Industry Jobs | Production Manager

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. Still, 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 look at the role of a production manager.

What Is a Production Manager?

A production manager plays a key role in a film or television production, from planning to completion. They do not work on the creative side of a production; rather, they oversee the process. This position reports directly to the line producer, who is the chief administrator in the production office. Unit production managers, as the Directors Guild of America knows them, are responsible for budgets, shooting schedules, and managing the day-to-day business side of production. The production manager also oversees what's known as "below-the-line" crew. "Below-the-line" is a term for all the personnel on a TV show or film who are not the creative principals of a production. 

What Does a Production Manager Do?

A production manager's responsibilities are broad in scope when overseeing operations. They will hire and manage the crew, ensure the equipment is available and functioning, and adjust the budget and schedule, among many other jobs. Three of the main tasks they are charged with are budgeting, transportation, and scheduling, 

A film or television production is a massive machine with many moving parts. Money is the fuel that keeps it all moving, so budgeting can be the difference between a project's success or failure. A production manager may have to create a working budget for personnel, equipment, and locations or simply oversee it. On larger productions, they work with a team that may include financiers, producers, and directors.

Another factor they deal with is the location of the production. Some days, production will be centered on a studio lot like our Arthur Kills campus on Staten Island. On other days, the production may be filming at a location like McCarron Park in Greenpoint. Cast, crew, and equipment must move fluidly between sites so there are no interruptions. A production manager's skills craft the logistics required to accomplish this. 

Further ensuring a constant flow of work is the task of scheduling. Production managers need to have a firm grasp of the many dynamic variables on a set to make this happen. How will the schedule affect the quality of daylight at a filming location? How many hours are the child actors allowed to work? How will filming be set to fit union rules? A production manager's work rivals that of any project manager at any Fortune 500 company.

How Do I Become a Production Manager?

Production manager is definitely not an entry-level job. Some people begin their path toward this career with a college education. Those who do so usually choose majors such as television and film, journalism, communication, or broadcasting, but coursework in business management and basic accounting would prove valuable.

Even if you pursue a formal education, you will need a working knowledge of the production process. Experience and track record are more important than formal qualifications. Many production managers today started out or have experience as runners, production assistants, location managers, production coordinators, accountants, production secretaries, assistant production managers, or occasionally assistant directors.

Finally, to work on a union set, (unit) production managers must be members of the Directors Guild of America to work on union film sets. And while this is not a requirement on non-union sets, membership gives you access to job postings, educational programs, and an invaluable professional network. Like in all business, who you know can make all the difference.

ScreenSkills, MasterClass, and Wrapbook have articles that may offer more resources as you consider this career path. Also, this video at Beyond Film School takes a deep look into this crucial role.

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

●        State, city, and borough industry information

We also include a link to our blogs about many of the jobs that make a production come to life.

Filming Location Spotlight | Chez Ma Tante (Copy)

Broadway Stages takes pride in supporting the vibrant communities that host our productions. Our Filming Location Spotlight series highlights local shops, restaurants, landmarks, and venues where productions that call Broadway Stages home have filmed "on location." We encourage our readers to explore and support these unique spots and join the film and television industry in helping sustain our neighborhoods' economies and culture! In this edition, we enjoy a meal at Chez Ma Tante in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, a beloved local spot that has become a community staple.

In an episode of “The Equalizer,” the characters may find themselves anywhere. They may be behind bars or in a charming, casual neighborhood dining spot. This was the case in season five's episode, "Fight for Life." Queen Latifah's character, Robyn McCall, sought justice at our Arthur Kill campus on Staten Island. But the search for justice also made its way to Chez Ma Tante, a Cozy, modern eatery in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, that offers European-inspired fare.

On a quiet corner of Greenpoint, Chez Ma Tante offers a culinary experience that feels personal and delightfully unexpected. With its thoughtful menu, unpretentious atmosphere, and impeccable service, this gem is excellent for a leisurely brunch or an intimate dinner.

A Menu That Delivers More Than Pancakes

Diners rave about the pancakes at Chez Ma Tante. Thick, golden, and perfectly crisped at the edges, these beauties arrive stacked and drizzled with maple syrup. A diner on Google Reviews called them "absolute perfection," adding, "I didn't know pancakes could taste this good." These are not your typical fluffy breakfast fare; they are more substantial, with a caramelized exterior that's as satisfying to bite into as it is to look at.

