The Great Work Begins

"Curtain" will fall next Sunday..three shows left!

2012-02-20T06:45:00.002-05:00

What a weekend this was. 3 more large audiences...huge ovations for an incredibly hard working cast...people leaving the theatre telling me they now NEED to read more of TW's writing and see more of his plays now that they have insight into his motivation and characters. Watching people "connect the dots" in the play they just saw as this play is something to "chew on"..a play not simplistic in is subject or story. After years and years of readings and workshops and thousands of miles up and down the NJ turnpike...TW..and the play are alive...onstage...directly in front of you at Waterfront South Theatre. It is hard to pinpoint one subject to write about with all of this happening at once. It is a true joy for me and, as TW says in my play..."a true perk of the profession".

Thank you to the hundreds who have already seen the play and I personally invite you to please join us while Tennessee is still with us onstage in Waterfront South.

Three more performances of "Tennessee's Final Curtain" this Friday, Saturday and Sunday only. Tickets have been selling briskly but there are still seats available for each show. Gett hem at www.southcamdentheatre.org. En avant!

A love note from Tennessee Williams

2012-02-14T07:07:00.003-05:00

Frank Merlo was the love of Tennessee Williams' life. Frank and Tenn spent many years together and Frank's death in 1957 shook Tenn until the day of his own death at the Hotel Elysee in 1983. During their time together, Frank took care of everything in their home life to allow Tennessee to write...to create...to become a legend. As we move into our second weekend of "Tennessee's Final Curtain" at SCTC think about love in all forms and...the ghosts of true love that may have left us..and how it affects all of us in all it's senses. After reading my play, the great actor Jeremey Lawrence, who has played Tennessee Williams all over the world, wrote this to me.."we all need a Frank in our lives". Please join us at Waterfront South Theatre and feel the ghosts and regrets of one of our greatest writers. And..to you all...I wish you the love of a "Frank" in all of your lives.

Opening a Curtain

2012-02-10T07:36:00.003-05:00

After over 12 years of readings, workshops and thousands of miles back and forth to NY my play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" opens tonight. To fully describe the process of birthing a new play is to list the many people and places that have aided in its development. To discuss the writing of a play is to take you into a far lonelier place...a place filled with visions and voices and inspirations that allow a playwright to bring a new play to the page. My writer friends have all shared in the solemnity of that moment. The moment you finish. Writing the words "The End" mean two much different things...the end of the solitary process of writing and the beginning of the new life a play takes and...the ultimate joy of watching your play stand on its own feet as "Curtain" will do tonight. I hope to see you over the next three weeks as Tennessee Williams grapples with his own ghost and demons, brought to you to help us all understand the loneliness of this incredible writer. After all of these years its funny to see my own ghosts interact with the ghosts of others....all happening as one of the greatest writers in the past 100 years rises again to life. I hope you'll join me on this journey. It's been quite a ride up to now.

Thank you, Brian Dennehy

2012-02-08T08:23:00.003-05:00

Thank you to acting legend Brian Dennehy for coming to SCTC yesterday to raise money for SCTC and discuss O'Neill, Miller, his films and Lee Marvin! Thank you also to the over capacity house who got to meet this iconic actor "up close and personal" the way we do things at SCTC. Brian is off to Chicago to begin rehearsals for "The Iceman Cometh" with Nathan Lane and we are in the final stages of bringing my new play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" to you starting this Friday. An exciting February at SCTC has begun......

2 weeks ahead to 29 years ago....

2012-01-27T07:03:00.002-05:00

My play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" opens 2 weeks from tonight. The rehearsals I have attended, led by the incredibly talented director Allen Radway have been deeply intense, as Allen has found in my play moments that I, as the writer, had not seen in prior readings over the past twelve years. I can't wait to get back to the theatre for tonight's full rehearsal. The actors are working so hard as they bring this, the last night of Tennessee's Williams life, back to life in front of you..allowing you into his guarded world of ghosts, secrets and inspirations. Tennessee died on a cold February night in 1983.. 29 years ago but his plays and poetry will live forever. Come into his world.... and memories...and emotions. We run three weeks. Please join us.

Future in the Past

2012-01-23T06:56:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the 200 people who came out for this weekends 3 day Festival. We saw young actors make their professional debuts, an African American cast bring a "Menagerie" to stunning life, and were part of 3 lively and thought provoking discussions after led by Jack Shaw. A young student from Seton Hall Prep HS, in attendance Saturday night said it best. "I'm going back home and reading Tennessee Williams". Success. In less than 3 weeks "Tennessee's Final Curtain" takes the stage in it's world premiere. The set is already under construction and the actors have been working for weeks. After almost 14 years of readings and workshops you will have the opportunity to be in Tennessee's room the night he died and enter his world of ghost and visions. Only at SCTC. Only in Waterfront South. Tickets at www.southcamdentheatre.org. A new "Future" emerges.

3 Levels of Light in Camden

2012-01-19T06:49:00.002-05:00

I wish you could have seen Waterfront South Theatre last night. From the street you could look up and see my play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" which opens February 10th rehearsing on the third floor, actors passing the brightly lit windows as they worked. More light from the second floor where the cast of "The Glass Menagerie" was preparing to go down to the stage to tech their show on the stage now being vacated by the actors in "The Case of the Crushed Petunias" who's rehearsal had just ended...the actors laughing as they left for the evening to prepare for tonight's dress rehearsal. Outside, they ran past SCTC's staff...the technicians and stage managers who help bring everything to life as they were sneaking a last smoke break on the steps...smoke rising in the cold, January air.. I took a step back as I left...watching all of this activity... all....under the 'little silver slipper of a moon" that Tennessee Williams obviously had a hand in hanging over our theatre as he watched his theatre festival emerge. Words can only paint so much of this picture. You need to come out this weekend and see for yourself. Please join us as we escort "Tennessee Williams Into the Future" opening tomorrow night for one weekend.

2011 SCTC Year In Review

2011-12-23T09:43:00.003-05:00

I am so proud of the work we brought you at SCTC in 2011. Back in February, Clifford Odets' "Waiting for Lefty" came alive on our stage and brought a 75 year old play back to a relevant life in this, the year of protests and occupiers. Thanks to the large, mostly sold out audiences that proved that this play was never more relevant. Bob Hughes brought his wonderful "Go Irish!" to us for a weekend in March and brought the great actor and playwright Jason Miller back to life in front of your eyes. "A Moon For the Misbegotten" shone over Camden as SCTC brought you Eugene O'Neill's masterpiece in our beautiful, intimate setting led by incredible performances. After our break we opened our "Tenn X Ten" season honoring the 100th birthday of Tennessee Williams with the audience and critically acclaimed "Suddenly, Last Summer" . Connie Norwood and an incredible cast led us to sold out houses for the entire closing weekend.

As we are only 8 days from 2012 I wanted to thank everyone who has had anything to do with the success that 2011 brought to SCTC. We, at present, are rehearsing "Tennessee Into the Future" for our January festival, my new play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" which takes you to TW's room on the night he died to witness his battle with his ghost and demons for a February run and are preparing for the visit of the Tony Award winning actor Brian Dennehy on February 7th. Quite a lot going on at the corner of 4th and Jasper that we hope you will be a part of.

From everyone at SCTC...Happy Christmas..Happy Hanukkah...and the most successful and Happy 2012 that you ever dream of. Dreams do come true....come to Waterfront South and see for yourself. See you at the theatre.

Camden, Tennessee..or Tennessee, Camden?

2011-12-11T20:37:00.002-05:00

"1st rehearsal/reading of "Night of the Iguana" happening now at SCTC now."Crushed Petunias" started up yesterday and "Tennessee's Final Curtain" preparing as well. TW is alive and well in Camden. Please come out this exciting 100th birthday year of Tennessee. Even more exciting news coming this week. Theatre is alive and well in Waterfront South! www.southcamdentheatre.org for tix.

Heart of Camden Event with Jon Bon Jovi

2011-12-03T07:04:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Helene Pierson and Heart of Camden on last night's incredible event honoring Jon Bon Jovi for his incredible generosity in our city of Camden. HOC built our theatre but before and after that incredible feat has rebuilt over 150 homes in our neighborhood from boarded up shells to beautiful homes filled with families. Jon was so humble and gracious in his speech and in his speaking with so many of the well heeled crowd who raided over $300,000 for HOC. There is an old adage "the bigger they are...the nicer they are". Jon Bon Jovi blows that out of the water. He is an incredible, giving person who uses his incredible talent and celebrity to help so many who so desperately need it. It was an honor to attend and represent SCTC and I did get teary eyed when, during a special Bon Jovi video of "Who says you can't go home?"scenes of Camden being rebuilt were shown with our theatre opening at the end. I'm still emotional over it. What a night..what a memory...what angels of healing Bon Jovi and HOC are. Heal Camden!

