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Jim Catapano goes to the Other Side of Sondheim with Barry Joseph’s New Book
Around 2016, an 86-year-old Stephen Sondheim participated in his first Escape Room in Midtown New York City. The lifelong lover and prolific creator of games of all kinds was in his element. The director of the actors who were working there that day say that he even crawled through the tunnel that was an optional part of the game, emerging to see a puzzle that he himself had designed in 1968 with Anthony Perkins.
Sondheim was said to have grinned with glee. The puzzle was a built-in regular feature of the Escape Room; the surprise appearance of Sondheim himself was an unanticipated, delightful coincidence. (Sondheim continued to participate in Escape Room Adventures with famous friends like Mia Farrow and Bernadette Peters.)
Writer, Sondheim expert, and cofounder of the Games for Change Festival Barry Joseph recounted this in a Drama Book Show podcast recorded at the Drama Book Shop, as part of a talk and Q&A discussing his new book, Matching Minds with Sondheim. Joseph appeared before a rapt audience alongside acclaimed playwright and songwriter Michael Mitnick (whose works include Fly by Night, the Drama Desk-nominated Best Musical, Playwrights Horizons). Mitnick is also a Sondheim authority, whose insights contributed greatly to the book.
“This project started in April 2022, a few months after Sondheim passed away,” noted Joseph. “…I had just read three books (on Sondheim)…and I learned this idea that he once said he wanted to go into video game design. And that got me to start exploring.” Joseph spent two years doing research, “…contacting research institutions and finding out if they had anything related to his games and puzzles; talking to people who played games with Sondheim; who party-managed some of the events that he was at; and people who had co-designed some with him.”
As this was just a few months after Sondheim passed away, it was a time when the legend was on everyone’s minds as they both mourned the loss and celebrated his life and their connection to him.
“It meant saying ‘hi, you don’t know me, but would you be willing to open up your memory box and trust me with this piece?” said Joseph. “You can imagine many of these people had been spending months talking about, ‘this is what it was like to work with Stephen Sondheim’…but no one was asking what I was asking: ‘What was it like to play with Stephen Sondheim? And so for many of them, it was an opportunity to explore an aspect of their relationship that they never had a chance to do publicly—and maybe not even privately—for years.”
Joseph explained that once they got going, the recollections of Sondheim’s colleagues became joyfully vivid. “Not only would their memories flood back, but the memories would overwhelm them in a way where they were so excited and passionate to share them, and so that created not only an honor for me, but also a responsibility to own those stories until I could shape them together for the book.”
The search for examples of Sondheim’s game and puzzle design work became a hunt for treasure in itself. “Someone who was in the cast of A Little Night Music had saved her winning sheet from a treasure hunt that Sondheim designed—from 1973; people who had party-managed his last treasure hunt at City Center still had all the print materials and could make them all available.”
And as Joseph noted, though the book is now complete and available, the research continues today. He revealed that Mitkin had brought him a new piece of literal treasure right before the event—from Sondheim’s 1998 musical Putting it Together. “The stage manager had prepared as the opening night gift, a collection of logic puzzles,” explained Joseph. “It traces the narrative and production of the show, but all in puzzle form.” Thus, Sondheim’s two greatest passions are now seen to dovetail beautifully. And in a sense, both musical theatre and game playing have the same intent—to create among people, as Joseph put it, those “moments of connection” that are so integral to the human experience.
Case in point: The game Among Us, which became a sensation as it brought people together on Zoom during the 2020 pandemic, was based on Sondheim’s own murder mystery design. In Rian Johnson’s film Glass Onion (2022), Sondheim is seen playing Among Us with (fittingly) Murder She Wrote’s legendary Angela Lansbury. (Fun fact: Sondheim’s username is “FleetST,” while Lansbury’s is “MSheSolved” (Funner Fact: Lansbury was in a 1980’s production of Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd as well. It all comes together. Add to this Sondheim’s time as a cryptic crossword master for New York Magazine in the late 60s; the story of the two board games he developed in the ‘50s that were presumed lost, and the collection of jigsaw puzzles found after a half-century, and the journey just gets more compelling.
“When I started looking up where (the games) fell in his life, they actually had a chronology,” said Joseph. “As I started structuring the order of those chapters, they actually had an organic feel to them…you have a sense that you’re moving through the eras of Sondheim’s life.” Joseph exclaimed that the majority of the book is indeed a biography of Sondheim, but told through looking at his games.” “I study games, that means I’m a ludologist; this is a ludological biography.”
