INTERN REVIEW

I was then given work to do on the corn maze side of the company; it was very different from the theatrical side, and a great learning experience to see how corn mazes are managed as opposed to theatrical management. Working on research assignments was incredibly useful for me, never having done research without having to write a paper. It also made me look into something I was not familiar with, and broadened my horizons in terms of learning about other forms of entertainment.

While I did not spend my summer learning what I expected, I still learned a lot and was able to take advantage of my surroundings and learn as much as I could. I would go as far to say, it was better than I expected and I think I received a much more well-rounded education and time spent at Town Square. I am definitely sad to be leaving and can only hope that I find a job or another internship that will be as fantastic as this one was.

Coming from France, I have to confess that I am more than happy and satisfied for having had this wonderful experience with a company/team, like TSP.

I learned so much during the six months. It was the best time for practicing my communication and graphic skills that I learned during my school studies. Working in an American company also allowed me to improve my English, and complete my personal and professional goals that I had before going to NYC!

Concerning the staff, there are no better words than ‘generous’ and ‘professional.’ The team is deeply creative, intelligent, patient and especially very open-minded. If you really want to leave your native country for an international experience, and work for a very interesting industry like they do, in entertainment and production, definitely choose TSP!

Finally, let me thank again those great people, because they where the key for giving me many new skills and interesting contacts, that I never had before in an internship context. This review is for you.

My time at TSP was a crazy time and the time of my life. I look back on it all with only the fondest of feelings and feel so grateful that I was given the opportunity. I soon realized that the weight of a Broadway show’s management relied heavily on my role in it. ME! Because I was really thrown into the deep end, head-first and given responsibilities I never dreamed of having, it really became the most powerful learning experience I’ve ever had. I sat in on ad meetings, held multiple backstage passes to rehearsal halls and theaters, invited to look over set designs, stuff among many other moments that will stay with me forever. Laurie insists that she put me through hell, but I must insist that it was definitely one of the greatest summers of my life. Internships I have had since are EXTREMELY boring in comparison. You will never be underestimated at Town Square!

No matter where life takes me after graduation, I’ll always remember Town Square Productions as my first New York City employer. Over the past three months I’ve learned from Laurie how New York’s small theatrical community works and how one must work within that community. The lessons I’ve learned in New York protocol, Broadway business techniques and how to work with the diverse amounts of people in this small town are priceless and are sure to follow me throughout my career.

I loved the responsibilities that Laurie gave us for building budgets, writing contracts and all the other little research projects she sent us out to do. Because I’m studying business and accounting, the budgets were always especially fun to work with. I appreciated that Laurie allowed me to really work with the documents because it was much easier to understand them hands-on, rather than just studying them.

Accompanying Laurie through the excitement and chaos of an opening weekend was definitely worth all the hard work it took to get there. I enjoyed being able to finally meet all the people I had spoken with so many times on the phone. (I especially enjoyed meeting Richard Pilbrow, as he wrote my lighting design textbook!)

Overall, the semester was successful and educational. Laurie’s patience and respect made coming to work each day worthwhile and her non-stop energy made even the dreariest of Mondays exciting. By being able to see how management offices of productions work, this internship has opened up many opportunities for me after graduation. The skills I’ve learned and the people I’ve met here at Town Square Productions will stay with me throughout my career. And if I’m ever granted the opportunity to have interns of my own, I hope that I am able to treat them with the same respect that I’ve been here at Town Square Productions.

Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday I would take a shuttle, ferry, and subway ride to get myself to the internship at Town Square Productions after a successful and quite amusing interview…. Although the commute was long and tiresome, each time I began my voyage I was filled with anticipation and joy.

Town Square Productions is a small company with a huge heart.  Don and Laurie have such a wide array of knowledge and expertise that can only be measured by the size of their kindness and respect for their interns.

There was never a time in the internship that I felt insecure. Going into an internship can be a very scary and nerve-wracking thing at first, but from the beginning, Laurie and Don welcomed me with opened arms. When I was unsure, I was never afraid to ask for assistance or help in order to complete the task thoroughly and accurately. Don regularly encouraged our input in conversations and business meetings which always set a tone of comfort. 

Town Square has a large diversity of projects – getting a small taste of each one, and larger tastes of others, helped give me a wider perspective of the kinds of creative that a general management company can do.  I not only got to experience the on goings of trying to bring a show to Broadway but also how to plan the next theme for a family fun weekend on the farm in the American Maize Maze.   The dedication, compassion and commitment that Laurie and Don displayed to make sure the interns were getting the best experience possible confirmed my belief in them. 