Theatre Alliance Casting Couch this Sunday with Joe Paprzycki

2011-12-02T14:34:00.003-05:00

Come out to Love Park in Philadelphia [15th and JFK] this Sunday afternoon from 1PM-2PM when SCTC Producing Artistic Director Joseph M. Paprzycki will be the guest host on the Philly Theatre Casting Couch at Christmas Village. Joe will be talking to contestants about their love of the local theatre scene and promoting SCTC's current "Tenn X Ten" season celebrating Tennessee Williams' 100th birthday. Thanks to the Theatre Alliance of Greater Philadelphia for the invitation to host. It's free....fun...and a nice way to spend some time on this beautiful weekend. Join Joe on the "couch" and say hi...

Cast Announced for Tennessee Williams' "The Case of the Crushed Petunias"

2011-11-15T08:28:00.004-05:00

As part of our "Tennessee Williams Into the Future" presentation on January 20-22 I am so happy to announce the cast of gifted young actors who will perform in his one act play "The Case of the Crushed Petunias" that I will direct. I want to bring a young cast to TW's work and we are thrilled to announce the cast. Jordan B. Mottram [Temple U], Annie R. Such [University of the Arts - Philadelphia] Julian Jasquez [Camden Catholic HS and Waterfront South resident] and Molly Lang [Lower Merion HS]. We are so exicited to have these talented, young actors interpret TW for you. It will be the "curtain raiser" before a staged reading of "The Glass Menagerie" with an all African American cast directed by "Suddenly last Summer" director Connie Norwood. A talk back led by Stage Magazine critic Jack Shaw will close the evening. 3 shows only and tickets are sellilng briskly. http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tickets. Don't be left out!

New Posters Unveiled on Website

2011-11-09T14:44:00.003-05:00

Go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ to see all of our posters for this season! Bro. Mickey McGrath's work shines and reflects his own unique vision of Tennessee Williams and our season. They are magnificent and we are honored that he chose SCTC to work with. It's not too early to get tix for the rest of the season. Seats have been selling at a nice pace for our weekend of "Tennessee into the Future" as we audition for "The Case of the Crushed Petunias" this weekend. And...while you are looking at the posters get your tickets as well. Don't be left out as some were this past Sunday.

James Franco visits Hotel Elysee where Tennessee Williams Died

2011-11-08T14:11:00.006-05:00

This Sunday, James Franco will be in the room in NY where Williams died in an artistic seance as part of a longer afternoon dedicated to Tennessee Williams. I wanted to mention this as I also have stayed in that room. My director and I were guests in that room on the 20th anniversary of his death following a fully staged reading of my play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" which will celebrate it's world premiere at SCTC in February. The reading was in the hotel's main room. That night, Nicole Lerario and I drank a bottle of wine and read from "The Glass Menagerie" on the spot the great man died 20 years before. This was in 2003. I find it fascinating that Franco would be in the room as well as we all celebrate his 100th birthday. SCTC is on the edge and my play in February will give you your chance to be in his room on the night he died, surrounded by his ghosts and demons that made him the incredible writer he was. NY is sold out this Sunday but you can get tickets now for my play. Don't be left out! We closed our "Summer" with three sold out shows. More on the show in NYC here

"Summer" into Fall

2011-11-07T07:48:00.003-05:00

Thanks to almost 600 people who made SCTC's "Suddenly, Last Summer" the huge success it was. Thanks to our incredible cast led by Connie Norwood for bringing Tennessee Williams's words back to fiery life. Thanks to those who waited in the lobby yesterday to see if we had no-shows so they could get in and see the show. Thanks to Jeremy Lawrence, an internationally known actor who came from NY to join us and showered director and cast with lavish praise. You will hear much more about him and his show coming to SCTC for one day in March...tickets went on sale Saturday. But..most of all...thank you to Tennessee Williams whose centennial we are celebrating for sharing his poetic beauty with all of us. So much more for you this season. Stay tuned......

Running on Jasper Street

2011-11-05T07:55:00.003-04:00

Last night and tonight SCTC's production of "Suddenly, Last Summer" was and is sold out. Thank you to everyone who has seen it with a powerful cast led by Connie Norwood. Standing on the theatre's steps last night before the show gave me the greatest view. The view of people rushing up Jasper Street to be sure to get tickets for the show. Seeing a full lobby full of people and watching the seats fill is such a great thrill and blessing and all ....thanks to you. When SCTC produces any play our commitment is to the playwright and staying true to his work. I hope and trust that Tennessee Williams would be happy with this production. Every director at SCTC is tasked with that mission...to serve the play. And watching people rushing into the theatre makes me believe that Connie and cast did just that. There are 17 seats left for our closing show as I write this. Please come. Maybe tomorrow I'll see you dashing down Jasper before the 2PM curtain! En avant!

Bro. Mickey McGrath signing posters at Saturday night's show

2011-11-01T07:04:00.003-04:00

The artist behind our beautiful poster, Bro. Mickey McGrath will be signing posters after this Saturday's performance. Mickey is a world class artist with one of his works now hanging in the Vatican Gallery in Rome among other galleries around the world. The cost is a donation...whatever you choose to give...which will help us to continue producing the quality of theatre you ahve come to expect from SCTC. We are already over half sold out for Saturday's performance but y ou can still get tickets. Go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ to see this magnificent play and have the extra, unique opportunity to bring a signed poster home for yourself. Thank you Mickey for your incredible generocity. As we say in Waterfront South..Art truly WILL save us.

“Time is the longest distance between two places.”

2011-10-31T07:42:00.003-04:00

Tennessee said it best. It will be a long time until you can see this incredible play again...but...you still have time to buy tickets for our critically acclaimed production of "Suddenly. Last Summer". Only three shows remain. http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tickets. See you at Waterfront South Theatre!

"Make voyages! Attempt them... there's nothing else."

2011-10-27T15:23:00.002-04:00

This is absolutely one of my favorite Tennessee Williams quotes. It applies to everything that life should be...never playing it safe...always seeking that event or vision that bring your soul to the next level. I ask you to make you own journey over the next two weekends to Waterfront South Theatre to see the great man's play "Suddenly, Last Summer". I have received numerous calls and emails this week from audience members who are still talking and thinking about this production from this past weekend. One subscriber is even coming again...as her friend who has never been here wants to know what all the "fuss" is about at SCTC. They are making their own voyage this weekend. As Tenn said.."there's nothing else". Come join your fellow voyagers this weekend and share in the poetry that is Tennessee Williams.

A wry smile in the form of a "little silver slipper"

2011-10-24T06:31:00.002-04:00

Our first weekend of "Summer" has ended to thunderous, standing ovations and wonderful reviews. Connie Norwood and this incredible, remarkable cast have just brought Tennessee Williams to life in Waterfront South. As I was reading the morning Inquirer I happened to look up to, once again, see his "little silver slipper" of a moon smiling down on me. It was at the angle of a wry smile, not unlike the smile of the great man himself. I hope that he approves. Don't miss this play. We are humbled and grateful for so many coming this weekend. Six more shows remain. Please come. www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets.

The First Night of "Summer"

2011-10-21T09:41:00.002-04:00

Opening nights are magic. Tennessee used to sit in his seat [he liked aisle] and would watch his plays as they unfurled. There are stories about someone laughing with a high pitched laugh at the most intimate moments of " TheGlass Menagerie" during it's premeire run. Audience members would be annoyed and turn around to see who it was only to find that the man laughing was Tennessee Williams himself. He said he remembered the moment that inspired the moment in the play and that amused him greatly. There's a lot of humor in our "Summer" as well as incredible drama all brought to you by a most talented cast and director. And....if you happen hear someone laughing at a strange time and turn to see no one there....then maybe Mr. Williams has joined us. I told you openings were magic. See you at Waterfront South Theatre.

Tennessee and actors...

2011-10-19T22:11:00.002-04:00

Tennessee Williams loved actors...good ones. He loved to watch them explore their craft and his characters and has been quoted numerous times as telling his actors "go see what you find in her/him" . Just back from rehearsal...and I have to say ...it reminded home how much I agree. I was just transported somewhere else by these actors in this incredibly rich play. Watching great actors in a great play is something we always hope to do when we go to the theatre. Come to SCTC Friday night and see how you too will be magically transported to a white hot beach on a tropical hot day and see what happened.."Suddenly, Last Summer".

