THE LEGENDARY BROADWAY DIRECTORS:
DRAMATIC VISIONARIES WHO SHAPED 20TH-CENTURY THEATRE

J. Barry Lewis

DESCRIPTION: There are many individuals who shaped the theatre in 20th-century America, but none more legendary than the four stage directors listed below. Known for their fast-paced, tightly integrated styles, they each made their mark on the American stage by exploring the strengths and weaknesses of the performing artist. Each of these visionary directors had a passion for discovering the creative spark in every artist, and their influence continues to guide the playmakers of today. This series of lectures will look at their historical legacy, examining both the “hits” and the “flops.” Lectures will be enhanced by having local professional artists read selections from the better known works of each director. Directing for the stage is an exclusive art, one that is rarely mastered. Join in the discussion with Dramaworks Stage Director J. Barry Lewis as we look at the anatomy of a Broadway show from the perspective of the director’s chair.

FOUR LECTURES:

1. George Abbott: Exploring the seven-decade career that earned him the title “Mr. Broadway”
   
2. Elia Kazan: “The Method” and its madness—notes from an “artist on the edge”
   
3. Mike Nichols: Holding the mirror up to life—theatre as social realism
   
4. Hal Prince: The genius behind one of the visionaries of Broadway musicals

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION: J. Barry Lewis is well known in the South Florida theatre community for his work on many of the area stages. He presently serves as the Resident Director of Palm Beach Dramaworks in West Palm Beach where he recently staged the award winning productions of All My Sons and The Pitmen Painters. During his 25 years in theatre, he has staged more than 150 productions across the nation. He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the South Florida Carbonell Award for Direction, the South Florida Theatre League REMY Award for Leadership in the Arts; most recently, he was the first recipient of the Frank Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Theatre and Theatre Arts Education in Palm Beach County. Besides his focus in theatre, he serves as a Cultural Officer for the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs, working with international artists and government officials.