May 25, 2018
The NYSBDC is proud to award Doreen Cugno and Luanne Sorrentino with the 2018 Community Revitalization Business of the Year Award for the St. George Theatre. Doreen and her sister Luanne accepted this award on Tuesday, May 22nd 2018 during the NY SBDC State Conference in Palisades, New York.
The Staten Island Small Business Development Center began assisting the St. George Theatre in 2007 and continues to work with them through present day. By utilizing the counseling services of the SBDC and the capabilities of the NYS Research Network, Doreen and Luanne were able to access detailed demographic maps and work with Director Dean Balsamini on financial projections for the growth of the Theatre. Throughout the years of developing a well-rounded business plan and growth strategies with the SBDC, the St. George Theatre was able to reach new heights and new developments.
The St. George Theatre is a 1,900-seat performing arts center that hosts an array of live entertainment from Tony Bennett to Disney Live! The theatre is host to many local events and graduations, even the Miss New York Pageant. The annual Christmas Show, starring many local performers, is a beloved tradition in the Staten Island community. It provides the ideal forum for community outreach programs, educational programs and public performances.
The long-awaited installation of the new high-tech LED marquee signage began in March 2018, officially ushering the historic venue into the modern age. The new addition is part of a $5.2 million renovation project that began in summer 2017, when the theatre closed for a makeover featuring a new mezzanine, carpeting reminiscent of the original 1929 design, and the new marquee. Doreen and her family have won many prestigious awards for saving the theater.
Doreen Cugno, Luanne Sorrentino, and their family & staff have made the difference in making the local underserved area a cultural, educational and entertainment hub for all ages. They are the pioneers in developing what was once a vibrant community center back to its former prominence.