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	Downstage Center with Will Chase and Christian Borle
The stars from the hit TV show "Smash" talk about the show and their careers Christian Borle and Will Chase talk "Smash," Peter and The Starcatcher and the craft of acting, from TV to the stage. Listen now to Downstage Center.

	Downstage Center with Elizabeth Marvel and Stacy Keach
The Other Desert Cities stars discuss their Tony nominated play and the acting process. Elizabeth Marvel and Stacy Keach talk about being in the moment, professional training, and Shakepeare, and their Tony nominated play,"Other Desert Cities." Listen now to Downstage Center.

	Working In The Theatre: The Publicists' World
Adrian Bryan-Brown and Rick Miramontez talk shop with Thomas Schumacher Super-Publicists Adrian Bryan-Brown and Rick Miramontez talk with moderator Thomas Schumacher about the new world of theatre publicity and more. Watch "The Publicists' World"

	See the 2012 Tony Award nominees!
Nominations in 26 competitive categories Kristin Chenoweth and Jim Parsons announced the 2012 Tony nominations on Tuesday, May 1st. For a complete list visit TonyAwards.com. The American Theatre Wing co-presents the Tony Awards with the The Broadway League. Neil Patrick Harris hosts the 2012 awards on CBS on Sunday, June 10. Visit TonyAwards.com for everything Tony!

	Downstage Center with Bruce Dow and Josh Young
From Jesus Christ Superstar From the Stratford Shakespeare Festival to the La Jolla Playhouse to Broadway, the current revival of Jesus Christ Superstar has the theatre world buzzing. In the latest Downstage Center, two of the shows stars, Bruce Dow and Josh Young, discuss the origins of the current revival, roles, dramaturgy, the script, and surprise visits early on from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Listen now to Downstage Center.

	Directing Shakespeare: What's It All About Willy Part 2
Part two of a conversation about dramaturgy from the Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation. PART TWO: On April 28, 2001, Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation invited Arthur Bartow, Artistic Director of the Drama Department at NYU Tisch, to moderate a conversation between Michael Lupu, Senior Dramaturg at the Guthrie Theater; Mark Bly, Associate Artistic Director of Yale Rep; Louis Scheeder of Classical Studio NYU Tisch; and freelance director Daniel Fish about working on Shakespeare. Listen to Directing Shakespeare: What's It All About Willy Part 2

	2012 Jonathan Larson Grants presentation
Video highlights from the event, including music from "Rent" and "Southern Comfort." Live performances from the event, including music from "Rent" and 2012 recipients Julianne Wick Davis and Don Collins' "Southern Comfort." Watch video now!

	Downstage Center with David Zayas and Stephen Adly Guirgis
LAByrinth Theater Company members From NYC police officer to Broadway, actor David Zayas has had an interesting journey from the street to the stage. In the latest Downstage Center, the accomplished actor joins his fellow LAByrinth Theater member and friend, the playwright/actor Stephen Adly Guirgis. Listen now to Downstage Center.

	Directing Shakespeare: What's It All About Willy Part 1
Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation invited Arthur Bartow to moderate a conversation about dramaturgy. On April 28, 2001, Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation invited Arthur Bartow, Artistic Director of the Drama Department at NYU Tisch, to moderate a conversation between Michael Lupu, Senior Dramaturg at the Guthrie Theater; Mark Bly, Associate Artistic Director of Yale Rep; Louis Scheeder of Classical Studio NYU Tisch; and freelance director Daniel Fish about working on Shakespeare. Listen to Directing Shakespeare: What's It All About Willy Part 1

	Working In The Theatre: Directors, Process and Collaboration
Andrew Leynse with directors Sheryl Kaller, Pam MacKinnon, and Stephen Wadsworth Directors Sheryl Kaller, Pam MacKinnon and Stephen Wadsworth talked about their start in theatre; their process when beginning a new project; collaboration with playwrights and the challenges of handling the playwright in the room; listening to the audience; and what, or who, inspires and informs their work. Watch "Directors: Process & Collaboration"

	Downstage Center with Robert Lopez
Ted Chapin interviews The Book of Mormon co-author Robert Lopez Where are Broadway's biggest talents? Downstage Center. The latest sits down with Tony Award winner Robert Lopez. The composer and lyricist talks to Ted Chapin (American Theatre Wing Chairman of the Board and President and Executive Director of The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization) about his inspiration, the Sondheim influence, finding the comedy, and, of course, The Book of Mormon, from its inceptions to its "I Believe" ode to "The Sound of Music." Listen now to Downstage Center.

