Award-winning Jewish theater producer Daryl Roth was in town last week to catch a peak at the KC Rep’s “Last Days of Summer,” which she is producing. The musical is based on a book by Jewish author Steve Kluger, who also wrote the book and the lyrics for the plan. It runs through Sept. 30 at Spencer Theater on the UMKC campus.
Roth is president of Daryl Roth Productions and has produced seven Pulitzer Prize-winning plays: “Anna in the Tropics;” “August: Osage County” (2008 Tony Award); “Clybourne Park” (2012 Tony Award); “How I Learned to Drive”; “Proof” (2001 Tony Award); Edward Albee’s “Three Tall Women”; and “Wit.” On top of that she’s won 10 Tony Awards and London’s Olivier Award, highlights of her more than 100 award-winning productions both on and off Broadway. She’s owns the Daryl Roth Theatres in New York as well.
While she was here she was kind enough to sit down and answer a few quick questions for The Jewish Chronicle.
Q: Why did you decide to go into theater?
A: Theater has always been a haven for me, a place where one can feel safe and explore new ideas, experience stories that may be personal causing you to feel less alone, learn, expand and fill up emotionally!
I was introduced to theater as a child and I found it to be a magical place ever since. I am fortunate to have been able to have a 30-year career doing what I love and hopefully making a difference by what I have chosen to produce.
Q: Does your Judaism come into play when you are making decisions about shows?
A: I come from a very solid Jewish background. My family practiced Judaism and we observed traditions in our home. It is very much a part of my upbringing and I believe my moral fiber was formed based on what I feel it is to be a good member of the Jewish community.
Often times the work that I choose to produce has a Jewish theme or sensibility of family or , events in our history that reflect my interests such as “Irena’s Vow,” “Wiesenthal” and “Old Wicked Songs” for example.
Q: What factors went in to your decision to purchase your own theater?
A: At the time that I purchased my theater I was doing a lot of producing off Broadway and there were not enough venues to support the good work that was being done. I was fortunate enough to be able to find and purchase the beautiful Landmarked Union Square Savings Bank which has been home over these many years to some of the most imaginative, eclectic, dynamic theater seen in New York City.
Q: Why did you choose to premiere “Last Days of Summer” at KCRep?
A: My first experience with Kansas City Rep was because of my friendship with Eric Rosen (former artistic director), who I have known and admired over the years. I was developing a new musical “Between the Lines” and we were looking for a home that would allow us to work on the piece and see the potential. KC Rep proved to be just that situation. I’m delighted to be back this year with the “Last Days of Summer” and grateful for the same warm welcome!