Industry Jobs | Sound Designer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they can shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we answer the question: “What’s a Sound Designer?”

What is a Sound Designer?

In previous posts, we looked at the roles the Gaffer and Grip play in managing the critical areas of lighting and infrastructure on film and TV production sets. In this installment, we look at another key part of a production — sound.

The nuances of sound combine with visual elements to set a production’s mood and can trigger myriad emotions in an audience. The professional that ensures everything blends together exactly right — from background noises, voices, music, and more — is the Sound Designer. According to Master Class, the Sound Designer works closely with the Director, and others, such as the music supervisor, audio and sound editors, sound effects and technical sound designers, and more. A Sound Designer can be involved during pre-production, however, StudioBinder points out that most of the work done by this role takes place post-production. Check out their blog post to read about examples of how sound was finessed on various productions with sound effects and more.

How do I become a Sound Designer?

According to Master Class, being a Sound Designer doesn’t require a specific formal education, however, a background in areas such as music, film, and audio engineering, to name a few, are key. Additionally, a knowledge of many musical genres, plus technical skills (sound recording programs and audio equipment), good communication, and last, but not least, creativity, will serve you well in this role. 

Careers in Film offers additional tips for becoming a Sound Designer, such as taking freelance jobs and doing internships, both of which can help build a network and a good reputation as you work your way along this career path. 

For more information about how sound can be effectively used in a production, read this piece from The New York Film Academy.

Industry Jobs | Key Grip

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. In this series, we look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we answer the question: “What’s a Key Grip?”

---

In our first installment, we highlighted the role of the Gaffer, who heads the lighting department. A production’s lighting requires extensive set-up of equipment and rigging, and this falls under the purview of the grip department.

What is a Grip?

According to Mental Floss, the term was adapted from the American theater where it was used for a stagehand who helps shift scenery. But as usual, it’s all in the details and this crew, led by the Key Grip, has a lot of responsibility. 

Job Description.

The Key Grip is the chief supervisor of the grip crew responsible for setting up camera equipment and rigs, operating camera dollies and cranes, setting up lighting rigs and operating other non-electrical lighting equipment.

The Key Grip is involved in the earliest stages of production planning to ensure the lighting and cameras are ready to meet the unique needs of each production. The Key Grip works closely with the Gaffer and the Cinematographer or Director of Photography (DP) to ensure proper set-up for the lighting and camera equipment. The Key Grip also collaborates with the camera operators to determine the necessary grip equipment needed.

Getting a grip on things.

While the Key Grip, assisted by the Best Boy Grip, has numerous responsibilities, their first and foremost is safety on the set. According to Careers in Film, the Key Grip is second in charge of safety, after the 1st AD (first assistant director). This makes sense given the grip department is responsible for putting in place a lot of a set’s infrastructure. The grip crew’s expertise at safely and securely installing the equipment and rigging is crucial to make sure no one gets hurt. No Film School compares the grips to a construction crew, setting up many elements — from filters and tents to scaffolds, ladders, dollies, tracks, and cranes. This not only ensures proper lighting, but also provides stability and the right positioning for the camera. The next time you view a scene filmed with exceptional lighting, from a great height, or at a high speed, think of the grip department and the work they did to make that happen! Read more about what’s involved in the role of a Key Grip at MasterClass and Careers in Film.

How do I become a Key Grip?

With no specific degree required, the best way to become a Key Grip is with job experience. According to MasterClass, important skills to develop are technical knowledge, as the job involves working with various equipment and tools. Also, problem-solving skills are crucial in finding solutions to the unique needs of each production. And finally, communication skills are paramount for a Key Grip who needs to effectively lead a crew. Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Industry Jobs | Gaffer

As one of the premier studio production companies in New York, Broadway Stages works to meet the growing needs of the film and TV industry while also focusing on the needs of our community. We provide the industry with a soundstage or location where they can shoot their scenes, but they also need a skilled and experienced workforce. This is the first in a series that will look at the various jobs that make a production come to life. We hope it provides insight and encourages you to consider a career in the film and TV industry. This week, we answer the question: “What is a Gaffer?”

What is a Gaffer?

