Michael Califano a beloved, well respected and committed 3rd grade teacher at Maria Regina grammar school in Seaford New York was unjustly fired from his job by the Diocese of Rockville Centre. The Diocese made a decision to fire Michael based on his sexuality and nothing else. (The Diocese will of course, deny this.) Michael is devastated not only because he lost his job but he will truly miss his students and the place he called home his whole life. Going foward Michael will be facing some hard times financially keeping up with his everyday bills and paying for medical insurance. The outpouring of support has been amazing as Michael and his family truly appreciate all that this community has done to rally behind him. Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.

At Studio Theatre of Long Island, we believe that live theatre is more than entertainment — it’s a vital part of our community’s culture, creativity, and connection. Every performance we produce, every young actor we inspire, and every audience we welcome depends on the generous support of people like you.

As a not-for-profit theatre, your contributions help us:

• Produce bold and diverse programming
• Maintain our historic theatre space
• Offer educational opportunities for young artists
• Keep ticket prices accessible for all audiences

Your gift — large or small — ensures that the show goes on.

Help us keep the stage lights shining bright and the curtain rising for years to come.

Donate today and become part of our Studio family.

Because at Studio Theatre, everyone deserves a seat… onstage, backstage, and in the audience.

This scholarship fund established in 2020 after Gary’s tragic passing, will help to make theater accessible to ALL children who aspire to be one of our young actors in the Studio’s Youth Theatre Program.  

The scholarships are awarded to children who come from families with financial or personal hardships and who otherwise could not afford the gift of theatrical education.

Studio Theatre maintains a “no child left behind” standpoint which is supported by this fund.