By Mary Kenson Wilson
The ABT interns recently had the privilege to participate in an exchange-like program with the interns of the Roundabout Theatre. This was the first time ABT has been involved in such a program, and I must say it was a huge success!
Last week, we first opened our studio doors (with bagels and fresh squeezed OJ, of course) to the Roundabout clan. We kicked the morning off with a friendly get-to-know-you round of speed dating. Everyone involved had to condense his/her entire life story into an impossible 45-second summary, which is always quite the task! Afterwards, we had the opportunity to meet with American Ballet Theatre Company Manager, Justin Sweeney, Associate Company Manager, Kyle Pickles, Company Manager at Roundabout’s American Airlines Theatre, Carly Difulvio, and Company Manager of Anything Goes, Karl Baudendistel. Followed by a Q&A session, it was fascinating to hear the specifics of each particular job, how they came to hold their current positions, the rewarding aspects of the job, etc. Being both a ballet company and a theatre company, it was also interesting to see the many similarities and differences between the two.
The second go ‘round, we were lucky enough to have a personal backstage tour of the American Airlines Theatre and a discussion with the House Manger, Stage Manager, and Company Manager. Hearing about each particular role and how they coordinate definitely lifted the curtain on how to pull off a successful night on Broadway, from pre- to post-production. We ended the fun-filled evening together with dinner and an incredible performance of Roundabout Theatre Company’s Tony Award-winning revival of Anything Goes.
What’s next on the exchange agenda?! A night at New York City Center where we will all gaze in amazement at American Ballet Theatre’s Fall Season. ‘Til next time….
ABT & Roundabout Interns
abtinterns 
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