Gene Feist, American director and playwright, co-founded the Roundabout Theatre Company (d. 2014)

Gene Feist (January 16, 1923 – March 17, 2014) was a seminal figure in American theater, recognized primarily for his multifaceted talents as an American playwright, an influential theater director, and critically, as the co-founder of the Roundabout Theatre Company. His life, which concluded in New York City, was dedicated to enriching the theatrical landscape, particularly through the revitalization of classic works.

The Visionary Behind Roundabout Theatre Company

One of Gene Feist's most enduring legacies is his role in the establishment of the Roundabout Theatre Company. Co-founded in 1965 with Stephen Berwind, the company emerged from a shared vision to make classic plays and musicals accessible to a wider audience, moving beyond the often-exclusive nature of traditional Broadway productions. From its humble beginnings in a basement theater, the Roundabout Theatre Company rapidly grew to become one of the largest and most respected non-profit theater organizations in the United States. Its mission has consistently focused on presenting a diverse repertoire of classical theatrical works, nurturing new talent, and fostering a deep appreciation for dramatic arts.

Today, the Roundabout Theatre Company operates multiple venues, including Broadway houses such as the American Airlines Theatre and the Stephen Sondheim Theatre, as well as Off-Broadway spaces like the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre. Under Feist's early guidance, the company became a vital institution, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to engage with timeless stories, thereby significantly contributing to the vibrant New York City theater scene.

A Prolific Playwright and Adaptor

Beyond his foundational work with Roundabout, Gene Feist was a prolific writer, credited with authoring or adapting a notable body of work. His oeuvre encompassed 15 plays or adaptations, demonstrating his versatility and deep engagement with dramatic literature. Among his significant contributions as a playwright, two works achieved particular recognition through their publication by Samuel French Inc., a renowned and historic publisher of theatrical scripts in the United States.

• James Joyce's Dublin: This adaptation showcases Feist's ability to translate complex literary works for the stage. It is based on James Joyce's seminal collection of short stories, "Dubliners," offering a theatrical interpretation of the lives and experiences of various Dublin residents at the turn of the 20th century.
• The Lady from Maxim's: An adaptation of Georges Feydeau's classic French farce "La Dame de chez Maxim," this play highlights Feist's skill in adapting comedic works, bringing the intricate plots and rapid-fire dialogue of Feydeau's masterpieces to an English-speaking audience.

Feist's commitment to both classic and adapted works underscore his dedication to the art of theater, not only as an impresario but also as a creative force shaping the narratives presented on stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gene Feist and Roundabout Theatre Company

Who was Gene Feist?

Gene Feist was an influential American playwright, theater director, and the visionary co-founder of the Roundabout Theatre Company, a major non-profit theatrical institution in New York City.

When and where was the Roundabout Theatre Company founded?

The Roundabout Theatre Company was co-founded by Gene Feist and Stephen Berwind in 1965 in New York City, with the aim of making classic plays and musicals accessible to a broader audience.

How many plays did Gene Feist author or adapt?

Gene Feist authored or adapted a total of 15 plays throughout his career.

Which of Gene Feist's plays were published by Samuel French Inc.?

Two of Gene Feist's notable adaptations published by Samuel French Inc. were "James Joyce's Dublin" (based on James Joyce's "Dubliners") and "The Lady from Maxim's" (an adaptation of Georges Feydeau's farce).

What is the primary mission of the Roundabout Theatre Company?

The primary mission of the Roundabout Theatre Company is to produce and make classic plays and musicals accessible to diverse audiences, contribute to the cultural landscape of New York City, and foster theatrical talent.