The Great Producers: Visionaries of American Theater

American theater has seen a plethora of great producers who have left an indelible mark on the industry. These visionaries not only brought exceptional talent to the stage but also revolutionized the way productions were conceived, funded, and marketed. In this article, we will explore the lives and achievements of some of the most influential producers in American theater history.

1. Florenz Ziegfeld

Florenz Ziegfeld, known as the "glorifier of the American girl," was a renowned Broadway producer during the early 20th century. He is best known for his extravagant Follies shows, which showcased beautiful showgirls and innovative stage designs. Ziegfeld's commitment to spectacle and his knack for discovering and promoting new talent made him an icon in the world of American theater.

2. David Merrick

David Merrick was a legendary Broadway producer known for his theatrical instincts and promotional acumen. He was behind numerous successful productions, including "Hello, Dolly!" and "42nd Street." Merrick's ability to create buzz and generate excitement around his shows put him in a league of his own. His marketing tactics, such as casting big-name stars and employing innovative advertising methods, revolutionized the way Broadway productions were marketed.

Great Producers: Visionaries of American Theater

by Iris Dorbian(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2903 KB
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3. Cameron Mackintosh

Cameron Mackintosh is a British producer who has had a significant impact on American theater. He is most famous for producing blockbuster musicals like "Les Misérables," "The Phantom of the Opera," and "Cats." Mackintosh's commitment to quality and his successful collaboration with renowned composers and directors have contributed to the longevity and success of these iconic productions.

4. Harold Prince

Harold Prince was a highly influential producer and director in American theater, known for his groundbreaking work on shows like "West Side Story," "Evita," and "The Phantom of the Opera." Prince's innovative staging and storytelling techniques revolutionized the musical theater genre. He was also instrumental in nurturing emerging talent, giving many writers, composers, and actors their first big break.

5. Carole Shorenstein Hays

Carole Shorenstein Hays is a prominent theater producer who has played a vital role in bringing groundbreaking productions to the American stage. Her productions often challenge traditional norms and push the boundaries of storytelling. Hays is known for her collaboration with renowned playwrights and her commitment to fostering diverse voices in American theater.

6. Scott Rudin

Scott Rudin is a prolific producer whose influence can be felt across both Broadway and Hollywood. He has produced a wide range of critically acclaimed productions, including "The Book of Mormon," "The Social Network," and "No Country for Old Men." Rudin's impeccable taste, attention to detail, and ability to identify and nurture talent have earned him numerous awards, including EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony).

7. Oskar Eustis

Oskar Eustis is a theater producer and artistic director known for his commitment to presenting socially and politically relevant works. As the Artistic Director of The Public Theater in New York City, Eustis has championed productions like "Hamilton," "Fun Home," and "Eclipsed." His dedication to nurturing new voices and perspectives has transformed The Public Theater into a hub of innovation and artistic exploration.

8. Margo Lion

Margo Lion was a Tony Award-winning theater producer who was known for her passion for bringing thought-provoking and challenging works to the stage. She produced notable productions such as "Hairspray," "Jelly's Last Jam," and "Angels in America." Lion's commitment to producing diverse and impactful stories made her a beloved figure in the American theater community.

9. Jeffrey Seller

Jeffrey Seller is a highly acclaimed theater producer known for his award-winning collaborations, such as "Rent," "Avenue Q," and "Hamilton." Seller's ability to recognize groundbreaking talent and support unconventional storytelling has made him one of the most sought-after producers in American theater. His dedication to producing works that inspire and resonate with audiences has left an enduring impact on the industry.

10. Kathleen Marshall

Kathleen Marshall is a renowned theater director and choreographer who has made significant contributions to the American theater scene. Her work on shows like "Anything Goes," "The Pajama Game," and "Nice Work If You Can Get It" has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. Marshall's keen eye for detail and her ability to create visually stunning productions have solidified her status as one of the industry's top visionaries.

The American theater owes much of its rich history and success to these great producers, whose vision, innovation, and dedication have shaped the industry. Through their tireless efforts, they have transformed the way stories are told, bringing joy, inspiration, and thought-provoking experiences to audiences all over the world.

Whether it's the spectacular productions of Florenz Ziegfeld or the marketing genius of David Merrick, each producer holds a unique place in the annals of American theater. Their legacies continue to inspire the next generation of producers and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of this vibrant art form.

Great Producers: Visionaries of American Theater

by Iris Dorbian(Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2903 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	209 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Up close and personal with Broadway’s brightest lights of the past, present, and future.

* Firsthand accounts, rare interviews, backstage anecdotes
* Insider ideas from Disney, Jujamcyn, Mackintosh, Weissler, Papp, Merrick, Ziegfeld, more!

Broadway’s most esteemed visionaries tell all—how they got started in the business, how they chose projects, how they raise money, why some of their shows were huge hits and others flopped, and much more. From Flo Ziegfeld and David Merrick, from Joseph Papp, from Cameron Mackintosh, from today’s up-and-coming new generation of producers—here are priceless words of wisdom. Readers will find insights on how to deal with investors, work in a team, troubleshoot, and learn from mistakes. Filled with entertaining backstage anecdotes, this book is a must-have primer for educators, students, and budding producers.