But the menu extends far beyond pancakes. The smoked salmon platter comes highly recommended for brunch, served with rich, creamy labneh (a soft Middle Eastern cheese), a scattering of pickled onions, and grilled sourdough bread. Another standout is the lamb burger, juicy and flavorful, accompanied by crisp fries dusted with just the right amount of salt. You can explore what brunch has to offer here.

Dinner at Chez Ma Tante is equally memorable. The pork terrine, served with mustard and cornichons, is a must-try starter. For the main course, the roasted chicken with seasonal vegetables hits the mark with its tender meat and perfectly seasoned skin. If you're a seafood lover, the mussels, steamed in a white wine broth and served with charred bread, are a favorite among regulars. And the Country pâté – simply heaven! Pair your meal with a glass of natural wine or a classic cocktail — their Negroni is a crowd-pleaser. See all they have to offer on their dinner menu and wine list. Or feast your eyes on Instagram.

Simple Elegance in Every Detail

Chez Ma Tante's ambiance is laid-back and sophisticated at the same time. The interiors are minimal and warm, featuring soft lighting, wooden tables, and an inviting bar. Large windows let in natural light during the day, creating a welcoming space for brunch. By night, the cozy, intimate vibe makes it an excellent choice for date night or catching up with friends.

"The atmosphere is unpretentious but charming," wrote one Yelp reviewer. "You can tell every detail has been carefully considered, from the plating of the dishes to the playlist in the background."

When the weather allows, a handful of tables are available outside for al fresco dining. Sitting here with a plate of those famed pancakes or a glass of chilled rosé feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Practical Details

Chez Ma Tante is open Monday through Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. On the weekend, brunch is offered from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, as the cozy space fills up quickly. Make your reservation by clicking here.

Why You Should Visit

The thoughtful menu, inviting setting, and glowing reviews all point to one thing: Chez Ma Tante is worth the hype. And it's not just about the food; it's about the experience — the satisfaction of a perfectly crafted dish, the warmth of attentive service, and the charm of a neighborhood spot that's become a Brooklyn staple. With each bite, you'll understand why so many diners leave with a smile — and a plan to return.

At Broadway Stages, one of our favorite stops is Chez Ma Tante, a Brooklyn gem known for its great food and warm atmosphere. We're proud to support local businesses and especially excited when the productions that call Broadway Stages home film locally – helping them thrive in the spotlight!  Join us in supporting local spots like Chez Ma Tante — they're what makes each neighborhood special. Chez Ma Tante's unique connection to “The Equalizer,” where it was featured in a memorable episode, and its support from Broadway Stages make it a must-visit for fans of the show and local residents alike. We are also proud to say Queen Latifah and Lorraine Toussaint of “The Equalizer” are nominated for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series at this year's NAACP Image Awards. Be sure to tune in to support them and stop by Chez Ma Tante to treat yourself! And when you stop in, make sure to tell them Broadway Stages sent you.

---

One of New York’s largest and most trusted full-service studio production companies, offering comprehensive services for film, television, live streaming, commercials, live performances, music videos, and more. With over 40 years of experience, we’ve become a cornerstone of New York’s thriving creative industry.

With more than 60 soundstages spanning across Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island, Broadway Stages offers over 4 million square feet of state-of-the-art production space, including soundstages, support space, distinctive filming locations, parking, and in-house services for lighting, power, and grip rentals. We provide tailored solutions for productions of all sizes, delivering the resources and expertise needed to meet your creative and technical needs.

Learn about film and TV industry jobs, training, and more in the Broadway Stages’ Industry Resource Guide. Our guide provides information and links to put you in touch with industry-focused job posting sites; general recruiting sites; education and training programs; and state, city, and borough industry information.

"Blue Bloods" Cast and Crew Reminisce at PaleyFest

On October 17, "Blue Bloods" showrunner Kevin Wade and cast members Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan, Len Cariou, Vanessa Ray, and Marisa Ramirez sat for a panel discussion with moderator Vladimir Duthiers at PaleyFest, an annual celebration of the television industry held at the Paley Museum in New York City.

Selleck kicked things off by reading a letter written by the family of longtime executive producer Leonard Goldberg, who died in 2019. The letter revealed that Goldberg was instrumental in establishing the beloved weekly family dinners "that served as the emotional fulcrum of each episode."

"…he understood what the everyday interactions around the dinner table would add to the show's dynamic, and how they would resonate with viewers," Selleck read.

Wade said that while the main characters are all in law enforcement, the point of "Blue Bloods" is not whether or not they caught the killer or got out of perilous situations that week. The heart of the show is whether the family members can get past their differences to remain a close-knit unit. The weekly dinners were an essential part of telling that story.

