Introduction to Scott Morfee
Scott Morfee is a name synonymous with innovation in Off-Broadway theater. As the founding producer of Barrow Street Theatre, he has played a crucial role in bringing unique and thought-provoking productions to New York’s West Village. His journey from a career in marketing to becoming one of the most respected independent theater producers is nothing short of inspiring.
Over the years, Morfee has produced standout plays like Killer Joe, Buyer & Cellar, The Flick, and Red Light Winter, earning critical acclaim and shaping the Off-Broadway scene. But how did he get here? What challenges did he overcome? And what is his vision for the future of theater? Let’s take a deep dive into his remarkable journey.
Early Life & Journey into Theater scott morfee
Unlike many theater producers, Scott Morfee didn’t grow up dreaming of working in the industry. Born in Boston in 1954 and raised in Pittsburgh, his early life was not particularly focused on the performing arts. In fact, he barely attended theater performances as a child.
It wasn’t until he moved to New York in 1977 that his love for theater began to take shape. Initially, he had no intention of pursuing a career in the arts. However, as he immersed himself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, his interest in storytelling and live performances gradually grew.
From Marketing to Theater Production
Before stepping into theater production, Scott Morfee spent over a decade working in marketing and public relations. This experience provided him with valuable skills in audience engagement, promotions, and business strategy—all of which would later help him succeed in theater production.
His first foray into theater came in the late 1980s when he and some friends decided to produce a play in Los Angeles. While the project wasn’t a massive success, it gave him the confidence to keep exploring the field. Upon returning to New York, he took on roles as an associate producer for various projects, slowly building his expertise.
His big break came in 1998 when a friend invited him to raise funds for Killer Joe, a play by Tracy Letts. Morfee agreed, and the production became a massive Off-Broadway hit. This success solidified his path as a theater producer, leading him to take even bigger risks in the industry.
The Birth of Barrow Street Theatre scott morfee
In 2003, Scott Morfee discovered that a theater space in Greenwich House was available for lease. Without hesitation, he secured it and transformed it into Barrow Street Theatre. This 199-seat venue quickly became a hub for bold, unconventional plays that challenged mainstream theater norms.
Under Morfee’s leadership, Barrow Street Theatre became known for its eclectic productions, ranging from Shakespearean adaptations to contemporary works. Unlike traditional theaters that follow seasonal schedules, Barrow Street focused on long-running plays, allowing productions to develop and find their audiences over time.
Some of the most notable productions staged at Barrow Street Theatre include:
Tribes by Nina Raine (Drama Desk Award winner for Outstanding Play)
Buyer & Cellar by Jonathan Tolins
The Flick by Annie Baker (Pulitzer Prize-winning play)
Bug by Tracy Letts
Each of these productions contributed to the theater’s reputation as a home for daring, thought-provoking storytelling.
Notable Productions & Their Impact
Scott Morfee’s productions have not only entertained audiences but also influenced the Off-Broadway landscape. Two standout plays that showcase his vision are:
1. Killer Joe
This play marked Morfee’s first major success as a producer. Written by Tracy Letts, Killer Joe was a raw, intense drama that pushed boundaries and drew audiences away from mainstream Broadway. Its success set the stage for more experimental works in Off-Broadway theaters.
2. The Flick
Written by Annie Baker, The Flick was a slow, meditative play about three employees working in a small-town movie theater. While unconventional in its pacing, the play won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, proving that Off-Broadway could challenge theatrical norms and still achieve critical success.
By consistently producing groundbreaking work, Morfee has helped redefine what Off-Broadway theater can be.
Challenges & Breakthroughs in Off-Broadway scott morfee
Running an independent theater company in New York is not without its challenges. Scott Morfee has faced several obstacles, including:
Financial Constraints – Unlike Broadway productions, Off-Broadway plays often have limited budgets, making it difficult to secure high-end production values.
Changing Real Estate Landscape – Many small theaters in the West Village have shut down due to rising rents and real estate development.
Audience Engagement – Competing with mainstream entertainment options, such as streaming services and Broadway spectacles, requires creative marketing and programming strategies.
Despite these hurdles, Morfee has managed to keep his productions relevant and successful. His ability to identify fresh, original plays has been a key factor in his longevity in the industry.
Scott Morfee’s Influence on the West Village Theater Scene
The West Village has long been a cultural hub, and Scott Morfee has played a significant role in maintaining its artistic vibrancy. His work at Barrow Street Theatre has attracted both local and international audiences, making the venue a destination for theater lovers.
With an emphasis on intimate, immersive productions, Morfee has helped keep the Off-Broadway scene alive amidst increasing commercialization. His commitment to producing original, thought-provoking plays has set a standard for other independent theaters in the area.
The Future of Theater: Morfee’s Vision
As the theater industry evolves, Scott Morfee remains optimistic about the future. He believes that Off-Broadway will continue to be a space for innovation, as long as producers are willing to take risks.
Some trends he sees shaping the industry include:
Greater Use of Technology – Digital projections, soundscapes, and interactive elements will enhance storytelling.
More Diverse Voices – An increased focus on underrepresented playwrights and stories.
New Performance Spaces – As traditional venues become harder to maintain, alternative spaces like warehouses, rooftops, and pop-up theaters may become more common.
By embracing these changes, Morfee believes Off-Broadway can continue to thrive.
Personal Insights & Advice for Aspiring Producers
For those looking to break into theater production, Scott Morfee offers some valuable advice:
Start Small – Producing a short play or working as an associate producer can provide essential experience.
Learn the Business Side – Understanding marketing, budgeting, and audience engagement is just as important as artistic vision.
Be Open to Experimentation – The best productions often come from taking creative risks.
Don’t Be Discouraged by Failure – Every successful producer has faced setbacks. Learning from mistakes is key.
His journey proves that passion, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks can lead to a fulfilling career in theater.
Conclusion: Scott Morfee’s Legacy in Theater
Scott Morfee’s impact on Off-Broadway and the West Village theater scene is undeniable. Through Barrow Street Theatre, he has championed bold, unconventional productions that challenge audiences and push the boundaries of storytelling.
His journey from marketing to theater production showcases the power of following one’s passion, even if the path is unconventional. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is certain—Scott Morfee’s influence will be felt for years to come.
Whether you’re an aspiring theater producer, a playwright, or simply a fan of great storytelling, his work serves as an inspiration to embrace creativity, take risks, and believe in the power of live theater.
