Broadway Stages Hosts North Brooklyn Angels’ Inaugural Fundraising Luncheon

Broadway Stages is hosting the North Brooklyn Angels’ first annual ‘Neighbors Helping Neighbors’ luncheon on March 27. The North Brooklyn Angels are hoping to raise enough funds to prepare and serve 50,000 meals over a period of a year, to those in need right here in Brooklyn.     

Did you know that Brooklyn has the highest rate of food insecurity in NYC at 20% of its population?  And that housing cost is the primary cause of food sacrifice? When you also consider the negative impacts of housing instability and poverty on many of our neighbors in Brooklyn, you soon understand the need for the North Brooklyn Angels.   

Not only will this inaugural luncheon raise funds to feed those in need, but also serve to recognize three ‘Neighbors of the Year’ who have generously worked toward community betterment, namely, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams; Brooklyn Chamber Chair, SVP and Marketing Executive for Investors Bank, Ana Oliveira; and Josh Cohen, North Brooklyn Restaurateur, who is responsible for helping to prepare 1,000 meals a week for our neighbors in need.  

Broadway Stages encourages you to join us in supporting the North Brooklyn Angels, either through financial or volunteer support, and personally invite you to attend the Neighbors Helping Neighbors luncheon.   
For more information about the North Brooklyn Angels and how you can help click here. 

Wednesday, March 27, 2019
216 Driggs Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: Aleksandra @ 347-752-2016 
Luncheon Sponsored by

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,” said Gina. “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" was 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,” said Gina. 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. 

Broadway Stages Receives $1.5 Million Grant for 1.4 Acre Green Roof

New York State AssemblyMan, joe lentol

city councilman, rafael espinal

Assemblyman Joe Lentol announced that Broadway Stages was awarded a $1.5 million grant by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation’s Green Innovation Grant Program for the installation of  a 1.4-acre green roof.  The project will be designed, installed and managed by Alive Structures atop three of Broadway Stages’ film production studios in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.  The 60,000 square feet of green rooftops will be called Broadway Stages Green Corridor and will help to advance ecosystem services that are critical to habitat and community.  

kingsland wildflower rooftop

The announcement was made at the Kingsland Wildflowers green roof garden, a successful project that Alive Structures, along with New York City Audubon and the Newtown Creek Alliance helped to create and transform upon one of Broadway Stages’ production studioslocated on Kingsland Avenue in Greenpoint.  Attendees at the event included Marni Majorelle, Principal, Alive Structures; Kathryn Heintz, Executive Director, New York City Audubon; New York City Councilman Rafael Espinal; Sol Kjøk resident artist and Founder of NOoSPHERE Arts; Willis Elkins, Executive Director, Newtown Creek Alliance; and Paul Samulski, President, North Brooklyn Chamber.

kingsland wildflowerS rooftop SPHERE

kingsland wildfloweRS rooftop

kingsland wildflowerS rooftop

“Broadway Stages is thrilled to have been chosen in cooperation with Alive Structures for this prestigious grant,” said Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages.  “Our commitment to community and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of our business philosophy. Through green infrastructure and renewable energy projects such as Kingsland Wildflowers at Broadway Stages, Eagle Street Rooftop Farm, and our solar rooftop that spans 50,000 square feet, we are able to utilize our soundstages in a way that brings mutual value to our operations, our environment and our community.  We are excited to embark on this green roof garden project and continuing to do our part to contribute to the health of our environment.”

For additional information about the announcement view media reports at Greenpointers.com by Aaron Simon, Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Patch.com by Anna Quinn, Brooklyn Paper by Julianne McShane and Brooklyn News 12. 

Welcome 2019 - 35 Years and Counting!

Where do we begin?  2018 was an exciting ride and we are taking that momentum into the New Year.  

In 2018 Broadway Stages celebrated its 35th anniversary and we couldn’t be prouder. We have evolved from a small music video production company with one soundstage in Astoria, Queens to one of the largest-growing film and television production companies in New York. We are grateful to our staff, our clients, vendors, suppliers and community organizations that we work with and support – all play a key role in our positive, forward momentum.    

We are thankful to the State of New York for its television and film production tax credit program that has played a critical part in drawing production and media companies to the state and securing continued economic growth. This program has enabled us to help meet the growing demands of our industry and put money back into our local and state economy. 

As a company with local roots we understand the needs of our community and the importance of giving back. Through financial, in-kind and volunteer resources we have actively demonstrated our commitment to being a responsible and caring neighbor. And we take that commitment to the areas where we are expanding, like Staten Island and East New York.  

