--- title: "Notes from the Wings — Suzanne Gilad" description: "Stories from the stage, the editing desk, and everywhere in between — essays from Sue Gilad on producing, editing, speaking, and philanthropy." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Person", "name": "Suzanne Gilad", "alternateName": "Sue Gilad", "jobTitle": "Broadway Producer, Author, Editor, Speaker", "description": "Grammy and five-time Tony Award–winning Broadway producer, published author, professional editor, and arts-education advocate.", "award": [ "Grammy Award", "Tony Award for Best Musical (5x)", "30 Tony Award wins across productions" ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "CollectionPage", "name": "Notes from the Wings", "url": "https://www.suzannegilad.com/notes", "description": "Essays from Sue Gilad — Broadway producer, author, editor, speaker." }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.suzannegilad.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Notes from the Wings", "item": "https://www.suzannegilad.com/notes" } ] } ] --- [Suzanne Gilad ](/) [About ](/about)[Producer ](/producer)[Author & Editor ](/author-editor)[Speaking ](/speaking)[Philanthropy ](/philanthropy)[Notes ](/notes)[Glossary ](/glossary)[Contact ](/contact) Notes from the Wings # Stories from the stage, the editing desk, and everywhere in between. Essays from Sue Gilad on producing Broadway, editing books, speaking to leaders, and the work of giving back. [All](/notes)[Producer](/notes?category=producer)[Author & Editor](/notes?category=author_editor)[Speaking](/notes?category=speaking)[Philanthropy](/notes?category=philanthropy) [ Featured · Producer ## Mediating Creative Conflict in Theater: The Producer Role How Broadway producers manage creative friction between directors, writers, and stars without compromising the artistic vision. August 26, 2026· 8 min read Read the piece → ](/notes/mediating-creative-conflict-in-theater) Shareable Highlights ## Pocket a line. Post it. Come back later. Tap the share icons to send any of these to LinkedIn or X — the link returns readers right here. Producer > “How Broadway producers manage creative friction between directors, writers, and stars without compromising the artistic vision.” Sue Gilad [Read the piece →](/notes/mediating-creative-conflict-in-theater) [](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmediating-creative-conflict-in-theater)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=%22How%20Broadway%20producers%20manage%20creative%20friction%20between%20directors%2C%20writers%2C%20and%20stars%20without%20compromising%20the%20artistic%20vision.%22%20%E2%80%94%20Suzanne%20Gilad&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmediating-creative-conflict-in-theater) Producer > “How Broadway producers maintain morale and protect the creative vision when a production is in flux before opening night.” Sue Gilad [Read the piece →](/notes/managing-creative-team-conflict-previews) [](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmanaging-creative-team-conflict-previews)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=%22How%20Broadway%20producers%20maintain%20morale%20and%20protect%20the%20creative%20vision%20when%20a%20production%20is%20in%20flux%20before%20opening%20night.%22%20%E2%80%94%20Suzanne%20Gilad&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmanaging-creative-team-conflict-previews) Producer > “A producer’s guide to navigating the 'middle phase' of a show, from managing cash flow to clear investor communications during the long grind to recoupment.” Sue Gilad [Read the piece →](/notes/managing-broadway-investment-returns) [](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmanaging-broadway-investment-returns)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=%22A%20producer%E2%80%99s%20guide%20to%20navigating%20the%20'middle%20phase'%20of%20a%20show%2C%20from%20managing%20cash%20flow%20to%20clear%20investor%20communications%20during%20the%20long%20grind%20to%20recoupment.%22%20%E2%80%94%20Suzanne%20Gilad&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzannegilad.com%2Fnotes%2Fmanaging-broadway-investment-returns) [ Producer ### Managing Creative Team Conflict During Previews Managing creative team conflict during Broadway previews requires a producer to balance technical fixes with high-stakes human emotions to protect the show's long-term health. August 24, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/managing-creative-team-conflict-previews)[ Producer ### Managing Broadway Investment Returns Post-Opening Opening night is just the beginning. Discover how Broadway producers manage investor expectations, weekly running margins, and the strategic path to recoupment during a show's middle phase. August 23, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/managing-broadway-investment-returns)[ Producer ### Broadway Production Insurance Requirements for Producers Producing on Broadway requires more than just creative vision; it demands a robust financial safety net. Learn about the mandatory bonds, insurance policies, and union requirements needed to protect your production. August 21, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-production-insurance-requirements)[ Producer ### Financial Reality of Broadway Investing: Risk and Reward Understanding the financial reality of Broadway investing requires looking past the 'hit or miss' myth to analyze tax benefits, depreciation, and the long-term lifecycle of theatrical capital. August 21, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/financial-reality-of-broadway-investing)[ Producer ### Resolving Creative vs Financial Conflict in Theater Creative leadership requires balancing the director's vision with the producer's budget. Learn how to resolve these tensions to ensure a show's success. August 19, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/resolving-creative-vs-financial-conflict-in-theater)[ Producer ### Managing Broadway Cast and Crew Contracts for Longevity Effective Broadway producers ensure talent retention by balancing rigorous contract management with human-centered leadership. Discover how to sustain company morale and stability. August 18, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/managing-broadway-cast-and-crew-contracts)[ Producer ### Broadway Recoupment Strategy: Managing the Running Margin A Broadway recoupment strategy focuses on maximizing the weekly running margin—the difference between weekly grosses and operating expenses—to repay the initial capitalization to investors as quickly as possible. August 17, 2026· 10 min read ](/notes/broadway-recoupment-strategy)[ Producer ### Securing Theatrical Stage Rights: The Option Guide Securing theatrical stage rights through an option agreement is the critical first step in producing. Learn how to vet a story's commercial potential and structure the legal deal. August 16, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/securing-theatrical-stage-rights)[ Producer ### Negotiating Theater Production Contracts as a Leader Contract negotiation in theater is more than just trading numbers; it is the first act of building a creative community. Learn how to navigate talent riders, union scales, and investor protections. August 16, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/negotiating-theater-production-contracts)[ Producer ### Broadway Talent Negotiation Strategies for Producers Securing a Broadway star is a high-stakes negotiation between a director’s creative vision and the financial realities of capitalization. Learn how producers bridge this gap. August 15, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-talent-negotiation-strategies)[ Producer ### Broadway Partnership Agreement: Managing Control and Risk A deep dive into the nuances of the Broadway partnership agreement, focusing on how lead and co-producers share control, decision-making, and financial liability. August 14, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-partnership-agreement-negotiation)[ Producer ### Investing in New Musicals: Risk Tiers and Strategy Evaluating the financial landscape of Broadway requires an understanding of how original scores, jukebox musicals, and revivals carry distinct risk profiles for private investors. August 14, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/investing-in-new-musicals-risk-profile)[ Producer ### Understanding a Theater Offering Memorandum Understanding a theater offering memorandum requires a deep dive into the Private Placement Memorandum (PPM), specifically the 'Risk Factors' and the financial structures that dictate how Broadway capital is deployed and recouped. August 13, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/understanding-a-theater-offering-memorandum)[ Producer ### Broadway Casting Process for Producers: Strategy and Talent Casting a Broadway show is more than finding the right voice; it is a complex negotiation between the creative team, casting directors, and financial stakeholders. August 10, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-casting-process-for-producers)[ Producer ### Mastering Producer and Director Relationship Dynamics A deep dive into the delicate balance of power between the director’s vision and the producer’s responsibility, featuring practical advice for the rehearsal room. August 8, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/producer-and-director-relationship-dynamics)[ Producer ### Broadway Touring Economics: Producing Beyond NYC Expanding a Broadway show to national tours requires a fundamental shift in economic strategy, moving from fixed-house stability to the complexities of weekly moves and varied venue contracts. August 6, 2026· 9 min read ](/notes/broadway-touring-economics)[ Producer ### Broadway Talent Acquisition Strategies for Producers Securing top-tier talent for a Broadway production is a high-stakes negotiation. Learn the producer's role in balancing star power with budget realities and creative chemistry. August 5, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-talent-acquisition-strategies)[ Producer ### Touring Broadway Production Economics and Negotiation Touring Broadway production economics involve a complex trade-off between the high costs of a New York run and the lucrative guarantees offered by regional markets. Learn how producers negotiate these deals. August 4, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/touring-broadway-production-economics)[ Producer ### Negotiating Broadway Talent Contracts: A Partner Mindset Effective negotiation in the theater isn't about winning a transaction; it's about setting the stage for a collaborative, multi-year run. Learn how to navigate high-stakes talent contracts with a focus on transparency and long-term partnership. August 4, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/negotiating-broadway-talent-contracts)[ Producer ### Closing a Broadway Capitalization Round: The Final 10% When a Broadway show is 90% capitalized, the momentum often shifts. Learn the tactical persistence required to close the final round and