	Directing Shakespeare: The Nature of Design
Five directors sit down with moderator and set designer Ming Cho Lee for a unique experiment regarding the relationship between director and designers. A mock first production meeting was held for an imaginary staging of A Winter's Tale, with the designers being told to end the meeting with the inspiration to go home, pick up a pencil, and not need to talk with the director for the next two weeks. They discussed many crucial aspects of the first few stages in the artistic process, such as their initial emotional responses to the text, how to establish the physical world of the play, and how to visually develop the inner conflict within a character through technical elements. Listen to Directing Shakespeare: The Nature of Design.

	Downstage Center with Bill Berloni
Michael Price interviews animal trainer and 2011 Special Tony Award winner Bill Berloni Broadway's premier animal trainer Bill Berloni got his foot in the door in 1976 as a teenager when he rescued and trained the original Sandy for the Goodspeed Opera House original production of Annie. Sandy went to Broadway in 1977 and so did Mr. Berloni, and he never left. Michael Price, Goodspeed Musicals Executive Director, interviews the 2011 Special Tony Award winner and friend Mr. Berloni about his career in the theater: from Annie to Camelot (with Richard Burton) to Andrew Lloyd Webber's Woman in White; the work he's most proud of; and the special pride he takes in being an advocate for his four legged co- stars. Listen now to Bill Berloni.

	2012 Jonathan Larson Grant Recipients Announced
Congratulations to Dan Collins and Julianne Wick Davis "As collaborators, we have always been drawn to stories of outsiders, the questions of faith, and the struggles for self-actualization. These topics resonate with us and therefore, we hear these topics sing..." Read more >>

	2011 DCN: Scenic Designers w/Rachel Hauck and Nick Francone
A conversation with veteran scenic designers about their experiences collaborating with a variety of directors. On Monday, June 27th, 2011, SDC's Gretchen Michelfeld talked to veteran scenic designers Rachel Hauck (The Public, BAM, The Vineyard, South Coast Rep, Eugene O'Neill Resident Set Designer) and Nick Francone (Prospect Theater Company, SPF, Six Figures, New Georges, E.S.T., Santa Fe Opera, assistant on Wicked and Opera) about their experiences collaborating with a variety of directors. They discussed aspects of successful production meetings, dealing with repertory sets, the strangest designs they have made, and offer advice to young directors. This is an enlightening discussion on the successes and struggles in the lives of professional scenic designers. 2011 DCN: Scenic Designers.

	Working In The Theatre: Featured Performers 2012
With David Alan Grier, Judith Light and Condola Rashad Three of Broadway's hardest working actors sit down for a spirited discussion on all things acting, from creating a character to reactions to reviews. Watch "Featured Performers 2012"

	Downstage Center with Memphis' Montego Glover and Adam Pascal
Where are Broadway's hottest stars? Downstage Center. The latest episode heads down south with Memphis stars Montego Glover and Adam Pascal. Memphis' Montego Glover plays the role as interviewer to her co-star Adam Pascal. The versatile duo expounds on, among other topics, their experience in Memphis, the skill sets needed to be a working actor, and some of the other roles they may be known for: Mr. Pascal in Rent and Aida, and Ms. Glover in The Color Purple. Listen now to Montego Glover and Adam Pascal.

	Directing Shakespeare: Working The Text with Deborah Hecht, Ralph Zito, Mark Lamos, Oni Faida Lampley, and Boris McGiver
A conversation about the importance of text work. Topics include speech interpretation, the process of making stylistic choices, and the necessities of physical endurance. On April 28, 2001, Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation invited NYU voice and dialect coach Deborah Hecht, Juilliard Chairman of Voice and Speech Ralph Zito, director Mark Lamos, actor Oni Faida Lampley, and actor Boris McGiver for a conversation about the importance of text work. Louis Scheeder, Director and Founder of Classical Studio at NYU Tisch moderates. Topics include speech interpretation, the process of making stylistic choices, and the necessities of physical endurance. Listen to Directing Shakespeare: Working The Text.

	Downstage Center with Venus in Fur's Nina Arianda
NY1's Frank DiLella interviews Venus in Fur star Nina Arianda in the latest Downstage Center Nina Arianda's star has never shone brighter. Recreating the off-Broadway role that her made a name to watch, the actress returns to Broadway in Venus in Fur in what the New York Times called "the first, must see performance of the Broadway season." Downstage Center, with NY1's Frank DiLella, sits down with Ms. Arianda to discuss, among other things, the acting process, family, her Tony nomination for Born Yesterday, working in Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris, seeing Meryl Streep in Mother Courage, theatre education, and her dream roles. Listen now.

	2011 DCN: Broadway Stage Managers' Secrets Revealed with Jill Cordle, Heather Cousens, and Ira Mont
On May 25th, 2011, SDC's Gretchen Michelfeld spoke with three Broadway Production Stage Managers about their experiences. Stage Managers Jill Cordle (Jerusalem), Heather Cousens (Spring Awakening), and Ira Mont (Arcadia) give advice to early career directors on time management, speak to building trust and collaboration, and discuss the smartest things they've seen directors do. They offer first-hand knowledge on the relationship between directors and stage managers. Listen to 2011 DCN: Broadway Stage Managers' Secrets Revealed.

