Our Interview With Richard Liebowitz, Producer of "The Roommate" on Broadway

Richard Liebowitz recently produced the Broadway show, The Roommate. View his latest interview below, highlighting his takeaways from the experience and his thoughts on the show!

Us: What inspired you to bring The Roommate to Broadway?

Richard Liebowitz: The Roommate is a play written by Jen Silverman, a contemporary American playwright. The play premiered at the Humana Festival of New American Plays at the Actors Theatre of Louisville in 2015, where it garnered significant attention for its sharp humor and exploration of personal reinvention. The fact that A-List performers Mia Farrow and Patti Lupone were going to star in a limited run made this very appealing to me as an investment.

Us: Can you share a bit about the creative process behind the show? How did the story come to life on stage?

Richard Liebowitz: History and Productions Before Broadway:

After its premiere, The Roommate was produced in several regional theaters across the United States, including:

• Williamstown Theatre Festival in Massachusetts

• South Coast Repertory in California

• Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago

These regional productions helped establish the play’s reputation before it moved to New York. The Roommate didn’t have a traditional Broadway run but instead found success Off-Broadway, particularly at the Second Stage Theater in 2017 before its limited run on Broadway.

Us: What was the most exciting or challenging part of producing The Roommate?

Richard Liebowitz: The most exciting part of producing the show was the play’s combination of dark comedy and emotional depth. It resonates with audiences, especially in its portrayal of how people confront their own desires and limitations. It’s a story about how, despite the characters’ differences, they both seek something more from life and ultimately challenge one another to change.

Us: How do you think The Roommate stands out compared to other shows currently on Broadway?

Richard Liebowitz: The play is a comedy, and there are not many plays produced as comedies on Broadway, so we have limited competition. Through its exploration of unconventional relationships, the play challenges societal norms and invites the audience to consider what it means to truly live authentically. Sharon and Robyn’s journey underscores the importance of embracing one’s flaws, taking risks, and, ultimately, finding the courage to change. The play leaves viewers with a sense of optimism, suggesting that it is never too late to rewrite one’s story and embrace new beginnings.

Us: What do you hope audiences take away from the story and characters in The Roommate?

Richard Liebowitz: Audiences often walk away from The Roommate reflecting on themes of transformation, self-discovery, and reinvention later in life. The play focuses on two middle-aged women: Sharon, a recently divorced Midwesterner who takes in a mysterious roommate, and Robyn, who harbors secrets from her past. Their relationship explores the idea of breaking out of societal expectations and the possibility of change, regardless of age.

Us: Are there any particular moments or performances in the show that you’re especially proud of?

Richard Liebowitz: Both actresses Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone are talented actresses that make this show remarkable! There comedic chemistry on stage shines throughout the whole performance and I am proud we were able to get these two together to make a great show!

Us: How did you work with the cast and crew to bring the show’s vision to life?

Richard Liebowitz: I came in as a producer once I knew there was a theater and the cast was selected. I worked with other producers on the marketing and PR of the show. The show may resume on the road with other cast members after its limited run.

Want to see more press about The Roommate? Check out the links below!

Variety’s Review of The Roommate

New York Times Review of The Roommate

New York Theatre Guide Review

Richard Liebowitz Playbill Profile