secure the theater. August 2, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/closing-a-broadway-capitalization-round)[ Producer ### The Producer Role During Broadway Previews The first preview is the moment a Broadway production meets its final collaborator: the audience. Learn how producers manage feedback and the creative team during this critical phase. August 1, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/producer-role-during-broadway-previews)[ Producer ### Strategy for Managing Theater Production Contingency Funds Managing theater production contingency funds requires a strategic holdback of 10% to 20% of the total capitalization. This reserve acts as the show’s literal life support after opening night, covering everything from essential marketing pivots to unexpected cast replacements. July 30, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/managing-theater-production-contingency-funds)[ Producer ### Broadway Theater Production Legal Entities Guide A deep dive into the legal structures that hold a Broadway show together, from capital preservation to the intricacies of Limited Liability Companies. July 29, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/theater-production-legal-entities)[ Producer ### Demystifying Theater Producer Compensation Models Broadway production is a high-risk venture where compensation is tied to the survival of the show. Learn how the producer's share—composed of fees, royalties, and profit participation—functions in the commercial theater landscape. July 29, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/theater-producer-compensation-models)[ Producer ### Managing Artistic Conflict in Theater Leadership Artistic conflict is inevitable in commercial theater. Discover how to manage creative teams and maintain production momentum when visions clash during the preview process. July 28, 2026· 9 min read ](/notes/managing-artistic-conflict-in-theater-ego)[ Producer ### Effective Theatrical Creative Management in the Rehearsal Room Producing involves more than signatures and checks; it requires managing the delicate balance between a director's vision and the project's financial reality. July 27, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/theatrical-creative-management-ego)[ Producer ### Broadway Tour Management Strategies for Producers Moving a Broadway production from a fixed house to a touring circuit involves complex negotiation. Learn how producers manage logistics, market selection, and extension strategies to ensure long-term profitability. July 26, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/broadway-tour-management-strategies)[ Producer ### Broadway Profit Distribution: Managing Post-Recoupment Reaching recoupment is a milestone, but the financial complexity only increases afterward. Learn how net profits are split between investors and producers, and how ancillary revenue fuels long-term success. July 25, 2026· 11 min read ](/notes/broadway-profit-distribution-management)[ Producer ### Producer Etiquette in the Rehearsal Room: A Masterclass Success in the rehearsal room as a producer isn't about giving notes; it's about holding the space. Learn the unwritten rules of etiquette that foster trust and safety. July 24, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/producer-etiquette-in-the-rehearsal-room)[ Producer ### Navigating the Theater Producer Hiring Process Success on Broadway hinges on talent recruitment. Learn how producers assemble creative teams while navigating union contracts and building trust in the room. July 23, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/theater-producer-hiring-process-labor-relations)[ Producer ### Broadway Production Brand Value Beyond the Box Office Success on Broadway is frequently measured by weekly grosses, but the true value of a production lies in the brand equity it builds for global licensing and future tours. July 21, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/maximizing-broadway-production-brand-value)[ Producer ### Pitching Broadway Investors for the First Time Pitching Broadway investors for the first time requires shifting from a data-heavy presentation to a narrative-driven experience. Success lies in balancing financial recoupment projections with the emotional hook of the creative team's vision. July 20, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/pitching-broadway-investors-for-the-first-time)[ Producer ### Transitioning from Broadway Investor to Producer Transitioning from Broadway investor to producer is a shift from supplying capital to managing the creative and financial health of a production through active leadership. July 19, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/transitioning-from-broadway-investor-to-producer)[ Producer ### Choosing a Broadway Producer Mentor for Long-Term Success When choosing a Broadway producer mentor, you aren't just looking for a name on a Playbill; you are looking for a shared philosophy on risk, communication, and the art of the room. July 19, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/choosing-a-broadway-producer-mentor)[ Producer ### Strategy for Managing a Theatrical Budget With Precision A deep dive into the producer's role in creative resource allocation, exploring how physical constraints can actually lead to better storytelling and healthier recoupment schedules. July 18, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/managing-a-theatrical-budget)[ Producer ### Broadway Ancillary Income: Maximizing Revenue Beyond the Box Office