The rest of the book spotlights the creations themselves—“the games and puzzles of Stephen Sondheim that you can do yourself, and—more interesting to me as a ludologist—the design values. What are the things that we can learn from Stephen Sondheim’s game designs and puzzle designs?”
Matching Minds with Sondheim does even more than the title suggests. It actually allows the reader to live inside the mind of the icon and live through the eras marked by the games he was passionate about at the time. It takes them on an adventure through puzzles and parlor games, crosswords and anagrams, murder mysteries and escape rooms, giving them a fascinating glimpse into the thought process that leads to joyful creation.
Joseph noted that there is a structure to the book—and tantalizingly, that there are two puzzles hidden in the book related to that structure. Good luck solving!
To learn more and get your game on, go to matchingmindswithsondheim.com
Star Power and Seasoned Talent: The Cast Bringing Richard Vetere’s “ZAGŁADA” to the ATA Stage
Richard Vetere’s new psychological crime thriller, ZAGŁADA, is set for its New York City premiere at the American Theatre of Actors (ATA), supported by a powerhouse team of Broadway veterans, acclaimed character actors, and an experienced director. The production, running from October 16 to November 2, features the formidable talent of Tony Award winner Len Cariou, leading an electrifying cast to confront a chilling piece of history.
The play, which centers on the arrest of an elderly Maspeth resident—a former kapo in a Nazi concentration camp—demands a cast with the gravitas and skill to navigate the story’s dense layers of historical trauma, moral ambiguity, and high-stakes confrontation.
The Headliner: Len Cariou as Jerzy Kozlowski
Leading the cast is the internationally recognized, Tony Award-winning, and Emmy-nominated Broadway icon, Len Cariou.
Cariou is perhaps best known for his legendary, Tony-winning performance as the title character in Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. His extensive, 65-year career spans regional stages, Broadway, off-Broadway, film, and television, earning him membership in the Theatre Hall of Fame. A master of the classical repertoire, he has twice assayed the title role in King Lear.
While his stage career is monumental—recently honored with the 2024 John Willis Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre—Cariou is also a beloved figure on television. For 14 seasons, he played the patriarch ‘Pop’ Reagan on CBS’s hit show Blue Bloods. His recent work includes the award-winning off-Broadway role of Morrie Shwartz in Tuesdays With Morrie.
In ZAGŁADA, Cariou takes on the central and challenging role of Jerzy Kozlowski, the 90-year-old former kapo arrested for shooting a journalist. His casting ensures the character, though morally dark, will be portrayed with a depth and humanity that forces the audience to grapple with the play’s central questions of justice and self-preservation.
The Electrifying Supporting Cast
The veteran performers joining Cariou are charged with portraying the three New Yorkers who must confront Kozlowski and his past: Danielle Hooper (the journalist), NYPD Officer Frank Napoli, and Homeland Security Officer Sonia Sokolow.
Jes Washington
A New York actress, writer, and singer, Jes Washington brings a compelling resume of stage and screen work. A Lifetime Member of the Actors Studio, her dedication to in-depth character work is clear. Her stage credits include off-Broadway productions such as Coping Mechanism and White Woman, Black Boy, and her acclaimed international one-woman show Who Will Sing for Lena. Washington is also known for her television appearances on HBO’s The Gilded Age and CBS’s The Equalizer. Her involvement in workshops directed by figures like Estelle Parsons and Steve Broadnax III further speaks to her commitment to developing challenging new work.
Salvatore Inzerillo
Salvatore Inzerillo is a respected New York-based actor, director, and artistic director, with deep roots in the city’s theatre scene. A member of both LAByrinth Theater Company and The Actors Studio, Inzerillo has worked extensively at The Public Theater and developed over a hundred new plays with leading American playwrights. His stage credits include originating roles in early works by Stephen Adly Guirgis, all directed by Philip Seymour Hoffman, such as In Arabia We’d All Be Kings and Jesus Hopped the ‘A’ Train. He also appeared in The Iceman Cometh with Nathan Lane and Brian Dennehy at BAM. On screen, he is recognizable from roles in Boardwalk Empire, The Deuce, and various Law & Order franchises. Inzerillo’s history with gritty, character-driven material makes him an ideal fit for this psychological thriller.
The Creative Vision: Director Maja Wampuszyc
Guiding the production is director Maja Wampuszyc, who has a close working relationship with playwright Richard Vetere, having directed the development process of ZAGŁADA at the PDW at The Actors Studio.
