Community Corner

'Orange is the New Black' Set to Begin Shooting at Jail

The popular Netflix series has local residents excited for their proverbial 15 minutes of fame.

After days of anticipation, the popular Netflix series "Orange is the New Black" is set to begin filming at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility in Riverside this week.

According to Chief Michael P. Sharkey, the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office chief of staff, shooting will take place in the jail's medium-security areas, in the housing and recreation sections.

Meanwhile, excitement is mounting as one of the hottest series on Netflix could be poised to shoot an episode on Friday on Main Street in downtown Riverhead.

According to Riverhead Town Deputy Supervisor Jill Lewis, the deal is in the process of being negotiated, but the possibility exists that the show could tape in downtown Riverhead on Friday. 

"I think it's wonderful that Riverhead is finally being recognized by people across not only Long Island, but across the nation, as a great place to be," said Riverhead Town Supervisor Sean Walter. "Having film crews come in and acknowledge what a great place Riverhead is, by filming here, is just wonderful."

According to Bob Castaldi, owner of the Suffolk Theater on Main Street, the details are still being negotiated and have not been firmed up, but the network has expressed interest in using the theater for a facade shot.

Also, he said, the possibility exists of using the theater as a place where extras can wait, do wardrobe changes, and use the facilities.

"It's pretty cool," Castaldi said. "I hope they do it. It would be great for the extras who will make some money. And Riverhead, and the theater, get to be put on the map. It's exciting. It's a lot of people's chance to be as as close to being movie stars as they'll ever get."

Recently, a call went out for Riverhead extras for scenes to be shot at the Suffolk County Correctional Facility in Riverside. 

Have you been chosen as an extra for "Orange is the New Black"? Share your story by emailing Lisa.Finn@patch.com.


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