All Arts‘ upcoming non-fiction feature “Manhattan Theatre Club, a Home for Artists” will explore the 50-year history of one of the most impactful off-Broadway theaters in New York. Helmed by the club’s very own Lynne Meadow and Barry Grove, the film stitches together archival footage and photos and interviews with stars like Laura Linney, Edie Falco, Sam Waterston and Sarah Jessica Parker.
“Through their stewardship of Manhattan Theatre Club, Lynne Meadow and Barry Grove have left an indelible mark on the theatrical landscape for decades to come,” said Joe Harrell, executive producer of All Arts, a WNET group streaming platform and broadcast channel based in New York. “Their story champions the vital role of nonprofit theaters in allowing artists to take risks, explore innovative ideas and challenge conventions.”
The Manhattan Theatre Club was founded in 1970 at Stage 73 but took off under the guidance of Meadow as artistic director and Grove as executive producer. The company has housed productions like David Harrower’s “Blackbird,” Richard Greenberg’s “Eastern Standard” and David Auburn’s “Proof.” In the last 50 years, MTC has earned 28 Tony Awards, seven Pulitzer Prizes, 49 Obie Awards and countless other accolades.
“We are delighted to shine a light on the impact of Manhattan Theatre Club, an artistic force that has nurtured and elevated generations of talent,” saidJames King, senior artistic director of All Arts.
The film also features stories from David Auburn, Christine Baranski, Ben Brantley, John Lee Beatty, André De Shields, Brandon J. Dirden, Jessica Hecht, David Hodgson, Judith Light, Santo Loquasto, Joe Mantello, Jerry Mitchell, Mary-Louise Parker, David Hyde Pierce, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, John Patrick Shanley, Daniel Sullivan, Richard Wesley, and Whitney White.
“Manhattan Theatre Club, a Home for Artists” was directed by Ann Benjamin and will debut on Nov. 21 at 9 p.m. via All Arts’ channels.
