Trisha Paytas' Big Broadway Dream

Grantors

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Sponsors

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Donors

Tributes

Performers

Trisha Patyas

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Star

Amber Ardolino

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Leading Player

Morgan Bryant

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Ensemble

Joshua Dawson

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Ensemble

Beau Harmon

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Ensemble

Lena Matthews

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Ensemble

Jimena Flores Sanchez

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Ensemble

Michael Santomassimo

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Ensemble

Setting

All net proceeds from Trisha Paytas' Big Broadway Dream will benefit the Entertainment Community Fund.

Songs & Scenes

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Production Staff

Benson Drive Productions

George Strus, CEO

Producer

Kobi Kassal

Press Representative

DKC/O&M: Rick Miramontez Kendal Edwards

Production Manangement

Juniper Street Productions: Hillary Blanken Victoria Bullard Guy Kwan Ana Rose Greene Ross Leonard Sadie Alisa Hannah Wilson Abby Filiaggi Carolyn Bonaccorsi Chris Childs Burkett Horrigan Laura Zamsky Z Zurovitch Kara Kennedy

Production Counsel

Loeb & Loeb LLP: David Manella, Esq

Production Stage Manager

Fatimah Amill

Assistant Stage Manager

John Carpentier

Associate Director

Maya Quetzali Gonzalez

Assistant Choreographer

Michael Milkanin

Props

Propstar LLC

Assistant Scenic Designer

Bridget Lindsay

Assistant Sound Designer

Len DeNio

Associate Projection Designer

Sydney Dye

Assistant Projection Designer

Stefania Bulbarella Taylor Gordon

Associate Costume Designer

Martín Lara Avila

Projection Programmer

Cheyenne Doczi

Costume Assistant

Emma Pollet

Production Design Intern

Jourdan Alexander

Moving Light Programmer

Jonah Camiel

Key Art

Carianne Older

Graphic Designer

Eric Emch

Fiscal Sponsor

Producer Hub

Music Coordinator

M2 Music/Michael Aarons

Sunset BLVD Production Manangement

Hudson Scenic

Social Media

Austin Spero

Influencer Strategy

Our Time Influence

Ticketing Consultant

Alan Koolik

Production Assistants

George Massood Alex Dash

Accounting

WithumSmith+Brown Robert Fried, CPA Karen Kowgios, CPA Anthony W. Moore, CPA Scott Bartolf, CPA

Bookkeeping

STT Line Items

Banking

City National Bank Rita Marie Pelosi Roberto Larrinaga-Yocom

Insurance

Aon Albert G. Ruben Insurance Services Claudia Kaufman

Merchandising

Creative Goods

Videographer

Andrew Patino

Digital Program

Marquee Digital

Showtown Theatricals

Founder & CEO

Nathan Gehan

Creative Producer & Partner

Jamison Scott

General Managers

Samuel Dallas Rebecca Crigler

Director of Operations

Michael Fiske

Finance Manager

Matthew Sycle

Associate General Manager

Jessica Morrow Matthew Sycle

Contracts Manager

Ryan Logue

Finance & Operations Assistant

Alexander Friedland

General Management Fellow

Tatiana Montes

Venue Staff

School Administration Staff

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Musicians

Conductor/Keyboard

Patrick Sulken

Guitars

Nate Brown

Bass

Yuka Tadano

Drums

Dan Weiner

Violin

MJ Stilip

Reeds

Noelle Rueschman

Board Members

Student Advisory Board

Credits

Lighting equipment from PRG Lighting, sound equipment from Sound Associates, rehearsed at The Public Theater’s Rehearsal Studios. Developed as part of Irons in the Fire at Fault Line Theatre in New York City.

Special Thanks

Production Resource Group, The Producers and Crew of SUNSET BLVD, Henry Tisch & Sean Walsh, Ali Edwards, James Silverstein, Rishka Mehra, Jordanna Brody, David J. Lynch, Instagram, Kevin Sikorski, Emily Dunetz, Travis Eller, Lydia Fotiadou, Jamie Kaye-Phillips, Michelle Palm Martin, Corey Steinfast, Anna Speer, Brandon Ranalli, Nick Nazzaro, The Wicked Movie, Big Gay Jamboree, and Megan Hilty’s bio in Death Becomes Her, Lisa Zinni and Bad Monkey Props LLC.

TRISHA PAYTAS’ BIG BROADWAY DREAM rehearsed at Roundabout Theatre Studios.

"I Am What I Am" from La Cage Aux Folles
Written by Jerry Herman
Courtesy of Jerryco Music Co. (ASCAP)

"What I Did For Love" from A Chorus Line
Written by Edward Kleban, Marvin Hamlisch
Courtesy of Wren Music Co., A Division Of MPL Music Publishing, Inc. (BMI)

"Take Me or Leave Me" from Rent
Words and Music by JONATHAN D. LARSON
(c) UNIVERSAL MUSIC CORP. ON BEHALF OF ITSELF AND FINSTER & LUCY MUSIC LTD. CO. (ASCAP) / 100% interest for the Territory

*Appearing through an Agreement between this theatre and Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States.

“Actors’ Equity Association (“Equity”), founded in 1913, is the U.S. labor union that represents more than 51,000 actors and stage managers, Equity fosters the art of live theatre as an essential component of society and advances the careers of its members by negotiating wages, improving working conditions and providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. Actors’ Equity is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an International organization of performing arts unions. www.actorsequity.org

United Scenic Artists ● Local USA 829 of the I.A.T.S.E represents the Designers & Scenic Artists for the American Theatre

ATPAM, the Association of Theatrical Press Agents & Managers (IATSE Local 18032), represents the Press Agents, Company Managers, and Theatre Managers employed on this production.

