Christian Parker News

The Off-Broadway production of A Guide for the Homesick by Ken Urban will present a special series of post-show talkbacks during its extended run this January. Learn how to purchase tickets.

From nonprofit theaters innovating in the face of financial pressures to the anticipation of live performance rebounding amidst AI fatigue, the stories highlight an industry evolving while staying grounded in community and creativity. Stories include Broadway honoring Tom Viola, regional theaters navigating leadership changes, and international venues undergoing major renovations.

As the year winds down, this week’s stories reflect a season of change, opportunity, and challenges in the theatre world. From the opening of voting for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Regional Awards to the rise of effective altruism reshaping holiday giving, we explore how innovation and community engagement continue to shape the arts. Highlights include expanded performance schedules on Broadway, significant regional funding initiatives like King County’s Doors Open program, and transitions like Heather Lanza’s appointment at NextStop Theatre. Meanwhile, stories of financial strain, such as Germany’s cultural budget cuts and UK theatre downsizing, remind us of the ongoing need for sustainable support in the arts sector.

Leadership transformations and financial strategies are reshaping the theater world, with new leaders like Alisha Tonsic at TCG and Jan Svendsen Weiss launching ACTivate4Good to drive innovation and social impact. Broadway faces mounting pressures as producers navigate rising costs and favor jukebox musicals over original works to mitigate risks. Regionally, initiatives like BroadwayWorld’s donation database and the reinvention of Cal Shakes’ scene shop demonstrate resilience amid challenges.

This week's newsletter highlights pivotal moments and developments shaping the theatre world, from New York to Berlin. In academia, Professor Christian Parker redefines dramaturgy’s role at Columbia, while Broadway remembers the late Gavin Creel with a livestreamed memorial. Globally, J.P. Morgan’s NextList and Berlin’s proposed arts budget cuts spark reflections on the value of culture, as regional and international initiatives, including MTI’s support for disaster-stricken theatres and new leadership at The Old Vic, underscore the resilience and adaptability of the arts. Lastly, a troubling lawsuit involving Shen Yun Performing Arts raises questions about labor conditions in the performing arts.

In classes led by Professor of Professional Practice in Theatre Christian Parker ’98, students soon learn their first surprising lesson: as dramaturgs, they are expected to get creatively involved.

The Prince Fellowship has announced its 2024-2025 fellows, recognizing emerging talent in theater production. The fellowship supports the development of new voices in the industry through mentorship and resources.

Bucks County Playhouse has revealed the three original plays that will be featured in the inaugural South Asian Artistic Initiative Playwrighting Festival. Learn more about the festivals!

The A is For Playwriting Contest and ONE ACT Festival engages playwrights who support abortion rights and reproductive justice. Tickets are on sale for the 3rd annual festival featuring readings of the winning plays at Signature Theatre in NYC on Dec 9-10.

The Prince Fellowship, in association with Columbia University School of the Arts, has revealed that Maxwell Beer has received The Prince Fellowship and Amy Marie Haven has received the Prince/TTLP Fellowship.

Discover the highly acclaimed play ANOTHER MARRIAGE at Steppenwolf Theatre, now extended through late July.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is continuing its 47th season with the world premiere of ensemble member Kate Arrington’s unconventional love story Another Marriage, directed by ensemble member Terry Kinney. See photos from inside opening night. 

Get a first look at footage of the world premiere of Another Marriage at Steppenwolf!

Get a first look at the world premiere of Another Marriage at Steppenwolf Theatre Company1

Get a first look inside rehearsals for Another Marriage at Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

With the recent announcement of Lucille Lortel Theatre's purchase and renovation of a new theater space in Chelsea and its appointment of two new Co-Artistic Directors of New Work, Lucille Lortel Theatre has announced the launch of: The Alcove at the Lortel, a new play development program.  

The Prince Fellowship, in association with Columbia University School of the Arts, announced that applications are now open for the 2023 Fellowship program.

In conversation with MFA Candidate Anastasia Ellis, Parker discusses how dramaturgy moves in traditional text-based theatre and in the nonverbal dance world.

Stephen Byrd & Alia Jones-Harvey’s Front Row Productions Fellowship, in association with Columbia University School of the Arts, named Lamar Richardson as the 2022 Front Row Productions Fellow.

The Prince Fellowship, in association with Columbia University School of the Arts, announced that Jamila Ponton Bragg has been awarded The Prince Fellowship and Cynthia L. Dorsey has been awarded the Prince/TTLP Fellowship.