Broadway Podcast Network – A Broadway conversation with MICHAEL HERWITZ (JOB the Play)

In this episode, we meet Michael Herwitz, the visionary director of the Broadway play JOB. Join us as we delve into Michael's fascinating journey from child actor to director, learn about the creative process behind the success of JOB, and explore the themes that resonate with audiences of all generations. Michael shares insights into the role of lighting and staging, the challenges of directing a two-person scene, and the open interpretation of the play's conclusion. Discover how JOB bridges generational gaps and engages audiences in meaningful conversations.

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MICHAEL HERWITZ is a director, producer, and dramaturg in New York City. He can often be found working on a new script or dreaming up a revival of his favorite musical. His directing work collides fantasy with the mundane and is often representative of queer and/or Jewish communities. He creates work where generosity and the pursuit of excellence go hand in hand. Michael is a passionate advocate of the fourth wall and believes that every other act deserves a dream ballet.

In fall 2023, Michael made his Off-Broadway directorial debut with JOB by Max Wolf Friedlich. The twice-extended, sold-out run was selected by the New York Times critics and called “sophisticated and brilliant” in New York Magazine's Approval Matrix. The commercial transfer at the Connelly Theater in 2024 recouped the investment in five weeks.

Born and raised outside of New York City, Michael began his career as a child actor on Broadway. While directing his middle school musicals, he developed a deep passion for working behind the scenes. Michael has developed and directed new plays and musicals at HERE, Ensemble Studio Theater, JACK, SoHo Playhouse, Williamstown Theater Festival, IRT Theater, Lifeworld, Martha's Vineyard Playhouse, and the Pasadena Playhouse. As an assistant, Michael has supported the work of Terry Kinney, Moritz von Stuelpnagel, Leigh Silverman, Jessie Nelson, and Joe Brancato.

In addition to his work as a director, Michael has served as a general manager and company manager off-Broadway and on tour. He is the co-founder of G45 Productions, an artist collective dedicated to new plays. His education ranges from the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts to Northwestern University and the Williamstown Theatre Festival to watching countless movie musicals as a child.