	Downstage Center with Mormon's Andrew Rannells
Go backstage with one of Broadway's hottest actors from Broadway's biggest show. NY1's Frank DiLella interviews The Book of Mormon star Andrew Rannells in the latest Downstage Center. From Hairspray and Jersey Boys to The Book of Mormon's Elder Price, Nebraska native Mr. Rannells relishes his time in the hottest show in town. Inspired by Into the Woods and The Who's Tommy, he somehow found a way to keep a straight face during each hilarious performance on his way to his first Tony Award nomination in 2011. Listen to how he ended up in the current production and pranks his co-star Josh Gad on stage, what real Mormons think of his work, working with Trey Parker and Matt Stone and the sometimes controversial subject matter of their humor, and what happens when Oprah visits him after the show. Listen to Frank DiLella's interview with Andrew Rannells.

	Casting Directors currently Working in the Theatre
Casting Directors David Caparelliotis, Tara Rubin and Daniel Swee and moderator Patrick Pacheco discuss the role of the casting director; their collaboration with directors; recasting shows; and whether stars are necessary for success on Broadway today. Watch "Casting Directors 2012"

	Downstage Center with Marlo Thomas and Lisa Emery
Marlo Thomas and Lisa Emery share the stage in Broadway's Relatively Speaking - an evening of one-acts written by Elaine May, Woody Allen, and Ethan Coen. In the Wing's latest Downstage Center they get together to swap stories on the craft they love and how they got where they are today. Ms. Thomas begins as the interviewer but soon a conversation ensues about mutual director horror stories, women in the theatre, pre-show rituals, the inspiration they receive from hearing the audience entering the empty space, and, of course, Relatively Speaking and working with Elaine May's words and John Turturro's direction. They wrap it up discussing their "big breaks" - Ms. Thomas with Neil Simon's Barefoot in the Park and Ms. Emery with Lanford Wilson's Burn This. Listen to the interview with Marlo Thomas and Lisa Emery.

	Working in the Theatre spotlights The Playwrights' Voice
Playwrights Lydia R. Diamond, David Henry Hwang and Suzan-Lori Parks discuss their work and other American playwrights and how they influenced them; the moment each was aware they wanted to be writers; their process; experiencing their work on Broadway for the first time; and the role mentors played in their lives and their role as mentors. Watch "The Playwrights' Voice 2012"

	Thomas Kail In Conversation With... Moisés Kaufman
In July 2011, Thomas Kail sat in conversation with Moisés Kaufman at the Stage Directors and Choreographers offices. In this exchange, Thomas and Moisés traverse career beginnings, varying paths of directors, and the struggles involved with telling stories rooted in historical events on stage. Listen to Thomas Kail "In Conversation With... Moisés Kaufman".

	Downstage Center returns with Follies' Elaine Paige and Ron Raines
What happens when Follies star Elaine Paige sits down to interview her co-star Ron Raines? Listen now to the lively discussion about everything Follies and Sondheim: his lyrics, Sondheim as teacher, and the difficulty in performing Sweeney Todd, among other topics. Sondheim isn't the only show in town. Paige and Raines also talk about balancing life and art, musical theatre vs. opera, the economics of Broadway, career longevity in the theatre, The King and I, transitioning from film/television acting to acting on the stage, and Paige's most embarrassing stage moment while performing in Evita. Of course, it all goes back to Follies and its cast and why it's so hard for Raines to follow Paige's showstopper "I'm Still Here!" Listen to the interview with Elaine Paige and Ron Raines.

	Thomas Kail In Conversation With... Joe Mantello
In June 2011, Thomas Kail sat in conversation with Joe Mantello backstage at the Golden Theater. From Mantello's dressing room, their conversation traces his arc from actor to director and back, and the responsibility of taking risks to continue to evolve throughout a career. Listen to Thomas Kail "In Conversation With... Joe Mantello".

	Producers discuss their Creative Approach on Working in the Theatre
Producers Jean Doumanian and Daryl Roth talk about creating a supportive environment for artistic teams bringing shows to the stage; collaborating with other producers; the benefits and challenges of casting stars in a show; and the economics and creative process of producing off Broadway vs. on Broadway. Watch "Producers: A Creative Approach"

	Thomas Kail In Conversation With... Susan Stroman on SDCF Masters of the Stage
In July 2011, Thomas Kail sat in conversation with Susan Stroman in her office in Manhattan. They discuss her early exposure to the theatre and her impulse to pursue directing and choreographing professionally. The conversation also includes the importance of creating one's own opportunities, the unique aspects of touring productions, and the necessity of deep collaboration when creating theater. Listen to Thomas Kail "In Conversation With... Susan Stroman".