Wampuszyc is an accomplished actress herself, known for her appearances on Broadway in Irena’s Vow, as well as off-Broadway and regional productions. Her film and TV credits include The Immigrant (with Marion Cotillard), Mona Lisa Smile, The Knick, and Madam Secretary. As a director, her work is recognized for its bold approach, having previously helmed productions in Krakow, Poland, and throughout the U.S. Her deep familiarity with the script and Vetere’s writing ensures an interpretation that is both true to the playwright’s intent and dramatically compelling.
The Creative Home: The American Theatre of Actors (ATA)
The production is staged at the American Theatre of Actors, a venue founded in 1976 by James Jennings. The ATA continues its mission of spotlighting socially and historically resonant works, having produced over 1,000 original plays and served as an artistic home for figures like Dennis Quaid, Edie Falco, and Chazz Palminteri early in their careers. The ATA’s legacy provides the perfect institutional support for a drama that grapples with weighty historical and moral questions.
John Stillwaggon & Carolyn Dellinger celebrate the works of BERNARD J. TAYLOR with a special private showing of TENNESSEE WILLIAMS: PORTRAIT OF A GAY ICON
John Stillwaggon & Carolyn Dellinger celebrate the works of BERNARD J. TAYLOR with a special private showing of TENNESSEE WILLIAMS: PORTRAIT OF A GAY ICON plus other presentations. This event is dedicated to the EMERGENCY FUND OF SAVE THE CHILDREN (All donations go to Save the Children) and the 50th anniversary of the AMERICAN THEATRE OF ACTORS, the host venue of the original New York production. Doors open at Noon; Program begins at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025 at the Jerry Orbach Theatre, 210 West 50th Street on Broadway, New York City.
This event is produced by JAY MICHAELS GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS, LLC (Contact Jay Michaels at info@jaymichaelsarts.com for further info or to RSVP)
Tennessee Williams: Portrait of a Gay Icon an exploration of playwright Tennessee Williams’ “private” life.
After acclaimed national performances, Bernard J. Taylor’s play made its NYC debut to sold-out showings at the historic American Theatre of Actors before garnering the same kudos in the United Kingdom.
Join us for one last showing tributing playwright Taylor and raising funds for the Emergency Fund of the
Save the Children Foundation.
PLOT: Williams is chatting with “old friends” in his home and becomes increasingly inebriated during the course of the visit. The author launches into myriad diatribes about life, love — or the lack and abuse of it, his viciously cruel father, his sister — who received the brunt of that cruelty, and his work in the theatre — or more likely — his work with actors.
Mr. Stillwaggon and Ms. Delinger appear courtesy of The Theatre Authority
Playwright Bernard J. Taylor had more than 100 worldwide productions of his plays and musicals in more than a dozen countries. His early works were chronicled in the Encyclopedia of Film and Stage Music. In 2013, he was made an Honorary Fellow by the Victoria College of Music and Drama for “services to music and the performing arts.” Recent years have been the most prolific. Six productions of his stage works in San Antonio won eleven awards at the 2015, 2016 and 2017 ATAC awards (San Antonio’s version of New York’s Tony Awards).
Jim Catapano notes that the Prince Clowns so the Bat Can Fly: Joshuah Patriarco’s Brilliant Merging of Shakespeare and Batman Rises at the ATA.
“I am vengeance.
I am the night.
I am…HAMLET!”
Thus proclaims the “Prince of Arkham” (Joshuah Patriarco) as he prepares to avenge his father’s murder at the hands of his “Penguin”-like Uncle Claudius (Thomas Annunziata), who wears his stolen crown over a top hat and brandishes an umbrella. The ghost of the slain king (also Annunziata) prowls the night, with a bat cowl over his skull face, looking for revenge. Hamlet is alerted to the presence of his father’s spirit by his faithful sidekick, the yellow-caped Horatio (Jett Hernandez), and the trench-coated “commissioner” (Joe DeAngelo).
The ghost reveals the truth to Hamlet. But before the prince takes up his cowl for good, he dons clown makeup and a purple coat, in order to make both friends and foes think he’s mad as he plots the downfall of Claudius and his complicit mother Gertrude (Elizabeth Dimon), who slinks about in a latex catsuit and is counting on those other 8 lives.