According to MasterClass, the origin of the title was “British slang for a tool called the ‘gaff,’ which was a hooked metal pole used in theatre to adjust the stage lights.” But there is more to it than a pole and stage lights. A whole lot more!

Job Description.

The Gaffer, or Chief Lighting Technician is the head of the lighting department on a TV or film production set. Responsible for running the grip/electric crew and overseeing all the lighting equipment, they also work in pre-production and production to help achieve the desired cinematic image by setting up lights and running cables.

Shedding Light on the Subject.

The Gaffer’s responsibilities are extensive. First and foremost is safety! Before any lighting instruments or electrical equipment are selected and placed, before any cables are run, generators set-up or crews hired, safety practices must be established. Backstage explains that the Gaffer is heavily involved during pre-production, working with the producers and production managers to determine electrical and crew budgets. They must also understand the script, meet with the director and work closely with the director of photography (DP) to design the lighting. In addition, they collaborate with the key grip to map out the aesthetics of the production and need to hire their best boy electric, the second in command to the Gaffer and foreman of the electrical team.

Read more about what’s involved in the role of a Gaffer at MasterClass. You can also find information about Gaffers on the Careers in Film website, where you can read advice from a number of professional Gaffers who have worked on successful productions.

How do I become a Gaffer?

While some Gaffers go to film school to learn the trade, hands-on experience is critical and many Gaffers begin as production assistants. The Nashville Film Institute provides an overview of the role and illustrates how experience and training can work together to prepare you to be a Gaffer. Learn more about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

Resource Guide Provides Information on Jobs/Training in TV and Film

The TV and film industry is working its way back, following strict protocols to ensure the health and safety of all involved in the production of amazing films, TV shows and documentaries that have helped to entertain us throughout the pandemic. With content for streaming at an all-time high, Broadway Stages continues to work to meet the growing needs of the TV and Film industry while also focusing on the needs of our community.

To keep-up with demand, the industry needs a skilled and experienced workforce. If you are interested in a career in the TV/Film industry we have just the thing to help your job search. Our Industry Resource Guide provides information about industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city and borough industry information. We provide the name of the organization, a link to their website, the type of resource offered, and a description of the organization — all in one location.

Whether you are seeking a job, want to build your skills or expand your career, we hope you find this resource helpful. As one of the premier TV and film industry production studios in New York we are committed to support the growth of the industry and our community.

Industry Resource Guide Provides Information to find Jobs in TV and Film

With filming working its way back and content for streaming at an all-time high, Broadway Stages continues to work to meet the growing needs of the TV and Film industry. A big part of that is ensuring that the industry has the resources it needs, including a skilled and experienced workforce. If you are interested in a career in the TV/Film industry we have just the thing to help in your job search.

Broadway Stages has pulled together a guide that provides resources including industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs (fee and non-fee based); as well as state, city and borough industry information. We provide the name of the organization, a link to their website, the type of resource offered, and a description of the organization — all in one location. A copy of the guide can be found here.

Whether you are seeking a job, want to build your skills or expand your career, we hope you find this resource helpful. As one of the premier TV and film industry production studios in New York we are hopeful that we’ll get back to 100 percent soon and continue to bring economic growth to our local community.

Checking in on our Green Partners | Alive Structures

Marni Majorelle hard at work on broadway Stages green corridor.

When we last talked about the progress being made on the Broadway Stages rooftop expansion project, things were humming along. That was in January of 2020 and, as we all know a lot has changed since. Today we bring you the fourth and final part of our series – checking in on our green partners during the pandemic. There is a common theme among our green partners. They have demonstrated resilience, resolve, creativity and hope as they face the uncertainty of the pandemic.  And we see the same with our friends at Alive Structures. Due to the nature of the work done by Marni Majorelle, Founder of Alive Structures, she is used to challenges and is accustomed to being flexible.  Not every project goes exactly the way one plans and there are changes to schedules due to weather or other circumstances.  But one thing is for sure, planted with 48,000 plants and sown with millions of wildflower seeds, this coming summer the roofs will be an amazing sight that the community can be proud of.

