Theater lovers will find pleasure is viewing “In the Company of Hal Prince—Broadway Producer, Director, Collaborator,” the current exhibit at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center. There is plenty of time—the exhibit runs through March 31, 2020—to take in this event that reflects Prince’s extraordinary career. Prince died July 31 of this year at the age of 91.
As one strolls through the exhibit one sees evidence of Prince’s work, including posters of the vast number of shows which he produced and/or directed. There are photographs of him with those who wrote the music, lyrics and books for the hits that had long runs and stood out among the most popular Broadway productions of our time.
One can read the extensive correspondence Prince had with those in the theater world, some of them indicating disagreement, others laudatory and showing appreciation for his expertise and achievements.
One can trace Prince’s history in the theater, from his work with George Abbott early in his career to his later years when he remained the major figure in the Broadway theater world.
There are personal elements, such as his desk on display, complete with his telephone, as well as other memorabilia from his life and career. There are photos of those who played a large part in his work, such as Ruth Mitchell, who became an associate producer and an executive producer of Prince shows.
It is too bad Prince can’t see the exhibit that honors him, but you can and should not miss this important survey installed at the New York Public Library for Performing Arts, which you can find located between the Metropolitan Opera house and the Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center. Reviewed October 5, 2019.