Shadowbox Promoted Four Kaufman Astoria Studio Staff
The studio operator has elevated long-term employees to new management roles at the historic New York City campus.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in People
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Shadowbox Studios has promoted four longtime staff members at the historic Kaufman Astoria Studios. The move follows Shadowbox assuming management of the 500,000 square-foot facility in August 2026.
Why it matters
These leadership changes aim to recognize the contributions of long-term employees as Shadowbox works to streamline processes at the campus. The company also plans to invest in local workforce development in the Astoria neighborhood.
The campus spans 500,000 square feet and features 11 sound stages. The facility, originally built in 1920, faced a $340 million loan default in November 2025.
The players
Shadowbox Studios
This media infrastructure company currently manages the historic Kaufman Astoria Studios campus.
Pete Romano
He is the newly promoted executive vice president of operations who has a 43-year tenure at the studio.
Fay Samaras
She serves as the studio sales manager and has been with the organization for 10 years.
Sarah Tavolacci
She has been appointed to the role of chief of staff at the studio.
Christine McKenna
She now serves as the senior director of accounting and finance for the facility.
The details
Shadowbox took over operations at the historic studio after a court-appointed receiver managed the facility during foreclosure proceedings initiated by Deutsche Bank in April 2026. The new leadership team includes Pete Romano as executive vice president of operations, Fay Samaras as studio sales manager, Sarah Tavolacci as chief of staff, and Christine McKenna as senior director of accounting and finance.
Timeline
The Kaufman Astoria Studios facility was originally constructed in 1920.
The studio served as a U.S. Army production center from 1942 to 1970.
The owner defaulted on a $340 million loan in November 2025.
Deutsche Bank filed a foreclosure complaint against the studios in April 2026.
Shadowbox Studios assumed management of the site in August 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition follows the 2026 Deutsche Bank foreclosure filing and represents a shift in operational strategy for the historic site. These appointments signal the firm's attempt to stabilize management following significant financial distress at the campus.
Local residents and businesses may see changes in studio activity as the operator streamlines facility processes. The company's commitment to workforce development could provide new training and hiring opportunities for the local Astoria community.
The takeaway
The studio transitions from a period of foreclosure to internal restructuring under new management. Investors and industry observers will monitor how these leadership changes impact the facility's competitive standing in the local market.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by QNS.
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