	SpringboardNYC 2012 Application now available
A two week concentrated pre-professional training course for college students planning careers in the theatre. Designed for serious students looking to take the plunge into the New York theatre world, SpringboardNYC prepares the next generation of theatre artists for working life in New York. For complete info and to apply, click here >>

	Working in the Theatre at Regional Theatres
Our guests -- representatives from theatres receiving the American Theatre Wing 2011 National Theatre Company Grants: Buntport Theater Company, FUSION, Mo´olelo Performing Arts Company, Pig Iron Theatre Company, Rude Mechanicals, Synchronicity Theatre, TheatreSquared, TimeLine Theatre, Transport Group and Watts Village Theater Company -- discuss the challenges they face in tough economic times; their community outreach; and the creativity and diversity in the works they present. Watch "Regional Theatre"

	Thomas Kail In Conversation With... Jason Moore on SDCF Masters of the Stage
In June 2011, Thomas Kail sat in conversation with Jason Moore (Avenue Q, Shrek, Tales of the City) at Moore's apartment in Manhattan. Topics range from developing a new musical to the process of transferring Off-Broadway productions to Broadway without losing the immediacy of the initial production. They also address the challenge of maintaining longer running productions to ensure they consistently feel vibrant and fresh. Directors rarely get the opportunity to spend time and share ideas in a room with other directors. This new one-on-one conversation series was conceived by director Thomas Kail to give himself, and his peers, an opportunity to do just that. This series of conversations explores topics that stretch from finding the spark in their work, making a life as a director, and how they landed on this side of the table. Each director's vision is distinct, and their way of working is their own, but this series also addresses all they have in common beyond the shared title. Listen to Thomas Kail "In Conversation With... Jason Moore".

	Thomas Kail In Conversation With... Alex Timbers on SDCF Masters of the Stage
Directors rarely get the opportunity to spend time and share ideas in a room with other directors. This new one-on-one conversation series was conceived by director Thomas Kail to give himself, and his peers, an opportunity to do just that. This series of conversations explores topics that stretch from finding the spark in their work, making a life as a director, and how they landed on this side of the table. Each director's vision is distinct, and their way of working is their own, but this series also addresses all they have in common beyond the shared title. In June 2011, Thomas Kail sat in conversation with Alex Timbers at the SDC Offices. Their discussion explores how they followed their respective impulse to start their own theater company, and delves into the challenge of creating new work. They also address their inspirations and those who have influenced them as directors. Listen to Thomas Kail "In Conversation With... Alex Timbers".

	Working in the Theatre discusses The State of Theatre
Thomas Schumacher talks with guests, Ben Cameron and Kevin McCollum, about the state of theatre today in a wide ranging conversation that highlights how theatre can survive during difficult economic times; whether celebrities can affect sales and audiences; and dealing with government and foundation funding. Watch "The State of Theatre: Institutions and Producers"

	American Theatre Wing Announces Recipients Of National Theater Company Grants
Theatres to be honored at luncheon in New York City on October 24, 2011. New York, NY (October 3, 2011) - The American Theatre Wing has announced the recipients of its 2011 National Theatre Company Grants. This year's recipients are: Buntport Theater Company (Denver, CO), FUSION (Albuquerque, NM), Mo'olelo Performing Arts Company (San Diego, CA), Pig Iron Theatre Company (Philadephia, PA), Rude Mechanicals (Austin, TX), Synchronicity Theatre (Atlanta, GA), TheatreSquared (Fayetteville, AR), TimeLine Theatre (Chicago, IL), Transport Group (New York, NY), Watts Village Theater Company (Los Angeles, CA). The companies will be celebrated at a private luncheon on October 24th, 2011 in Manhattan. Grants for the 2011 cycle in the amount of $10,000 each will be distributed for general operating support to these companies which, according to grant guidelines, have been in operation at least five, but not more than fifteen years, have articulated a distinctive mission, cultivated an audience, and nurtured a community of artists in ways that strengthen and demonstrate the quality, diversity, and dynamism of American theatre. "For the second year in a row, our national grants committee was astounded by the breadth and depth of the work being done by non-profit theatre companies around this country. Vetting close to seventy companies, we were amazed that, just like last season, the final ten $10,000 awardees covered the entire span of the United States. From Philly and New York to Fayetteville, Albuquerque and Watts, CA., theatres were selected for their uniqueness, courage, creativity and inspiring programs developing new works, outreach and education," said Lucie Arnaz, Chair of the grants committee. "It's thrilling to me to prove, once again, that great theatre isn't just on Broadway between 40th and 50th streets, but that Broadway is a road that is 3,000 miles long." "This is one more indication of the exciting energy that we are all feeling at the Wing," said Theodore S. Chapin. "I congratulate this year's 10 recipients and Lucie for her leadership of the grants committee." "The National Theatre Company Grants Program allows the Wing to shine a light on companies doing innovative and artistically excellent work in cities and towns of all kinds all across the country," Heather Hitchens added. "We at the Wing are very proud to provide crucial support to these companies in recognition of their outstanding work to advance the art form of theatre." The American Theatre Wing has long shown its dedication to not-for-profit theatres through its Theatre Company Grants Program. After many years during which eligibility was restricted to New York City companies, 2010 marked a significant change in the granting of The Wing, resulting from extensive review by the organization's Board of Trustees. The ATW Grants have distributed some $3 million dollars over the past 54 years. For more information on the ATW's National Theatre Company Grants, visit: americantheatrewing.org/grants/. The application period for 2012 grants will open in the spring of next year. The American Theatre Wing (Theodore S. Chapin, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Heather Hitchens, Executive Director) is best known as the creator of the Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards®, which it presents annually with The Broadway League. In addition to the media programs "Downstage Center," "In The Wings," "Working in the Theatre," and a host of other online resources, The Wing sponsors many activities, all dedicated to recognizing excellence and supporting education in theatre. These programs include the Theatre Intern Group, a career development program for young professionals; SpringboardNYC, a two-week college-to-career boot camp for young performers moving to NYC; and the Jonathan Larson® Grants, given annually to honor emerging composers, lyricists and book writers. Visitors to americantheatrewing.org can listen to, watch or download from ATW's extensive media collection, and learn more about all of its programming for students, aspiring and working professionals, and audiences who want to learn more about the making of theatre. For more information about all of the American Theatre Wing programs, go to americantheatrewing.org. ATW can be followed on Facebook.com/TheAmericanTheatreWing and Twitter.com/TheWing and additional, unique video can be found at YouTube.com/AmericanTheatreWing.