An Evening with Tennessee

2011-10-18T18:55:00.002-04:00

I have spent many evenings with Tennessee Williams. Not..in the biblical sense of course, but, when you see or read one of his plays they seep into you...deep into your soul. There is a line in our upcoming "Suddenly, Last Summer" that says, to paraphrase, "a poet is his work and his work is the poet". On this evening as in many before this I feel that I know this man...understand his pain and agony...and joy. I sit here tonight as the curtain of another evening begins to fall and feel that he is a bit closer tonight than others....and he will be even closer this Friday when we open his poetic masterpiece at SCTC. Come and let his words work their magic on you as well. See you at the theatre.

"A little silver slipper of a moon"

2011-10-17T13:02:00.002-04:00

In his masterpiece "The Glass Menagerie" Amanda tells her daughter Laura to "..make a wish on a little silver slipper of a moon". A few weeks back I looked up after a rehearsal for our upcoming "Suddenly Last Summer" , opening this Friday, and saw the moon that Tennessee was referring. I made a wish, just as Amanda suggested. My wish was that you do not miss this season. A season of poetry and secrets....comedy and drama. Hear what did happen, " Suddenly, Last Summer" and then in January follow us as we go with "Tennessee into the
Future". In February be inside his hotel room on the night he died with his ghost and demons in my world premiere play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" and then slog into that steamy jungle in "Night of the Iguana"as the days become longer in April. Many moons and wishes will come and go during this season honoring his 100th birthday. Please come and share them with us.

For the love of a sister

2011-10-12T07:34:00.003-04:00

When you see Tennessee Williams' "Suddenly Last Summer" opening next Friday the 21st at SCTC, the familiar them of a lobotomy will be a large part of the play. Tennessee's beloved sister Rose, the muse for many of his characters, suffered from depression or "blue roses" as he called to in " The Glass Menagerie". She was' lobotomized and lived in a mental home until she died, 12 years after Tennessee. Tenn's life was forever marred by the treatment of his sister and the procedure shows up in many of his plays and a central theme of my own play"Tennessee's Final Curtain" coming to SCTC in February. Celebrate his 100th birthday at "Tenn X Ten" with us. Learn more about Tennessee as "the man IS the work and the work IS the man" .

New Set...New Life...New Secrets

2011-10-10T08:20:00.003-04:00

I love the first moment I stand on a set for one of SCTC's shows. Bob Bingaman solarium inside Mrs. Venable's mansion sets the exact tone for Tennessee Williams' "Suddenly Last Summer" which opens next Friday, October 21st for a 3 week run. The foliage, the grandeur, the opulence all have something to hide....there are terrible secrets beneath this beauty. Don't miss the chance to see this rarely produced Williams gem. New Orleans comes to Camden...and to Waterfront South Theatre. www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets.

More art comes to Camden

2011-10-08T17:24:00.002-04:00

Just back from elevenone gallery, the new Camden gallery and home of the art of William Butler. What an incredible experience as the old firehouse on Front Street, across from the Rutgers U soccer field is now full of some incredible pieces of art. William and Ronja would love for you to see their studio and we will be hanging a piece of William's art in the theatre lobby for you to see [and possibly buy]. Art continues to connect us all in Camden. From Rutgers to Cooper Grant to Waterfront South art and theatre is bringing people together and shining a beacon through the darkness. Camden IS coming back. Go to the gallery and come see "Suddenly Last Summer" at Waterfront South Theatre opening in two weeks. Be a part of the exciting future of the arts in Camden.

A set goes up...three weeks and counting...

2011-09-30T08:05:00.002-04:00

SCTC's set for "Suddenly Last Summer" begins to take shape tomorrow. as "Tenn X Ten" moves even closer. As Mrs. Venable says "Oh, Sebastian...what a lovely summer it's been".

Fall is here and summer has now passed us. See you in three weeks as a summer full of secrets erupts on stage at SCTC.

Williams in P'Town to Joyce in Camden in 6 hours

2011-09-27T07:15:00.003-04:00

Aboard a ferry on smooth waters yesterday I received an email inviting me to meet in Camden last nigth at 6PM at the poets walk , 4 doors from the theatre as Brendan Kilty had returned. 3 years ago, Brendan had given Michael Doyle a brick from the house where James Joyce wrote his famous "The Dead" and had returned to see the brick, now enshrined in a wheel of stone rescued from an old mill where it crushed oats for generations. On the bricks surrounding it are the names of poets and playwrights, living and dead, who now guard Joyce's brick with words of their own. In one day I went from Tennessee Williams on the cape to the words of James Joyce in Camden. P'Town had released me just in time for this moment and the clear blue skies, calm seas and a quick plane ride landed me safely on Jasper Street. Brendan is a blessing to us all. Thanks, Helene for the invitation and thank you Brendan for your constant inspiration.

Temporary last sunrise....

2011-09-26T06:28:00.003-04:00

The most beautiful sunrise woke me at 6AM here on the cape. It is a brilliant combination of pink clouds, dark blue of early morning night receding into the light and beautiful gold ripples where the sun is sneaking its way into this morning of partial clouds. It is a sunrise that will stay with me for this year, through mornings of sleet and ice and rain...of early meetings on days that the cold tries to keep the light away from..on mornings that I reach into the back of my memory for this one...this particular late September day where the slight chill in the air reveals a tug of war of seasons. That tug of war is deep within me as I head home to SCTC. The tug to stay here...to be witness to many more September 26th dawns. It is mornings like this that make me believe even more in living each day as it comes,...or as Tennessee Williams' said in "Something Cloudy"..."life happens all at the same time". Ferry in a couple of hours and then an afternoon flight to Philly. Home to different sunrises ..each with their own new beginnings..Thanks, Tenn for bringing me here. Now off to your birthday party in Camden.

A festival closes...a season begins

2011-09-25T11:12:00.002-04:00

It's always sad on the day the TW festival closes. Great theatre in a unique destination is always hard to walk away from. This year, though, we return and enter into SCTC's Tenn X Ten season so..like books bought and loaded into my suitcase..this year bring Tennessee Williams home with me....to share with you. It is amazing how the drama and poetry of this man can connect two diverse places. Provincetown...a well off place of natural beauty and art...and Camden, not as wealthy by a long shot...but also full of beauty and art of its own. The beauty of poets in the streets of a city that is so trying to remedy itself....and once again stand. Every year I bring some of Camden to P'Town and now return bringing P'Town home to Waterfront South. Let these two places always be connected by light and art. www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets to this magical season of Tennesee. En avant!

Morning cloudy...morning clear....

2011-09-24T09:23:00.003-04:00

This AM's weather is so like the plays of Tennessee Williams. We got to see both sides of P'Town today already...am chill with some light mist then be pushed away by sun and the dispersion of the clouds revealing the lighthouses of the cape in the distance. It's what brings writers here. The chance to feel the chill and warmth of light within a few minutes of each other. Just like his plays. Laughing one minute pulled into a world of shadows and secrets the next. Just like the fog...just like the light. Memories...everywhere to be relived......P'Town is a place of incredible beauty and unearthed secrets. I would never leave if ...........

Something Cloudy...Something Clear

2011-09-23T17:15:00.002-04:00

Another gut wrenching play written by Tennessee near the end of his life that carried remorse and memories from the past. You leave feeling the love and regret he had at losing his first real love and his brilliance of giving them to us. Incredible production by Interart Group from NY under a tent on the beach with the lapping waves behind us. To paraphrase..."There is nothing more real than dreams"...this is magic.

The Loneliness of Tennessee's "Traveling Companion"

2011-09-23T09:15:00.003-04:00

In 5 yrs of coming to this festival I never cried. Until yesterday. Tennessee's "The Traveling Companion" shows his incredible loneliness in an encounter with his much younger "companion" in a hotel room in NY. The much smarter, older writer tries all of his tricks to get the younger man into his SINGLE bed in the room when a power of wills break out with the bed being used as the battlefield. At one point the incredible Jeremy Lawrence as Tennessee answers a pointed question about living somewhere permanently with "where would I go?" His searing look into your eyes brings the loneliness of one of our greatest writers front, center and in your face. This man of many men and parties was now a lonely, older man with no one to share a bed, home or life with. I welled up with tears during that monologue and then again after discussing the play. I feel so close to this man that his self descriptive words went straight through my heart into my soul. It's what great playwrights do. 2 more shows today...so..off into the misty morning on the cape to discover his next work, aptly titled "Something Cloudy..Something Clear".

Visiting with Mr. O'Neill

2011-09-21T15:54:00.006-04:00

I paid my yearly visit to Eugene O'Neill at the spot of his former theatre on the other side of P'Town. Every year I take my yellow eared copy of "Long Days Journey Into Night" and read my favorite passage which ends with "seeing the secret...are the secret". For a second there is meaning". [I am pictured reading on the rock at the site] You can feel his presence as you walk and read his words. The pain of the play is still there today..so long after it was written. P'Town is truly a pilgrimage for me. A visit to the writers of the past who so changed our world. I get to spend time with both Tennessee Williams and O'Neill at either end of Commercial Street where they wrote. It is a gift to be here...a gift to write...and a gift to feel their inspiration....a gift to share with you. Thank you, "Edmund Tyrone" for sharing your passion. The water laps below as I write this....... and soon........ a weekend of Tennessee....

