2018 Craftsmanship Award Recipient

Neil A. Mazzella, Chairman, Hudson Scenic Studio Inc.

 Our honoree this year is Neil A. Mazzella. Mr. Mazzella is Co-Founder and Chairman of Hudson Scenic Studio Inc., a company regarded as a world leader in scenic construction and automation. Hudson Theatrical Associates is an arm of Hudson Scenic that supervises the installation of many of the shows they fabricate. Neil Mazzella is renowned as “The Builder of Broadway’s World.” (The New York Times).

Hudson Scenic Studio has provided technical design and engineering, custom fabrication, scenic decoration, and theatrical automation for over 450 Broadway shows, as well as touring theatrical productions. Hudson’s marquee Broadway credits include: Hamilton, Harry Potter and The Cursed Child, A Bronx Tale, My Fair Lady, Aladdin, Matilda, The Producers, Mamma Mia!, The Lion King, Chicago, Les Misérables, Miss Saigon and The Phantom of the Opera.  In 2008, Hudson provided the labor and scenic elements for the Papal Mass at Yankee Stadium.  Hudson also engineered and fabricated the world-famous Time Square Ball that rings in the New Year.

Neil Mazzella is a retired member of Local One IATSE and has had close connections with unions all his life. Being a union member was in his blood. He comes from a Staten Island family where his father and his extended family were all members of the International Longshoremen’s Association. His mother’s family were members of Civil Service unions, including the NYPD.

Throughout its nearly four decades, Hudson Scenic has employed thousands of Local One IATSE and Local USA 829 members in the production of Broadway shows and special events.

The General Society of Mechanics & Tradesmen looks forward to recognizing Neil A. Mazzella for his contributions to craftsmanship, labor and the City of New York.