	Working in the Theatre goes Behind The Curtain
Disney Theatrical President and Producer Thomas Schumacher takes us behind the curtain and gives us an up close and personal view of how things work backstage. We'll meet the make up people from The Lion King, share secrets from a premiere Broadway wig designer, watch just how those quick changes happen in Mary Poppins, meet the man behind the puppets in The Lion King and hear one member of The Lion King orchestra as he demonstrates those signature sounds. Watch "Behind The Curtain"

	Over $550,000 raised at 2011 ATW Gala honoring Sir Howard Stringer
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg proclaims September 26, 2011 in New York City "American Theatre Wing Day in honor of Sir Howard Stringer" The American Theatre Wing (Theodore S. Chapin, Chairman of the Board of Directors; Heather Hitchens, Executive Director) raised more than $550,000 at their annual Gala last night. All of the proceeds will go towards The Wing's education and outreach programs. The event was held at New York's legendary Plaza Hotel in honor of Sir Howard Stringer (Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Sony Corporation and longtime American Theatre Wing Board Member), and included a special tribute to Douglas B. Leeds (Former President and dear friend of The Wing). Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg was on hand to proclaim the date "American Theatre Wing Day in Honor of Sir Howard Stringer " in the City of New York. The Mayor's official proclamation stated, "We applaud the exceptional efforts of the American Theatre Wing and Sir Howard Stringer for their crucial contributions to the performing arts in New York City, and look forward to seeing the performing arts community thrive on the Great White Way and stages across the five boroughs." Also taking the stage was a slew of celebrity performers and presenters, including Jennifer Hudson, Angela Lansbury, Kelli O'Hara, Elaine Paige, Marilu Henner, James Naughton, Brandon Victor Dixon, Colin Donnell and Erin Mackey. Tom Hanks served as the evening's Honorary Chairman, and the Gala Co-Chairmen were Theodore S. Chapin and Marva A. Smalls. The Gala Committee included Susan Stevenson Brown, David Bruson, Susan Fales-Hill, Sondra Gilman, LaTanya Richardson & Samuel L. Jackson, Mrs. Ronald S. Konecky, Pia Lindström, Bruce Redditt, Malaak & Chris Rock, Jane & Morley Safer, Alan Siegel and Mark W. Smith. The American Theatre Wing is best known as the creator of the Antoinette Perry "Tony" Awards®, which it presents annually with The Broadway League. The Wing operates a variety of programs, all dedicated to recognizing excellence and supporting education in theatre. These programs include "Downstage Center," a podcast featuring in-depth interviews with the leading artists and professionals working on stage today; "Working in the Theatre," a television program on CUNY TV which gathers panels of theater artists to discuss their crafts; "In the Wings," a web series that spotlights theatre's behind-the-scenes talents; a national theatre company grants program that supports 10 emerging theatres across the country each year; the Theatre Intern Group, a career development program for young professionals; SpringboardNYC, a two-week college-to-career boot camp for young performers moving to NYC; and the Jonathan Larson® Grants, given annually to honor emerging composers, lyricists and book writers. All ATW media is available on americantheatrewing.org and on iTunes. For additional information about all American Theatre Wing programs, go to americantheatrewing.org. You can also find the American Theatre Wing on Twitter (www.twitter.com/TheWing) and on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/TheAmericanTheatreWing).