Meet the Cast

Trisha Patyas

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Star

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Since the mid-2000s, Paytas has played a pivotal role in shaping the social media landscape for content creators while amassing well over 20 million loyal followers across her socials and garnering over 2 billion views on YouTube alone. From lifestyle vlogs to ASMR content to cosplay videos, Paytas has consistently demonstrated her versatility and creativity across all platforms. Beyond her digital presence, Paytas has expanded her reach by guest-starring in 50+ television shows and films (Most notably The Tonight Show, America’s Got Talent, Modern Family, and Celebrity Big Brother), as well as delving into the music and podcast spaces. Celebrated for her distinctively offbeat sense of humor and unapologetic nature, Paytas has navigated through adversities in her career to emerge as a beacon of resilience and inspiration working with brands like Elf Cosmetics, Living Proof, Liquid Death, SeatGeek, and many more. Embracing monumental life milestones including sobriety, marriage, and motherhood, she has cultivated a newfound sense of purpose and garnered a following of adoring fans. Today, while continuing to produce her signature blend of comedic and unconventional content, Trisha Paytas prioritizes her personal well-being and family. Through her candid humor, vulnerability, and unwavering commitment to self-expression, she serves as an emblem of mental health advocacy and authenticity, resonating profoundly with multiple generations of audiences.

Amber Ardolino

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Leading Player

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Last seen starring as Marcia Murphey in A Beautiful Noise on Broadway. Previous Broadway credits include the Original Broadway Casts of Back to the Future, Funny Girl, Moulin Rouge and Head Over Heels. You may have also seen Amber in the Broadway or Original Chicago Company of Hamilton. TV/Film credits include “Elsbeth,” “Law and Order,” In The Heights and “Fosse/Verdon.”

Morgan Bryant

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Ensemble

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Previously seen as Karen in the Mean Girls 1st National Tour, Chiffon in Little Shop of Horrors Off-Bway, and Samantha in My Best Friends Wedding Ogunquit World Premiere. Thrilled to spread joy with this amazing cast. Thank you to all of the family, teachers and friends who told me ‘you can.’ I love you.

Joshua Dawson

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Ensemble

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Joshua is thrilled to be making his Broadway debut tonight. Credits: MJ the Musical (Tour), Jelly’s Last Jam, NBC Upfronts. BFA Pace Commercial Dance. Special thanks to his Mom and Dad, Mrs. Treshawn, MSA, Calli Company

Beau Harmon

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Ensemble

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Broadway Debut! TV/Film: “SYTYCD” (Season 17, Top 6), “IF”, “SNL”. Stage: Death Becomes Her (Cadillac Palace), Crazy For You (Asolo Rep), NBC Upfront (Radio City). BFA, TXST MT. Love and thanks to Bloc and his family, given and chosen.

Lena Matthews

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Ensemble

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Lena is thrilled to join Trisha on stage tonight! Off-Broadway: A Sign of the Times. Tour: Jesus Christ Superstar. Regional: Carousel, Newsies, All Shook Up. Special thank you to Bob Matthews and Sarah Meahl!

Jimena Flores Sanchez

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Ensemble

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First National tour: Moulin Rouge! The Musical (u/s Babydoll). TV: “Girls5Eva” (Netflix). Regional: Ariel in Footloose, Diana Morales in A Chorus Line, Sweet Charity, Evita, May We All. Previous professional ballerina. Grateful for family, D. Michael Heath and CESD!

Michael Santomassimo

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Ensemble

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Broadway Debut! Pace University B.F.A. Commercial Dance and LaGuardia High School (Concert Dance). Credits: 42nd Street (Broadway Music Circus), The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, BATB (The Muny), Guys and Dolls (Maltz Jupiter) “Upfronts” (NBCUniversal), Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Ensemble).

Meet the Team

Skylar Fox

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Director

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Skylar is an Obie Award-winning director, writer, and designer, and the co-artistic director of Nightdrive, where he has directed, designed, and co-written The Grown-Ups, Alien Nation, Providence, RI, Thank You Sorry, and Apathy Boy. He also creates magic for theatre. Broadway: Once Upon A Mattress, Fat Ham; associate designer for Harry Potter & the Cursed Child, Back to the Future, and A Beautiful Noise. Off-Broadway/International: Cats: The Jellicle Ball (PAC), The Preacher’s Wife (Alliance), The Comeuppance (Signature, Almeida), You Will Get Sick (Roundabout), Wicked, Matilda (São Paulo) and Damn Yankees (Shaw Festival). He still can’t believe he’s doing this. www.nightdrive.org

Sarah Meahl

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Choreographer

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Broadway choreographic debut! New York: IP-ASOY LIVE 2023, STEPS Professional Performance, 2023 Easter Bonnet Competition (dir./chor). Other: Hersheypark 2024 Season (dir/chor), Virgin Voyages. Sarah Teaches her “Meahl In Heels” class at Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center. Faculty at The Joffrey School, IAMT, BAA (Dance Director). Broadway: currently Death Becomes Her (OBC); Hello, Dolly!; Kiss Me, Kate!; Bad Cinderella (OBC); Cirque du Soleil’s Paramour. Regional credits for days! TV/Film: Isn’t It Romantic?, Macys Parades, Tony Awards, The Today Show. Laduca shoes recently released a shoe in Sarah’s honor: “The Showstopper”.

Patrick Sulken

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Music Supervision, Arrangements, and Orchestrations

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Patrick was most recently the music director of Teeth at New World Stages. Broadway: Pretty Woman (MD), & Juliet, Once Upon A Mattress, Beetlejuice, Mean Girls, Kinky Boots, Anastasia, Something Rotten!, Gigi. Off-Broadway: Little Shop of Horrors, We Are The Tigers, Gigantic. Regional: Double Helix (Bay Street), Fly (La Jolla Playhouse). National Tour: Peter and the Starcatcher. He is the arranger and orchestrator of Alice in Wonderland, Jr. and Dare to Dream, Jr. for Disney Theatrical.

Michael Aarons

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Music Coordinator

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Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Broadway: All In; Sunset Blvd; & Juliet; Moulin Rouge!; Hamilton; Aladdin. Upcoming Broadway: Boop!; Smash; Old Friends; Pirates of Penzance; Real Women Have Curves. Off- Broadway: Little Shop of Horrors. Current tours: Hamilton; & Juliet; Mamma Mia!; Moulin Rouge!; The Wiz.