marni majorelle sowing seeds on broadway stages green corridor

In January of 2020 we reported that the green rooftop expansion project was beginning. The crew, led by Project Manager Eric Majorelle, was able to install approximately 30,000 square feet of green roof layers including drainage and soil on three of the six soundstage roofs that make up Broadway Stages Green Corridor. Things came to a temporary halt when the City shut down in March of 2020 due to the pandemic. With some creativity and strict safety protocols in place, Alive Structures was able to safely cover the soil with wildflower seeds which later bloomed magnificently in June. We are now focusing on the second 30,000+ sq. ft. of rooftop gardens and remain committed to complete the 1.4 acre green rooftop expansion.

Broadway Stages is sincerely thankful  for the continued focus and dedication of Alive Structures and their commitment to complete this project. While it may take a little longer than anticipated, we know that the hard work Alive Structures puts in will bring Broadway Stages Green Corridor to life.  Stay tuned for progress updates.

Industry Resource Guide | Jobs in the Television and Film Industry

With the networks getting back to filming you may be considering a job in the television and film industry.  While not at 100 percent capacity, we are definitely seeing actors and crews back at our sound stage facilities – adhering to CDC health and safety guidelines and taking additional measures like COVID testing and temperature readings.  For those who are looking to enter the industry, whether seeking information about training programs, intern- or apprenticeships, or where to apply for jobs, it’s hard to know where to start. 

Broadway Stages has pulled together a guide that provides resources including industry-focused job posting sites; links to general recruiting sites; education and training programs (fee and non-fee based); as well as state, city and borough industry information. We provide the name of the organization, a link to their website, the type of resource offered, and a description of the organization — all in one location. A copy of the guide can be found here.  

Whether you are seeking a job, want to build your skills or expand your career, we hope you find this resource helpful. As one of the premier TV and film industry production studios in New York we are hopeful that we’ll get back to 100 percent soon and continue to bring economic growth to our local community. 

An Environmental Collaboration: Broadway Stages and Newtown Creek Alliance

Since 2002 the Newtown Creek Alliance (NCA) has been working to restore community health, water quality, habitat, access and vibrant commerce along Newtown Creek. Serving as a catalyst for effective community action, NCA has made a positive and enduring impact on the health and quality of life of Creek-side communities. Their efforts to restore, reveal and revitalize Newtown Creek have played a key role in advancing environmental initiatives in our community, among them Kingsland Wildflowers.  

NCA is also the steward of educational programming at Kingsland Wildflowers, a green roof initiative supported by a group of collaborators including the New York City Audubon, Alive Structures and NOoSPHERE Arts.  Located atop a Broadway Stages building on Kingsland Avenue, Kingsland Wildflowers was made possible by the Greenpoint Community Enviromental Fund (GCEF), along with initial matching funds and continued maintenance efforts supported by Broadway Stages. Initiated by the New York City Audubon who took the lead in submitting the GCEF grant proposal, the project is among our proudest environmental sustainability efforts, and has become a blueprint for other green roof projects. 

Broadway Stages’ interest and concern about the condition of Newtown Creek, along with a deep-rooted desire to help improve the environment, brought our two organizations together.  Broadway Stages Founder, Tony Argento, has actively participated in community meetings that address environmental concerns, including the condition of the creek. With a mutual interest in helping to restore the environment, a relationship between NCA and Broadway Stages transpired. “Tony is not just interested in the waterway because he is a creek-side property owner,” said Lisa Bloodgood, Director of Advocacy and Education at NCA, “he has invested in environmental initiatives that help to advance ecosystem services that are critical to habitat and community.”  To date, Broadway Stages has invested in more than 20,000 square feet of green rooftops, including the 6,000 square foot Eagle Street Rooftop Farm, and 50,000 square feet of rooftop solar panels.  In 2018, Broadway Stages opened their doors to NCA, providing the organization with a facility to call home. This gesture has allowed NCA to grow their advocacy efforts, while at the same time stewarding Kingsland Wildflowers, a role NCA took-on in 2019.  “We are eternally grateful to Tony and Broadway Stages for their generous offering of office space and support of our mission,” said Willis Elkins, Executive Director of NCA. “Our relationship with Broadway Stages and our work at Kingsland Wildflowers has been enriching and broadened our ecological reach,” continued Elkins.  

