expansion, and continuous innovation, ASI has positioned itself as a global leader in electronics design and manufacturing. Their expertise in LCD, TFT, and OLED displays, along with their extensive range of power supplies, has garnered them a stellar reputation in the industry. As All Shore Industries continues to evolve and thrive, it remains a pillar of economic growth and community support in the Staten Island area and beyond.

You’re Invited | 7th Annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival

Broadway Stages is proud to give back to the people and the environment where we operate! One way we do this is by working with experts and community leaders to develop innovative solutions for sustainable construction and rooftop design.

Our dedication has come to fruition with more than 100,000 square feet of green rooftop infrastructure that resides upon our facilities across Greenpoint, including 50,000 square feet of solar panels and more than 50,000 square feet of green rooftop gardens.

For the last several years we have worked with our partners – Newtown Creek Alliance, Alive Structures, and NOoSPHERE Arts – to celebrate the value of our green infrastructure with an annual festival held at  Kingsland Wildflowers at 520 Kingsland Avenue in Greenpoint. The Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof and Community Engagement Center is home to an abundance of native plants and insects that nurture biodiversity and education, all of which aligns with our core business values that are summed up in two words…GIVING BACK!

We invite you to join us at the 7th annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival that will be held on July 22, 2023, from 4 to 8 pm.  Explore the 24,000 square-foot green roof, experience immersive music and dance performances from local artists, and engage with community organizations that are tabling and hosting a variety of family-friendly, all-age activities throughout the space. Best of all, there is no cost for entry!

The Festival offers the opportunity for our neighbors to learn about local environmental initiatives while exploring green infrastructure dedicated to native plants and birds. Also featured at the event is the second installment of NOoSPHERE Arts’ WE ARE NATURE performance series. Prepare to be inspired by music and dance, and an address from the esteemed author, educator, and scientist Fritjof Capra.

Also featured will be the site-specific art installation Westerlies. Westerlies is the creation of the 2023 Broadway Stages’ Arts Residency Award @ Kingsland Wildflowers recipients Ezra Campelli and Jeremy Clemente. The award funds yearly unique site-specific installations built for the green rooftops. This opportunity provides artists with a platform to engage with the community, contribute to the local artistic landscape, and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.

With this and so much more to be announced, you will want to follow Kingsland Wildflowers on Instagram and Facebook to keep informed as July 22nd approaches.  Save the date and we hope to see you top our green rooftop garden at the 7th Annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival! 

Staten Island Proud | Greenbelt Conservancy

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series on Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood and rich culture. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to the Greenbelt Conservancy!

Broadway Stages is committed to supporting environmental sustainability in the areas in which our production facilities are located, including on Staten Island, home to our Arthur Kill (former correctional facility) campus. In this Staten Island Proud post, we are excited to highlight an organization that shares our commitment to taking care of the local environment – the Greenbelt Conservancy. This 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization was established in 1989 and partners with NYC Parks to sustain the 2,800-acre Staten Island Greenbelt. The organization’s mission is “to promote, sustain and enhance [the Greenbelt] through education, recreation, conservation and research.” The Greenbelt features numerous parks and recreation areas and provides the perfect place to get away from the stress of everyday life.  Experience the peace and quiet of nature in forests, wetlands, and meadows, enjoying over 35-miles of hiking trails, and getting an opportunity to spot local wildlife.

The Greenbelt comprises NYC natural areas and parks, including LaTourette, Willowbrook, and High Rock, as well as privately-owned land (Pouch Boy Scout Camp, Richmond Country Club golf course, and Moravian Cemetery), and other property (Seaview Hospital and Home). The William T. Davis Wildlife Refuge is also in the Greenbelt (read about how this park provides a haven for local wildlife in our blog).

Additionally, the Greenbelt features nature and recreation centers and activities such as fitness classes, golf, archery, and other sports. Parents, check out the summer camps running weekly from July 10 through August 11 for children ages 8-11 here. And see the July Events Calendar for more activities here. 

How you can support the Conservancy

Consider supporting the Conservancy by making a financial donation. Other ways to provide your support are by becoming a member and enjoying benefits such as free educational programs and special invitations to events, and more; find additional ways to give on the Conservancy website. If you would like to volunteer your time, check out the opportunities for individuals and groups to help with activities such as trail maintenance and stewardship and special events.

For more information about the Greenbelt Conservancy and the Greenbelt, including history and educational programs, see their website.

