Documentary

The Chocolate Factory's Fourth Annual Gala, honoring Chocolate Factory Co-Founder / Executive Director Emerita Sheila Lewandowski. Hosted by Becca Blackwell. Performance by Ayano Elson. Food by Little Chef Little Cafe.

Join us on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, for an unforgettable evening at The Chocolate Factory Theater’s Fourth Annual Gala as we proudly honor this year’s Artist In Industry Award recipient: Sheila Lewandowski, Co-founder and Executive Director Emerita. Sheila’s vision, passion, and tireless dedication are the very foundation of The Chocolate Factory Theater. Over the decades, she has poured her heart and soul into building a home for our community of artists and groundbreaking work—transforming a dream into a vital cultural institution.

Please support our end of year campaign to raise $40,000 by June 30th.

It is with mixed emotions and profound gratitude that The Chocolate Factory Theater announces the departure of its Co-Founder and Executive Director Sheila Lewandowski, after more than twenty years of dedicated service to the Queens-based incubator for experimental performance. Lewandowski will step down on June 30, 2025.

Rent The Chocolate Factory Theater's Unique Raw Warehouse!

The Chocolate Factory's Third Annual Gala, honoring New York State Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado, Leah Krauss (Mertz Gilmore Foundation), and Jimmy Van Bramer (Former Councilmember + Cultural Chair). Hosted by Paul Lazar. Performance by Levi Gonzalez + Kayvon Pourazar. Food by Little Chef Little Cafe.

We are partnering with some of our go-to local restaurants for this spring’s Happy Hour, Dinner & A Show. Show your ticket or confirmation email for a daily special at the restaurants below!

Please join Vallejo Gantner, Diana Manalang, and the Board of The Chocolate Factory Theater for an intimate reception to celebrate the 2023/2024 Season and toast the future!