Boats tied down in the harbor

2011-09-20T15:28:00.003-04:00

Looking out onto the harbor in Provincetown one can see 50-60 small sailboats tied to their moorings. These boats, unmoored were taken by the winds of summer but are now tied down, empty... appearing frustrated against the sea whipped waves of the oncoming fall. And somehow this brings me to Tennessee Williams. His having to work International Shoe Company in St Louis frustrated and upset him to no end. It is everywhere in his work and led to some of his greatest creations. He was a vessel that needed to be free to create and sail his own ocean. And...thanks to "Glass Menagerie"..written here in Provincetown...it happened. My wish today is for all of us who are frustrated by our day job moorings find the freedom that Tennessee found in the winds of success and that we find our ocean breezes that pushes us to our potential as writers and artists. Tenn X Ten is coming.....

Crashing Waves-Life in the Wind-Entering Provincetown Harbor

2011-09-20T06:50:00.004-04:00

So it is here smelling the same air and watching the same sea as they did so long ago....rocking so badly that paper and pen seperate like lovers during a drunken arguement..It is here one can share O'Neill's "saint's vision"seen so rarely any of us. It is here the words of Amanda Wingfield blend as one with that of Mary Tyrone...it is here that writers write, painters paint and true vision is found..God's vision...God's plan..it is why one must crash through the yearly waves aboard a rocking ferry to follow the sirens to the shore...navigating through the churning water of one's life. It is why no matter how old or sick or well you happen to be....one has to return over and over to be part of that truth..the truth inside us all...the truth that is life. This place of light and inspiration allows you to delve into your own darkness and light....and through that...create. Sunrise over the harbor now....the new day begins.

SCTC's "Suddenly Last Summer" poster designed and painted by world renouned artist Bro. Mickey McGrath

2011-09-18T15:18:00.003-04:00

It is with great pride SCTC unveils the first poster for our "Tenn X Ten" season by Bro. Mickey McGrath. This season, Mickey has designed the posters for each of our shows. We are so lucky as a company to be able to present his talent to you and his work on this poster is nothing short of remarkable. After you see the play you will understand more of his concept that I find so startling and beautiful. Mickey's work is seen worldwide with one of his pieces hanging in the Vatican Gallery in Rome. We are deeply honored to have Mickey and his work enhance the work of SCTC in this special season honoring Tennessee Williams's 100th birthday. We will unveil more paintings as the season progresses. This is not the season to say you missed. See what makes SCTC and Waterfront South so special. "Summer" arrives on October 21st for three weeks. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets.

Of Changing Seasons.....

2011-09-16T15:15:00.003-04:00

Next weekend's "Provincetown Tennessee Williams Festival" will again bring the words and plays of Tennessee Williams alive for those lucky enough to attend. If you can't, our SCTC "Tenn X Ten" season is my attempt to bring P'Town to you. As fall arrives so does our new season..and..the incredible world of Tennessee. So, summer's departing rays of light reminded me of my all time favorite TW quote..one from his short play "The Last of my Solid Gold Watches" which an older traveling salesman [not unlike TW's father] describes a man, a generation or a fleeting season.... "My pockets are full of watches which tell me that my time is just about over". Summer ends and fall begins.... and Tennessee Williams is alive in Waterfront South.

"A bottle of wine as an hourglass....."

2011-09-12T08:50:00.002-04:00

At the staged reading of my play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" on the 20th anniversary of Tennessee's death at the Hotel Elysee in NY, a man who id'd himself to me as one of Tennessee's last lovers, asked me if I knew how he wrote. When I said I did not he told me that Tennessee would wake up, have a bottle of red wine opened for him [his arthritis was bad in his later years] and he would sit at a typewriter and write. Every day. When he had emptied the bottle, his day of writing was over and it was time for gathering with some of his many "companions" for the remainder. I truly love Tennessee Williams and have spent years speaking to his friends, reading everything I could find, and learning as much as I can of his work. Throughout this season I will share these gems of information that have been shared with me...with you. Do not miss this season. Waterfront South is a special place to be. En avant!

1 year back....a neighborhood moves ahead.....

2011-09-09T07:06:00.002-04:00

Last year on this date, the cast of my play "Last Rites" was preparing for a sold out, preview performance for our seatholders, funders and the people who made Waterfront South Theatre a reality. I remember waking up and being kind of numb. A theatre in a neighborhood in Camden, NJ was now a reality and now we, SCTC, had the responsibility of bringing the most moving, professional theatre to you in this beautiful new home. The architects and funders of the brick and mortar were present and it was time to the architects and dreamers of the dream to take over. It was an incredilbe night. I an evening of emotion and memories and...above all...gratitude. A year later I wanted to again thank Helene Pierson and Heart of Camden, Pepe Piperno and his Dominica Foundation and Fr. Michael Doyle for making dreams come true. Buy a seat...see a play...share in the new reality. Heal Camden!

Waterfront South Theatre one year annivesary this Saturday

2011-09-07T11:03:00.002-04:00

This Sat, 9-10-11 will celebrate Waterfront South Theatre's 1 year anniversary. To all of you who have visited SCTC this year by seeing a play, thank you. You are a part of the rebirth of Camden. A year has now passed since a ribbon cutting that few believed would ever happen. But..thanks to so many...it did..and now...we continue the success that a professional theatre in Camden has brought to a rebuilding neighborhood. "Suddenly Last Summer" opens on 10-21 and our season honoring Tennessee Williams begins. So..as this week passes...remember last year at this time...when a new theatre was opening at a fever pitch. You can help keep the momentum going! See you in Waterfront South!

SCTC in American Theatre magazine!!

2011-09-05T14:37:00.002-04:00

SCTC was listed Jim O'Quinn's column "Williams Then and Now" in the new September issue of American Theatre magazine discussing productions of Tennessee's plays across the US this year in honor of his 100th birthday. As O'Quinn wrote SCTC is "all Williams, all year". This is a national publication that carries our message not only across the country but internationally as well. See for yourself what all of the excitement is about. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets.

Looking back...and forward..

2011-09-05T11:04:00.004-04:00

On Labor Day take a second to remember the lesson of Clifford Odet's "Waiting For Lefty" that SCTC brought to you this past February. Without our grandparents fighting and striking for better wages and conditions none of us would have the worker's rights we have today. As we see strikes across the country by governement workers whose rights have been shattered remember his lesson. Sometime you just have to say "enough" and strike for what you believe. SCTC will continue to bring plays like "Lefty" to you in the future. We are committed to theatre that will move you and start a discussion. So...on to Tennessee Williams and the new season but never take your eye off of the past and those who got us here.

"Suddenly Last Summer" poster coming....

2011-09-03T12:32:00.002-04:00

In the next few days we will be unveiling the poster for "Summer" designed by a world renowned artist exclusively for SCTC. More exciting news later about the rest of the season as well. Don't miss this special year at SCTC... Keep an eye out for the art..... www.southcamdentheatre.org for tix!

Suddenly THIS Summer...

2011-08-24T14:09:00.002-04:00

1st rehearsal for SCTC's "Suddenly Last Summer" is tonight as our talented cast and director assemble. The season honoring the great Tennessee Williams begins. Get your tickets at www.southcamdentheatre.org. SCTC is the only theatre in the US that is devoting an entire season to Tennessee in this, the 100th anniversary of his birth. See what all of the excitement is about in Waterfront South. Season packages on sale now. "But there is a moment when we look into ourselves and ask with a wonder which never is lost altgether: Can this be all?" Tennessee Williams from his one act play"The Unsatisfactory Supper"

SAGE ADVICE reading tonight!

2011-08-22T07:04:00.002-04:00

Please come to a free reading of my new play SAGE ADVICE tonight at 7PM at Waterfront South Theatre. We had a great rehearsal last night with an incredible cast. A reading is a large part of the development of a new play. SCTC kicks off it's reading series tonight and we want you to be there and offer feedback after in an open session. As a playwright I spent many nights in NY and Philadelphia working on my plays in readings like this. At SCTC we want to bring you inside the process by offering this opportunity to be on the "ground floor" of a play's development. We always want you to be more invivled with SCTC. NOTE: No one under 14 will be permitted to attend as the play contains extremely mature subjects. See you tonight in Waterfront South.