"The family dinner, I think, became a lot of things to a lot of people," Wade said. "A lot of what we did over the ensuing years was finding ways…hopefully telling entertaining crime stories and legal stories, but to bring two or more of these guys into conflict and be able to work that out alongside the crime show."

Moynahan added, "The family dinner brings us together on screen, and it brings people, the audience, together, yearning for that in their own lives, or reigniting that in their own lives, appreciating those moments with their family and those conversations."

Cariou laughed as he talked about filming the very first family dinner for the pilot episode.

"The first scene we did was the family dinner. [Goldberg] sat us down around the table, nine of us around the table, with the kids, and we all kind of looked at one another and went, 'What?... We just met last night.' I mean, literally, we had just met the night before."

Selleck added, "A scene with a group of strangers pretending they'd known each other all their life, first day of work."

Wade revealed that Goldberg found inspiration for the iconic dinner scenes in the Norman Rockwell painting "Freedom From Want," which depicts a happy family sitting around the dinner table at Thanksgiving.

The family dinners were often the only opportunities for all the main actors to film together, allowing them to catch up with people they hadn't seen all week, just like the Reagans did. Selleck said he will miss that weekly gathering.

"Everybody works. Everybody goes this way and that way. And suddenly that opportunity that we had, that gift of once every eight working days seeing everybody, that doesn't happen in almost any TV show, but the way our show was structured, you could always look forward to that. And it's two families. There are the Reagans and the actor family."

While cast members said they would miss the people the most, they also spoke about how much they would miss filming in New York. Broadway Stages has provided facilities for "Blue Bloods" during its entire run, going back to 2010.

"The city is… it's not a Reagan, but it's definitely a character in the show," Wahlberg said. "The most spectacular background you'll ever see. Stories that you can only tell in New York."

Wahlberg added that despite being a "Boston boy" the city has treated him like one of their own.

"It's just been a spectacular time in an amazing city, and I'll miss it. I already miss it… I've never, never had a bad time shooting in the streets of New York. You could put me in any neighborhood, in any borough, and I'm gonna have a good time."

Ray echoed his sentiments, saying she misses "the excitement of getting to work in New York City. I mean, it really is exciting. Every time you get in the van and you drive on the bridge, you go over to Greenpoint, and you're like, 'I can't actually believe this happened.'"

"Blue Bloods" has made a massive economic impact on New York City's film and television industry over the last decade and a half, and we have been so honored to be the show's production partner-of-choice. Over the summer, the Broadway Stages team received a commemorative citation from the state of New York to mark the show's 14 seasons of filming in New York, which created 80,000 jobs and generated more than $1 billion in spending across the state.

The long-running series will air its 293rd and final episode on December 13 in its usual Friday night timeslot. First, CBS will air an hour-long retrospective special called "Blue Bloods: Celebrating a Family Legacy" on Friday, November 29. "Entertainment Tonight" co-host Nischelle Turner will host the special, which will include new interviews with the cast and an inside look at the Reagan family dinners. If you need to catch up before the finale, you can watch all episodes on Paramount+.

Remember Local Food Banks This Holiday Season and Beyond!

As the leaves fall and the weather gets colder, many look ahead to times of companionship, joy, and abundance. But, sadly, many of our neighbors find themselves considering how they will provide for themselves and their families.

According to New York City Council, New Yorkers visited food pantries over 30 million times in 2023. Additionally, soup kitchens provided nearly three and a half million meals. Moreover, according to City Harvest, almost 50% of working-aged households in New York are struggling to make ends meet.

Broadway Stages prides itself on the role we play in fighting this scourge. For instance, our founder, Tony Argento, sits on the board of directors of The Campaign Against Hunger. We also donate the space for the the Corona Food Bank, run by the Community Center Services Organization (CCSO) and its founder and executive director, Evelyn Heilbron.

Broadway Stages urges you to look out for your neighbor during this time of abundance and throughout the year. Below are just a few of the great nonprofits fighting food insecurity in our five boroughs and beyond. For an extensive list, click here.

Community Center Services Organization (CCSO) - Food Bank of Corona

CCSO’s 2024 Thanksgiving Community Meal will be held on Wednesday, November 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 93-15 Corona Ave., Elmhurst, NY. Follow them for more information on Instagram and Facebook. Consider providing financial support via their GoFundMe page.

The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH)

At two locations, TCAH will distribute FREE turkeys and Thanksgiving essentials. It's first-come, first-served while supplies last. Note, these are ticketed events.