	The Challenges and Triumphs of Actors Working in the Theatre
Actors Nina Arianda, Nikki M. James, Arian Moayed and Bobby Steggert share what drew them to the theatre; the difference between training and actually being on stage; the audition process; what they learn from more experienced actors; what they look for in roles and their relationship with the director. Watch "Challenges and Triumphs: Actors 2011"

	Tony Award winning scenic designer Eugene Lee on Downstage Center
Eugene Lee, resident designer for Rhode Island's Trinity Rep since 1967, set designer for Saturday Night Live (SNL) since its inception, and three-time TONY Award winner, talks about the realistic set of Sweeney Todd; growing up in Wisconsin and his early theatre memories and experiences; why he dislikes proscenium stages; what led SNL's Lorne Michaels to hire him; working with Hal Prince on Sweeney Todd, Candide, Merrily We Roll Along, and Showboat; how he got involved in Wicked; working with Gordon Edelstein at Long Wharf Theatre; working with playwright Athol Fugard; and his love of teaching. Listen to the interview with Eugene Lee.

	Directors discuss Working in the Theatre
Directors Jo Bonney, Sheldon Epps, Michael Halberstam and Gregory Mosher talk about how they got started in the business; choosing their projects; their process when starting a new show; how the dual role of Artistic Director and Director informs their own work and working with other directors; and how they approach auditions. Watch "Directors 2011"

	Downstage Center welcomes Lois Smith
American actress Lois Smith, whose career in theatre, film, and television spans five decades, talks about her experience of playing the originally male role, Alcandre, in the Signature Theatre production of Tony Kushner's The Illusion, an adaptation of Pierre Corneille's L'Illusion Comique. She also talks about her upbringing in Kansas; experience in working on the film East of Eden; working with Helen Hayes on The Wisteria Trees and The Glass Menagerie; working with Andre Gregory at the Philadelphia Theatre of the Living Arts at the beginning of the regional theatre movement; doing Chekhov; her experience as a company member of Steppenwolf and performing The Grapes of Wrath as the first American theatre company to play The Royal National Theatre in London; her experience in playing Halie in Sam Shepard's Buried Child; and working with playwright Horton Foote on The Trip to the Bountiful again at Signature Theatre. Listen to the interview with Lois Smith.

	Angela Lansbury returns to Downstage Center
Returning to Downstage Center five years after a 2006 conversation, the legendary Angela Lansbury talks about her most recent Broadway roles, in Terrence McNally's Deuce, Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit and Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music. She also discusses her experiences with artists with whom she's frequently worked - Sondheim, Jerry Herman, Arthur Laurents and Edward Albee; her foray into Shakespeare, playing Gertrude opposite Albert Finney's Hamlet in London; why her career began on film rather than on the stage, her first love; and her opinions about the necessity of training and young people entering the acting profession to become celebrities, rather than excellent actors. Listen to the interview with Angela Lansbury.

	Playwright John Guare on Downstage Center
John Guare talks about his two Broadway plays of the past season: considering how the world has caught up with and changed audience responses to The House of Blue Leaves and which portion of the play is drawn directly from his own life, as well as the origin of A Free Man of Color and whether it's his practice to write plays based on ideas suggested by others. He also discusses his development as a playwright while at Georgetown University and the Yale School of Drama; why being an Aquarius was instrumental in the start of his professional career; his never-completed collaboration with Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein; how Two Gentlemen of Verona, a musical with 37 songs, was never meant to be a musical; finding a home at The Public Theatre and his conflicted emotions about being a part of the institution at that time, where such plays as Landscape of the Body and Marco Polo Sings a Solo premiered; how place affected his writing of the Lydie Breeze plays and why he chose to revisit and rework them 20 years later; when he first learned of a con man pretending to be Sidney Poitier's son and when that blossomed into Six Degrees of Separation; the impact of his work with Signature Theatre Company in New York, including the premiere of Lake Hollywood, which incorporated a play he'd written 39 years earlier; and why he agreed to adapt The Front Page and its gender-shifted remake His Girl Friday for the stage. Listen to the interview with John Guare.

	Downstage Center with Williamstown Theatre Festival's new Artistic Director
Just as she departed for Massachusetts and her first season as the Williamstown Theatre Festival's first female artistic director Jenny Gersten discussed her plans for the company under her leadership and tells the story of how she sold herself as Associate Producer to prior artistic director Michael Ritchie, which resulted in her nine year tenure in that previous position at WTF. She discussed WTF's relationship both to its local audience, those who summer in the Berkshires and visitors from New York, as well as how she's reconfigured the season to allow for longer runs, but fewer productions, on the mainstage. She also talks about growing up in a performing arts household (as the daughter of Lincoln Center Theater's Bernard Gersten and The New 42nd Street's Cora Cahan, both previous Downstage Center guests); her post college job with the the highly praised 52nd Street Project; her time as artistic director of New York's Naked Angels as they began their renaissance; and her work as Associate Producer for Oskar Eustis at The Public Theater prior to getting the Williamstown gig. Listen to the interview with Jenny Gersten.