Camden 28 - August 22, 1971 - 40 Years Strong

2011-08-11T15:18:00.003-04:00

In 11 days, 40 years will have passed since the Camden 28 planned to break into the draft office in Camden to destroy draft records..an act of protest against an unjust war in Vietnam held during the Camden riots. These brave people were arrested and tried [turned on by a traitor in their midsts]. Thier trial and acquittal is believed by many to be the beginning of the end of the Vietnam War. As we sit in 2011, riots flare in London, unemployment is sky high, we are again mired in a war ..surrounded by tea party activists who believe the poor should be left to fend for themselves and suffer in their own streets. We have GOP governors who rule with wreckless, mean spirited iron fists, bound to protect their rich donors at all costs. Thank you to Michael and Gene and the brave members of the Camden 28 for your heroism and shame on us all for not learning the lessons of the past. But...moving forward....together...with hope.....Camden will again rise.

Audition Reminder - this weekend!

2011-08-09T14:01:00.002-04:00

A few slots remain for this weekend's auditions for "Suddenly Last Summer" and "Night of the Iguana" two shows in our season celebrating the 100th birthday of Tennessee Williams. Visit the website or email ashley@southcamdentheatre.org for an appointment. We are thrilled so many fine actors are already scheduled and welcome you to audition for the exciting, new season.

Staged Reading- "Sage Advice"- Aug 22nd- 7PM

2011-08-05T07:38:00.003-04:00

On Mon, Aug 22 SCTC opens our new staged reading series with my play "Sage Advice". This play will not be for everyone. It goes inside the head of a 22 year old who killed his own baby son. My play seeks motivation for such a heinous act..it is not a 'movie of the week". It is not meant to shock but to gain understanding of the darkness some souls possess. I hope you will come and offer whatever feedback you would like to give as the play moves towards production. Readings help a playwright shape and mold a play. I have been involved with readings like this for 15 plus years. I have had my plays read in theatres in NY and Philadelphia among other places. My goal at SCTC is to bring you deeper into the theatrical process. As a playwright driven theatre we will always be focused on the script. Most theatres don't open readings up to the public. We will. We hope you will join us as this will be the first of a series of readings. This is a free event with all seating on a "first come" basis. The next plays and dates in the series will be announced shortly. Please come.

Auditions for upcoming Tennessee Williams Season August 13 and 14

2011-07-26T13:09:00.007-04:00

Auditions for our upcoming "Tenn X Tenn" season will be held at the theatre on Saturday and Sunday, August 13 and 14 from 12PM to 5PM. All parts are being cast for Tennessee's "Suddenly Last Summer" directed by Connie Norwood and running from 10-21-11 to 11-6-11 and his incredible"Night of the Iguana" directed by Randall McCann running from 4-20-12 to 5-6-12. This is our 7th season producing professional theatre in Camden and our second at our beautiful Waterfront South Theatre. We are seeking non equity actors and a stipend will be paid. Email ashley@southcamdentheatre for appointment.

"Unnatural Acts" in NY....Just Go..

2011-07-17T21:00:00.004-04:00

Just home from seeing "Unnatural Acts" at Classic Stage Co in NY . It shows the secret student, kangaroo court trials led against gay students in 1920 at Harvard U. This is just amazing theatre with some of the best direction I have ever seen. It's funny as hell, scary as hell and then makes you cry. The director came on at the end and announced they have extended for a week with NO advertising budget and asked us to tell people about the show if we liked it. I don't know these people at all but only know that my afternoon in NY moved me a great deal....so much as to ask you to support this incredible show. If you can get to NY next week...go to http://classicstage.org/ for tickets. Discounts available on Playbill.com. Don't miss it...

New Play Reading in August written by Producing Artistic Director Joe Paprzycki

2011-07-06T08:38:00.003-04:00

A new play of mine, "Sage Advice", will have a staged reading at the theatre sometime in late August. It is a distubing view of the murder of a toddler based on a true story. This will kick off our reading series that will be a part of SCTC's commitment to bringing new works of drama to the stage. Limited free seating will be available as your feedback is requested. Date and time TBA...stay tuned......

Puerto Vallarta and returning home

2011-07-03T09:18:00.002-04:00

Back from Puerto Vallarta energized from the beauty and ocean's roar. Tennessee Williams spent two hellraising weeks there during the"Night of the Iguana" film shoot. Imagine he and John Huston boozing a carousing with Richard Burton and Ava Gardner. I am sure the city is somewhat different now but...the steaminess of the humidity permeates everything. It was a great place to visit and for me to write. A certain mood comes over your writing there...and I am not sure I could feel it as deeply here. Now...to get started with 'Suddenly last Summer" which we will present this October as we honor his 100th birthday. Maybe some of the Pacific salt air will caress you as you experience it....

Suddenly THIS Summer

2011-06-27T23:11:00.002-04:00

As Puerto Vallarta's sun and tropic heat penetrate you , one can fell the presence of Tennessee Williams. He wrote "Suddenly Last Summer" with the memories of Mexico and the dark skinned Mexican men that inspired him to write. One can feel Sebastian running in fear from the beauty he had chased...down streets..into bars...and on the dark...wave crashed beach that inspired part of his greatness. One can almost see him on the beach and the bars....seeking comfort from the demons he ran from. Sebastian's demons are his own. And...in this incredible beauty...lie his deepest fears. SCTC will bring you Tennesssee Williams as you may not have seen him before...and hope that you will join us the the explotration of his genius. October approaches...when summer will trail behind....

Website updates

2011-06-14T14:14:00.002-04:00

Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org and see all of our next season's plays as well as our updated archive pages showing you scenes from the past six seasons of SCTC! "Tenn X Ten" will be here before you know it. Get your season passes online today and be a part of the only theatre in the United States who are devoting an entire season to the 100th birthday of the legend that is Tennessee Williams. En avant!

A Tennessee Summer

2011-06-08T07:41:00.003-04:00

"Suddenly Last Summer" opens in October as we begin our "Tenn x 10" season. I attached this pic of Tennessee as he lounges on his summer porch..also waiting for next season to begin. It's only a hot day in June but I am meeting our wonderful director, Connie Norwood, tonight for our first planning meeting so that in October she and her cast can show you all exactly what happened..."Suddenly Last Summer". Just like Tenn...take your shoes off, put your feet up and rest up for next season....you'll be glad you did.

"Moon" sets over Waterfront South

2011-05-15T22:11:00.003-04:00

Great crowd to experience our final "Moon" this afternoon. This season over 5,000 people came to be a part of SCTC and professional theatre in Camden. I cannot thank you all enough. Remember back in 2002 when I first brought the idea of professional theatre coming to Camden and I heard certain people say"no one will ever come". Well...this season...over 5,000 people came to Waterfront South Theatre to see the end of the old, post war, Camden...the beauty of sisterly love in Harlem, Odet's anger about people out of work in 1935 and NJ today, Jason Miller's ghosts and demons, and O'Neill "Misbegotten" moon over a couple of lost souls. Camden through SCTC, Waterfront South Theatre, and art is rising as we all witness it day by day. Treasure lies in the streets of our shining city...and you all glisten in it's glow by being a part of it. On to next season and Tennessee Williams. But for now...the tides of summer beckon....

Season Ending Party this Sunday

2011-05-10T09:14:00.004-04:00

After we close "Moon" on Sunday join us at O'Donnell's on Broadway in Gloucester City [under the Whitman bridge] as we celebrate the end of our season [5:30PM..or so]. We invited all cast members from this season as well as all of our staff to our second "home". Come have a few drinks, mix and mingle, and celebrate this remarkable year where a new theatre was born in Waterfront South. Tickets for the weekend are still available at www.southcamdentheatre.org with this Sunday already half sold out. But there's still time! Get yout tix today and then join us as we say goodbye to this season and welcome Tennessee Williams to SCTC as next year approaches.

Weekend past....weekend future

2011-05-09T06:12:00.003-04:00

3 more shows remain of O'Neill's "Moon". Tix still available at http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/. This will be the closing weekend of our first season in the brand new Waterfront South Theatre. And what a season it was. Be a part of our final celebration.

This past weekend we started with our sold out Gala where Bro Mickey McGrath presented the theatre with his new, incredible work, "The Hound in the Hellhole". It is a remarkable work showing O'Neill, Dorothy Day and many influences as they share a drink. We are honored to be the home of such beauty and Mickey's work will enhance even more your experience at our new theatre. We then had three incredible performances of "A Moon for the Misbegotten" which were extremely well attended and received. The cast absolutely cannot wait to get back to the theatre for this final weekend.

More to come this busy, busy week as we say goodbye to our first season in our new home. Don't miss the beauty of O'Neill this weekend. He has a way of getting into your soul.

"Moon" shines over Camden!

