If you’re in the theatre, you already likely know of the beloved play, I Am A Camera, by playwright Jon Van Druten adapted from Christopher Isherwood's Berlin Stories. Any theatre fan wins the trivia question that it was the inspiration for the musical Cabaret. Well, if I were to write the story of my life, I might have to call it, I Am A Jukebox.

February 6, 2024

The 10 things you must do to create an unforgettable Jukebox Musical Experience. As a seasoned theatre professional with over 30 years of experience, I've seen the rise of jukebox musicals firsthand. Now, I'm here to share my insights on how to choose and stage the perfect jukebox musical that will leave your audience in awe.

February 7, 2024

As a child, I was utterly captivated by jukeboxes - those big, colorfully lit machines filled with music. For just a quarter, you could play three songs and immerse yourself in a world of melody. Sometimes, if you were lucky, a smaller version would be at your table in a restaurant or diner. I was so fascinated by this experience that I even had a "toy" replica that eventually wore out because I played it for at least eight hours daily. Along with playing with my toy jukebox, I would gather my neighborhood friends in my garage to put on shows built around my vast record collection. So, my affinity for jukebox musicals comes as no surprise.

April 25, 2024

In the theatre world, few names resound as luminously as Harold Prince. With a career that redefined not only Broadway but also the art of storytelling itself, Prince cemented his legacy as a giant in the industry. His book, Contradictions: Notes on Twenty-six Years in the Theatre, serves as a memoir and a masterclass in producing and directing. It offers an unparalleled glimpse into the mind of a genius who dared to dream differently.

May 22, 2024

One of the most cherished projects I've had the pleasure of directing and choreographing was the stage adaptation of Singin' in the Rain. Considered by many to be the greatest movie musical of all time, Singin' in the Rain is a masterpiece that explodes with joy and the exuberant essence of musical theatre. When I first experienced the movie, I immediately saw it as a stage musical and hoped that someday someone would allow me to realize that dream. 

June 20, 2024

At their best, musicals seamlessly integrate story, song, and dance. A director's job is to create a cohesive narrative that binds these elements together.‍Mastering the art of musical theater is an intricate dance of storytelling, emotion, and technical prowess. Directing a musical amplifies this complexity. It can be an exciting challenge or a headache, but for those of us compelled to take on the challenge, it often becomes a lifelong obsession to perfect our skills.

July 23, 2024

I joined the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) in 1990 when I was asked to mount a production of Jesus Christ Superstar that had begun at Paper Mill Playhouse, originally staged and directed by Robert Johansson and Susan Stroman.

September 19, 2024

This summer, I spent most of August in an audition room at Pearl Studios in New York City. It reminded me once again of the essential qualities that transform aspiring artists into successful professionals. I was in awe of the number of genuinely dedicated and resilient performers pursuing their dreams. These are the craftsmen of our industry—the troubadours. They are the heartbeat of our profession. It was a powerful reminder that behind every successful artist lies a journey filled with dedication and unshakeable perseverance. 

October 17, 2024