Brooklyn
2010 Fulton Street
Brooklyn, NY
Thursday, November 21
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Far Rockaway
Far Rockaway Farm
45-55 Beach Channel Drive
Friday, November 22
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Get Involved with TCAH

• Provide Support

Here are some additional organizations you might consider supporting:

North Brooklyn Angels

• Get Involved

• Give

Rethink Food

• Get Involved

• Give

City Harvest

• Get Involved

• Give

Food Bank For New York City

• Get Involved

• Give

Broadway Stages Proudly Supports CCSO-Food Bank of Corona

Evelyn Heilbron is an inspiring woman on a mission. When her son was 13, he suffered a stroke that severely impacted his vision, finding himself practically blind. 

"At that moment, I felt like I died," she said. "My son didn’t have a history of illness. He had never been sick, and from one moment to the next, in 24 hours, my child went blind, and I didn't understand it, and no one gave me any hope," she told Queenslatino.com. Since then, he has been on a journey of recovery and has regained 60 percent of his vision.

Throughout the painful struggle to help her son heal, Heilbron found strength by giving back. In 2020, she formed the nonprofit Community Center Services Organization (CCSO) to help feed those who are hungry. Dedicated to her son’s recovery, Heilbron said "this organization has been inspired by children who want a better world and a better life."

Broadway Stages’ brother sister team, Tony and Gina Argento, at the 2023 CCSO Food Bank of Corona Christmas Toy Giveaway!

In 2023, with the help of Broadway Stages, she opened the Corona Food Bank at 93-15 Corona Avenue in Elmhurst, New York. This 4,200-square-foot facility collects and distributes food, clothing, supplies, and offers other critical services. Broadway Stages has donated the facility for two years now at a value of over $210K per year.

At the ribbon cutting, Tony Argento, founder of Broadway Stages, said, "It's my honor to be able to do this. To donate this space to provide necessities to people who are in need. I hope other well-off people who are doing lots of business here in Elmhurst and Corona can step up and spend some money, donate some money, and make this happen for people in need."

This past August, two occasions exemplified CCSO's dedication to making a better world for the children of its community. On August 5, Paul Cia­fone, the 13-year-old son of Broadway Stages' President and CEO, Gina Argento, was recognized for his initiative to start and stock a free children's li­brary. He came up with the idea after a dis­cussion with Heilbron. The Paul Library, located in a section of the food bank, provides a safe space where children (and adults) can read and receive nourishment, as well as clothing, along with other services for adults and fami­lies in need. The library now has 3,000 books, in both English and Spanish.

"There are no bookstores in this Corona neighborhood, so we have created a nice, family-friendly space for new immigrants to come here and enjoy reading," Heibron told Queenslatino.com.

Later in the month, the CCSO held a Back to School event. The charity event was supported by Broadway Stages, State Senator Jessica Ramos' office, NYC Children, Emblem Health, American Red Cross, Colombia Nos Une, Urban Health, New York Life, NYC Health + Hospitals Elmhurst, Paul Library, American Cancer Society, 34th Ave Open Streets Jackson Heights, Elmhurst & Corona Family Enrichment Center, Abarrotera Central, MetroPlus Health, and Latino Bites. Almost 2,000 people attended and received clothes, shoes, hot food, school supplies, and toys. Broadway Stages donated 500 backpacks and a variety of school supplies for the occasion.

Our President and CEO, Gina Argento, told the Queens Gazette, "The CCSO represents the best of what our community can accomplish when we come together to help those in need. At Broadway Stages, we are always looking for ways to give back to our community and foster equitable growth. We are proud to support this initiative and are humbled by the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors." And the productions that call Broadway Stages home are also involved. Shows including “Blue Bloods,” “Long Bright River,” “City on Fire,” and others have donated clothing and other materials.

CCSO's mission is to work endlessly to ensure the people in its community live with health and dignity. You can help by donating here. Volunteers are also always needed. As Heilbron said, "Volunteering saves lives!" To volunteer, call CCSO at 332-228-8525 or email them at communitycsorg.c@gmail.com. For updates on the Community Center Services Organization, follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Donations are also accepted.

Their doors are open seven days a week. If you are in need or want to volunteer, take a look at the calendar of the standard weekly programs offered. 

Plans are already underway for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. If you are looking for some inspiration, take a look at some photos from last year’s Christmas celebration. Your gifts are welcome and needed. If you are unable to provide a financial contribution, you can volunteer or make an in-kind donation of gently used clothing and shoes. Thank you for your support. 