Ultimately, I will miss the energy that originated in the Town Square office and the relationships I shared as intern to associate, but what felt more like partner to partner. I learned lessons not only about general management but how to be a smart, practical, compassionate businessman. I thank them tenfold.

When applying for internships, I was looking for a place that would give me responsibilities. I wanted to be able to go into work and have my own projects. I am so glad that I chose to work with Town Square Productions (“TSP”) because the experience was exactly what I wanted.

I was given more responsibilities than I even planned, and worked on a variety of assignments, large and small.  I also got the opportunity to work in different offices outside of ours, such as Press Agent, Casting and Producers – all of whom taught me about parts of the theatre I have never worked in before.

These past few months has taught me how to organize my time better and to be more efficient.  There were times I was under a time crunch to finish a project, but I was never rushed or pressured by anyone. Watching the different processes of shows TSP works on has taught me more about theatre management than most of my Theatre Arts Management courses in college.

I strongly suggest applying for an internship with Don Frantz and Laurie Brown, they are great teachers for anyone interested in working in show business. If you are looking for someplace where copying, mailing and errands are not the tasks given to you, then I hope you get an internship Town Square Productions!

I’ve had many internship but this one was the best! Here at Town Square Productions they treat you more like a full-time employee then an intern. You receive respectable work and your own responsibilities. Making copies and running to Staples are sometimes a part of the daily routine, but you come to learn that sometimes it’s the little things that help keep a company going.

Since it’s a small company, which manages many projects there are tons of hands on experience. Your hands touch all aspects of production and all of TSP’s past and future projects. You learn how the idea was conceived, what it took to keep it going, and also how it ended. I’ve learned the ins and outs of theater, even a few secrets. Seeing a script develop into a full-blown Off-Broadway show was amazing. The best part was being able to work as technical crew throughout the production of the show! I had the best of both worlds working in the office, participating in the pre-production work and then working on the show that I helped put together.

It is hard to put into words what I learned this past summer. With it just being Laurie, Don, and myself, there was never a time when I had only one assignment to focus on. Like other interns have said in the past, working here, you are treated as an associate, an equal. From the very first day, I was given loads of responsibility and the permission to take an idea and make it my own. At times it was nerve-racking to know that I was the one solely in charge of a specific project, but when it all worked out in the end, it was a very satisfying feeling.

While here, I helped out with “The American Maze”, “Walkin’ Broadway”, and other various office tasks, but what I’m most proud of is assisting with “A Tale of Two Cities”, “All Too Human”, among others. What was thrilling was that these were ventures that the majority of the population knows nothing about. When these shows are up and running and the public become aware of them, I can say that I was there from the beginning.

Laurie and Don each taught me something that I can apply to whatever job I end up with. Don’s creativity and animation never failed to amaze me and make me smile. He will start with an ember of an idea and before you know it, you’ve got yourself a 5-alarm-fire on your hands.

Overall, it turned out to be not only an educational and interesting summer here at Town Square, but when all was said and done…no one can attest that I didn’t have fun!

What an amazing experience! I never imagined my summer internship would be so involved. From Broadway, to amusement parks, to mazes, to our very own audio tour, Don, Laurie and Elliot always had us working on different projects. They always involved the interns in making decisions about the company and shows, teaching us so much in so little time, making us part of the team. After the first week, I felt like I had been working on these projects for months and played an important role in their development.

Town Square Productions’ variety of projects not only kept us busy, but it prepared me to work in any entertainment industry in the future. I learned how to produce a Broadway show from beginning to end, what it’s like to be a General Manager, and saw a glimpse of what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Don and Laurie gave us the freedom to explore our own ideas when working on projects creating a great working environment. I always felt comfortable asking questions or introducing an idea.

Two shows I worked closely on were A Tale of Two Cities and Shamu. Shamu taught me a lot about the makings of a show, and what needs to be done to make it successful. I also learned the ins and outs of Broadway from A Tale of Two Cities. The summer interns were lucky enough to be a part of the first rehearsal and readings for A Tale of Two Cities, something very memorable to take away from this internship.

If you have a passion for theatre and management, I highly suggest interning at Town Square Productions. I cannot imagine that I would have had a better working experience or more fun with any other team than Don, Laurie, and Elliot.

