STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Sundog Theatre’s annual “Come to the Carnival” benefit brought together educators and community members Wednesday night at LiGreci’s Staaten to celebrate the power of the arts and honor three Staten Islanders whose work has strengthened the borough’s creative community.
The event recognized Staten Island Advance “Inside Out” columnist Carol Ann Benanti; Dennis McKeon, executive director of Where to Turn and founder of The Prop Shop; and Yvette Washington-Wheatley, a longtime music educator and director of several community ensembles. Each honoree was celebrated for their steadfast devotion to the arts and their contributions to Staten Island’s cultural and educational life.
Others in attendance included Sundog Theatre staff and board members, such as Susan Fenley, executive and artistic director; Chris Ferrera, board member; Ellen Petillo, business manager; Victoria Colella, production manager; Julie Cadunzi, general manager; and Elyssa Paige, arts in education manager, among others.
The evening also highlighted Sundog Theatre’s ongoing impact on the community.
“Sundog has been telling stories that matter, stories that connect, inspire and educate, and whether it’s through our original productions, our touring shows, our acting classes, or arts education in schools, we aim to expand how people see themselves and the world through the arts,” said Fenley.
“We’re here to celebrate three remarkable honorees whose work reflects the heart and soul of Staten Island,” she added.
Following Fenley’s remarks, each honoree was recognized for their contributions to Staten Island’s arts and education community by receiving the Sundog Theatre Arts Champion 2025 award, along with certificates of recognition and honor on behalf of local elected officials.
Carol Ann Benanti, “Inside Out” columnist, a feature writer, and arts and entertainment reporter for Staten Island Advance/SILive.com, was presented with her award by Brian Laline, executive editor of the Advance and a longtime friend and colleague. Laline praised Benanti for becoming “the heart of people’s source of news on Staten Island.”
In her remarks, Benanti highlighted Sundog Theatre’s contributions to the community and the role of the Advance in sharing stories that connect and inform Staten Islanders.
“To be counted among these two exceptional individuals is a privilege beyond words,” she said.
Dennis McKeon, executive director of Where to Turn and founder of The Prop Shop, was presented with his award by environmental advocate Ed Burke. Burke praised McKeon for his dedication to the community, saying he “finds a need in our community and he does his damnedest to fill that. He uses compassion and his ingenuity to do it.”
In his remarks, McKeon thanked Sundog Theatre for the honor and shared how he first got into theatre through his son, James. Highlighting the value of theatre as an outlet for students, he said, “Shakespeare said the whole world is a stage. We’re just trying to help people figure out the plot.”
Yvette Washington-Wheatley, a longtime music educator and director of several community ensembles, was presented with her award by Mark Weissman, chairman of the arts at Staten Island Academy, Todt Hill. Weissman expressed his admiration, saying she helps everyone in her community, makes children feel seen and heard, and is “so much more than a gifted and master teacher of music.”
Said Washington-Wheatley: “It’s always humbling to be acknowledged for something I just love to do,I can’t think of anything that brings me more joy than watching the progress of children through the use of music.”
The carnival-themed event featured performances, games, activities, and raffle stations. Guests could try their luck at the ring and bean bag toss games, have their portraits drawn by a local artist, or get tarot card readings sponsored by Dr. Janet Leslie and Del Rey, Tanzi, Guglietta, D’Ambrosi CPAs LLC.
A raffle, sponsored by Comserv Connect, offered prizes, including gift baskets from local businesses, tickets to a Brooklyn Cyclones game, piano lessons with Hoffman Academy, signed memorabilia, gift cards to sports bars, and tickets to St. George Theatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz.
A silent auction included items, such as artwork by Sam Brandon, a $5,000 private photography session with an overnight luxury stay, and tickets to Broadway shows with hotel accommodations.
Sponsorships for the event were matched 2-to-1 by the Staten Island Foundation’s Diamond Match Grant.
About Sundog Theatre
The evening also highlighted Sundog Theatre’s role in the community. Last year, the theatre produced 106 programs on Staten Island, helping children become more engaged with learning through the arts. Sundog’s work in the borough continues to be deeply involved and transformational, offering opportunities that enrich the community and inspire creativity.
Sundog Theatre’s impact on the community was a central theme of the night. According to Fenley, the theatre reaches thousands of students, adults, and seniors each year, bringing theatre, music, movement, and visual arts into classrooms across New York City. Last year, Sundog’s school programs reached more than 20,000 students, and its educational tours were seen by over 12,000 people across the tri-state area.
“We see firsthand how creative expression builds confidence, empathy, and curiosity, and how it educates,” Fenley said. “That’s why your support matters so deeply. It ensures we can continue to serve schools and communities with the things they need the most.”