Actor Spotlight | Carrie Preston

At Broadway Stages, we are thrilled at the success of CBS's "Elsbeth" starring Carrie Preston. The show premiered in February and has been so well-received that the 10-episode first season is now available to watch in eight countries. The second season will expand to 20 episodes and premiere on Thursday, October 17. In this post we take a look at Preston's career, which includes a presence on our stages for nearly 15 years.

Quick Facts:
Birthday: June 21, 1967 in Macon, Georgia
Major Awards: Primetime Emmy Award
Broadway Stages Productions: "The Good Wife," "The Good Fight," "Elsbeth"

Preston began acting at a young age in theater productions in her hometown of Macon, Georgia. Shortly after graduating from Juilliard, she traveled to Montgomery, Alabama, to perform alongside her brother who was working at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. It was there that she met fellow actor Michael Emerson, who would later become her husband.

By the mid-'90s, the two were living in New York City and landing roles in shows on and off Broadway. In 1995, Preston secured her first Broadway gig as a standby for the part of Madeleine, a role originated by Cynthia Nixon, in the play "Indiscretions." Later that year she made her official Broadway debut as Miranda in a revival of "The Tempest" starring Patrick Stewart. Several years later she appeared on an episode of "Sex and the City" as an interior designer coincidentally named Madeline who was hired by Nixon's character – Miranda.

Preston's first mainstream film role came in 1997 when she played a bridesmaid in "My Best Friend's Wedding." Over the next decade she made guest appearances on various hit shows including "Spin City," "Arrested Development," "Desperate Housewives," and "Lost," playing the mother of her husband's character Benjamin Linus in a flashback.

In 2008 she landed her first role as a regular in a major series, playing waitress Arlene Fowler in HBO's hit vampire drama "True Blood." The cast was recognized with the Outstanding Television Ensemble award at the 2009 Satellite Awards.

In 2010 she began playing the quirky attorney Elsbeth Tascioni on CBS's "The Good Wife," appearing in two episodes of the first season. She returned for the third season in a recurring role and won an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series in 2013.

Around that time she also made several appearances on her husband's CBS show "Person of Interest," playing Grace Hendricks, the fiancée of Emerson's Harold Finch.

In 2017, she began playing a lead role on the TNT dramedy "Claws," which would go on to run for four seasons. That same year, "The Good Wife" spin-off series "The Good Fight" debuted, and Preston continued to play Tascioni on a recurring basis.

All seven seasons of "The Good Wife" and six seasons of "The Good Fight" were filmed at Broadway Stages facilities. In 2024, when Tascioni got her own spin-off, series creators Robert and Michelle King decided to stick with Broadway Stages. Outside of "The Good Wife" universe, another CBS original created by the Kings in 2019 was filmed at our facilities – the paranormal drama "Evil," featuring none other than Emerson in a leading role.

"Elsbeth" premiered this year to stellar reviews from critics and viewers alike. Several months before the show premiered, Preston found herself with another critically acclaimed hit, Alexander Payne's coming-of-age film "The Holdovers," which was nominated for five Oscars. She played Lydia Crane, the assistant to the school's headmaster who hosted a not-so-jolly Christmas party.

We are elated that Preston and Emerson have found so much success in the Big Apple and continue to support New York's film and television industry as part of the Broadway Stages family. We are also so proud of our 15+ years of collaboration with the Kings, a professional relationship that has produced, and continues to generate, acclaimed television programs filmed right here in New York City.

Attend Greenpoint Y’s 7th Annual "Spirit of Community" Service Awards Dinner and Auction | October 9

For more than 138 years, the YMCA has been in Greenpoint to empower the youth, improve health, and strengthen the community. And it has not been alone in this effort, a fact that will be celebrated at the 7th Annual "Spirit of Community" Service Awards Dinner and Auction, taking place on October 9, 2024, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The event will be held at Giando on the Water in Brooklyn.

The YMCA provides life-changing programs to our community's vulnerable children and families. This award gives the Y the chance to recognize others who have made a positive and impactful contribution to the community. This year, the honorees are Charley Ryan (Co-owner of Brooklyn Bowl), Donna Siafakas (Co-owner of Peter Pan Donut and Pastry Shop), and IATSE Local 52 Motion Picture Studio Mechanics, represented by Business Representative Kevin Gilligan.