Hamlet: The Clown Prince, a production of the Epiphany Shakespeare Company,is the astonishingly clever, superbly entertaining brainchild of Joshuah Patriarco. In a tour-de-force, he gives a magnificent performance as the title character, who has the personality of both Batman and the Joker, as well as directing the production and adapting the Shakespeare classic to blend perfectly into the DC Universe. The text and story of Hamlet is all here, from “To Be or Not to Be” to “The Rest is Silence”, but is here joined by “Why So Serious?” “Have You Ever Danced with The Devil…” and “Let’s Get Nuts!”. The quotes are taken from across the Batman Movie and TV Universe and skillfully added to the Bard’s text (almost as if they were always intended to be). And Horatio/Robin does indeed exclaim “Holy___!” with hilarious frequency. His “bring the house” down moment is when he yells, “Holy Nostalgia!” at the site of the late jester Yorick’s skull. And Frozencrantz is quick with the “ice” puns famously delivered by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Batman and Robin.
Hamlet’s duality works beautifully with the notion of the Dark Night and his greatest adversary being two sides of the same coin (and speaking of which, Two-Face appears in the role of Laertes (John Schmitz). The Riddler is also present, fittingly in the persona of the wordplay-loving Polonius (David Bunde). DeAngelo returns as the amusingly named “Frozencrantz” (Mr. Freeze as you might have guessed). Laura Ruth is the orange-haired, top hat wearing Guildenstern (Mad Hatter).
Hamlet’s transformation into a Joker-like figure disturbs the whole kingdom, but none more than his lover Ophelia (in an incredible performance by Epiphany co-founder Samantha Mileski). Ophelia is traumatized by the behavior of her “Puddin’” but remains devoted to him; after he kills her father Polonius she cracks entirely, becoming Harley Quinn in both demeanor and dress.
The soundtrack features Danny Elfman’s stirring 1989 score for the first Tim Burton Batman film, as well as the theme to the 60’s Batman TV show, and even Seal’s haunting “Kiss from a Rose” from Batman Forever. In addition, the tortured Ophelia sings a heartbreaking, appropo “I Started a Joke,” by the Bee Gees. And then there are the fight scenes. Bat-Hamlet and Horatio-Robin take care of the villains in a scene right out of the Adam West series, and the climactic swordfight of the Dark Prince/Knight with Laertes/Two-Face is magnificently realized. Special shoutout to Fight Choreographer Erin Hebert for crafting these stunning sequences.
Overall, the mashup of the deeply serious Hamlet and the grim world of Batman works much better than anyone might have expected; even the addition of elements from the campier versions of the Caped Crusader fit amazingly into the narrative. A smart, winning concept elevated by great performances, it all makes for a can’t-miss masterpiece that will delight both Batman Buffs and Shakespeare Students.
Goodnight, Sweet Bat!
Hamlet: The Clown Prince is performed at the American Theater of Actors through Sept 28 2025.
Jim Catapano attends A Majestic Production in Celebration of 50 Great Years
King Lear Rises Again to Mark the Golden Anniversary of The American Theatre of Actors
As the curtain opens on its 50th year, the ATA has turned to a signature piece to mark the very special occasion. King Lear, itself enjoying its 420th anniversary, returns to the John Cullen stage after a great run last year, and featuring faces familiar and new.
Alan Hasnas reprises the role of the titular tragic monarch in this energetic rendering, directed with panache by ATA president and founder James Jennings. In a special presentation after the show, Hasnas noted he is celebrating his own anniversary, having debuted at the ATA in the role of Claudius in a production of Hamlet 20 years ago.
Amber Brookes returns as the icy, scheming Regan, oozing malevolence in every scene, such as when she puts her cigarette out on the ill-fated Earl of Gloucester (a heartstring-pulling Tom Corciari in his ATA debut). Dramaturge Jane Culley is grand in her reprise of Regan’s sister Goneril, who tops her sibling’s villainy by tampering with Regan’s ubiquitous goblet. Sam Hardy, who recently excelled as Henry V, brings his powerhouse voice and presence to Edgar. Jake Minter returns to bring a powerful intensity in the role of the villainous Edmund, a part he also played in a recent film adaptation. Dustin Pazar shines, a dashing figure in the pivotal role of Kent. Karolina Larion takes on the role of Cordelia, whose actions at the top of the play start a chain reaction leading to her father’s descent into madness and despair. Larion’s expressive face and performance beautifully portray the punished daughter’s sadness and her later resolve to make things right and attempt to rescue her betrayed father. Sam Cruz is a dynamic Fool, providing the levity to balance out the dark events. However, he is not the only source of mirth—moments of humor are drawn from the text through clever interpretations of the dialogue by the actors, while never betraying the solemnity of the piece. The ensemble’s love of the play is palpable, and they work as a collective to bring it alive with astonishing skill.