During my time at Town Square Productions, I quickly realized the role I played in the company was much bigger than being just an intern. In the beginning, I assumed the work I’d be doing would be the traditional mundane intern labor. However, working at Town Square Productions has been nothing but absolutely remarkable and filled with endless opportunities.

While at Town Square I got hands on experience with the production of theatrical shows, walking tours and mazes. I was able to interact with producers, directors, actors and agents for the workshop of A Tale of Two Cities and got to be apart of the first rehearsal. I was also given the responsibility of researching and finding retail locations to sell Walkin’ Broadwayä tickets as well as integrating it to other tours.

The overall experience of this internship can only be described as a once in a-life-time opportunity. I was so involved with the company and their projects that I had to remind myself constantly that I was just an intern. Don, Laurie and Heather are three amazing people to work for. Having this internship has given me the experience and knowledge I need to achieve any job.

Interning in the middle of Times Square, with Town Square Productions, has been an amazing experience. I have learned so much about what it takes to get a show running, and all of the behind the scenes work that takes place on a show.

Besides all of the normal office tasks that one would expect during an Internship, I have been able to do so much more. Don and Laurie respected the interns much more than other companies do, and truly made us feel like part of the team. From talking to the Director of Show Development for Busch Entertainment Corp to Broadway Directors to the head of the Samsung Experience which is located in New York to going through budgets for multimillion dollar projects, I have been able to learn so much about the entertainment industry.

One of the most interesting parts of my internship was being around from the first day that the office was chosen to general manage A Tale of Two Cities which showed all of the work that it takes to get a musical to Broadway. Another great moment was getting to see the Philadelphia premiere of Spirit – The Seventh Fire.

Most importantly this summer has truly helped answer a lot of questions about what I want to do when I graduate from college. The best part of the internship is probably yet to come, because once A Tale of Two Cities opens on Broadway, I will be able to say that I helped to get it there.

Interning at Town Square Productions has been an unforgettable and exciting experience, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to work in such a fun and busy office. At Town Square the interns are more like associates. Don and Laurie let me take on projects and make them my own, which is really the best way to learn the business. They are extremely helpful and encouraging which makes for an excellent work environment. I was excited to come to work everyday to see what would happen next.

Don and Laurie have a lot of projects, all of them being very different and at various stages of development. Because of this, I was able to learn a great deal about the process of putting a show together, from the moment the idea is created to the day it opens.

A lot of my work involved the show Spirit – The Seventh Fire. I edited and sent contracts for actors, crew, and vendors for the show, and worked on revising payroll schedules and budgets. I became familiar with the formats for each which I have learned is very important.

I also worked extensively on marketing Walkin’ Broadway™. Don allowed me to write letters to tour book publishers in an effort to get the tour included in future publications. I felt like I was really working on something that would have great long-term results for the company. It was really gratifying to hear back from editors who were interested.

At Town Square I felt like everything I did for each project was an important step in the process. Laurie and Don are great teachers, and I learned so much from them that I feel I can apply to any job I get in the future
. I also was able to make some great contacts. I highly recommend Town Square to anyone who wants to learn about theatre management.

I thoroughly enjoyed my internship at Town Square Productions! Because Town Square is a small office, theirinterns are treated more like associates and you get to experience and actually DO a wide range of projects. This was what really appealed to me as a Master’s student at NYU.

I came into this internship wanting to know what a Producer and a Company Manager’s roles are and I got so much more!! I think the difference between Town Square and other production companies is that Don wears so many hats, from producing or general managing Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, to Theme Parks, to Mazes, to even a audio tour about Times Square. Therefore, I was able to experience all types of producing and management, not just theater.

I also enjoyed the ability to run with certain projects, make them my own, and make them happen. I got the opportunity to work on numerous shows from potential Broadway productions to regional hits. I learned how to create contracts, budgets, schedules, and presentations for many productions. I prepared applications on behalf of two musicals to participate in two Musical Theater Festivals, researched grant information for a non-profit theater in White Plains, started a theater alliance between 10 theaters, created new marketing efforts for Walkin’ Broadway, and even created an education program! I also made great contacts in the industry through meetings with Town Square and working on various projects, such as Walkin’ Broadway.

Don and Laurie are so encouraging, and I feel, great mentors! I would highly recommend this internship to anyone who really wants to learn what the producing industry is all about, who truly loves the arts, and who is ready to dive in and DO instead of observe as an intern.