Broadway ancillary income refers to revenue generated outside of primary ticket sales at the home theater, including national tours, international licensing, cast albums, and merchandise. For a producer, managing these streams is essential for moving a production toward recoupment and long-term financial stability. July 17, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-ancillary-income-revenue-guide)[ Producer ### Raising the Final 10 Percent of Broadway Capitalization Closing the capitalization gap on a Broadway show is often harder than finding the first million. Explore the producer's mindset during the final push and how to avoid the dreaded overcall. July 15, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/raising-the-final-10-percent-of-broadway-capitalization)[ Producer ### Raising Theatrical Seed Money for New Productions Raising theatrical seed money involves securing the initial pre-capitalization funds required for workshops, readings, and legal filings that allow a commercial theater project to begin its development journey. July 12, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/raising-theatrical-seed-money)[ Producer ### Effective Theatrical Production Partnerships for Success Selecting co-producers for a Broadway show is as critical as casting the lead actors. Learn how to balance financial skin in the game with creative vision and long-term stamina. July 11, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/theatrical-production-partnerships-guide)[ Producer ### Evaluating Broadway Investment Opportunities with Clarity Evaluating Broadway investment opportunities requires looking past the glossy artwork to analyze the capitalization, recoupment schedule, and specific risk factors detailed in the legal offering. July 9, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/evaluating-broadway-investment-opportunities)[ Producer ### Theater Production Legal Structure & Operating Agreements Understanding the theater production legal structure is vital for any producer. The operating agreement dictates how decisions are made, how money is handled, and who holds ultimate authority. July 7, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/theater-production-legal-structure-operating-agreements)[ ![An elegant Broadway theater lobby on opening night with crystal chandeliers, red carpet, and formally dressed guests.](/notes/post-12-opening-night.jpg) Producer ### When the Curtain Rises: An Auditor’s View of Opening Night Opening night isn't about the party; it's about the transition from ownership to the public. Here is what happens when a Broadway producer finally lets go. July 1, 2026· 5 min read ](/notes/opening-night-broadway-producers-perspective)[ ![A bright Broadway theater marquee at dusk with vintage bulbs and playbill posters below.](/notes/post-14-broadway-marketing.jpg) Producer ### The Producer’s Role in Marketing: Beyond the Poster I remember standing outside the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in 2017, watching the load-in for a production. It’s easy to think a producer's job ends once the checks are signed and the marquee is up. In reality, that’s when the real work of audience development begins. June 26, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/producers-role-broadway-marketing)[ ![Broadway financial ledger and producer's pen on a spreadsheet with velvet theater seats in the background.](/notes/post-9-producer-salary.jpg) Producer ### The Transparency of a Broadway Producer Salary Producing for Broadway isn't a salaried desk job. From management fees to the 'carry,' here is how the money actually flows—and why the risk is part of the job description. June 25, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/broadway-producer-salary-realities)[ ![A director's chair on an empty Broadway stage with a script open on the production table in the foreground.](/notes/post-7-broadway-producer.jpg) Producer ### What Does a Broadway Producer Actually Do? People ask me what a Broadway producer actually does. The honest answer is: a little bit of everything, and a great deal of one thing. June 25, 2026· 8 min read ](/notes/what-does-a-broadway-producer-do)[ ![Silhouettes of young performers in leather jackets on a dramatically lit Broadway stage.](/notes/post-2-outsiders.jpg) Producer ### Inside The Outsiders: From Tulsa to Tony Award How a 1967 coming-of-age novel about teenage greasers in Tulsa became the 2024 Tony Award winner for Best Musical. June 12, 2026· 7 min read ](/notes/inside-the-outsiders-from-tulsa-to-tony-award)[ ![Split composition of opulent red Moulin Rouge curtains with a chandelier and a weathered Cuban guitar against painted wood.](/notes/post-6-moulin-buena-vista.jpg) Producer ### From Moulin Rouge! to Buena Vista Social Club: Choosing Stories Worth Telling A look at what connects two productions that, on the surface, have almost nothing in common. May 28, 2026· 6 min read ](/notes/from-moulin-rouge-to-buena-vista-social-club) Suzanne Gilad Grammy & five-time Tony Award–winning Broadway producer, author, editor, speaker, and arts-education advocate. Explore - [About](/about) - [Broadway Work](/producer) - [Author & Editor](/author-editor) - [Speaking](/speaking) - [Philanthropy](/philanthropy) - [Notes from the Wings](/notes) - [Theater Glossary](/glossary) - [Contact](/contact) Scholarships - Suzanne Gilad Grant - Sue Gilad & Larry Rogowsky Theatre Scholarship Get in touch © 2026 Suzanne Gilad. All rights reserved. Bringing extraordinary stories to life — on stage and on the page.