Fatimah Amill

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Production Stage Manager

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Broadway/Regional: Tammy Faye, Merrily We Roll Along, Fat Ham, The Devil Wears Prada, Trouble in Mind, The Rose Tattoo. Select Off Broadway: Merrily We Roll Along (New York Theatre Workshop); Confederates, Fires in the Mirror (Signature); Something Clean, Apologia (Roundabout); Twelfth Night (Public Theater Delacorte). National Tour: Hamilton (And Peggy Company). Graduate of the University of Arizona. For Blanca.

Caitlin Berg

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Co-Producer

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Caitlin fell in love with Broadway after being banned from cat shows in 2009. Co-producing and associate producer credits: Suffs (Tony® nomination), Sunset BLVD., Romeo + Juliet, All In, Cellino v. Barnes, Dear Everything. Upcoming: Sherlock Holmes.

Sarafina Bush

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Costume Design

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Broadway: The Outsiders, The Who’s Tommy, How to Dance in Ohio, For Colored Girls... (Tony Award Nominee), Pass Over. Off-Broadway: Shit. Meet. Fan. (MCC), Oliver! (City Center Encores), Evanston Salt Costs Climbing (The New Group), Heroes of the Fourth Turning (Obie Award: Playwrights Horizons), Broadway Bounty Hunter (Greenwich House). Regional: The Preacher’s Wife (Alliance Theatre), Peter Pan (Tour), Life After (Goodman Theatre). Education: BA, Adelphi University.

Kelsey Fox

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Additional Material

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Kelsey is an LA-based writer, who most recently worked with Amazon (script-coordinator, “Criminal”), Sony, Playstation, and The Orchard Project (development fellowship). This is their Broadway Debut and hopefully not their Broadway finale. Thank you Skylar, Molly, Mom, Dad, Cosmo, Teddy, their LA community, and LAFD.

Carson Gleberman

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Co-Producer

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Broadway co-producer: The Kite Runner, Bob Fosse’s Dancin’, Bright Star (Tony nomination), and Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (Tony Award). Investor in Broadway and West End. Board member of Page 73 Productions, which supports early career playwrights toward their first New York City productions.

Simon Henriques

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Additional Material

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Simon is an actor, writer, and co-artistic director of the theatre company Nightdrive. He co-wrote the play The Grown-Ups, which was one of Time Out New York’s top ten productions of the year and is published by Concord Theatricals. He has been a resident artist at Ars Nova and the Williamstown Theatre Festival, and a semifinalist for the Relentless Award. He currently works as a member of the acting company at the Mercury Store, and his comedy writing has been published by The New Yorker and McSweeney’s. Tonight is his Broadway debut…Trisha vibes basically.

Caite Hevner

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Production Design

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Broadway: Derren Brown: SECRET; In Transit; Harry Connick Jr., A Celebration of Cole Porter. Select New York: Between the Lines (Drama Desk nomination); Sweatshop Overlord, (Lortel nomination); MTC; MCC; Primary Stages; Roundabout; Manhattan Concert Productions/Lincoln Center. Hundreds of productions in New York, regionally, and internationally. Video Coordinator for BC/EFA’s Broadway Bares since 2018. Local USA 829, IATSE: Eastern Regional Board, Member Representative, and Respectful Workplace co-chair.

Kobi Kassal

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Producer

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Kobi is thrilled to be working on what has turned into the wildest project of his life. From writing a silly April Fool’s Day article on Theatrely 308 days ago to sitting here tonight, he couldn’t be more proud. In his normal life, he serves as Editor-in-Chief of Theatrely, a Gen-Z focused digital media company spotlighting Broadway & beyond. He would like to thank Trisha for jumping into this crazy idea, his producing partner-in-crime George who is the best producer around, and everyone who made this show happen. Much love to Mom, Dad, Kapiolani, Alex, Alan, Leana and all his besties.

Joriah Kwamé

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Opening Composer

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Joriah is a musical theater writer known for the viral song “Little Miss Perfect,” which he is developing into a musical coming to stages in 2025. He co-wrote “Top of the World” with Pasek and Paul, performed by Shawn Mendes in Sony Picture’s Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. He is the songwriter for DreamWorks’ Trolls stage adaptation. With numerous musicals in development, both adaptations and originals, he is a 2020 Johnny Mercer Songwriting Project alum and a 2022-23 Dramatists Guild Foundation Fellow. Joriah thanks Alex Gold, his friends and family, and anyone who supported his journey to the Broadway stage.

Cory Pattak

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Lighting Design

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Broadway: The Great Gatsby, A Wonderful World, Spamalot. Off-Broadway: The Lucky Star, Final Follies, Stalking the Bogeyman, Handle with Care, Unlock’d. Regional: 12 Broadway Center Stage shows for the Kennedy Center, Barrington Stage Company, Paper Mill Playhouse, Old Globe, Weston Playhouse, Portland Stage, Ordway Theatre, Goodspeed, Kansas City Rep, Everyman Theatre, Philadelphia Theatre Company, Asolo Rep, Alabama Shakespeare, Tuacahn, Ogunquit Playhouse, Miami New Drama. International: Sunset Boulevard, Singin’ in the Rain, Pretty Woman (Brazil).

Benson Drive Productions

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Producer

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Benson Drive Productions is an NY-based production company developing projects from the mind of George Strus (they/them), who grew up on Benson Drive dreaming of making theatre. Upcoming productions include Stephen Sondheim’s The Frogs (Off-West End, May 2025). Projects in development include Amber Ruffin’s Bigfoot, Jake Brasch’s Trip Around the Sun, and others to be announced. George’s co-producing credits include Illinoise (Tony nomination), Oh Mary!, Romeo + Juliet, The Roommate, and All In. George founded the Obie Award-winning Breaking the Binary Theatre and is the latest recipient of the prestigious Prince Fellowship. Most importantly, George is a proud, lifelong blndsundoll4mj stan.