The entire production is an incredibly engaging, high-energy rendering of the classic material; completely unabridged, the three-plus hours of King Lear are continuously riveting as well as moving. The space of the elegant John Cullen theatre is fully utilized, from its balcony to its stairs to its wings. The Fool hovers on the balcony watching events unfold; the increasingly mad Lear strides past the audience to command center stage; Edgar leads his blinded father down the winding staircases. Backdrops showing castle grounds and interiors, the sea, the hovel, an eclipse, and the famous thunderstorm provide a dynamic sense of place and time. The swordfights are beautifully coordinated and executed, and the relationships among the characters well realized, leading to the unforgettable, heartbreaking climax that will break your heart no matter how well you know the story. It’s another terrific success for the ATA, and the perfect way to start its milestone year.
The performance of King Lear on September 14th was followed by a rousing celebration of a half-century of the American Theatre of Actors, and of all who have honed their craft there.
King Lear runs at the ATA through September 21, 2025.
ATA kicks off the 50th Season with the revival of their acclaimed production of Shakespeare’sKING LEAR. September 10 – 21 with a special 50th Season Kick-off Event, Sunday, September 14 after the performance. Refreshments will be served.
King Lear begins as the Earl of Gloucester introduces his illegitimate son, Edmund, to the Earl of Kent. Lear, King of Britain, enters with his court. Now that he is an old man, Lear has decided to divide his kingdom between his three daughters. The division will depend on the quality of each princess’ declarations of love for her father before the court. Goneril, Duchess of Albany, and Regan, Duchess of Cornwall, both speak enthusiastically and earn their father’s praise. But Cordelia, the youngest, says nothing because she cannot voice her deep love for Lear. Misunderstanding his daughter, Lear disowns and banishes her from the kingdom. He also banishes the Earl of Kent, who had taken Cordelia’s side against the King.
Despairing for his daughters, and deeply regretting rejecting Cordelia, Lear goes mad at the height of a great storm. He and the Fool run wild on the heath until Gloucester takes them into a hut for shelter. He then seeks the aid of Kent to get them away to the coast, where Cordelia has landed with a French army to fight for her father against her sisters and their husbands.
In this family drama, greed is a driving force and remorse comes too late.
Alan Hasnas returns to the title role Featured in the cast is Josh Bartosch, Amber Brookes, Tom Ciorciari, Sam Cruz, Jane Culley*, Oliver Figueroa, Adonis Guzman, Sam Hardy, Karolina Larion, Emery Lawrence, Paul Maurizio, Jake Minter, Dustin Pazar, Alex Silverman, and Reese Villiger.*Ms. Culley appears courtesy of Actors Equity Association
The American Theatre of Actors was founded in 1976 by James Jennings, who continues as its President and Artistic Director. It is a repertory theatre company consisting of 50 actors, 15 playwrights and 8 directors. Its purpose is to promote the development of new playwrights, directors and actors and provide them a creative atmosphere in which to work without the pressures of commercial theatre.The plays deal with the social and ethical problems of contemporary society. Over 1,000 new works have been presented and more than 11,000 actors have worked at A.T.A., including Dennis Quaid, Bruce Willis, Danny Aiello, Dan Lauria, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin O’Connor, William Fichtner, Edie Falco and Kathryn Hahn.
CONTACT: info@jaymichaelsarts.com or 646-338-5472
BRAVO to Parmeet Singh in Sense & Sensibility
Parmeet Singh delivers a charismatic and nuanced performance as John Willoughby in Hudson Classical Theatre Company’s adaptation of “Sense and Sensibility.” Singh’s portrayal stands out for its depth and complexity, successfully transforming the widely known villain of Jane Austen’s novel into a “grey antihero.” His performance is described as charismatic, intelligent, and electric, capturing the audience’s attention from his “bombastic and robust” entrance.
A Masterclass in Character Transformation
What distinguishes Singh’s performance is his ability to create a fully realized human being, rather than a one-dimensional character. He moves beyond the archetype of a villain, crafting a version of Willoughby that we initially want to love but ultimately end up despising, though not without a hint of pity. This depth is a testament to his artistry and his philosophy of acting, where he aims to have “abundant discoveries with limitless exploration and complete surrender.”
Versatility and Craft
Singh’s talent is further highlighted by his impeccable command of received pronunciation (a British accent), which adds authenticity to his classical performance. The provided text also emphasizes his versatility, noting his seamless transitions between vastly different roles. His recent work includes playing Romeo in “Romeo and Juliet” and Lysander in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” with The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, as well as a lead role in the premier of “Haunt Me” and an indie film. His diverse background, which includes training at both The American Musical and Dramatic Academy and the National School of Drama, India, and work in both classical Western and contemporary Indian productions, underscores his commitment to nurturing his artistry as a whole.
