WHAT AM I? NUTS?by Steve Ullman,
Producer of Bernice Bobs Her Mullet
On July 9, I received an e-mail from a friend who teaches
musical theatre at a university. He
forwarded me another e-mail from a former student about that person's friend's
musical that had been invited into NYMF, but needed a producer. Would I look at it? Sure, why not?
So I contacted Joe Major, who wrote Bernice Bobs Her Mullet, and we agreed to meet a couple of days
later. He pitched me his show and had me
laughing over lunch. I read it. I
thought it was cute and had potential. I
met with Isaac Robert Hurwitz to find out how NYMF works…and I realized that
I'd lose a ton of money producing this show.
So I said "yes." What am I? Nuts?
We were late to the game by at least a month. We were too late for the "official" NYMF
Equity auditions. I had no team in
place. I had about a minute and a half
to find a director, choreographer, musical director, orchestrator, designers
and a cast.
Though I've produced hundreds of shows, this would be my
first in New York. I called in every favor I could think
of. Within a week, I had hired a bright
young director. Together, we assembled a
team – some young and eager types that he knew and a couple of more experienced
friends of mine. We cast the show
without holding an audition, thanks to a wonderful casting director (Michael
Cassara).
With two more performances left, do I regret a moment of
it? Or a dollar of it? Hell, no!
Producing Bernice… at NYMF has
truly been a joy. Our incredible team
made magic on a shoestring budget. Our
cast is amazing, talented and committed (though I think I'm the one who should
be committed).
So thanks to all who prodded me into insanity. Should I do it again? No. Will I?
Hmm….