Juniper Street Productions

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Juniper Street Productions formed in 1998, JSP has managed more than 100 Broadway, Off-Broadway and national tours. This season: All In, Buena Vista Social Club, Death Becomes Her, Elf, Good Night and Good Luck, John Proctor is the Villain, Just in Time, Picture of Dorian Gray, Real Women Have Curves, Romeo & Juliet, Swept Away, The Last Five Years, The Roommate.

Joshua D. Reid

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Sound Design

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he/him

Joshua is a sound and systems designer, based in New York City; and has worked extensively on Broadway, Off-Broadway, Regional and International Productions, National Tours and Sound System Installations. Recent design selections include: The Preacher’s Wife (Alliance Theatre), RENT (Stratford Festival), A Christmas Carol (Broadway: w/ Jefferson Mays, Tony Nomination, Outer Critics Circle Award), Ragtime (Calgary Philharmonic), Million Dollar Quartet (Theatre Calgary), A Little Night Music (Arizona Opera), Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (National Tours), The Color Purple (National Tour), Girlfriend (TheatreWorks Hartford, CT Critics Circle Award), Jerry Springer: The Opera (Signature Theatre), A Time Like This (Carnegie Hall).

Showtown Theatricals

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General Manager

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Broadway/Tour: Oh Mary!, Job, How To Dance In Ohio, Parade (Broadway/ Tour), Just For Us, Into the Woods (Broadway/ Tour), A Christmas Carol (Broadway/Tour), In Residence on Broadway, The Jimmy Awards, Notre Dame de Paris (Lincoln Center) OB: Mind Mangler, A Sherlock Carol. Upcoming: Galileo, Anne of Green Gables, and Romy & Michele.

Media

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2021 National Touring Cast

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George Clooney, Jennifer Simard, Tom Francis, More 2025 Tony Nominees React

Theatrely Staff

May 1, 2025

This season has been one of the most exciting years in recent Broadway memory thanks to the incredible work of artists center stage and behind the curtain. Click here to see the full list of 2025 Tony Award Nominations and below are just some reactions from from the stars and artists themselves:

“It’s a thrill to have 5 nominations for this play. For everyone involved, this has been an incredible experience. I couldn’t be more proud or feel more lucky.” - George Clooney, first time nominee for his Broadway debut in Good Night, and Good Luck

“This is absolutely wild. I am stunned and a bit lost for words. To be recognized among this incredible group of artists is an unbelievable honor and beyond my wildest dreams. Massive congratulations to my fellow nominees and all the nominated shows this season.” Tom Francis, Tony Nominee – Best Performance by a Lead Actor in a Musical, SUNSET BLVD.

“My mother was my softball coach and instilled in me the meaning of teamwork. We at Death Becomes Her are a team and I am so grateful for every single player who makes me better. Thank You to the Tony Award nominating committee for this incredible honor.” – Jennifer Simard

“This Nomination represents a tireless cast of dancers dedicated to sharing a tsunami of JOY with audiences 8 times a week. I am grateful to their FULLOUT dedication to every step , kick, tap and turn. Nothing makes me happier than being in a room creating dance, Broadway dance that makes audiences hearts cheer.” -Jerry Mitchell, BOOP! The Musical

“I’m thrilled, elated, and slightly stunned. There is no other show I would want to experience my first nomination on. This was the perfect combination of collaboration, creative freedom, trust, and support. I’m so excited for George, Scott, Heather, David and Daniel on their nominations. And of course, thanks to David Cromer, Grant Heslov and George Clooney on their extraordinary vision!” - Brenda Abbandandolo, Good Night, and Good Luck, Best Costume Design of a Play

“I grew up in a small town in rural Appalachian Georgia; as a teenager, and for a long time after, I felt like I needed to shed my Southern-ness to be taken seriously as an artist. For John Proctor is the Villain, a play about Southern teenage girls, to be nominated for 7 Tony awards is so special I can hardly believe it. And what a surreal joy to be in the company of these other playwrights whose work I’ve long admired and adored, and to share John Proctor’s nominations with our incomparable director, Danya Taymor, and our brilliant actors and designers. I am humbled, and thrilled, and I can’t feel my face or hands.” - Kimberly Belflower, playwright and first-time Tony nominee for her Broadway debut

“The brilliant Kimberly Belflower’s play John Proctor is the Villain is raw, primal, hilarious and told from the vantage point of young women. Thank you to the Tony nominating committee for taking these teenage girls seriously and for seeing and honoring that mysterious alchemy that occurs between playwright, actor, designer and director—this was a true collaboration. To be nominated alongside so many incredible talented artists in the theater community of all disciplines is a huge honor and I’m beyond grateful.” - Danya Taymor, nominee for Best Direction of a Play

“What an incredible honor it is to be nominated in this talent-packed season. I’m so touched that our beautiful play, written by the undeniable Kimberly Belflower, is being recognized for the lightning bolt of truth that it is. The fact that Sadie and Fina are being recognized for their work moves me to no end. It’s no coincidence that the play, the actors and the designers are all doing top-level work when we’re being led by the incredible Danya Taymor. She’s truly singular as an artist and as a leader, and I’m very happy that she’s being recognized for her work. What can I say? I love this play. I love the great group of people that I get to go to work with every day. I love that our play seems to be speaking to our audience, especially our young audience members, on an incredibly deep level. It’s a privilege. I’m so grateful to the nominators. That green light….I want it.” - Gabriel Ebert, nominee for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play

“Honestly, I didn’t expect this! I burst into tears. I wish my mom were here – she would have been so proud of me. I’m so overwhelmed with gratitude to be among these nominees, as this is just the best community in the world. I’m still in the “oh my god, oh my god, oh my god” mode!” - Mia Farrow, first time Tony Award nominee

“I am truly overwhelmed and deeply honored to be nominated for best direction of a musical for my work on Maybe Happy Ending. Collaborating with this incredible team of artists on Will Aronson and Hue Park's brilliant musical has been a highlight of my career and life as an artist. I am also so proud of the work done by our stars Helen J Shen, Darren Criss, Dez Duron, and Marcus Choi. Special thanks to Justin Scribner, our steadfast PSM and the incredible crew at the Belasco Theater who make the magic happen nightly. Bravo and congrats to all the shows on Broadway this season!” - Michael Arden, Tony Nominee – Best Direction of a Musical