2011-05-02T09:22:00.002-04:00

Over 150 people saw O"Neill's "Moon"rise over Camden this weekend. Thank you to everyone who made the opening the success that it was. 6 more shows starting this Friday night. Get your tickets now at www.southcamdentheatre.org. We are also thrilled to announce that our Gala this coming Thursday, May 5th is SOLD OUT. SCTC is honored to recieve a new work of art by Bro. Mickey McGrath that will feature Dorothy Day and Eugene O'Neill. The celebration O'Neill, his wonderful play live professional theatre in Camden will continue starting Thursday. Join us as we bring our first season in our beautiful new home to an end. Join us under the "Moon".

"Moon" rises tonight at 8.....

2011-04-29T07:53:00.004-04:00

SCTC presents O'Neill's classic "A Moon for the Misbegotten" for 3 weeks opening tonight! Last night's dress rehearsal brought us to this moment that we have been planning for since early in 2010. The beautiful picture attached here reflects the glow of the moonlight on the faces of the repentant. I watched this beautiful play again last night...and this morning the beauty, humor and sadness of O'Neill are still with me. SCTC takes great pride in bring Eugene O'Neill to Camden. Nine shows over three weeks begin tonight. www.southcamdentheatre.org for tix. Please Note: The play will start promptly at 8PM. If you know O'Neill..you understand.

Mixed Blend

2011-04-28T07:12:00.004-04:00

Watched last night "Moon" rehearsal from a barstool in what was my grandpop's bar, "Walt's Cafe", now Waterfront South Theatre.. As I watched the beauty, infused by Hogan's whiskey and Tyrone's thirst for it, I felt the world of the past and present combine. I saw this beautiful play [opening tomorrow night] where redemption is sought and the ghosts of the past are never far seated in a place where many of my own personal ghosts reside. I watched O'Neill from a stool in a bar filled with the ghosts of shipbuilders, who, on many an occasion, had their own such amber fueled epiphanies. "A Moon for the Misbegotten" gives you the chance to see what made O'Neill the legend that he is. It lets you feel the past...in the present...into the future; the theme of SCTC's current season as it comes closer and closer to ending. So...come and drink in the language of this great man in a great production. See you in Waterfront South.

SCTC Gala featuring Bro. Mickey McGrath next Thursday!!!

2011-04-27T07:46:00.004-04:00

Tix selling quickly for our Gala Fundraiser next Thursday night at 6:30PM. Camden's own Brother Mickey McGrath will be unveiling his new painting featuring Eugene O'Neill and Dorothy Day [pictured here] at our 1st Annual Gala. They were very close friends and had great influence on one another. The painting will be hung in the lobby for all to see, donated by Mickey to SCTC. Be the first to see it next Thursday during our special event. There will be wine and light fare, a "meet and greet" with the artist, Fr. Doyle reading the poem that O"Neill and Day were inspired by, a wee bit of "Moon for the Misbegotten" [opening this Friday at SCTC] and special guest Bob Ellsberg [son of Daniel] who will be reading a few letters between Day and O'Neill. Tickets have been selling briskly and are only $25 and available at http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ Be a part of this special evening at Waterfront South. Support the arts at SCTC, spend this evening of words, art and song with the artist and be a part of the continued rise of Camden. See you next week for this special night.

Full "Moon" starts this Friday

2011-04-26T12:18:00.004-04:00

Here's a quick peek at our "Moon for the Misbegotten" as we head into our final rehearsals before Friday's opening. Be there as SCTC welcomes Eugene O'Neill to Waterfront South. Remember what he said in "Long Day's...""Seeing the secret.....are the secret".Tix online at http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/.

O'Neill's Grasp

2011-04-21T07:41:00.003-04:00

Saw Act III of our upcoming "Moon" last night. I had only intended on seeing a few minutes but, once again" O'Neill's grasp wouldn't let me leave. The power, sadness, and beauty of the play held me for the rest of the evening...so much...in fact...that it was hard for me to concentrate on anything else last night, or, for that matter, this morning. The poetry and intensely burning fire of his work leaves you silent...unmoving...and waiting for even more to come. The tragedy of Josie and Jamie's lives will stay with you long after you leave the theatre. SCTC is proud to bring the work of this talented cast and director to you. http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tix.

"Moon" over Waterfront South

2011-04-18T21:34:00.002-04:00

I just watched the first two acts of our new play, Eugene O'Neill's "A Moon for the Misbegotten" at rehearsal. After, as I drove down Broadway towards Gloucester City on my way home I could see light coming from the shipyard windows on my right. As I pulled up to the red light I looked over to see why they were lit up at night when I saw what the light really was. It was not coming from the yard but....when I turned to my left, high in the eastern sky was a huge, full moon....it's yellow-orange glow so bright it lit up the darkness of the now closed shipyard. Moonlight giving hope to the darkness. I hope my cast sees this incredible moon on their way home tonight....a sign that O'Neill is watching all from above....and overseeing his play as his moon lights up the streets of Waterfront South. We open next Friday...the 29th for 3 weeks. Don't be left in the dark.

"Man is born broken. He lives by mending. The grace of God is glue."

2011-04-18T15:05:00.003-04:00

There are many broken people in O'Neill's plays. Broken by life and fate....wandering the earth...some mend and some feel they are not worthy of mending. Don't miss "A Moon for the Misbegotten" starting NEXT Friday, April 29th for three weeks. We pay tribute to the great man with our production. The attached picture of O"Neill was taken in my favorite place in the world, Provincetown, MA where he wrote so many beautiful plays. Be a part of the mending of Camden and Waterfront South. Join us for O'Neill's "Moon". http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tickets.

Bringing Eugene O'Neill to Camden

2011-04-12T20:02:00.003-04:00

O'Neill's 'Moon" rises in 2 1/2 weeks at SCTC and last night gave me an opportunity to watch my first rehearsal. The director and cast have been working for weeks and the play is preparing itself to come to life. Something I really grasped onto last night was the comedy of O'Neill. Known for his deep, personal dramas [ of which this is one] most of us don't know how ironically funny his plays are [in parts] as well. Watching last night's first act brought me to this other side of the man...and...starts us in a higher place to fall as do his characters. Don't miss SCTC's "A Moon for the Misbegotten" starting on April 29th. Now if I could only find a picture of him laughing.....

The Genius of O'Neill

2011-03-30T08:17:00.003-04:00

"When you're 50 you start thinking about things you haven't thought about before. I used to think getting old was about vanity - but actually it's about losing people you love. Getting wrinkles is trivial.” This O'Neill quote blends the personal and professional for me as we approach his "Moon" on April 29th. The words of O'Neill tend to stick to you...travel deep inside and grow roots. He speaks for anyone who has now passed the half century mark...the words written as he passed it himself. And....for those of you who are years or decades away from it.....lock this quote away for a future birthday....far down the "foggy" road. We are so proud to bring O'Neill's work to Waterfront South and hope you will take the journey he has laid out for us.....with us. This is our 2nd trip with him as we brought you "Hughie" a few years back. SCTC will celebrate America's two greatest playwrights from now until this time next year....O"Neill this season and Tennessee Williams next. Tickets have been selling well...go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ to reserve yours today. We hope to see you there.

That Championship Season

2011-03-27T20:57:00.002-04:00

Just back from NY seeing "Season". All I can say is Go...go...go! This incredible top shelf cast [having an amazingly good time together, btw] is only one reason to see this Pulitzer Prize winning play on the big stage on Broadway. Another is Gregory Mosher's poignant and intelligent direction which mines every bit of humor and lets you watch these overgrown boys deal with the problems of the men they have become. Another incredibly special moment for me was getting to meet Jason Patric backstage after as I was privileged to know his father, the writer of the play, Jason Miller. We both had tears in our eyes as I told him of the last night I saw his dad at Dirty Frank's in Philly and I gave him my framed program with a cool pic of Jason Miller dressed as John Barrymore in his play "Barrymore's Ghost". And...what a performance he gives as "Tom". "Season" runs until the end of May. Don't miss it.....I can't tell you enough how much you would regret it if you don't catch "Coach" and the "boys".

Planning...planning....

2011-03-25T07:04:00.004-04:00

Brother Mickey McGrath, an artist so revered one of his works was just placed in the Vatican Gallery, is now working on a new painting that he will be donating to SCTC. The work, which will show Eugene O'Neill and Dorothy Day, will be unveiled on a most special evening at the theatre on Thursday, May 5th. We are using this wonderful occasion as a special fundraising event that you are more than invited to attend. For a $25 donation [tix available at http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/] you will be among the first to see this new work following a beautiful wine and appetizer meet and greet with the artist and readings from both O'Neill and Day. A short scene from our play that opens on April 29th O'Neill's masterpiece, "A Moon for the Misbegotten" will also be performed just for you. Tickets are limited and as of today we are proud to announce that the Bishop of Camden, Joseph Gallante will be present. Please come out and support Mickey and his incredible work and his most generous donation to SCTC. The arts are alive and well in Waterfront South. Please get your tickets today online.