When I began looking for an internship in New York City for the summer of 2004, I had no idea what to expect. I assumed the worst; answering phones, making copies, and faxing forms. The experience I had at Town Square Productions was like nothing I could have imagined. From the first day I met Don and Laurie, I knew that I was lucky to have the opportunity to work for them. On top of being friendly and welcoming, they were extremely professional and knowledgeable.

The projects I worked on taught me how to problem solve, pay attention to detail, and form relationships with business associates and clients alike. Writing is a passion of mine and Don allowed me to capitalize on that, having me write everything from correspondences to press releases. Laurie has incredible computer graphic talent and she allowed me to work on projects along with her, never once losing her patience when I asked yet another question.

The majority of my time was spent working on Walkin’ Broadway™, a MP3 celebrity-guided audio tour of Times Square and the Theater District that Don created along with Elliot Forrest. While working on Walkin’ Broadway™, I produced and assembled press kits as well as helped organize a press event. I was fortunate enough to go on a sales trip to Philadelphia with Elliot, experiencing first hand how to sell this new product to tourists planning to visit NYC. In addition, I helped create coupons and vouchers for Walkin’ Broadway™.

No day at Town Square Productions was the same, which kept me interested and on my toes. When challenges arose the team dynamic in the office was unbelievable. Laurie and Don gave me the perfect mix of freedom and guidance while working on projects that I felt like I accomplished so much, and learned even more.

I came into the summer having an appreciation for Broadway and liking New York City. At the end of the summer I left having an obsession with Broadway and a love for New York City. I don’t think you could ask any more from an internship!

Looking back on the past 4 months, I can’t believe how lucky I was to land my internship with Town Square Productions. After applying to several Broadway production companies, I finally landed the internship with Town Square almost by chance. The very unusual friendly and open work environment have made coming to work every morning a great pleasure.

From the beginning, I was given actual responsibilities including expanding the marketing strategies for Walkin’ Broadway™ and designing a variety of advertisements, rack cards, PowerPoint presentations, etc. I got to experience the ups and downs of the Broadway industry while gaining first-hand experience in each step of the production process. Don and Laurie were very open to allowing me to focus my attention on what most interested me. 

The experience was a great opportunity to touch upon many different aspects of the Broadway industry and I got to meet scores of people in the business who could offer advice and information for my future endeavors. Working with Don at Town Square Productions allowed for just the right mix of business and creativity to keep me constantly engaged by my projects with the company. I will look back on the experience with fond memories.

I have functioned in a different capacity on each of the projects within the Company. I have been given projects that not only cater to my experience and natural ability, but also those that enable me to challenge myself. Don and Laurie have given special consideration to the fact that I want to learn and they take time out of their busy schedules to explain and teach. This is quality that I find quite rare in any business.

I will leave this internship wholly confident that I could not have spent my summer in any other internship and been as satisfied with my experiences and what I have gained from it.

I had been primarily hired to be an intern on the musical Summer of ’42. Besides the typical intern responsibilities (answering phones, copying, faxing, filing, running errands, etc.), I found that I was able to do much more and in return learn a great deal. In terms of the purely theatrical side of Town Square, I was able to be a part of the movement of Summer of ’42 from its pre-NY run in Stamford, CT, to it’s current home Off-Broadway at the Variety Arts Theater. I was given the opportunity to truly watch the show evolve into the current production. Attending rehearsals and a performance in CT, I have been able to witness the “creative process” as changes and cuts were frequently being made. When the show arrived in New York to start rehearsals and previews, I was able to work and observe at the theater for the entire rehearsal and preview period. I was able to assist the technical director, stage manager, crew, cast, etc. I have also able to shadow Company Managers, Bryan Byrd and Kim Sellon, and learn the various responsibilities that they hold. They really had a desire to have me learn the business through working side by side with them. A full time college student, I found myself spending much of my free time working on the show, not because I had to, but because I really enjoyed spending the time and wanted to. I’ll never forget my experience working on the show and being able to interact with so many wonderful people and truly learning an invaluable amount.

In terms of the other aspects of Town Square, such as The American Maze Company, I have worked closely with Laurie Brown. I have been able to help and give input into the creation of various brochures, websites, etc. It has been really great that my suggestions and ideas were given consideration and even incorporated.

Ultimately, I have found my time to be completely rewarding. The laid back, but always productive, environment has been a great place to work. There’s never a dull moment and the entire crew at Town Square Productions have been an absolute pleasure to work for and their genuinely nice and caring attitudes along with their passion for their work has given me something to strive for.