Having survived a financial crisis that actually preceded the current meltdown of the U.S. economy, the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, NJ, now seems to be back on an even keel under its present administration. That's wonderful news, because the theater has a history of excellence -- much of which was the direct responsibility of Angelo Del Rossi, its head honcho for 40 years, from 1963 to 2003.
Though Del Rossi is gone from Paper Mill, he will never be forgotten by anyone who worked at the theater during his tenure. To officially honor him, a plaque commemorating his brilliant career was unveiled at a reception held yesterday (Thursday, July 16, 2009) at Sardi's.
Among those on hand to congratulate the man of the hour were such Paper Mill alumni as Christine Ebersole, Tony Roberts, Susan Stroman, George S. Irving, Ron Raines, Jim Walton, Lee Roy Reams, Kelli Rabke, Judy McLane, Paul Iacono (one of the stars of the forthcoming new film version of Fame), and Vincent D'Elia (whose Paper Mill credits include Jesus Christ Superstar and Children of Eden).
Said Roy Miller, who worked with Del Rossi for years at Paper Mill and is now one of the producers of the Broadway revival of West Side Story, "Angelo not only taught me the nuts and bolts of producing, but more importantly -- and I think everyone in this room will agree -- he taught us all to have passion and not apologize for it, and to take risks at the risk of failing."
"I got started at the Paper Mill Playhouse," said Stroman. "Angelo took a chance on me and gave me the opportunity to hone my craft on new material. For young talent coming up today, it's hard to find that place anymore. Angelo was what I thought an impresario should be: always dapper in his suit, always pacing back and forth, watching me do my work. But when I would look down at him, he would smile and would be there to support me. Angelo, I'm so honored to be here today and to see you still looking like the great impresario."
The plaque honoring Del Rossi, which will soon be installed at Paper Mill, lauds him as a "dedicated champion of the arts, executive producer, loyal friend, and inspirational mentor."
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(pictured: Angelo Del Rossi and Christine Ebersole)