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Hudson Classical Theater Company unlocks the vitality of Classical theater. It is our mission to delight our diverse audiences with intimate and accessible interpretations of classical literature.
In addition, our Education and Outreach Programs provide performances and theater training to audiences who don’t usually have access to theater, including the Incarcerated, Veterans, Seniors, and Community and Educational Centers.
Jim Catapano asks “Wherefore Art Thou, Dromio?”
Michael Hagins Knocks It Out of the Park with an Early Farce from the Bard
Aptly named, The Comedy of Errors is a product of Shakespeare’s early period. Sharply plotted and wonderfully absurdist, it draws heavily on misunderstandings, wordplay, physical comedy, and puns. In other words, perfect for a revisit in 2025. Shakespearean Master Michael Hagins has brought the circa-1594 work roaring into the present with a series of summer outdoor performances produced by the Shakespeare Sports Theatre Company, including two at Central Park’s Summit Rock, a perfect venue if there ever was one for this type of production.
The Comedy of Errors takes place in Greece, and concerns not one, but two sets of twins who had been separated at birth. Antipholus of Syracuse (Vic Gitre) brings his servant Dromio of Syracuse (Emily Glaser) to Ephesus—unbeknownst to them, the city where their respective twin brothers, Antipholus of Ephesus (Charlie Keegan James) and his own servant Dromio of Ephesus (Jennifer Kim) reside. Thus begins a madcap, hilariously chaotic adventure of mistaken identity that is a delightful precursor to the tropes of hundreds of modern film and TV comedies. (The misunderstanding between a goldsmith and the wrong Antipholus, involving an impressive piece of bling, is a particular hilarious highlight.)
Director/choreographer Hagins brings his expert hand to an accomplished production, which incorporates the traditional half-masks of Renaissance Comedia—very handy (or face-y?) in depicting our two sets of befuddled twins. The staging is exceptional and the costumes elegant, and it is a treat to see the performers donning them in the charming park setting, giving a sense of true timelessness to the experience. Props are used to great comedic effect—from finger puppets, to a Sith lightsaber, to a giant swirly lollipop that doubles as a paddle when a certain character gets “out of line”. A red curtain held in place at appropriate junctures makes for some amusing entrances and exits. As evidenced at Summit Rock, the performers use the vast space wonderfully, making entrances from the surrounding trees; running, hopping, and skipping into the scene as they navigate the elevated grass, rocks, and steps. The ensemble possesses an astonishing physicality that is deftly choreographed and well-serves the tone of the play. It adds another level of free-spiritedness to the already deliciously zany piece, which eventually escalates to a hysterical climax that finally features both Antipholuses and Dromios with all the other (comically confused) characters. It makes for an incredibly enjoyable afternoon of classic theatre, beautifully realized by a great director and his expert team. It’s a text that the entire company clearly adores, and that joy is palpably felt by the audience. The Comedy of Errors is an entertaining and enjoyable tale told in an economical 80 minutes, and another positive triumph for Hagins and the Shakespeare Sports Theatre Company.
The Comedy of Errors is stage-managed by Adam Sherwin and also features Melissa Meli as Adriana, wife of the Ephesus Antipholus; Erica Gerold is Adriana’s sister Luciana; along with Katie Freimann (Angelo), Lila Ashley Meyers (2nd Merchant), Anna Behrmann (The Duke), Hayley Berketa (Aegeon), and Molly Feisher (Amelia/Dr. Pinch/1st merchant).
“The Interlude of Youth”: A 16th-Century Morality Play Resurrected by Dr. Jeff Dailey, Featuring David Ezell
The American Theatre of Actors (ATA) is currently presenting a rare revival of “The Interlude of Youth,” a captivating morality play from the early 16th century, as part of its Classical Showcase. Directed and co-produced by Dr. Jeff S. Dailey, this production breathes new life into a forgotten piece of dramatic literature, offering audiences a blend of entertainment and timeless moral lessons. Actor David Ezell, a prominent figure in the New York theatre scene, takes on a significant role in this historical staging.
The Play: “The Interlude of Youth”
“The Interlude of Youth,” by an unknown playwright, is a verse-based morality play that charts the journey of a young man’s transformation from a “crude rogue” to a “serious member of society.” True to the morality play genre, its characters bear names such as Riot, Pride, and Lechery, embodying the vices and virtues that guide or corrupt the protagonist. Despite its antiquity, dating back to at least 1514, the play is renowned for its considerable comedic elements, making it one of the most entertaining surviving examples of its kind. The term “interlude” in the early modern period simply referred to a short play.
