NYC Community Director, Jason Seto, Discusses The Tony Awards Effect on The Washington Heights Community.

Jason Seto is an accomplished leader with a true passion for service and education in The Heights Community. Jason was recognized as a top executive producer of We Party’s Pride Festival event at the Javits Center during World Pride NYC 2019. This was one of his most notable career achievements. In addition to this major milestone, Seto had formed strategic partnerships with major players such as Broadway, Nickelodeon, Sony Pictures, Dreamworks, Eli Lilly and many more that have made his resume shine.  Beyond his work with large names within his field, Jason is proudest of his involvement with the United Federation of Teachers, believing that educational reform is needed in order to allow young people to experience improved learning opportunities. 

As NYC Community Director, Jason Seto is undoubtedly elated with the news that The Tony Awards will be held in his community at the local United Palace Theater in 2023. Broadway’s biggest night for the first time ever will be honoring the achievements of the theater community, which has to be seen that the sudden rise of media attention towards the Heights community was brought into place by Lin Miranda’s production ‘In The Heights’. Furthermore, even Madonna couldn’t pass up on highlighting this vibrant part of New York City by shooting her music video “Hung Up” on W.175th Street with Dominican 26-year-old up-and-coming rapper Tokischa. This newfound consistent media coverage has not only allowed more people to understand and appreciate the uniqueness and energy of the Heights, but also provided its citizens a platform for further enrichment and growth. 

NYC’s Heights is quickly becoming a beacon for artists and creatives alike. Just within the past year, the area has seen redevelopment and growth both in terms of infrastructure and culture. The recognition of special initiatives such as Lin Mirandas The Heights, Madonna and the Tony Awards have not only brought additional media attention to the area but also a wave of people eager to take part in what it has to offer. Local NYC Community Director Jason Seto is particularly proud of his community and the influx of people taking part in activities and events indigenous to The Heights. Not only does this increase exposure for the region, there have been substantial economic boosts as businesses in The Heights have reported an uptick in trade due to more people getting involved with their neighborhood. Whether it’s trendy restaurants or longtime establishments, more and more people are appreciating the various products and services available throughout the community. As Jason Seto puts it: “It’s truly amazing to see how much vibrant life through the entertainment business has been brought into The Heights – I’m thrilled to see what the next few years will bring.” Overall, NYC’s Heights are set for a period of prolonged success and prosperity, due largely in part to its embracing spirit towards its growing artistic presence. 

The Covid-19 pandemic was devastating to many cities around the world, with NYC being especially affected. After a year under the pandemic lockdown, everything felt stagnant in the city that never sleeps. Businesses closed, people moved out of the state, and the city’s streets were transformed into a ghost town. With its newfound media popularity, tourists were spoilt for choice between things to see and do in the storied borough situated just across the East River. Due to Jason Seto’s love for his NYC community – The Heights – he remains as hopeful as ever. With media hype over this historic neighborhood and its potential resurfacing, Jason sees nothing but opportunity in these difficult times for The Heights to finally make its comeback. Despite the difficulties so many faced during the pandemic, Seto continued to believe in his home and worked hard to make sure it achieved success once more.

Jason Seto is passionate about helping and developing his community. His excitement in seeing the progress of The Heights, a renowned Latin community in NYC, is palpable. The area’s newfound exposure means it can become more accessible to different people and businesses, thereby improving what was already precious. Artists and creatives will now find a haven in The Heights; considering its alluring environment, it can provide a great venue for artists of all kinds to assemble, work on their crafts, and settle in comfortably. It promises to be an incredible journey as the community flourishes with life.