Member Spotlight: Meet Rob Benson
Meet Rob Benson
As the Artistic Director of NYC Panto, Rob was thrilled to find another British ex-pat community when he first started attending SGSNY events. Learn more about Rob’s favorite Astoria haunts and what he finds makes SGSNY such a special network of New Yorkers.
How did you get involved with SGSNY?
St. George’s had been on my radar for a while, but I didn’t fully appreciate the amazing work and community until I connected with Claire Ruby and Steve Carpenter-Brown at Britnote. As Artistic Director of NYC Panto, New York’s only adult British-style pantomime, I was looking to connect with other Brits who might enjoy the show. Since joining, I’ve realized how special it is to meet such a wide range of British professionals, both personally and professionally. That shared cultural shorthand is something I didn’t know I was missing!
What’s your favorite part of being an SGSNY member?
The warmth and friendliness of the community. Within minutes of arriving at my first event, someone bought me a pint and we were chatting about football—and I could actually call it football, not soccer! The variety of events is fantastic, and I’m excited to explore more next year.
I also love that SGSNY supports education and opportunity in New York. Growing up in multicultural Bristol gave me a deep appreciation for diversity, and helping young people from all backgrounds thrive here feels deeply meaningful.
How has being part of SGSNY helped you as a newer New Yorker (personally and/or professionally)?
At my very first SGSNY event, I met Jim Kennedy, a lifelong panto fan and aspiring thespian. He’s since become a patron of NYC Panto and will even make a cameo as the Mayor of MunchkinLand in our production of The Wizard of Oz at the Parkside Lounge on December 16th!
If you can’t make that date, performances run from November 22nd to December 20th. Join us for some naughty, festive fun, and more info at www.nycpanto.com. Follow us on Instagram @nycpanto. SGSNY members even receive a special discount code! Email membership@stgeorgessociety.org for the code.What’s your favorite place in NYC? Favorite food or meal you’ve had since moving here?
I’m based in Astoria, so my favorites are local! The Museum of the Moving Image is a personal favorite, an actor’s dream, and a great place to take my muppet-obsessed six-year-old. For food, I love Astoria Seafood, a fish market where you pick your seafood, like in traditional English fishmongers, and tell them how to cook it. It’s BYOB, casual, and perfect for summer nights with friends.
If you have any questions regarding membership, please don't hesitate to contact the team at membership@stgeorgessociety.org or visit our Membership Page for more information.