Jason Miller has left Purgatory

2011-03-20T19:28:00.002-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came out for "Go Irish!" this weekend. Bob Hughes just left Camden for Scranton with a smile from ear to ear from the enthusiastic audiences and the great review he and the play received. He is now taking the play to NY in June for an off-off Broadway run. We have a little break now before the beautiful "Moon for the Misbegotten" rises over Camden thanks to Eugene O'Neill. Lots of rehearsals before we open on April 29th. Miller exits as O'Neill enters. Don't miss the excitement in Waterfront South.

Go Irish! opens tonight

2011-03-18T14:12:00.003-04:00

I just left Bob Hughes, the actor who portrays Jason Miller in Go Irish! at the theatre where he is preparing for tonight. I helped him with his props and seeing them all again, feel wonderfully at home. I realized how much I truly love this play and am so proud to bring it to you at SCTC. The biggest moment for me to day was holding the trophy that is also on the set. It was used in "That Championship Season" in Scranton with Jason himself playing "Coach". It is engraved with"Scranton" on it and this was the trophy the man himself held many, many times. It brought him back for me. He smile, wild Irish eyes and great laugh and for a second he was there with me. This weekend, Bob will bring him back. Trust me, don't miss it. http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tix.

One week until "Purgatory"

2011-03-12T09:32:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone who already bought tickets for next weekend's "Go Irish! The Purgatory Diaries of Jason Miller". Please get your tix for this one weekend only event now! With "Championship Season" again playing sold out Broadway houses and "The Exorcist" always emblazoned in our minds, this wonderful play will take you deep inside the genius that was Jason Miller. Bob Hughes is remarkable and "blurs the line" between himself and Jason. having been one of the lucky people to have spent some time with Jason, this play allows him to again approach your soul with his "heart of a Jesuit". Don't miss this wonderful play! http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tix!

Thank you City of Camden Rotary

2011-03-08T15:50:00.002-05:00

I was honored to speak to the city of Camden Rotary at the Cathedral Kitchen. Thanks to Christina for the invite and everyone there for allowing me to share the message of SCTC and how we can all do our part to restore Camden to it's former glory. Theatre and art can do much to move us along in that direction and meeting people who share our mission was a wonderful thing. I hope to see everyone next week at Go Irish! as O'Neill's "Moon" comes ever closer.

Emporer Jones and Eugene O'Neill

2011-03-05T13:41:00.003-05:00

I saw "Emporer Jones" last night at Iron Age Theatre in Norristown. The play, performances and experience are powerful ones..so powerful I wanted to share my feelings today. One can see O'Neill's work many times over and still learn, expereience and feel the wounded poet that he was. The wonderful play last night took me deeper into O'Neill's mind than ever before, even though I have read just about everything he wrote and have seen many of his plays. The rich bamboo of the jungle takes us into his isolation as a man and a writer, surrounded by the ghosts of his past and fueled by lonliness and his never ending talent. One goes deep into his mind in "Jones" and this gives us the chance to face our own ghosts and the dread of being trapped as Jones does. Go see this play. It runs for three weeks. And remember, we bring O'Neill to Camden April 29th in the form of his beautiful and tragic "A Moon For the Misbegotton". Take this spring to really feel the genius that is Eugene O'Neill.

Tenn x Ten

2011-03-01T14:03:00.003-05:00

We are so excited about next season, honoring the great Tennessee Williams with an entire season dedicated to him. the picture you see on our poster was given to me by Gus Orr a couple of years ago. It was found in a publicist's office in NY and was purchased on ebay. My friends from the Williams Festival have never seen it as I do not think it was ever released. It is symbolic of our season next year. Works not often seen plus the world premiere of my play "Tennessee's Final Curtain" which takes you into his room on the night of his death. Lot's more this season to come...but I wanted to share this incredible picture of Tennessee with you. In the picture, look deep into his eyes and see his soul.

Trenton Rally...Power of Theatre

2011-02-25T14:53:00.003-05:00

I was in Trenton today in support of the WI and NJ workers and against their governor and ours. I got off the train and a man from the CWA asked me what union I worked for and asked if I was there for the rally. I told him I was not in a union and ran SCTC in Camden. He looked at me and shouted "You're the guy that did "Waiting For Lefty"! He said he knew all about SCTC and the play and was sorry he missed it. He grabbed my hand in a firm shake and we walked up Mill Hill towards the statehouse. I then stood with firemen from Jersey City, teachers from West Windsor and electricians from Rahway as we all "pledged allegiance" together. Theatre has real power and so do we all as citizens. Stand up and fight for what you believe in. You never know who you are affecting.

Over 600 people "Waited For Lefty"

2011-02-21T10:52:00.003-05:00

Thank you to everyone who made our production of "Lefty" the rousing success that it was. for the 2nd straight Sunday we were sold out and had people wait for tix to become available [everyone got in]. It was an honor to direct such a fine cast and the incredible standing ovation yesterday was so appreciated by all of us. As our show ends, though, the work continues. "Go Irish! The Purgatory Diaries of Jason Miller "will be here for 3 shows March 18, 19 and 20. More on that later. Thanks again and, as we move out of 1935 and ahead in the NJ and US of 2011 remember Odet's words "life is supposed to be for everyone".

Tix for "Lefty" selling fast

2011-02-18T14:09:00.002-05:00

Only 20 seats remain for Sunday's 2PM show as of 2PM Friday. Tonight and tomorrow night at 8PM also selling very quickly. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tix. Come see why this play is so important as workers are protesting in two state capitals in the US right now. Join us in our "Wait for Lefty".

"Lefty" is alive in today's protests

2011-02-18T08:39:00.002-05:00

"Waiting For Lefty" shows us a union meeting in 1935 where workers are debating whether the time is finally right to strike when greedy employers take advantage of a bad economy to make the worker's lives even more desperate. They hear conflicting stories from their corrupt union bosses [not to strike] and their own families [the need to strike] , who show that need, only too sadly in a world where the "haves" have so much. Looking at today's news of strikes in Wisconsin and Ohio only prove that "Lefty's" time has not passed into history but has never been more alive than right now. This play was produced in NY and LA last year...only 2 productions across the US. You can see the 3rd..and in Waterfront South. You can still go to www.southcamdentheatre.org and order tix for the final 3 shows starting tonight. Do not miss it.

3 More chances to "Wait For Lefty"

2011-02-16T07:33:00.003-05:00

3 shows remain for SCTC's "Waiting For Lefty". Last Sun, we had to turn people away the audience was so large. Don't let that happen to you! Go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ and reserve today. Tix have been selling briskly all week as the word is out about this play. This is a special production that ties Odets' 1935 play to NJ and the US of today. Don't have to say you missed it! See you at Waterfront South Theatre.

The passing of a great friend and fine actor

2011-02-12T10:16:00.002-05:00

I am so sad to report the passing of a dear friend to me and SCTC, Gene Luyster, who died Thursday evening. Gene played "Felix" in my play "Indoor Picnic" as well as the elderly man in my one act "Waiting Tables" during "Youth In America". Running a theatre can be chaotic at times and, anytime I felt some heat, when Gene was in a show he would just smile, laugh, and say "isn't running a theatre beautiful?" Gene left a huge mark on this company professionally and, more important, personally on everyone's heart at SCTC. We all send our sincere condolences to his wife Jane and family and many, many, many, MANY friends who are sad today. Felix.... "We'll leave the porchlight on" for you.

Don't be "Lefty'd" out! Six Shows Remain

2011-02-10T15:08:00.004-05:00

We are so grateful for the audience and critical response to "Waiting For Lefty". Tix have been selling briskly and I wanted to remind you to reserve your seats now for the last 6 shows. Some shows are tighter than others so pick your show, go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ and reserve your seats. See how a 75 year old play is just as relevant today than the day it was written brought to you by an incredibly talented cast. See this forgotten "treasure" brought back to vibrant life. See your "upturned faces" at Waterfront South Theatre!

"Lefty" has arrived!!!

2011-02-05T07:31:00.002-05:00

What an incredible opening night! Thank you to everyone who made last night's first performance of "Waiting For Lefty"so successful! A special thank you to the many people who shared their own personal stories after the play with regarding thier own unions, unemployment and living in NJ in 2011. Don't miss this chance to see how a play written in 1935 can be so relevant to all of us today. www.southcamdentheatre.org for tix.

