Mike Ockrent

Mike Ockrent was a British stage director and choreographer who left an indelible mark on the world of theater. Born on June 18, 1946, in London, Ockrent began his career as a stage manager before transitioning to directing and choreography. He went on to become one of the most sought-after directors on both sides of the Atlantic.

Ockrent's Broadway debut came in 1984 with the musical "Me and My Girl," which he directed and choreographed. The show was a huge success, running for over 1,400 performances and earning Ockrent a Tony Award nomination for Best Choreography. He followed this up with another hit musical, "Crazy for You," which he directed and choreographed in 1992. The show won three Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and ran for over 1,600 performances.
Ockrent continued to work on Broadway throughout the 1990s, directing and choreographing shows such as "Big," "The Music Man," and "The Scarlet Pimpernel." He also directed the London productions of "Crazy for You" and "Me and My Girl," as well as the West End premiere of "Grand Hotel."
In addition to his work in theater, Ockrent also directed several television specials and films. He directed the 1992 television adaptation of "Crazy for You," as well as the 1999 made-for-TV movie "Annie." He also directed the 1992 film "Dennis the Menace," starring Walter Matthau.
Tragically, Ockrent's career was cut short when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1999. He passed away on December 2 of that year at the age of 53. In his memory, the Mike Ockrent Fellowship was established to support emerging theater directors in the UK.