The play’s enduring message, encouraging viewers to abandon destructive behaviors like gambling, excessive drinking, promiscuity, and the pursuit of money, remains strikingly relevant in contemporary society.
Dr. Jeff S. Dailey: Bringing History to the Stage
Dr. Jeff S. Dailey, with a PhD in theatre from New York University, has dedicated over 30 years to directing plays at the American Theatre of Actors. His extensive experience has allowed him to delve into and explore a wide range of dramatic works from the past.
Dr. Dailey emphasizes that while medieval theatre is often associated with religious themes, “The Interlude of Youth” stands out as a morality play that, though not overtly religious, aims to inspire a better lifestyle through engaging entertainment. He invites audiences to experience this historical work, which has been captivating people for over 500 years.
David Ezell: A Deep Connection to Classical Theatre
David Ezell, a writer and actor based in Midtown East, brings a profound personal and academic connection to his role in “The Interlude of Youth.” Holding a graduate degree in European history, Ezell was already familiar with the play before auditioning. His English heritage and intensive study of Shakespearean performance at institutions like Soho Shakespeare and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art further deepen his appreciation for classical works.
Ezell describes his surprise and excitement upon seeing the audition notice for “The Initiation of Youth” (an alternative title), having just completed a run of “Little Women.” He notes that scholars widely believe Shakespeare himself was influenced by this play as a teenager, and to Ezell’s knowledge, “The Interlude of Youth” had never been staged in New York, though it continues to be performed in England. This unique opportunity thrilled him, offering the chance to perform in a foundational work of English theatre.
Ezell’s primary goal for the audience is to help them “get past the language” – true Middle English – and discover the abundant humor within the work. He continuously uncovers new layers of comedy in the text, which are not immediately apparent. Participating in this production has significantly boosted Ezell’s confidence in performing classical theatre, as over 98% of his prior acting experience was in modern works. He credits Dr. Dailey’s “very patient instruction” for this growth.
The American Theatre of Actors: A Home for Developing Talent
Founded in 1976 by James Jennings, who serves as its President and Artistic Director, the American Theatre of Actors (ATA) is a vital repertory theatre company. Comprising 50 actors, 15 playwrights, and 8 directors, ATA’s core mission is to foster the development of new talent in playwriting, directing, and acting, providing a nurturing, creative environment free from the pressures of commercial theatre.
ATA is known for presenting plays that tackle contemporary social and ethical issues. Over its history, the theatre has premiered more than 1000 new works and has hosted over 11,000 actors, including many who went on to achieve significant fame, such as Dennis Quaid, Bruce Willis, Danny Aiello, Dan Lauria, Chazz Palminteri, Kevin O’Connor, William Fichtner, Edie Falco, and Kathryn Hahn.
Upcoming Performances and Future Endeavors
“The Interlude of Youth” is running at The American Theatre of Actors complex, located at 314 W 54th St, New York City, from August 6 to August 17.
Beyond “The Interlude of Youth,” David Ezell plans to continue honing his classical acting skills. He has an upcoming reading for a piece connected to another part of his cultural heritage – Agatha Christie – and hopes to be involved in several upcoming Shakespearean productions, including at least two stagings of “Hamlet.” Ezell is also the co-owner of Camelback Films, whose first film, “Occam’s Beard,” is set to premiere in September, and their second project, “Paper Moon Rise,” is scheduled to begin production in Kansas in approximately two months. Camelback Films has also entered several major competitions, adding to Ezell’s exciting opportunities.
Broadway Icon, LEN CARIOU to star in New York Premiere of RICHARD VETERE’s riveting new drama, ZAGŁADA
Broadway Icon, LEN CARIOUto star in New York Premiere of RICHARD VETERE’s riveting new drama, ZAGŁADA. Production directed by MAJA WAMPUSZYC
October 16 — November 2 The AMERICAN THEATRE OF ACTORS 314 W. 54th Street. New York City Contact info@jaymichaelsarts.com for further info
ZAGŁADA is a Polish word meaning annihilation used within Poland to refer to the HOLOCAUST, particularly in the context of the systematic, state-sponsored genocide of six million European Jews by the Nazi German regime and its allies and collaborators.
Journalist Danielle Hooper goes to interview 90-year-old Jerzy Kozlowski, in a quiet residential neighborhood in Queens for her book on World War II; he fires a gun at her, prompting his arrest. This gets the attention of Homeland Security Agent, Sonia Sokolow and NYPD Intelligence Bureau Officer, Frank Napoli.