Broadway Stages is a proud sponsor of this celebration. We invite you to join us this year by donating to the auction or sponsoring or attending the event. You can do so by clicking here. Proceeds will benefit the children and families in the communities of Greenpoint and Williamsburg. If you are not able to attend but would like to make a donation, click here.

Broadway Stages knows the Greenpoint YMCA is more than just a state-of-the-art gym. Their family programs, education classes, and comprehensive childcare create a community committed to helping our neighbors achieve their goals. This is why we have had a longstanding relationship with them. In fact, our President and CEO Gina Argento has been an active board member for years. Please consider supporting this year's "Spirit of Community" Service Awards Dinner and Auction. We hope to see you there!

NCA Educational Programs Promote a Healthy Local Ecosystem

Since 2002, the Newtown Creek Alliance (NCA) has been working to restore, reveal, and revitalize Newtown Creek. They have catalyzed effective community action on community health, water quality, habitat, access, and vibrant commerce along Newtown Creek.

One way the NCA strives to achieve these goals is by providing engaging, local-ecologically centered educational experiences for all ages. Through their multi-modal, hands-on activities and workshops, they bring the Creek into the classroom and the classroom out to the Creek.

If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about the history and ecology of Newtown Creek and its surrounding watershed, the NCA offers four programs in two educational spaces, Kingsland Wildflowers at Broadway Stages and Queens Landing.

●       Kingsland Wildflowers Exploration

Participants can explore a wide variety of aspects that affect our urban ecology through activities such as plant walks, plant structures, pollination, insect identification, soil explorations, seed collecting, and flora and fauna identification. This 90-minute program on the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roofs is typically designed for 30 K-5 students but can be adapted to older groups as well.

●       Urban Waterways and Green Infrastructure Tour

The tour will start at the unique green infrastructure Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof and proceed along the Newtown Creek Nature Walk next door, all the while learning about Newtown Creek and the importance of preserving and cultivating its ecosystem. This 90-120-minute program is best for up to 30 students in 4th grade and up as it includes a good amount of walking.

●       Marine Ecology Investigation

This 90-minute interactive program explores the variables involved in a healthy marine ecosystem. It takes place at the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center and the shoreline of the Newtown Creek and East River in Hunters Point South Park. As it is a more in-depth experience, it is better suited for smaller groups.

●       Climate Change Adaptations Tour

The 120-minute tour begins and ends at the brand new Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center. From there, the group will set off on a walk through Hunters Point South Park, discussing how history, climate change, and the water cycle have influenced the park's design. Since there is a good amount of walking, the tour is best for ages 4th grade and up.

Broadway Stages loves living and working on the banks of Newtown Creek. Moreover, we are honored to partner with the Newtown Creek Alliance and all its hard-working staff and volunteers. They share our firm commitment to environmental initiatives and being a responsible neighbor. We encourage you to follow them on Instagram and Facebook and to keep an eye on their events calendar for future opportunities to learn and participate!

8th Annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival | Recap

Broadway Stages is proud to say that the 8th annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival was a grand success! On July 27, nearly a thousand people came together at the one-of-a-kind setting of wildflower meadows stretching over 30,000 square feet across the rooftops of Broadway Stages' film and television studios. 

The free, family-friendly festival celebrates Broadway Stages’ Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof and Community Engagement Center and its mission of community benefit through environmental sustainability and the arts. Thanks to partners Alive Structures and the Newtown Creek Alliance, attendees could explore the green rooftops and area along Newtown Creek and learn about native wildlife and ecology. While another partner, NOoSPHERE Arts, brought art installations, performances, and live music to the day. Several local community organizations were also on hand to share helpful information, and food and drink were available from several local vendors.

The art installation "Peace Party with Peace Gorilla” with Noa Bornstein and Shana Fruchter proved popular with festival goers, young and old, as it welcomed all with an arm extended for a high five. Daniela Serna, Andrea Chavarro, Katherine Ocampo, and Lina Fernanda Silva of LaManga filled the air with sounds from Colombia's Caribbean coast, such as Bullerengue, Cumbia, and Tambora. Their rhythm-driven sounds were a celebration of life through storytelling and dance music.

Hivewild, a dance company directed by Katherine Maxwell, used movement across the rooftop to affirm human value and emotion. Their contemporary approach to dance was both entertaining and contemplative. Meanwhile, Dancer/Creator/Aerialist John Trunfio captivated attendees with his choreography.

Broadway Stages is proud to host the annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival in cooperation with our green and arts partners.  We take pride in being a responsible neighbor and actively supporting economic, social, and environmental initiatives that benefit our community.

