, operates like a ringmaster. The ringmaster holds a key role in the circus. They are a conduit between audience and acts. They take spectators by the proverbial hand and shine a light upon what to see. They direct the action and build imaginations while keeping the crowd engaged.
Stone, as ringmaster, also orchestrates the vast mosaic of talent, which in this show, includes the seamless blending of dance, circus artistry, a variety of music styles and puppetry. “There are many different storytellers on this project and ensuring that we all were telling the same story with the same priorities took some drum banging,” says Stone who was also nominated for a Best Director Tony.
“Because it’s a memory play I didn't want to just have people arbitrarily peeling off doing back back handsprings and cartwheels for no reason,” says Stone who was also nominated for a Tony last year for“We use circus language to illuminate some of Jacob Jankowski’s most important chapters in his life and pivotal moments,” adds Stone. “An element of circus is all about fragility and human connection.
Finally I’m able to swim in social and emotional waters alongside each actor who is the gatekeeper for each character. It’s very gratifying to examine a story so deeply and thoroughly. At the end of the day it tests and pushes my boundaries and expands my ability to empathize.