Inside Broadway Stages | What's Filming

Despite the ongoing writer's strike, we are excited to highlight projects filmed at Broadway Stages facilities prior to the strike that will come to a screen near you in what we hope will be the near future. Here are a few updates, and sadly a few condolences related to some of the shows and films that call Broadway Stages home.

"No Hard Feelings" Cleans Up at the Box Office

Jennifer Lawrence's raunchy new comedy "No Hard Feelings" topped the box office on its opening night, June 23, with earnings of $6,352,471. The R-rated film, which includes scenes filmed at our facilities, finished fourth for the weekend, totaling just over $15 million. "No Hard Feelings" has also received positive reviews from critics and filmgoers alike.

In the film, Lawrence plays Maddie, an Uber driver desperate for a paycheck who responds to a Craigslist ad posted by a concerned mother (Laura Benanti) who wants her reserved teenage son (Andrew Barth Feldman) to have a romantic relationship before he leaves for college. Matthew Broderick, Hasan Minhaj, Natalie Morales, Scott MacArthur, Kyle Mooney, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach round out the cast.

Director and co-writer Gene Stupnitsky is best known for his work on other R-rated comedies, including 2019's "Good Boys" and 2011's "Bad Teacher." He also spent several seasons as a writer and director on NBC's "The Office."

Lawrence recently appeared on "Good Morning America" to discuss the film, which she also produced. She and Feldman sat down with "People" magazine as well, sharing fun tales from the set. Congratulations to the cast and crew on their great success!

"Billions" Announces Return Date for Final Season

On August 11, the first episode of the final season of "Billions" will drop on Paramount+ with Showtime. It will then air on Showtime at 8 p.m. ET on August 13. The seventh and final season comprises 12 episodes and will bring back star Damian Lewis as the shrewd and callous billionaire hedge fund manager Bobby "Axe" Axelrod. At the end of the fifth season, Axe went on the run, leaving the sixth season to center on ruthless billionaire Mike Prince (Corey Stoll) and former Attorney General of New York Chuck Rhoades (Paul Giamatti).

There will be several new faces when the show returns, including Babak Tafti who will join in a recurring guest role as the powerful political consultant Bradford Luke. Tafti recently co-starred in Showtime's "Super Pumped," an anthology series from the creators of "Billions," Brian Koppelman and David Levien. Koppelman and Levien also have big plans to develop as many as four "Billions" spin-offs with the working titles "Billions: Miami," "Billions: London," "Millions," and "Trillions."

Broadway Stages facilities have been home to "Billions" for its entire run, and we are so proud of the cast and crew for all their success. We look forward to seeing what everyone does next!

Condolences to the Cast and Crew of "Godfather of Harlem" as Co-Creator Dies

Paul Eckstein, co-creator of the MGM+ drama "Godfather of Harlem," passed away on June 6 at the age of 59. According to a statement released by MGM+ and ABC Signature, Eckstein died peacefully in his sleep in Jamaica, where he was teaching a screenwriting workshop.

Earlier this year, the third season of "Godfather of Harlem" returned to MGM+ (formerly called EPIX) after a year-and-a-half long hiatus. The series follows legendary crime boss Bumpy Johnson (Forest Whitaker), who spent 11 years at Alcatraz then returned home in the early 1960s to find the neighborhood he once ruled controlled by the Italian mob.

Eckstein also co-produced the Netflix drama "Narcos" and the 1997 film "Hoodlum," which focused on the exploits of Bumpy Johnson in the 1930s. A prolific screenwriter, he wrote several episodes of "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" and was attached to an upcoming small screen adaptation of "August Snow," based on the series of novels by Stephen Mack Jones.

"Godfather of Harlem" has filmed all three seasons at our facilities, and our deepest sympathies go out to the cast and crew.

"Blue Bloods" Cast Members Pay Respects to Late Co-Star Treat Williams

Actor Treat Williams died tragically in a motorcycle accident at the age of 71 on June 12. Williams played the recurring role of Detective Lenny Ross, Frank Reagan's (Tom Selleck) partner in the NYPD, on six episodes of "Blue Bloods" between 2016 and 2023. He often shared photos from the set of the show on social media when he made appearances.

Cast members paid their respects in the media. Tom Selleck and Bridget Moynahan both released statements for in remembrance of their late friend and co-star. Vanessa Ray shared a kind story about Williams on Instagram. Our heartfelt condolences to the cast and crew.

Check back soon for more news on productions filmed Inside Broadway Stages!