"I’m overjoyed and overwhelmed and over par to be nominated for a Tony Award. Coming to Broadway has been a lifelong dream. I’m grateful for the warmth and openness of this gorgeous community and to SpitLip and the entire Operation Mincemeat team for the untold joy that this show continues to bring." - Jak Malone for his nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical

"To even be in this season, among the absolute best in this business feels utterly surreal. Huge congratulations to the other nominees, many of whom are our all-time heroes and inspirations. We love comedy, we love theatre, we love this story and telling it. To the city of New York and Broadway itself, we are so humbled by this welcome. Now we must stop screaming, we have a show tonight." - David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts (SpitLip), on their nominations for Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre:

“This morning's nomination is a joyful affirmation of the work director Leigh Silverman and I have done over 20 years, to create and refine Yellow Face into a play which can bring audiences together, to laugh and think about how to move our country forward. Thank you so much to the Nominators!” - David Henry Hwang, Tony Nominee – Best Revival of a Play

" I am so thrilled for the entire Dorian Gray family that our show has been recognized with six Tony Nominations. We are so humbled to receive this honor and to share in it with such a brilliant array of shows from this incredible Broadway season. It’s nearly midnight here in Sydney, but we are celebrating loudly down under, and I can’t wait to be back with Sarah and our incredible Broadway crew next week to share in this special moment together. We are so grateful to the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League for this great honor." - Kip Williams, director of The Picture of Dorian Gray

“I am exploding with joy and gratitude! I saw my first play when I was 10 years old at a community theater in Roswell, Georgia, and I was hooked. When I wasn’t doing shows, I was painting the sets, selling the pop corn, anything I could to be around that magic. That trend has continued to shape my entire life. To be recognized by the very community that I have loved ever since I can remember, is the highest honor. What makes it even more special, is to have it happen with Dead Outlaw. I feel so incredibly lucky to get to be telling this story, with these incredible theater artists and makers, at the top of their game, who came together to make a truly original and beautiful piece of theatrical art. We are having the time of our lives.” - Andrew Durand, Dead Outlaw

“I didn't know my phone's text capacity was so vast. It seems people care about the Tonys...I've certainly cared about them and tuned in with my family as far back as I can remember. I guess I've enjoyed them as a spectacular celebration of Broadway theatre which I've loved since I saw my first show at age six...Applause, with Lauren Baccal. This year I'll have a good seat and i'll be cheering the community on full-throated.” - Jeb Brown, Dead Outlaw

“There are no words to describe how absolutely over the moon I am. Dead Outlaw is a dream come true in every single way. Every day that I get to be a part of this piece of theatre is a gift, and I feel so grateful that this team has allowed me to live in Maggie/ Millicent /et et al many many shoes (& hats) for the last two years. To be recognized for my part in the magic that this brilliant group collectively creates every night is overwhelming, humbling, and a true honor. I say it every day, but especially so today: I am the luckiest girl in the world.” - Julia Knitel, Dead Outlaw

“I had an incredibly rewarding 18 months collaborating with composers, cast, designers, producers, GMS, PMs, SMs, ADs, etc on Dead Outlaw. I am proud to share these nominations with every one of these motherfuckers.” - David Cromer, Dead Outlaw

“This group of extraordinary actors has inspired me, encouraged me, and gave me the confidence to step onto the stage in such an incredible show in a legendary venue. Kieran's take on Ricky...which is stunning and honest - a Ricky Roma with a youthful, unblinking confidence. Bill Burr is the most powerful Dave Moss you can imagine, and Michael McKean delivers more laughs per second onstage than anyone…as well as buckets of humanity. Donald Webber Jr. has been a powerful, inspirational scene partner, and Howard Overshown is a joy to work with. Lastly, John Pirruccello is the best saddest James Lingk I could imagine, such a hoot to watch every night. Patrick Marber gave us incredible free rein to re-discover this classic play, and constant encouragement that I surely needed.The Broadway experience has been incredibly fun and welcoming, from the crews to the theatre personnel, to the audiences who show up with genuine excitement and encouragement every time. I am thankful to be embraced with such support by the community.” – Bob Odenkirk, Glengarry Glen Ross

2025 Tony Award Nominations Complete List: BUENA VISTA, DEATH BECOMES HER, And MAYBE HAPPY ENDING Lead The Noms

Kobi Kassal

May 1, 2025

The champagne is chilled and the ballots are ready. The nominees for the 2025 Tony Awards were announced today and now let the campaigning begin.

Eligible for the 2024-2025 season are 42 productions, with 14 new musicals, 14 new plays, seven musical revivals, and seven play revivals, all hoping to hear their name called this morning. The nominations are being revealed by Sarah Paulson and Wendell Pierce, live from the Sofitel Hotel in Midtown Manhattan.

The winners of the 78th annual Tony Awards will be revealed on Broadway's biggest night on June 8 at Radio City Music Hall. Tony winner Cynthia Erivo will host the main event, which will air from 8:00-11:00 PM, ET/5:00-8:00 PM, PT on the CBS Television Network, and streaming live and on demand on Paramount+*.

See the full list below:

Best Book of a Musical

Buena Vista Social Club

Marco Ramirez

Dead Outlaw

Itamar Moses

Death Becomes Her

Marco Pennette

Maybe Happy Ending

Will Aronson and Hue Park

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical

David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts

Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre

Dead Outlaw

Music & Lyrics: David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna

Death Becomes Her

Music & Lyrics: Julia Mattison and Noel Carey

Maybe Happy Ending

Music: Will Aronson

Lyrics: Will Aronson and Hue Park

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical

Music & Lyrics: David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts

Real Women Have Curves: The Musical

Music & Lyrics: Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play

George Clooney, Good Night, and Good Luck

Cole Escola, Oh, Mary!

Jon Michael Hill, Purpose

Daniel Dae Kim, Yellow Face

Harry Lennix, Purpose

Louis McCartney, Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play

Laura Donnelly, The Hills of California

Mia Farrow, The Roommate

LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Purpose

Sadie Sink, John Proctor Is the Villain

Sarah Snook, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical

Darren Criss, Maybe Happy Ending

Andrew Durand, Dead Outlaw

Tom Francis, Sunset Blvd.

