Farewell and Thanks for the Memories
by Martha Steketee
posted: 2010-06-29 17:37:17
When Wally and I first discussed in summer 2009 the possibility of working with PDC as its first Resident Dramaturg, I was intrigued. I was a new arrival from Chicago where I had an actively engaged theatre life. I was a production dramaturg, member of the Joseph Jefferson Award Committee, member of several professional boards, reader for several of the largest theatre literary departments (Steppenwolf, Goodman, and Northlight among them), critical writing mentor in a program at the Goodman, and occasional theatre critic and writer.
Yeah, it was hard to leave Chicago. And Wally was not wrong -- the experience of working with the staff and members of PDC has been challenging and rewarding. I read and provided feedback on member plays; I conducted post show discussions; I participated as the PDC representative on the play selection committee; I obtained "ingredients" for the 2nd annual PDC "bake-off" event from two Chicago playwright pals; I dramaturged two member's plays in reading/development adventures; I blogged here as I blog elsewhere (more on that to follow); I helped structure questions, lead conversations, and write up the first four "In Conversation" interviews with Philadelphia critics; and I led conversations with six early members and leaders of PDC for the current PDC History Project.
This organization has a role in Philadelphia. The energy that drives it is palpable and strong.
Where there are playwrights seeking a place of support and nourishment, they will find a place like Philadelphia Dramatists Center. I have been honored to work with you for almost a year.
I leave with my husband at the end of July for the next phase of my life, based for the first time on the island of Manhattan. I expect to follow the development of PDC from near and far. And I invite you, those of you who are interested, to follow my adventures on my own blog called "Urban Excavations" at http://msteketee.wordpress.com.
Thank you all for the privilege of working with you.
Comments:
Valdemar Zialcita said on 2010-09-04:
I'm personally grateful for all that you did for us, Martha. I'm excited for you for all the opportunities that lie ahead, and I wish you all the best in New York.
Richard Kotulski said on 2010-06-30:
It's been great to have you around, Martha. Thanks for all your hard work over the past year.
Break a leg in NYC!