“At Broadway Stages, we strive to connect people to the environment and the arts. We are excited to welcome the community to our green rooftop to learn more about sustainability, the creative industry, and how we can flourish together.”

— Gina Argento, President and CEO, Broadway Stages

If you want to learn more or lend a helping hand, consider joining the staff at Kingsland Wildflowers for their Summer Open Hours or the Greenhouse Gang. For more information, click here. Regardless of whether or not you were able to attend this year’s Festival, please enjoy a few photos of the event. Looking forward to next year!

Industry Jobs | Production Accountant

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. Still, 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 look at the role of a Production Accountant.

What Is a Production Accountant?

When most people think of a Film or TV production, their thoughts typically go to the cast and crew on a set or a sound studio. However, there is a support team that keeps the production running smoothly, and one of the critical members of that team is the Production Accountant.

The Production Accountant works closely with the producer and the production office from the beginning to the end of production. Depending on the size of the production, the size of the accounting team will vary. In addition to the key accountant, there may be a first assistant accountant, second assistant accountant, a payroll assistant, clerks, and one or more payroll accountants, who also work with the payroll coordinator at the payroll company responsible for processing the paychecks.

What Does a Production Accountant Do?

The job of a Production Accountant is demanding. Often, a Production Accountant works freelance and on multiple productions simultaneously. So communication, multitasking, and time management are crucial to success in this role.

Their work starts before filming begins, with calculating finances, determining the cost of a production, and coordinating details with the completion guarantor (an insurance policy to ensure the film is delivered on time and on budget). As production gets underway, they stay busy approving requests, checking receipts, and meeting regularly with producers to keep them updated on how spending is tracked.

They will finalize all financial records relating to the production and may also have to arrange an independent audit. Sometimes, Production Accountants collaborate with financial controllers, who are often permanently employed by production companies, and with other studio finance executives.

For a deeper dive into the role of a Production Accountant, check out this interview with Nigel Wood, Film Production Accountant at the ScreenSkills 101 Film series. Also, the article “5 Things to Know Before Becoming a Film and TV Production Accountant,” from Greenslate, has some excellent information as well.

How Do I Become a Production Accountant?

One popular misconception in the industry is that to be a production accountant you have to come from the accounting industry. A background or education in finance and accounting can be helpful, but it isn’t necessary. In addition to the skills mentioned earlier, such as communication, multitasking, and time management, you need to be inclined toward business and finance. Many times, these roles are filled by those fresh out of high school or college who have a love for the entertainment industry.

In this LA Times article about the Production Accountant role, Mark Goldstein, president and CEO of the film production services company Entertainment Partners, said, “The CPAs of the world are dealing with generally accepted accounting principles. The production accountant on the set is really just managing the budget that’s related to it and the expenditures that are being spent against it.”

While some projects are non-union, most large films and series will only hire union workers. So, you may want to join a union (the two big ones are IATSE 161 and 871).

Typically, your first six months will involve shadowing and learning the ropes as a clerk, also known as a third assistant accountant. From there, it’s all about doing solid work, building rapport with producers, and making sure they think of you for their next project.

As you pay your dues as a third, second, and first accountant, you will have the opportunity to work as the key production accountant, and that’s where you start managing the budget, maintaining financial records, and ensuring the entire production is going to come in on time and on budget.

If you are interested in learning more as you pursue this role, the California Film Commission’s Pilot Skills Training program offers an Entry Level Production Accounting Course that you may want to consider.

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

●     State, city, and borough industry information

We also include a link to our blogs about many of the jobs that make a production come to life.

2024 Kingsland Wildflowers Festival

On the rooftop of Broadway Stages’ studios located at 520 Kingsland Avenue, Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof and Community Engagement Center overlooks the iconic New York City skyline in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. This one-of-a-kind setting of wildflower meadows stretches across 25,000 square feet. On Saturday, July 27, from 2 pm to 8 pm, you can explore the green rooftop and area along Newtown Creek.

The 8th annual Kingsland Wildflowers Festival will give the public the opportunity to learn about native wildlife and ecology, engage with the arts, and partake in food and beverages from local vendors.

Those in attendance will learn more about the local environment, culture, and other community focused matters from Billion Oyster Project, NYCDEC Education, Eagle Street Rooftop Farm Project, Greenpoint YMCA, Queens Public Library, North Brooklyn Community Boathouse, NYC Bird Alliance, Clean Bushwick Initiative, Urban Soils Institute, New York Microscopical Society, the Polish & Slavic Center, and others.