The "Wait" is almost over

2011-02-02T07:05:00.002-05:00

""Waiting For Lefty" opens this Friday night. Please join our incredible cast as we go back to the 1930's and see how far we, as a country, have NOT come. Join us as we bring this exciting and important play into present day New Jersey and see how prophetic Clifford Odets' work is. We had a powerful rehearsal last night and we have learned that we are all "stormbirds of the working class". The "Wait For Lefty" is finally almost over. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets. Don't miss it.

“Life shouldn't be printed on dollar bills.”

2011-01-24T07:08:00.002-05:00

“Life shouldn't be printed on dollar bills.” - Clifford Odets As we get closer to the opening of his "Waiting for Lefty" next Friday Odet's words ring loudly to me. In a time where unions represent the lowest amount of people in over 50 years and the public employees and teachers are being vilified keep this quote in mind when the lights come up. Odet's play could not be timelier. We have two weeks of work ahead to bring his vision to an audience in 2011. Unfortunately, he proves that we have not come as far as a nation as we thought. See you at Waterfront South Theatre starting February 4th.

2 Weeks until the "Wait for Lefty" is over

2011-01-21T10:32:00.003-05:00

A long time ago a wise theatre friend told me that "90% of a successful play is great casting". I am working with one of the most talented and driven casts I have ever directed who will bring "Waiting for Lefty" to you. This play, depicting scenes from life during the Great Depression set during a union meeting, is so incredibly relevant today. Every night in rehearsal we discover unfortunate parallels to our country and state right now. I received a call from a reporter this week asking how I was bringing a play set in 1935 into 2011 as I state in our press release. "You'll need to come see it for yourself" was my reply. We have two more weeks of hard work ahead of us to bring Odets' classic play to you. We all look forward to the hard work and bringing this seldom produced play to Waterfront South at a time when employment issues are so prominent in our own backyard. Please join us as we work and "wait".

A weekend of Angels, Kevin Spacey and Nick Virgilio

2011-01-10T08:53:00.002-05:00

This past weekend was one of my busiest in my theatre career. Catching 'Angels In America; Millennium Approaches" Fri night in NY in an incredible production, meeting Kevin Spacey after and telling him about our upcoming production of "A Moon For the Misbegotten" [which brought a huge smile to his face since I told him I caught his performance in NY a few years back] and ending the weekend with my play "Nick of Time...Nick of Time" in front of an oversold house was nothing short of fantastic. Watching Bob Weick BECOME Nick Virgilio took your breath away [2 more chances to see it in Norristown next Thu and Fri]. Theatre is alive and riveting...especially in Waterfront South. Become a part of the excitement....

The Great Work HAS Begun

2010-12-31T07:57:00.002-05:00

I have used Tony Kushner's incredible quote, "The great work begins", from "Angels In America: Millennium Approaches" as the mantra of this company from the very beginning of this journey. As I sit here on the last day of 2010 I look back on a year that brought a dream to fruition....the christening of a new theatre in Camden. A new theatre anywhere in the world is a reason to celebrate but this one, sharing a zip code with some of our poorest of neighbors in the country, brings us a true triumph. Thanks to everyone who has been a part of our journey so far. We will continue to bring the most professional theatre possible to the corner of 4th and Jasper. I don't think that Tony would mind that in this one case we adjust his quote. "The great work HAS begun".

Happy Holidays from SCTC and Annual Appeal

2010-12-20T07:37:00.003-05:00

We have been so blessed this year. Our new theatre opened in September bringing the city of Camden it's first theatre built for stage plays in over 100 years! We have you to thank for bringing us this far and over 1200 people have come to our first two plays! In this wonderful season of giving we also would like to ask you to help us once again as we continue to bring our new season to life. Please help us reach our annual appeal of $10,000. If everyone on our friends list donates only $25 we will reach our goal which will help pay for the sets and other costs. Go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/support.html to make your tax deductible contribution. Our low ticket price of $15 could never be enough to support the level of work we bring to you and your support makes everything possible. Happy Holidays and we'll save a seat for you.

"Waiting For Lefty" first rehearsal

2010-12-11T14:13:00.002-05:00

I had to tell you of the excitement today at our first rehearsal for 'Waiting For Lefty". The energy brought forth from the cast was remarkable and we are set for the rehearsal period with an incredible vigor. This play has never been more relevant and I really hope you will be coming to Waterfront South Theatre in February to be a part of it. We all found so many moments in this play so personal to all of us in today's US and today, are only at the beginning of our journey. Tix are on sale at www.southcamdentheatre.org. Don't miss out on this exciting production with this incredible cast.

Dominica Foundation Event at Waterfront South Theatre

2010-12-09T12:27:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday, Waterfront South Theatre was the site of a recognition event sponsored by Pepe Piperno and his Dominica Foundation. Through Pepe's and his foundation's incredible generosity the theatre was built and now will host theatre and other events far into the future. It was also the first non-SCTC event in the theatre and we all could not be prouder. On behalf of Board President Bob Bingaman and myself who were in attendance, thank you to the Piperno family for their continued generosity. We also made new friends at this event and received many promises that they would be joining us for "Waiting for Lefty" in February as well. Thanks again to all.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-27T11:44:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone is having a great, relaxing Thanksgiving Day weekend. We at SCTC have so much to be grateful for from the generosity of Helene Pierson and Heart of Camden to Pepe Piperno and his Dominica Foundation to Michael Doyle and especially to all of you who have come to Waterfront South Theatre this season see a show. The first half of the season is already behind us and we are now beginning to work on our next show "Waiting For Lefty" which will come to you in February. The play, written by Clifford Odets, is set during the Great Depression and is, unfortunately , so relevant today. This play won the Pulitzer Prize for drama and is very rarely performed due to it's large cast. We at SCTC are honored to bring it to you and hope that you will join us during our season of "the past, in the present, is our future". We auditioned over fifty actors over two days to find these great actors and I could not be happier with our cast.

Enjoy the holiday...we are so grateful for all of you. Please join us as we all "Wait for Lefty".

Busy weekend at SCTC

2010-11-12T07:07:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that we have already completed the first half of Season 1 in Waterfront South Theatre. This weekend, casting will begin for our next play "Waiting For Lefty" by Clifford Odets which will open on February 4th. This play changed American theatre in the 1930's and has always been a dream of mine to direct. 'Lefty" is rarely produced and our production will give you an opportunity to see why this play is so important to the American theatre. Tickets have been selling for the past few weeks already. Please preorder your seats today at www.southcamdentheatre.org. The closing weekends of both "Last Rites" and "The Old Settler" had capacity audiences. I'll be keeping you informed on the plays progress through rehearsals. Stay tuned.....

"Old Settler" closes to capacity audiences

2010-11-08T07:50:00.002-05:00

Thank you to everyone who made the clsoing weekend of "The Old Settler" such a resounding success. Thank you, also, to the incredible cast and crew who brought this beautiful play to you for the past three weeks. We will bring Clifford Odets' Pulitzer Prize winning play "Waiting for Lefty" to you in February. Keep an eye out for some special announcemnts over the next few weeks as we all "Wait for Lefty".

Old Settler sold out last night

2010-11-06T10:57:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who was a part of the sold out audience of last night's performance of "The Old Settler" at SCTC. Thank you also to Joe and Frank from New Jersey Network Television who came last night to film SCTC for a future NJN broadcast concerning the rebirth of Camden. Limited seating is still available for tonight and tomorrow afternoon. Please don't wait to buy tickets! Last night we had to turn people away [thankfully they bought seats for tonight]. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets. Come and be a part of all of this excitement. Come to Waterfront South Theatre and visit with "The Old Setter"!

Thank you to the Gloucester City Business Association

2010-10-28T08:15:00.005-04:00

Thank you to Bob and Susan from Gloucester Travel [one of our sponsors] for the invitation to speak at this past week's GCBA meeting. We had a great discussion about the excitement of a professional theatre so close to Gloucester City and I am already working with a local business to bring a group to a future play. Consider bringing a group to a show. Please remember there are six more performances of "The Old Settler"that begin on Friday evening. Don't miss this great play full of wonderful performances. Go to http://www.southcamdentheatre.org/ for tickets.

Old Setter Opens!

2010-10-23T09:29:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Theresa and our incredible cast and crew of "The Old Settler" that opened last night in our beautiful new home at the Waterfront South Theatre. This play and cast will make you laugh, make you cry and give you an evening in the theatre that truly should not be missed. When you come, you will be transformed back to the 1940's with music and a most incredible set designed by Robert Bingaman. There are 8 more shows for you to join us. Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM and Sunday afternoons at our new time of 2PM. Go to www.southcamdentheatre.org for tickets. Don't miss this great theatre event......."shoot".