In a surprise announcement made just hours before the first preview of their new production Barefoot in the Park, Red Bank’s Two River Theater Company dislcosed that its dynamic artistic director, Aaron Posner, is departing the company when his contract expires at the end of the current stage season.
In a statement that you’ll read first on Red Bank oRBit, the TRTC board praises Posner for having “made huge strides in increasing the national profile of the theater,” while emphasizing that “it is equally important… to strengthen our presence in this community.” And, while it’s likely that today’s Snowmageddon sequel will force the cancellation of this evening’s preview performance at the Bridge Avenue auditorium, the board maintains that a nationwide search for Posner’s replacement will proceed apace.
While he’s a sought-after hot property as director and playwright, Posner (pictured red-handed for his smash production of Macbeth) is hardly cleaning out his desk just yet. He’s actively involved in the planning of next season’s mainstage schedule — and next month, he’ll be directing an acclaimed new adaptation of an ancient classic, called Orestes, A Tragic Romp.
We’ve got the details from Two River on this work-at-home Wednesday, along with a look back at Posner’s run in Red Bank — ONLY in Red Bank oRBit!
I’m very sorry to see him go. I have been a subscriber for a few years, and all my favorite shows were Posner shows.
Dear TRTC…I’m nervous…very nervous..I’m a subscriber. IF TRTC becomes conventional, showing traditional plays and musicals, with no edge or risk, I don’t think I could stand it. We are suburbia parents, who crave the art that Posner brought to TRTC. After the nutty Chicago humorists you brought in two years ago, which shocked some theater goers by its risque humor, my husband and I looked at each other and said how lucky we were to have access to this kind of theatre.
If, by “reaching out the community”, you mean, bring in Oklahoma,eliminate curse words, and stage exactly as the original on Broadway, I fear that the motivation to be a subscriber will be gone.
Carpool to New York, anyone?
Good riddance.
first world: why “good riddance”? you don’t like his productions or you know something about his directorial/management style? I’m wondering what the issue is. your post is strange! Me’thinks you’re on the Board of Directors or an employee. Or just someone that doesn’t like theatre?