	In The Wings with the Child Wrangler
Child Wrangler Felicia Velasco is the guardian for a show's young cast members while they're at the theatre for performances and rehearsals. As a combined authority figure and assistant, she ensures the child actors are prepared, are kept safe, and helps to manage their downtime. Seen here working with the girls at The People in the Picture, she compares it to previous wrangling assignments, and finds the upsides to a career as a child wrangler. Watch "In The Wings: Child Wrangler"

	Downstage Center with Tony nominated actor Tony Sheldon
Priscilla Queen of the Desert's Tony Sheldon talks about his six year journey with the show, from his dislike of the original film on which it's based to his transcontinental success as Bernadette in Australia, New Zealand, England, Canada and now the United States. He also talks about growing up in a multi-generational show business family in Australia (including his mother Toni Lamond, who's still performing at age 79, and his aunt Helen Reddy) which saw him working professionally at age 7; his performing hiatus from age 12 to 17, after which he rebelled against his family's singing and dancing tradition by embarking on work in plays; his youthful roles as Alan Strang in Equus and Tom in The Glass Menagerie (as well as the hit show Hamlet on Ice); his first exposure to Shakespeare; his success -- after a shaky start -- as Arnold in the Australian debut of Torch Song Trilogy; how the burgeoning Australian film industry and resident theatre movements ran in parallel, rather than intertwined, paths; his dual career as writer and director of cabaret vehicles for many of Australia's best known performers, including his mom; his profound unhappiness at being cast as Roger De Bris in The Producers; and whether -- after working outside of Australia for the first time in Priscilla -- he'd like to work again in London or New York. Listen to the interview with Tony Sheldon.

	Actors Reveal Passion and Compassion when Working in the Theatre
Actors Bobby Cannavale, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Judith Light, Lia Williams and Tom Wopat talk about a performance that transformed or inspired them; pre-show rituals; how their day outside the theatre informs their performance; their relationships with other actors, the audience and the director; and working with the playwright during rehearsal. Watch "Passion and Compassion: Actors 2011"

	Downstage Center with Librettist John Weidman
Bookwriter John Weidman talks about creating a new book in the 1980s with Timothy Crouse for the 1930s musical Anything Goes, now playing in revival at Roundabout Theatre Company in New York, and how their version of the oft-revised musical became the now-standard script. He also talks about growing up as the son of novelist and sometime Broadway librettist Jerome Weidman; his academic career at Harvard and then Yale Law School (though he's never practiced law); his part in the creation of the highly influential National Lampoon magazine in the 70s; how his law school-era fascination with the opening of Japan to the West ultimately became his first Broadway musical, Pacific Overtures; the true origins of his second collaboration with Stephen Sondheim, Assassins; why he was dissatisfied with his work on the musical version of Big; how one writes a dance musical that is largely told without words, namely Contact; and whether the long-aborning Road Show (aka Bounce aka Wise Guys) is finished, or if further changes will be seen at the Menier Chocolate Factory in London this summer. Listen to the interview with John Weidman.

	In The Wings with the Associate Lighting Designer
Associate Lighting Designer Caroline Chao takes care of all the details for a lighting designer, including handling the production schedule, helping to draft the lighting plot, and keeping track of notes, follow spots, and the cue list. She takes us through her role in the production process, and points out the advantages of being a lighting associate and assistant. Chao has worked on multiple shows at once with lighting designer Don Holder, and is seen here teching Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark. Watch "In The Wings: Associate Lighting Designer"

	Actor Marc Kudisch talks with Downstage Center
Marc Kudisch, currently appearing in A Minister's Wife at Lincoln Center Theater, talks about performing in a musical where the transitions between speaking and singing are instant and fluid, how the show, based on Shaw's Candida, focuses its emphasis on the romantic triangle at its core, and the similarities between his character of Morrell and his early role as Conrad Birdie. He also talks about discovering himself as a performer as a senior in high school and then more fully in college; why he has always considered himself to be a character actor and how he defines that term; his performances as The Devil (in both The Apple Tree and The Witches of Eastwick), as comic villains (Franklin Hart in 9 to 5, Baron Bomburst in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), comic foils (playing Count Carl-Magnus in four productions of A Little Night Music, including the depth he finds in a character described by others as "an idiot") and leading man (as Jeff Moss in Bells Are Ringing); his admiration for directors George C. Wolfe, Tina Landau and Joe Mantello; why he has to work to get himself considered for roles in plays, when plays were what he first did when coming to New York; and the positive and negative uses of a healthy ego. Listen to the interview with Marc Kudisch.