Jonathan Groff, Just in Time

James Monroe Iglehart, A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical

Jeremy Jordan, Floyd Collins

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

Megan Hilty, Death Becomes Her

Audra McDonald, Gypsy

Jasmine Amy Rogers, BOOP! The Musical

Nicole Scherzinger, Sunset Blvd.

Jennifer Simard, Death Becomes Her

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play

Glenn Davis, Purpose

Gabriel Ebert, John Proctor Is the Villain

Francis Jue, Yellow Face

Bob Odenkirk, Glengarry Glen Ross

Conrad Ricamora, Oh, Mary!

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play

Tala Ashe, English

Jessica Hecht, Eureka Day

Marjan Neshat, English

Fina Strazza, John Proctor Is the Villain

Kara Young, Purpose

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical

Brooks Ashmanskas, SMASH

Jeb Brown, Dead Outlaw

Danny Burstein, Gypsy

Jak Malone, Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical

Taylor Trensch, Floyd Collins

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical

Natalie Venetia Belcon, Buena Vista Social Club

Julia Knitel, Dead Outlaw

Gracie Lawrence, Just in Time

Justina Machado, Real Women Have Curves: The Musical

Joy Woods, Gypsy

Best Scenic Design of a Play

Marsha Ginsberg, English

Rob Howell, The Hills of California

Marg Horwell and David Bergman, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Miriam Buether and 59, Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Scott Pask, Good Night, and Good Luck

Best Scenic Design of a Musical

Rachel Hauck, Swept Away

Dane Laffrey and George Reeve, Maybe Happy Ending

Arnulfo Maldonado, Buena Vista Social Club

Derek McLane, Death Becomes Her

Derek McLane, Just in Time

Best Costume Design of a Play

Brenda Abbandandolo, Good Night, and Good Luck

Marg Horwell, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Rob Howell, The Hills of California

Holly Pierson, Oh, Mary!

Brigitte Reiffenstuel, Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Best Costume Design of a Musical

Dede Ayite, Buena Vista Social Club

Gregg Barnes, BOOP! The Musical

Clint Ramos, Maybe Happy Ending

Paul Tazewell, Death Becomes Her

Catherine Zuber, Just in Time

Best Lighting Design of a Play

Natasha Chivers, The Hills of California

Jon Clark, Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Heather Gilbert and David Bengali, Good Night, and Good Luck

Natasha Katz and Hannah Wasileski, John Proctor Is the Villain

Nick Schlieper, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Best Lighting Design of a Musical

Jack Knowles, Sunset Blvd.

Tyler Micoleau, Buena Vista Social Club

Scott Zielinski and Ruey Horng Sun, Floyd Collins

Ben Stanton, Maybe Happy Ending

Justin Townsend, Death Becomes Her

Best Sound Design of a Play

Paul Arditti, Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Palmer Hefferan, John Proctor Is the Villain

Daniel Kluger, Good Night, and Good Luck

Nick Powell, The Hills of California

Clemence Williams, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Best Sound Design of a Musical

Jonathan Deans, Buena Vista Social Club

Adam Fisher, Sunset Blvd.

Peter Hylenski, Just in Time

Peter Hylenski, Maybe Happy Ending

Dan Moses Schreier, Floyd Collins

Best Direction of a Play

Knud Adams, English

Sam Mendes, The Hills of California

Sam Pinkleton, Oh, Mary!

Danya Taymor, John Proctor Is the Villain

Kip Williams, The Picture of Dorian Gray

Best Direction of a Musical

Saheem Ali, Buena Vista Social Club

Michael Arden, Maybe Happy Ending

David Cromer, Dead Outlaw

Christopher Gattelli, Death Becomes Her

Jamie Lloyd, Sunset Blvd.

Best Choreography

Joshua Bergasse, SMASH

Camille A. Brown, Gypsy

Christopher Gattelli, Death Becomes Her

Jerry Mitchell, BOOP! The Musical

Patricia Delgado and Justin Peck, Buena Vista Social Club

Best Orchestrations

Andrew Resnick and Michael Thurber, Just in Time

Will Aronson, Maybe Happy Ending

Bruce Coughlin, Floyd Collins

Marco Paguia, Buena Vista Social Club

David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sunset Blvd.

Best Play

English

Author: Sanaz Toossi

The Hills of California

Author: Jez Butterworth

John Proctor Is the Villain

Author: Kimberly Belflower

Oh, Mary!

Author: Cole Escola

Purpose

Author: Branden Jacobs-Jenkins

Best Musical

Buena Vista Social Club

Dead Outlaw

Death Becomes Her

Maybe Happy Ending

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical

Best Revival of a Play

Eureka Day

Author: Jonathan Spector

Romeo + Juliet

Thornton Wilder’s Our Town

Yellow Face

Author: David Henry Hwang

Best Revival of a Musical

Floyd Collins

Gypsy

Pirates! The Penzance Musical

Sunset Blvd.

Tony Nominations by Production

Buena Vista Social Club - 10

Death Becomes Her - 10

Maybe Happy Ending - 10

Dead Outlaw - 7

John Proctor Is the Villain - 7

Sunset Blvd. - 7

The Hills of California - 7

Floyd Collins - 6

Just in Time - 6

Purpose - 6

The Picture of Dorian Gray - 6

English - 5

Good Night, and Good Luck - 5

Gypsy - 5

Oh, Mary! - 5

Stranger Things: The First Shadow - 5

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical - 4

BOOP! The Musical - 3

Yellow Face - 3

Eureka Day - 2

Real Women Have Curves: The Musical - 2

SMASH - 2

A Wonderful World: The Louis Armstrong Musical - 1

Glengarry Glen Ross - 1

Pirates! The Penzance Musical - 1

Romeo + Juliet - 1

Swept Away - 1

The Roommate - 1

Thornton Wilder’s Our Town - 1

Tatiana Córdoba Is Broadway's Newest Star You Need To Know

Kobi Kassal

April 30, 2025

Tatiana Córdoba has taken Broadway by storm and has no plans for stopping. This past Sunday, she opened Real Women Have Curves to rave reviews and we caught up with her to chat about her incredible Broadway debut. All photography by Avery Brunkus.