The day will include several ways for everyone to indulge their artistic sensibilities. For the young ones, Asia Sztencel will offer a painting workshop. Noa Bornstein and Shana Fruchter will present "Peace Party with Peace Gorilla," and our friend Sol Kjøk will exhibit some of her paintings.

Several art installations will also be on display, including an interactive work by Cal Fish and video projections by Marita Isobel Solberg. A featured work will be "Resonant Nature," created explicitly for the Kingsland Wildflowers Green Roof by the recipient of the 2024 Broadway Stages' Arts Residency Award @ Kingsland Wildflowers, Seema Lisa Pandya.

Performing at the Festival will be the dance troupe Hivewild; the all-female Colombian culture lab, LaManga; aerialist John Trunfio; and spoken word and live percussion by the Bongo Brothers.

Finally, the day will not be complete until you fill your tummy with food and drink from The Shack, Healthy as a Motha, Adi's Empanadas, Greenpoint Beer & Ale, and more.

The event is free, and tickets are not required, but registration to attend or volunteer is appreciated. You can also follow Kingsland Wildflowers on Instagram and Facebook for more information.

Broadway Stages is proud to sponsor the Kingsland Wildflowers Festival and its commitment to expanding natural habitat and green corridors for bird and wildlife populations. We are thrilled to collaborate with our amazings partners including Newtown Creek Alliance, NOoSPHERE Arts, and Alive Structures. Our collective efforts help to support initiatives that provide community value. We encourage you to come by on Saturday, July 27, to celebrate Greenpoint's environmental and arts renaissance and enjoy a day of fun and uninterrupted panorama of Manhattan across the East River, Queens, and North Brooklyn.

The Long and Hilarious History of The Second City

Founded in Chicago in 1959, improv troupe The Second City is responsible for launching the careers of countless iconic comedians and actors. The troupe recently expanded into New York City – a bit ironic considering the origin of Chicago's "Second City" nickname, which was coined by a journalist from The New Yorker who meant it as an insult to Chicago in comparison to New York City.

The troupe's theater space in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is owned by one of Broadway Stages' affiliates and was once a record shop and club. Today, it is a 12,000 square-foot facility that includes a 200-seat mainstage, 60-seat second stage, several classrooms, and a restaurant.

While the six current players are making new history in Brooklyn, the original troupe's origins go back nearly seven decades and include a brief stint in the Big Apple.

Howard Alk, Bernie Sahlins, and Paul Sills, the University of Chicago students who founded The Second City, began their improv careers with The Compass Players (named after the bar where they first performed in 1955). Members of The Compass Players included future EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony) winner Mike Nichols and his comedy partner Elaine May, the husband-and-wife comedy team of Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, and future six-time Emmy Award winner Alan Alda.

By 1959, the troupe was performing as The Second City in a new location near Lincoln Park. Two years later, members of the ensemble (including future Oscar winner Alan Arkin) performed the musical "From the Second City" at the Royale Theatre on Broadway (now the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre). The production ran for 87 performances and earned two Tony Award nominations. That same year, future comedy legend Joan Rivers joined the troupe and made her sole appearance in its seventh revue, "Alarums and Excursions."

In 1973, the theater company opened its first location outside of Chicago, at "The Old Fire Hall" in Toronto. Many future comedy stars would go on to perform there, including "Saturday Night Live" alums Dan Aykroyd, Gilda Radner, and Mike Myers, and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" regulars Ryan Stiles and Colin Mochrie.

In 1976, members of the Toronto outpost established the sketch comedy show "Second City Television" (also known as "SCTV"), which launched the careers of John Candy, Eugene Levy, Rick Moranis, Catherine O'Hara, Harold Ramis, Martin Short, and Dave Thomas, among others.

Over the decades, the original Chicago location drew the likes of future "Saturday Night Live" stars John Belushi, Bill Murray, Chris Farley, Tim Meadows, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, and Aidy Bryant, as well as beloved comedic performers Fred Willard, Harold Ramis, Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Bob Odenkirk, Richard Kind, Amy Sedaris, Jane Lynch, and Keegan-Michael Key. Even "Cheers" alums George Wendt and Shelley Long performed with the troupe in the 1970s.

We are so excited to support the next generation of comedy legends by playing a role in bringing the group to Brooklyn. The troupe is currently performing "Ruthless Acts of Kindness" on the mainstage, and tickets can be purchased here. If you'd like to learn more about the history of The Second City and its legendary alums, click here.