Michael Fortna
Director &
Stage Manager
Productions Portfolio
Selected staged work by Director & Stage Manager Michael Fortna.
Featured Productions
Pippin
Heathers
Director
Production Stage Manager
A psychological exploration of Pippin’s odyssey, staged through a series of immersive flashbacks. This production examines the search for purpose, navigating the delicate boundary between societal mission and the haunting allure of personal greatness.
Newtown Arts Company
White Plains Performing Arts Center
Oversaw the technical architecture and seamless execution of this high-velocity musical. I synchronized complex production elements and managed over 200 precise cues to maintain a driving, cinematic energy from the overture to the final curtain.
A Little Night Music
Assistant Director
Syracuse Opera
A witty and romantic exploration of desire, focusing on a sophisticated web of love affairs and infidelity. Centered on Desirée Armfeldt’s rekindled flame, the production weaves together themes of jealousy and mismatched passion during a weekend of "romantic musical chairs".
From Here to Eternity
Production Assistant
Ogunquit Theatre
Supported the production team by handling administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, assisting with rehearsals, and managing backstage operations. Worked closely with the director and production team, as a vital link between the creative team, cast, and crew to ensure a smooth, organized production process.
Production Highlights
Awake and Sing
Peter Pan
Production Stage Manager
Atlantic Theatre Company
Director
Synchronized complex scenic shifts and calling over 80 precise lighting cues to anchor the production’s emotional resonance. I managed the technical architecture to manifest a meticulously detailed period aesthetic within a fluid, immersive environment.
Harriton High School
Directed a spirited reimagining centered on the wonder of discovery and the poignant arc of escapism. I leveraged heightened ensemble movement and imaginative staging to construct a vivid, truly enchanting Neverland.
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Director & Lead Teacher
Upper Darby Arts and Education Foundation
Directed a high-velocity adaptation focused on stylized physicality and intricate technical choreography. By merging character-driven performances with whimsical world-building, I shaped a kinetic and rhythmic subterranean odyssey.
Aladdin Jr.
Production Stage Manager
Walnut Street Theatre
Commanded the technical lifecycle of this vibrant musical, calling over 150 complex light and sound cues. I navigated the intricate integration of stage magic and visual effects to sustain a driving, professional energy from start to finish.
Voices From the Wing
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"Michael Fortna is a truly wonderful artist, teacher and person. He always raises the quality of the work that he contributes to and draws the best out of the performers he works with."
Aurelia Williams - Broadway Actress
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"Time and again, Michael Fortna has shown that he is a director of the highest caliber. His dedication to the craft is remarkable, squeezing every last drop from the material."
Michael Wisnosky - Music Director
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"Michael is a pleasure to work with on and off the board, utterly professional, very well organized, and has excellent communication skills. He manages very large casts seamlessly, and it is always a great experience to work with him."
TJ Sokso - Director of Education, Walnut Street Theatre
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"I greatly enjoy working alongside and creating with Michael. I appreciate how his organized communication throughout the process makes it easier to maximize rehearsal time. He has a light and fun energy that steers the ship with clear leadership and direction."
Erin Ryan - Choreographer
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Working with Michael is a wonderful experience. He brings a clear and organized vision that creates an environment where people feel empowered, valued, and encouraged to grow. Michael consistently demonstrates appreciation of the performer's efforts and has a strong commitment to supporting the members of the cast and crew, all while keeping to the spirit of the production on point.
Beth Massaro-Seffrin - Producer
Collaborate
Inviting producers, theatres, and artistic collaborators to reach out regarding future productions, creative consulting, or dramaturgical oversight. Let's bring the next artistic vision to the stage together.