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How was opening?

It was a night I’ll never forget. To get to celebrate all of our hard work together as a cast was such a joyous experience.

The show is filled with such joy, what was your reaction the first time you read the script?

The first time I read the script I felt so seen and knew I had to be a part of it in some capacity. It’s rare you get to play yourself onstage and the storytelling felt so authentic.

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What does it mean that your Broadway debut is with this show?

All I ever wanted was to be able to be a voice or face for little girls like me who didn’t see themselves or their community represented onstage. To get to debut with a story like this, that means so much to me and our people, is a blessing.

When you reflect back in twenty years, what do you want to remember most about the show and this experience right now?

I want to remember all my moments with the cast. We have truly become a family during this process and have formed bonds that are forever. All of our laughs and memories are what I’ll always hold on to.

Theatrely News

EXCLUSIVE: Watch A Clip From THEATER CAMP Starring Ben Platt, Noah Galvin, and Molly Gordon

Theatrely News

READ: An Excerpt From Sean Hayes Debut YA Novel TIME OUT

Theatrely News

"Reframing the COVID-19 Pandemic Through a Stage Manager’s Eyes"

EXCLUSIVE: Watch A Clip From THEATER CAMP Starring Ben Platt, Noah Galvin, and Molly Gordon

By: Maia Penzer

14 July 2023

Finally, summer has arrived, which can only mean one thing: it's time for camp! Theater Camp, that is. Theatrely has a sneak peak at the new film which hits select theaters today.

The new original comedy starring Tony Award winner Ben Platt and Molly Gordon we guarantee will have you laughing non-stop. The AdirondACTS, a run-down theater camp in upstate New York, is attended by theater-loving children who must work hard to keep their beloved theater camp afloat after the founder, Joan, falls into a coma.

The film stars Ben Platt and Molly Gordon as Amos Klobuchar and Rebecca-Diane, respectively, as well as Noah Galvin as Glenn Wintrop, Jimmy Tatro as Troy Rubinsky, Patti Harrison as Caroline Krauss, Nathan Lee Graham as Clive DeWitt, Ayo Edebiri as Janet Walch, Owen Thiele as Gigi Charbonier, Caroline Aaron as Rita Cohen, Amy Sedaris as Joan Rubinsky, and Alan Kim as Alan Park.

Theater Camp was directed by Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman and written by Noah Galvin, Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman & Ben Platt. Music is by James McAlister and Mark Sonnenblick. On January 21, 2023, Theater Camp had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.

You can purchase tickets to the new film from our friends at Hollywood.com here.

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READ: An Excerpt From Sean Hayes Debut YA Novel TIME OUT

By: Kobi Kassal

29 May 2023

Actor Sean Hayes is what we in the biz call booked and blessed. On top of his Tony-nominated performance as Oscar Levant in Good Night, Oscar, Hayes has partnered with Todd Milliner and Carlyn Greenwald for the release of their new YA novel Time Out.

Heralded by many as Heartstopper meets Friday Night Lights, Time Out follows hometown basketball hero Barclay Elliot who decides to use a pep rally to come out to his school. When the response is not what he had hoped and the hostility continually growing, he turns to his best friend Amy who brings him to her voting rights group at school. There he finds Christopher and… you will just have to grab a copy and find out what happens next. Luckily for you, Time Out hits shelves on May 30 and to hold you over until then we have a special except from the book just for Theatrely:

The good thing about not being on the team the past two weeks has been that I’ve had time to start picking up shifts again at Beau’s diner and save up a little for college now that my scholarship dreams are over.

The bad part is it’s the perfect place to see how my actions at the pep rally have rotted the townspeople’s brains too.

During Amy’s very intense musical theater phase in middle school, her parents took her to New York City. And of course she came back home buzzing about Broadway and how beautiful the piss smell was and everything artsy people say about New York. But she also vividly described some diner she waited three hours to get into where the waitstaff would all perform songs for the customers as a way to practice for auditions. The regulars would have favorite staff members and stan them the way Amy stans all her emo musicians.

Working at Beau’s used to feel kind of like that, like I was part of a performance team I didn’t know I signed up for. The job started off pretty basic over the summer—I wanted to save up for basketball supplies, and Amy worked there and said it was boring ever since her e-girl coworker friend graduated. But I couldn’t get through a single lunch rush table without someone calling me over and wanting the inside scoop on the Wildcats and how we were preparing for the home opener, wanting me to sign an article in the paper or take a photo. Every friendly face just made the resolve grow inside me. People love and support the Wildcats; they would do the same for me.

Yeah, right.

Now just like school, customers have been glaring at me, making comments about letting everyone down, about being selfish, about my actions being “unfortunate,” and the tips have been essentially nonexistent. The Wildcats have been obliterated in half their games since I quit, carrying a 2–3 record when last year we were 5–0, and the comments make my feet feel like lead weights I have to drag through every shift.

Today is no different. It’s Thursday, the usual dinner rush at Beau’s, and I try to stay focused on the stress of balancing seven milkshakes on one platter. A group of regulars, some construction workers, keep loudly wondering why I won’t come back to the team while I refuse proper eye contact.

One of the guys looks up at me as I drop the bill off. “So, what’s the deal? Does being queer keep ya from physically being able to play?”

They all snicker as they pull out crumpled bills. I stuff my hands into my pockets, holding my tongue.

When they leave, I hold my breath as I take their bill.

Sure enough, no tip.

“What the fuck?” I mutter under my breath.

“Language,” Amy says as she glides past me, imitating the way Richard says it to her every shift, and adds, “even though they are dicks.” At least Amy’s been ranting about it every free chance she gets. It was one thing when the student body was being shitty about me leaving the team, but the town being like this is even more infuriating. She doesn’t understand how these fully grown adults can really care that much about high school basketball and thinks they need a new fucking hobby. I finally agree with her.

