In the sprawling, bustling state of New York, where skyscrapers reach for the stars and the bright lights of Broadway sparkle like a thousand tiny suns, a group of kids known as the “CineMinis” are creating a buzz. These aren't your typical New Yorkers. No, sir! These are pint-sized directors, producers, scriptwriters, and actors, all rolled into one! They're the dazzling darlings of the New York filmmaking scene and believe it or not, they're still in grade school! New York itself is a state that's as lively as a popcorn machine and as colorful as a rainbow in a bag of skittles. It's got everything! Tall buildings, a giant green lady holding a torch, the world's biggest apple (they don't call it the Big Apple for nothing), and of course, our CineMinis. The CineMinis, led by their fearless leader named Bob - a talking hot dog with sunglasses and a funky hat, who hails from Coney Island - spend their days creating masterpiece films. Bob, despite being a hot dog, has a knack for telling hilarious jokes that would make a hyena laugh until it hiccuped! These kids, equipped with their cameras, creativity and Bob’s witty one-liners, explore the nooks and crannies of New York, transforming the concrete jungle into magical movie sets. From the neon-lit Times Square to the serene Central Park, they capture the essence of New York with a sprinkle of their unique kiddie charm. So, if you ever find yourself in the Empire State and see a group of energetic kids followed by a talking hot dog, remember - you've just had a CineMinis encounter! And who knows, you might just end up being part of their next blockbuster!
Read moremore filmmaking programs near Dix Hills, NY

DEBUT Creative Center & Theater-Studio is a dual-language (English–Russian) program where kids explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression. From theater and dance to fencing and stage performance, children can try new activities and discover their unique talents. Small class sizes let instructors give each child personalized attention, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and confident as they learn. Kids build artistic skills while also developing social confidence, teamwork, and poise on stage and in everyday life. Our programs celebrate each child’s individuality, combining fun, hands-on experiences with a focus on personal growth—all while keeping Russian language and culture an important part of the curriculum.

Parents Magazine is proud to announce the completion of Passport NYC's five-year run. This special program, which helped teens entering 9th through 12th grades explore their passions through one of five specialty programs, was a truly unique and life-changing experience. From Fashion to the Music Industry, participating teens had the opportunity to explore their interests, build community, and earn up to 30 hours of Community Service Credit while living in a supervised environment at the 92Y Residence. The legacy of Passport NYC will live on, as teens who experienced the program will carry with them the memories, skills, and values they learned over the course of their time there. As the program has been put on hold, we are hopeful that Passport NYC will return in the future, so that more teens will have the opportunity to take part in this amazing summer experience.