	Downstage Center with Director-Actor Joe Mantello
Joe Mantello talks about returning to the Broadway stage as an actor after a 17-year hiatus to play the role of Ned Weeks in Larry Kramer's The Normal Heart -- and what it's like to play a role that the play's author has based on himself when the author is at the theatre nightly. He also talks about his acting days in school and community theatre in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois (with classmates that included Marin Mazzie); his training at North Carolina School of the Arts and why he had to relearn his idiosyncrasies when he got to New York; his work with playwright Peter Hedges and actress Mary-Louise Parker in the self-founded Edge Theatre; the opportunities offered to him by the Circle Repertory Company; why he decided to stop acting after making his Broadway debut in Angels in America; the development of his directing career, including the highs and lows of his first two Broadway assignments, Terrence McNally's Love! Valour! Compassion! and Donald Margulies' What's Wrong With This Picture?; his collaborations with playwrights including Jon Robin Baitz, David Mamet, Richard Greenberg, Neil Simon and Craig Lucas, among many others; the challenge of taking on a project on the scale of Wicked with only one previous musical directing credit and how much he remains involved with the show's many productions nationally and internationally; why he enjoys working on intimate shows; and the irony behind Other Desert Cities' plans for Broadway in the fall. Listen to the interview with Joe Mantello.

	Working in the Theatre talks about Journalism, Online and Off
The opportunities and challenges of online arts journalism started off the discussion for our panel - Chris Caggiano, Scott Heller, David J. Loehr, Jan Simpson and Terry Teachout. They also discuss how blogging is able to reach a more expansive and diverse audience than traditional journalism; what they look for online and if what they read affects their own writing; and how social media has been able to create national and even international conversations about theatre. Watch "Theatre Journalism: Online and Off 2011"

	American Theatre Wing Appoints Heather Hitchens as New Executive Director
The American Theatre Wing today announced that Heather Hitchens has been appointed as the organization's next Executive Director. The decision was made at a meeting of the American Theatre Wing's Board of Trustees on Wednesday, May 4. Hitchens is an energetic and nationally recognized arts executive, with nearly 20 years of experience in performing arts administration, policy, and program development. She most recently served as the Executive Director of the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA), the oldest and largest state arts agency in the country, with a budget of $40 million. Hitchens will begin her tenure as Executive Director on July 5, succeeding Howard Sherman, who has been the Wing's Executive Director for 8 years and concludes his tenure on June 30. During her four year tenure at NYSCA, Hitchens oversaw the distribution of over $120 million in grants to more than 2,000 New York State organizations in every artistic discipline. She also fostered closer collaboration and partnerships between the arts and other sectors including tourism, economic development, and parks, and in collaboration with a number of public and private funding sources, launched the Cultural Data Project, which is developing more comprehensive and reliable data about the impact of the arts in New York State. Prior to working with the NYSCA, Hitchens served as the CEO of the Delaware Symphony Orchestra and the renowned national arts organization Meet The Composer, where she established a multi-million dollar endowment fund and fostered a thirty-fold increase in individual giving. She holds an M.S. in Arts Administration from Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA and a B.M. in Percussion/Music Business from DePauw, Greencastle, IN. "The Wing is a uniquely collaborative organization," said Theodore S. Chapin, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. "Our fruitful and long-term partnership with the Broadway League in bestowing the Tony Awards is a key element of the Wing, as are our various media, educational, and grant-giving programs. Howard Sherman brought the Wing into modern times, expanding, creating and widening the scope of the activities with intelligence and skill, and his contributions have made the Wing a more important place. Building on what Howard achieved, our extraordinary search committee did yeoman service, and their choice of Heather Hitchens speaks well for us all. From my vantage point as Chairman, I feel Heather is the perfect person to guide us into the next phase of collaborations, mining new opportunities and strengthening old ones." "I am absolutely thrilled to become the American Theatre Wing's next Executive Director," enthused Heather Hitchens. "It is a tremendous opportunity to continue my life's work in advancing exceptional artists and their craft, and to return to the place that my career began and a place that I love - the theatre. I look forward to working with the Wing's board and staff to continue showcasing and supporting artistic excellence and innovation in the national theatre community." Search Committee-member and Tony Award®-winning playwright David Henry Hwang added, "From an impressive pool of final candidates, Heather Hitchens emerged as the Search Committee's unanimous choice. Her knowledge of the cultural sector is second to none, she has elevated every organization with which she has been associated, and she possesses a clear and practical vision to advance the Wing's mission. With Heather as our new Executive Director, the American Theatre Wing is poised to take a major step forward to support artistic excellence in the theatre."