Broadway Stages is proud to support organizations that help to enhance the quality of life in the communities where we work and live. We encourage you to join us, and get involved in one or more of the many events hosted by NCA, from creekside clean-ups and bike tours, to volunteer plantings and more at Kingsland Wildlfowers. #GOGREEN

This Week’s Eats | Wilson Rivas Crafts

This Friday we were honored with a year-end appreciation lunch catered by Wilson Rivas Crafts (WRC). We are grateful for all of our Friday staff lunches, but this one was a little extra special. Not only was it our holiday lunch, but also, Broadway Stages has been working with WRC for years, and throughout those years they have been servicing many of our clients. WRC has provided culinary expertise, personalized services and a renowned reputation to the TV and film industry, corporate, and private events for more than 20 years. From providing burgers and hot dogs at the annual 94th Precinct National Night Out event, to 5-star spreads for cast and crew of productions filmed at our studios and elsewhere, WRC knows how to impress! They provide a broad array of craft services and set-ups. Basically, whatever your heart desires 24/7. As for our lunch, our desires were definitely met. Our appreciation feast included steak, grilled chicken in mushroom cream sauce, mashed potatoes, rigatoni a la vodka, fresh poached seafood, antipasti, grilled veggies, and to top it off, an assortment of Italian desserts. Like we said, whatever your heart desires. WHAT A HOLIDAY MEAL!  The food and fellowship was so good, we forgot to take pictures (sorry folks). A special thank you to Wilson Rivas and his staff and Happy Holidays everyone! We will be back with more of our Weekly Eats after the New Year!

Resource for New York's Aspiring Young Filmmakers: MediaMKRS – Reel Works

Broadway Stages is committed to meeting the growing needs of the film and television industry. We are always on the lookout for resources that provide ways for individuals to learn more about the industry and build relevant skills that can translate into jobs. We are excited to get the word out about the MediaMKRS - Reel Works program that creates pathways for careers in media and entertainment for young New Yorkers. Young filmmakers can connect with educators, industry and government leaders to receive training and obtain credentials through in-school or after-school programs. The comprehensive program covers: camera, editing, leadership, marketing, production, sound, storytelling, and workforce skills. Check out what the program has to offer at https://mediamkrs.credly.com/enterprise.

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.

Broadway Stages Provides Property to North Brooklyn Community Boathouse

The North Brooklyn Community Boathouse (NBCB) has announced they will break ground on a new boathouse and environmental education center along Newtown Creek. The new facility is made possible by the generous support of Gina and Tony Argento of Broadway Stages, and a grant administered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and City Parks Foundation. The new boathouse will be located on the same lot that has been home to NBCB for the last seven seasons – property owned by Broadway Stages and gratuitously loaned to the non-profit organization.

Construction is set to begin this spring with anticipated completion in the third quarter of 2020. The new 8,000 square foot, five-story boathouse will offer kayak and canoe storage, boatbuilding, an environmental education center, and access to the waterfront. NBCB, as well as other groups and non-profit organizations focused on the ecology of Newtown Creek, will occupy three of the five floors, while Broadway Stages will use the remaining two floors.

“Our new boathouse will be the biggest and most sophisticated boathouse in New York City with launch access like no other in the City,” said Dewey Thompson, President and Founder of the North Brooklyn Community Boathouse. “We are so grateful to Tony and Gina Argento and the rest of the Broadway Stages team for making this possible, and for their sustained commitment and generosity to us and to the entire Greenpoint community.”

“The North Brooklyn Community Boathouse has been part of our community for many years, and we’re pleased to support their vision of operating out of a proper facility,” said Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages. “Our commitment to community is a cornerstone of our business philosophy, its who we are. We’re proud to be able to use our property along the Creek in a way that brings value to members of our community,” stated Tony Argento, Founder of Broadway Stages.

For more information about the North Brooklyn Community Boathouse visit their website at NBCB. NOTE: Images Courtesy of North Brooklyn Boat Club