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Phil Reno on Stephen Sondheim

Phil Reno on Stephen Sondheim

The following note originally appeared in the playbill for PTC’s Putting It Together (March 3 – 18, 2023): When Stephen Sondheim passed away in November 2021, at age 91, theatre lovers worldwide mourned the revered composer and lyricist who re-invented and re-invigorated the American stage musical. For over half a century, the New York City … Continued

Get to Know: Stephen Wrentmore

PTC’s upcoming production of Scapin is a new adaptation by director/playwright Stephen Wrentmore. Originally written in 1671 by Molière, this version of Scapin has a contemporary twist, but is still a hilarious farce about star-crossed lovers and parental objections. Set in vibrant 1960s Naples, Italy, PTC flips the script of Scapin. In this play, the trouble-making servant … Continued

Director’s Brief: Something happened that really bugged me. 

  Hi everyone! Happy Holidays! It’s been a while since I’ve updated here. For most producing theatres, this has been a very weird time. We’ve seen our industry across the country struggling to keep afloat in the face of not just a weakened business environment, but one that’s been wiped out.  The job losses have been enormous! And … Continued

Director’s Brief: “Cagney” and Concert Productions

Happy Opening Night!   Wow. I have been delinquent in my blogging. So sorry.   Cagney opens tonight. It has been a whirlwind—rehearsing and refining this charming piece. The technical elements are incredible. Twelve actors and more than 150 costumes?! You kind of have to see it to believe it, and I hope you will. … Continued

Director’s Brief: We’re Baaack!

We’re baaaack! I know it seems like I just signed off for the summer but things are bustling at PTC as we prepare for the arrival of the cast of our first show of the season- CAGNEY. The scene shop and costume shop have been working for a couple of weeks already, the cast travels … Continued

The Passing of a Legend

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Harold Prince, a game-changer, uniting voice, and the heart and soul of Broadway. To the world his name and legacy was larger than life, but to me he was Hal- a friend who delighted in conversation on craft, family, life, and integrity; a mentor (one of hundreds … Continued

Director’s Brief: Summer Vacation

I took a trip to Israel this summer after a much needed break from the season. Went to the cutest theatre in Jerusalem – perfect to be a second stage – it’s a tricky commute though. At the western wall and floating in the Dead Sea. Sunset over the Sea of Galilee. I’ll be back … Continued

Director’s Brief: PTC actors show up at the Tonys

I want to give a shout out and a huge congratulations to some of our PTC actors. They are having the celebration of their lives this weekend with Sunday’s Tony Awards, which are honor the nominated shows they are currently in this season on Broadway. Nominated for Best Musical, “Beetlejuice” includes Alex Brightman (Henry in … Continued

Director’s Brief: There’s a first time for everything….

There is a first time for everything….. I am missing opening night of Grease tonight because I am on my way to Pennsylvania for my son’s college graduation. It is a little like deciding between two of your own children. But since I’ll be back here next week, I can still see Grease and celebrate … Continued

Director’s Brief: Tech for ‘Grease’ underway

Tech for Grease begins today.   We’re firing on all cylinders (no Greased Lightning subtext intended) and working some very, very long hours. There’s activity in this building from probably 7:00AM until well after midnight, with every technical department vying for onstage real estate.   The work to complete—and trim and decorate and finish—the set, … Continued