Jenny Slattery can set the scene the day she heard the Pasadena Playhouse will receive the 2023 Regional Theatre Tony Award.
“I was walking my dog,” said Slattery, associate producer at the 106-year-old, 686-seat theater. “Danny (Feldman) called me. I knew it was a dream he had and I knew how important and exciting the Tony Awards are. It was unexpected.”
Feldman, the Playhouse’s producing artistic director, shared the news with staff at a meeting on May 23.
Everyone could feel the impact: The honor — given by the Tony Awards Administration Committee on the recommendation of the American Theatre Critics Association, honoring its history of presenting “innovative and inspiring” productions over the past century — is a defining moment for the Playhouse.
It was a reminder of just how much of a rebirth the Playhouse has undergone since the days when it was on the brink of financial ruin.
This, after all, was a stage once graced by some of modern-day greats: Dustin Hoffman, Gene Hackman, Robert Preston, Sally Struthers, Raymond Burr, Eve Arden, among others, were here. And yet, during some dark years, it was almost consumed by bankruptcy.
But remember what they say about the show going on?
“There was some congratulating and cookies were passed around before and after the show that night, but we stay steadily busy here, so we went straight back to work after,” said Brad Enlow, technical director and production supervisor.
The celebration was less muted from the community. From Gov. Gavin Newsom to Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo, theater lovers praised the Playhouse as a community gem, celebrated landmark and iconic treasure.
As the week ended, the people closest to that gem were still reflecting.
Feldman said the award is most meaningful to the many people who have been fighting for the theater to exist.
“This prestigious award honors every person who has played a role in making and continuing to make Pasadena Playhouse one of the great…
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