[She’s wearing red lipstick to go with her raccoon-adjacent eyeliner as she rushes off to prepare milkshakes for a pack of middle schoolers. I catch her mid–death glare as all three of the kids rotate in their chairs, making the old things squeal. My anger fades a bit as I can’t help but chuckle; Amy’s pissed-off reaction to Richard telling her to smile more was said raccoon makeup, and her tolerance for buffoonery has been at a negative five to start and declining fast.

I rest my arms on the counter and try not to look as exhausted as I feel.

“Excuse me!” an old lady screeches, making me jump.

Amy covers up a laugh as I head to the old lady and her husband’s table. They’ve got finished plates, full waters. Not sure what the problem is. Or I do, which is worse.

“Yes?” I say trying to suppress my annoyance.

“Could you be bothered to serve us?”

Only five more hours on shift. I have a break in three minutes. I’ll be with Devin at Georgia Tech tomorrow. “I’m sorry, ma’am,” I say, so careful to keep my words even, but I can feel my hands balling into fists. “What would you—?”

And suddenly Amy swoops in, dropping two mugs of coffee down. “Sorry about that, you two,” she says, her voice extra high. “The machine was conking out on us, but it’s fine now.”

Once the coffee is down, she hooks onto a chunk of my shirt, steering us back to the bar.

“Thanks,” I mutter, embarrassed to have forgotten something so basic. Again.

“Just keep it together, man,” she says. “Maybe you’d be better off with that creepy night shift where all the truckers and serial killers come in.”

Honestly, at least the serial killers wouldn’t care about my jump shot.

It’s a few minutes before my break, but clearly I need it. “I’ll be in the back room.”

Right before I can head that way though, someone straight-up bursts into the diner and rushes over to me at the bar. It’s a middle-aged dad type, sunburned skin, beer belly, and stained T-shirt.

“Pickup order?” I ask.

“You should be ashamed,” he sneers at me. He has a really strong Southern accent, but it’s not Georgian. “Think you’re so high and mighty, that nothing’ll ever affect you? My kid’ll never go to college because of you and your lifestyle. Fuck you, Barclay Ell—”

And before this man can finish cursing my name, Pat of all people runs in, wide-eyed in humiliation. “Jesus, Dad, please don’t—”

I pin my gaze on him, remembering how he cowered on the bench as Ostrowski went off, how he didn’t even try to approach me. “Don’t even bother,” I snap.

I shove a to-go bag into his dad’s arms, relieved it’s prepaid, and storm off to the break room.]

Amy finds me head in my arms a minute or two later. I look up, rubbing my eyes. “Please spare me the pity.”

She snorts and hands me a milkshake. Mint chocolate chip. “Wouldn’t dare.” She takes a seat and rolls her shoulders and neck, cracks sounding through the tiny room. “Do you want a distraction or a shoulder to cry on?”

For more information, and to purchase your copy of Time Out, click here.

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Reframing the COVID-19 Pandemic Through a Stage Manager’s Eyes

By: Kaitlyn Riggio

5 July 2022

When the COVID-19 pandemic was declared a national emergency in the United States in March 2020, Broadway veteran stage manager Richard Hester watched the nation’s anxiety unfold on social media.

“No one knew what the virus was going to do,” Hester said. Some people were “losing their minds in abject terror, and then there were some people who were completely denying the whole thing.”

For Hester, the reaction at times felt like something out of a movie. “It was like the Black Plague,” he said. “Some people thought it was going to be like that Monty Python sketch: ‘bring out your dead, bring out your dead.’”

While Hester was also unsure about how the virus would unfold, he felt that his “job as a stage manager is to naturally defuse drama.” Hester brought this approach off the stage and onto social media in the wake of the pandemic.

“I just sort of synthesized everything that was happening into what I thought was a manageable bite, so people could get it,” Hester said. This became a daily exercise for a year. Over two years after the beginning of the pandemic, Hester’s accounts are compiled in the book, Hold Please: Stage Managing A Pandemic. Released earlier this year, the book documents the events of the past two years, filtering national events and day-to-day occurrences through a stage manager’s eyes and storytelling.

When Hester started this project, he had no intention of writing a book. He was originally writing every day because there was nothing else to do. “I am somebody who needs a job or needs a structure,” Hester said.

Surprised to find that people began expecting his daily posts, he began publishing his daily writing to his followers through a Substack newsletter. As his following grew, Hester had to get used to writing for an audience. “I started second guessing myself a lot of the time,” Hester said. “It just sort of put a weird pressure on it.”

Hester said he got especially nervous before publishing posts in which he wrote about more personal topics. For example, some of his posts focused on his experiences growing up in South Africa while others centered on potentially divisive topics, such as the 2020 election and the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Despite some of this discomfort, Hester’s more personal posts were often the ones that got the most response. The experience offered him a writing lesson. “I stopped worrying about the audience and just wrote what I wanted to write about,” Hester said. “All of that pressure that I think as artists we put on ourselves, I got used to it.”

One of Hester’s favorite anecdotes featured in the book centers on a woman who dances in Washington Square Park on a canvas, rain or shine. He said he was “mesmerized by her,” which inspired him to write about her. “It was literally snowing and she was barefoot on her canvas dancing, and that seems to me just a spectacularly beautiful metaphor for everything that we all try and do, and she was living that to the fullest.”

During the creation of Hold Please, Hester got the unique opportunity to reflect in-depth on the first year of the pandemic by looking back at his accounts. He realized that post people would not remember the details of the lockdown; people would “remember it as a gap in their lives, but they weren’t going to remember it beat by beat.”

“Reliving each of those moments made me realize just how full a year it was, even though none of us were doing anything outside,” he adds. “We were all on our couches.” Readers will use the book as a way to relive moments of the pandemic’s first year “without having to wallow in the misery of it,” he hopes.

“I talk about the misery of it, but that’s not the focus of what I wrote... it was about hope and moving forward,” Hester said. “In these times when everything is so difficult, we will figure out a way to get through and we will move forward.”

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