Our approach to business is based on the recognition that it is our responsibility to not only generate economic growth, but also help address the social, educational and environmental needs of our community. Our commitment to environmental sustainability has enabled us to bring value to our business – one third of our annual electricity consumption is offset by 50,000 square feet of solar panels – and our community – green rooftop wildflowers and farm projects have helped to improve the air and reduce stormwater runoff.  

We feel that this approach results in a win for us, our vendors and suppliers, our neighbors, our clients, our state and our industry.  We are excited to see what 2019 will bring, and how we can continue to bring value to our community.

From all of us at Broadway Stages, we wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous  New Year.  

Broadway Stages Supports Futures in Education Angel Scholarship Program

As advocates for education, Broadway Stages seeks to support organizations and programs that promote student achievement, offer the opportunity for students to expand their knowledge and provide equal access to education.   One of many programs that we support is the Futures in Education Angel Scholarship Program. This year we had the opportunity to sponsor four children who will have their tuition subsidized by Broadway Stages. Without the help from donors many of our less fortunate children in Brooklyn and Queens would be denied the value of a Catholic education. Any family with a child or children grades K-8 registered in a Catholic Elementary school or academy in Brooklyn or Queens that can demonstrate financial need of tuition assistance may apply.

Being an Angel gives you a chance to become involved in a student’s life in a positive, impactful way and you can directly witness the positive influence of your donation. Broadway Stages encourages you to consider a donation to Futures in Education, together we can change lives through the gift of education. Watch the Angel Program video here, we guarantee it will touch your heart.  

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 soundstages, 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.

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 soundstages, 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. 

2018 YMCA Spirit of Community Service Award Honors Broadway Stages and Other Community Heroes

On Wednesday, December 5, the Greenpoint YMCA hosted its 3rd annual Spirit of Community Service Awards Dinner, “a celebration of lives impacted by the Y and the heroes who make it happen along the way.” The event took place at Giando on the Water (400 Kent Avenue).  

Among the honorees was Broadway Stages, who have supported the Y for more than 10 years.  With a focus on environmental education programs such as SYSTEM (Summer Youth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), and after-school and summer camp STEM programs, Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages, is also an active YMCA board member.  

The Spirit of Community Service Award honorees are recognized for their contributions toward healthy living and youth development in the North Brooklyn community.   Other honorees recognized at the event include , Assemblyman Joseph Lentol, Martha Holstein, and Donald Minerva.

The funds raised at the gala event go toward helping North Brooklyn children and their families with after-school activities that include swimming, early childhood and summer camp scholarships.

Learn more about the Greenpoint YMCA and please consider volunteering or providing financial support.      

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Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York’s Premier Television and Film Production Company, manages over 3 million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 soundstages, 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

Stay Warm This Winter – Coat Giveaway Dec. 18

Broadway Stages, in cooperation with the 79th Precinct, is hosting a coat giveaway on Tuesday, December 18 beginning at 2:00 pm. Coats will be distributed to children and adults in need, without charge, discrimination or obligation. 

Each Fall, just before we feel the first nip in the New York air, Broadway Stages begins to collect coats for children and adults in need. Collection boxes are placed at our facilities across New York City where many of our local vendors, businesses, contractors, employees and neighbors graciously donate coats. Broadway Stages also purchases several dozen coats each year to kick off the spirit of giving and augment the coat drive. This year the 79th Precinct has graciously opened their doors as the distribution location. We thank them for their cooperation, their time and effort, and support of our shared and beloved community.  

Stay warm this holiday season and throughout the winter. If you, or someone you know needs a coat to get through the winter, please stop by the 79th Precinct at 263 Tompkins Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11216 on December 18. For more information about the distribution, or to make a donation please contact monica@broadway-stages.com

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 soundstages, 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 pm. 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 pm
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 soundstages, 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 12 noon to 3 pm at 25 Nassau Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Children age 10 and under are invited along with their family 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 pm 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 soundstages, 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. 

Support Camp Brooklyn – 2018 Gala & Auction

The Camp Brooklyn Fund 2018 Gala and Auction will be held on Thursday, November 15 at Giando on the Water. This fun filled event will include dinner, open bar, dancing, and fabulous auction prizes.  Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages and a member of the board of Camp Brooklyn, personally invites you to support this valuable cause and join the festivities from 7 – 11 pm. Gala tickets can be purchased here.  

Proceeds from this event support Camp Brooklyn, a non-profit organization founded in 2002.  Since its inception Camp Brooklyn has sent more than 3,500 Brooklyn children to summer camp. The children served live at or below the poverty level, which effects one in three of our children living in Brooklyn. With your support these children can experience sleep-away camp that can transform lives, families and our community. Just $750 will send one child to camp for two weeks. Please support our mission by making a donation, or join us at the gala and purchase your gala tickets here https://www.campbrooklyn.org/donate.

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 soundstages, 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.