STUDIO SPOTLIGHT – YORK STUDIOS
York Studios—located in Maspeth, Queens—opened its doors in July 2012 and has quickly become an invaluable addition to the film and television industry. The 40,000 square-foot production facility is made up of a 13,000 square foot sound stage, hair and make-up rooms, private dressing rooms, wardrobe rooms, set storage warehouses, carpentry shops for props and plenty of onsite parking. Production companies can take advantage of a total package at York Studios with access to offices, high-speed internet and key telephone systems.
As one of the newest studios to be added to the New York State list of Qualified Production Facilities, the idea to create York Studios was inspired when George York and his partners witnessed New York’s commitment to the film and television production industry. In particular, York noted the increased employment and business after Governor Cuomo enhanced and extended the New York State Film Production Credit Program. According to York, “Due to the economic impact the tax incentive created, it was our decision to venture into the entertainment business.” Aware of the continued growth of the film industry in New York State, York and his team have future plans to convert other existing buildings into qualified stages. This is great news for film in New York because, as the incentive continues to attract more and more projects to the Empire State, additional facilities will be needed to accommodate the increased production.
Two major Warner Bros productions were among the first to film at York Studios—Non-Stop, starring Liam Neeson and Julianne Moore, and This Is Where I Leave You, starring Jason Bateman and Rose Byrne. Even Sony’s mega-budget The Amazing Spider-Man 2 touched down for a time at York while it was filming this summer. This fall, York Studios will be buzzing when Lionsgate starts filming John Wick, starring Keanu Reeves and Julianne Hough.
In recent news, York Studios is now being managed by Executive Vice President of Operations, John Battista. Battista served 11 years as the Deputy Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting and is a well respected and well versed member of the industry. He will not only ensure that productions continue to have a seamless experience while filming at York, but will be a key asset in continuing the studio’s vision moving forward.
34-02 Laurel Hill Boulevard
