Spotlight
Stories that deserve your attention
"They Get All The Breaks" : Rivalry & Competition in Theatre
“I think it’s time to address personal competition. The artistic world is very small and odds are good you’ll run into some people repeatedly.”
My Hopes for the Next Theatre Critic for the Washington Post
“With the search for a new theatre critic at the Washington Post, comes an opportunity to set a new course in theatre criticism. Criticism that embodies fairness, thoughtfulness, and a contemporary perspective in reviews.”
'Back to the Future' and the Evolution of Musical Theatre
“The art being overwhelmingly produced of late is no longer being treated or viewed as art, but as content.”
Texas School District in Hot Water Again over cancellation of "The Laramie Project"
“A Texas school district is under fire once again, this time over cancelling a planned production of ‘The Laramie Project’ despite the show being approved earlier in the year.”
Community theatre allowed to perform 'Dear Evan Hansen', despite rights not available
“Dear Evan Hansen is set to open at the Manoa Valley Theatre in Honolulu on March 7th. Despite the rights not being available, people associated with the theatre state that they were granted permission to perform the show, because it’s Hawaii.”
To the High School Director Planning an Illegal Production of 'Hamilton', Please Don't
“I was recently alerted that a high school in VA is planning on performing ‘Hamilton’ later this spring. They have announced the cast and even school district leaders are supporting the production. My message to them is to please stop. Don’t do this. Pick another show.”
What Makes A Theatre Show Good But Not Rewatchable
“The talent of the cast and production impact heavily on our overall enjoyment of a musical and play but I do think there is something intangible that makes something especially rewatchable.”
It's Fine to Turn Down a Role, So Stop Punishing Performers Who Do
“It’s completely okay for actors to turn down roles, and directors need to be mature enough not to punish them for it down the road.”
Performer Confidence in the Face of Insecurity
“Confidence doesn’t let you hide or forget your lines. Confidence is what helps an actor succeed. Insecurity doesn’t.”
The Broadway League's Failure to Honor Hinton Battle Is Unacceptable
“The fact that it has been almost a month since Hinton Battle’s sudden passing, and still not a word from The Broadway League regarding dimming lights in his honor, is not just a disappointment, it's a disservice to his memory.”
Practical Advice for Actors Making Tough Decisions
“Do I sign with the big, powerful agency where I’ll just be another face in the crowd, or the boutique agency where I’ll get more attention and guidance?”
Why I Love Attending Opening Night
“If you haven’t attended an opening night production before, I highly encourage you to do so. Things may go wrong or they may all go right, you never know, but enjoy the experience and support the people who put in so much hard work”