Jeff Calhoun
New York, New York, United States
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The only thing I ever wanted to do was be in show business. When I produced my first show in my grandmother’s garage at age eight, I never imagined I would one day be nominated for a Tony Award. It’s been a sweet journey and I am grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had.
I’m a self-employed theater director and direct shows all across the world. Before I was a director/choreographer, I was a performer. As a performer, I was somewhat limited by my physical prowess. In my current job, I'm only limited by imagination.
Nothing inspires me more than the creative process and working with the talented artists, actors, dancers, designers and stage technicians in putting on a musical or show.
As a PivotPlanet client, I will provide you an overview of the ins and outs and the ups and downs of creating new musicals. It takes dedication, perseverance, talent, connections, and a lot of luck. I have been very lucky in my career and believe with privilege comes the responsibility to give back. I look forward to helping you make your dreams a reality.
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I’ve been hooked on performing since I was a kid. I started as a dancer and had my directing debut at my high school’s production of Godspell. My life changed at age 17 when I met the legendary Tommy Tune who would become my mentor.
Some of my areas of expertise are developing new musicals from page to stage, casting, judging character, tap dancing, collaborating, and creating an environment that nurtures creativity.
No one does this alone. Collaboration is the key to any creative process. Your reputation is as important as the work. It’s important to be known as not only someone who can get the job done, but also as one who inspires and brings out the best in people. If you can do that, then you’ll have a long career in this business.
There are so many moments that I am proud of. A few of them include directing the first AIDS benefit west of the Mississippi starring Bob Hope, replacing my mentor Tommy Tune in My One and Only, creating much of the choreography for The Will Rogers' Follies, directing and choreographing the first Broadway revival of Grease, producing and directing Brooklyn the Musical, directing and choreographing Deaf West's Big River and Pippin, directing Bonnie & Clyde, and directing Disney's Newsies.
I had the great opportunity to work with many talented theatrical luminaries such as Tommy Tune, Cy Colman, Betty Comdon and Adolf Green, Stephen Schwartz, Frank Wildhorn, Don Black, Alan Menken, and Harvey Fierstein to name just a few.
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My time with Broadway director, Jeff Calhoun, was incredible! Jeff took interest in me as an individual by listening to my aspirations and offered insight from his vast experience and background working in Broadway theatres. I received one-on-one access to a mentor who served as a sounding board for lingering questions I had about the creative process of mounting a show in New York.
Jeremy Painter
Killen, AL