Apparently, not only did Kozlowski lie on his immigration application when entering the United States after World War II; but he is suspected of collaborating with the Nazis at BUCHENWALD CONCENTRATION CAMP where he himself was a prisoner.
Agent Sokolow has 48 hours to prove Kozlowski’s collaboration so she can charge and extradite him to a country willing to try him for International War Crimes.
Sokolow must not only win the race against time but confront her own personal history through the mirror of Napoli’s mission to hunt down radical Islamic terrorists and White supremacists and Hooper’s righteous defense of the truth. What is a human being capable of doing to protect themselves and the ones they love and will justice prevail?
The play ZAGŁADA is inspired by history. All characters are fictional.
LEN CARIOU gained prominence for his Tony Award-winning title role in the original cast of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (1979). Prior to that, he earned nominations for Applause (1970) and A Little Night Music (1973). Cariou has had supporting roles in films such as The Four Seasons (1981), Thirteen Days (2000), About Schmidt (2002), Flags of Our Fathers (2006), Prisoners (2013), and Spotlight (2015). On television, Len was nominated for an Emmy for Into The Storm (2009) and is known for recurring roles in the shows Murder, She Wrote (1985–1992), Brotherhood (2005-2006), and Damages (2010) and his starring role in Blue Bloods (2010–2024).
RICHARD VETERE, a Lifetime and Current Member of the Writers Guild of America East since 2012. His prolific career allowed him the opportunity to work with Oscar, Emmy, Tony, Grammy and Golden Globe award winners and nominees like Francis Ford Coppola, Walter Matthau, Carol Brunett, Robert Forester, Phil Ramone, Agnieszka Holland, Ed Harris, Elisabeth Shue, Armin Mueller-Stahl, Danny Aiello, Len Cariou and Jason Alexander. Recently, his stage play, Black & White City Blues, had an extended run and recieved rave reviews some critics calling his play a “masterpiece” at the Amrican Theatre of Actors. His screenplay, Caravaggio won the Golden Palm Award for Best Screenplay at the Beverly Hills International Film Festival 2021. His adaptation of his own stage play The Marriage Fool is now streaming on Amazon starring Walter Matthau, Carol Burnett and John Stamos. Mr. Vetere co-wrote the screenplay adaptation of his own novel The Third Miracle which premiered at the Toronto Film Festival in 1999, produced by Francis Ford Coppola, directed by Agneiszka Holland and starring Ed Harris and Anne Heche. It is considered by critics to be one of the best movies about faith ever filmed.Mr. Vetere’s first feature film Vigilante is an original screenplay, starring Robert Forester and Fred Williamson. Vigilante, released in 1983, became a blockbuster movie overnight making it the 20th highest grossing picture in 1983 and was just now re-released in Blu-Ray. It was named “a cult classic” by critic David Denby in the New York Times and one of the “best indies of the 1980s” by BAM. Over the years Mr. Vetere has written screenplays and adaptations for Paramount, Warner Bros, New Line, Zoetrope and CBS. As a member of the PD Workshop Unit at the Actors Studio he has developed several plays including ZagŁada
MAJA WAMPUSZYC has worked with Tony & Oscar Award winners. Film & TV credits include: The Immigrant (Cannes & NY Film Festival); Mona Lisa Smile; Going Shopping; The Knick; Madam Secretary; Search Party; and Law & Order: SVU. Broadway: Irena’s Vow. Off-Broadway, NYC, & regional credits include: Irena’s Vow; Lady Macbeth & Her Lover; House of Connelly; Foggy Bottom; An Oak Tree (Obie Award Winning Production); The Pearl Theatre; Precious Stones, and pool (no water) at The Barrow Street Theater. March 2020: Anna Akhmatova in Night Shadows Or: One Hundred Million Voices Shouting at Irondale. In 2021: Wampuszyc played the title role in Clytemnestra in Hades; and most recently played Ayn Rand in The Disciple for Thirdwing, LTD. PDW member of the Actors Studio, she has collaborated with Vetere as a director on developing six new plays; and with Lanie Robertson on his new play, a reimagining of the early years of Marie Curie, Unknown Objects of Desire. Member of The Actors Gym. Maja is Represented by Bret Adams, LTD.
The American Theatre of Actors, founded in 1976 by James Jennings, continues its mission of spotlighting socially and historically resonant works. The company has produced over 1,000 original plays and has been a creative home to actors such as Dennis Quaid, Edie Falco, and Chazz Palminteri.
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