Celebrating New York’s creative heartbeat: The return of the “Made in NY” Awards
A decade-long hiatus ends
After a ten-year break, the “Made in NY” Awards are set to make a grand return this fall. Established in 2006 by the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, these awards honor the brilliance of New York City’s creative community, recognizing individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to the city’s entertainment and digital media industries.
Honoring past and present icons
The list of past recipients reads like a who’s who of the entertainment world. From Academy Award nominees like Noah Baumbach and Robert De Niro to cultural icons such as Awkwafina, Tina Fey, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, the awards have celebrated a diverse array of talent. The ceremony, which had been on hiatus since 2014, saw individual awards presented at various events like the Gotham Awards and the NYWIFT Muse Awards.
A night to remember
This year, the exclusive industry gathering will take place on October 28 at Gracie Mansion. The event aims to celebrate and acknowledge a community of creatives who have been impacted by the pandemic and recent labor strikes. Four individuals or groups will be honored, focusing on those in NYC’s film and TV industry. This will bring the total number of “Made in NY” Awards presented to 78. The honorees will be announced closer to the event date.
A city of growth and opportunity
New York City has seen a significant expansion in its production facilities. New studios have been established at Pier 94 in Manhattan and East End in Sunnyside, Queens, with more openings planned for 2024. The Mayor’s office supports various “Made in NY” Training Programs in Production Assistance, Post-Production, and Animation, among others, with over 1200 New Yorkers graduating from these programs.
A supportive administration
Under the current administration, the city has created the first-ever Film and Television Production Industry Council to advise on production policies and programs. The NYC Public School Film Festival has been expanded, and Executive Order 21 has been introduced, requiring each city agency to have a film office liaison to expedite filming on NYC property.
A message from the Mayor
“Nothing is a clearer indication of quality, talent, and success than being able to say you are ‘Made in New York,’” said NYC Mayor Eric Adams. “After a 10-year hiatus, the ‘Made in NY’ Awards ceremony is returning to celebrate our city’s vibrant film and TV industry. A multi-billion dollar economic engine and job creator for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers, our film and TV industry is a symbol of New York City’s reputation as the defining creative capital on the globe. I look forward to saying ‘Lights, Camera, Action!’ with the leaders of our film and TV industry at this unforgettable night.”
A tribute to the industry
Pat Swinney Kaufman, commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, added: “We are so proud to announce the return of the ‘Made in NY’ Awards ceremony at Gracie Mansion – this administration’s thank you to an industry that works tirelessly to ensure NYC remains a global filming hub, providing for and maintaining an ecosystem of jobs, tourism, innovation, premiere storytelling and world-renowned talent. The honorees that we will celebrate on October 28 embody what it means to be a New Yorker not only through their ongoing dedication to the craft but also to their devotion to the greatest city on earth.”
A personal reflection
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the return of the “Made in NY” Awards is a momentous occasion. It’s a celebration of the resilience and creativity that define New York City. The awards not only recognize the stars we see on screen but also the countless individuals behind the scenes who bring these stories to life. The expansion of production facilities and training programs is a testament to the city’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers.
For those interested in exploring the works of past recipients, here are some links to trailers and information pages:
The “Made in NY” Awards are more than just a ceremony; they are a celebration of the spirit of New York City, a city that continues to be a beacon of creativity and innovation in the entertainment industry.