Romancing the Buddha - one-man play

by Michael Lisagor

Director’s Notes

By Steven Fogell

When Michael approached me about helping him transform his book into a one-man

show I was really very excited. As a playwright I love the challenge of taking thought-

provoking ideas and stories and transforming them for the stage. I read his book and

instantly had a clear picture of what this could become for an audience. The tricky part

was what to keep and what to let go of in the original written words.

Once Michael and I agreed upon a final script then we began the process of taking

someone who was comfortable with public speaking but new to theatre and giving him

the challenge of a show that only relied on him. The true “one man” show it is called in

theater. This is a scary and very brave adventure for even a trained actor to take on. But

as you will see tonight Michael can handle the challenge, and is both brave enough and

passionate enough to take such a personal story and make it come alive for an

audience.

As you watch this performance tonight, don’t only listen to the words Michael says –

listen also to the love and power behind them. His story is truly all of our stories, it is one

of a person trying to find happiness and joy for his family and himself despite what the

universe may throw at him.

Thank you Michael for letting me part of such an amazing journey!

Love always to Kim, Susan Sivitz, Susan Thompson and always Gregg, my true family!

Enjoy!

About Steven Fogell

Steven has been involved with BPA for more than twelve years, working as a teacher,

director, and designer. Steven’s first role with BPA was that of Costume Designer for

the Mainstage production The Little Prince. He then moved on to teach in the Theatre

School and direct Annie. This past July, Steven was appointed the position of Artistic

Director, and he couldn't be more delighted. Among his favorite BPA directing credits

are Jekyll & Hyde, Cabaret, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Les

Misérables, Romancing the Buddha, and coming March 27 – 29 – Woodpile.