Long-time theater veteran launches Broadway Repertory Theater

BRENTWOOD — Steve Kinsella is no stranger to the theatergoing public in Brentwood and Contra Costa County, having made his mark with Broadway Under the Stars, Brentwood Theater Company, Brentwood Teen and Children’s Theater, Candlelight Cabaret Dinner Theater, and with 26 years of experience writing, producing and directing.

Now Kinsella is writing his entertainment script all on his own, having launched Broadway Repertory Theater, serving as its president and artistic director. He’s taking all he’s learned and applying it to enhance the experiences of his audience and artistic staff.

The inaugural season kicks off Sept. 9 with a two-week run of Broadway favorite “The Fantasticks,” an eight-memeber-cast production where Kinsella has already put his mark on how things will be done.

The cast has been selected, including Scottie Tsubota, Chris Finetti, Liam Cody, Shelly McDowell, David McClellan, David Pinkham, James Charles Bradley Jr. and Kal Berns, and rehearsals are under way.

Key to success on all sides is collaboration.

“My collaboration extends to the actors, stage crew, lighting designers, costumes and sets; I let people take ownership of their own ideas and don’t micromanage them,” he said.

“I believe that if you work in partnerships with people, treat them with dignity, and create a nurturing environment, everyone will excel.”

Kinsella’s collaboration extends beyond Brentwood to other theater companies with the idea of taking his shows to them and having them bring a show to Brentwood.

Next year he has plans to play in Napa, Mill Valley, Livermore and Vallejo.

He hopes this will not only help Broadway Repertory Theater thrive but will also help further the careers of actors who participate in the company.

Many actors have labeled Kinsella as a teaching director and he plans to continue this, giving actors direction but empowering them to try things, take risks and not lock themselves in.

“I want them to learn as they go,” Kinsella said.

“I also want to mentor some young directors and young playwrights. People have helped me and you have to pay it forward.”

The Brentwood resident has amassed a list of actors he really enjoys working with, but wants to break down the old-boy-network that doesn’t give newcomers a chance until they’ve paid their dues.

“If a newcomer comes and outdoes the people who have worked with us, they will get cast. That’s a big difference with how the Broadway Repertory Theater will be; you come in and you deliver, you’re going to get the shot,” he said.

Casting will be age-appropriate.

If a 50-year-old is needed, that’s who will get the role, Kinsella believing right-age actors can more truthfully interpret their character.

“One of my biggest goals is that we continue to explore the human experience and true human emotions,” Kinsella said.

“If you imagine that the life history and life situations of the character are yours, then we can more accurately tell the story.”

Audience appreciation is another factor that will set Broadway Repertory Theater apart from the crowd, with the feeling that those who venture out to the theater should be treated with respect.

“The Fantasticks” will play at an arena theater Kinsella and his crew will construct in the multipurpose room at Resurrection Ministries Church where Brentwood Teen Theater has performed for almost 12 years.

In October Kinsella will present “The Glory of Love,” his one-man show, and “Christmas at the Baltimore” will open Thanksgiving weekend.

Response to Kinsella’s new endeavor has been very positive and the one-time rock star couldn’t be more pleased.

“I’m just pinching myself. I’m delighted with the response from actors throughout the Bay Area; I’ve had hundreds of positive emails from them so I’ve very excited,” he said. “I’m looking for local child, teen and adult actors, and crew members to be part of the company; everyone is invited to participate.”

For more information, go towww.broadwayrepertorytheater.com. Steve Kinsella invites people to leave comments and suggestions on the website.