Every day is opening night.

Susan Elrod

Susan Elrod

As a kid, Susan Elrod saw the touring production of Music Man in Charlotte, NC. Even then, she was that special breed of theater lover who, instead of pantomiming a star-turn stage debut in her childhood bedroom, found her interests in the intricate details of the art form – the theater goings-on, the audience reactions in a darkened house, the byzantine clockwork that makes up one evening at a Broadway show. This is probably why Susan is now one of the best House Managers in the business. For over twenty years, she has led the charge at the Walter Kerr Theatre, bearing witness to some of the great moments in theater history. One of those being a milestone she prophesized – the Best Musical win for the resplendent and hilarious A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder (see below)! These days, Susan’s working with the Boss, house managing for the smash hit Springsteen on Broadway. In this Season Weekly, we do a rerun of Susan’s On the Couch from 2014 – o, the memories!

What do you consider to be your best asset?

Sense of humor.

What was your proudest moment?

Getting my ATPAM card.

What is your favorite drink?

Absolut Citron.

What is your favorite food?

A really good cheeseburger.

What is your favorite condiment?

Mustard.

What is your current obsession?

GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE winning Best Musical (knock wood!)

If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?

Sharing my invaluable opinions.

What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?

Making people want to return to the theatre again after every show they see.

What is the one thing you waste too much money on?

Atlantic City – why I rarely go there.

What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?

Yammering on the phone.

What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?

Show Business.

What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?

Dealing with people.

What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?

Complete lack of patience.

What in the world most thrills you?

Good theatre.

What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?

Tweeting – just don’t get it.

What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?

Subbing at a theatre years ago and refusing entrance to a very arrogant guy who had no ticket – ended out he was the lead producer!

What is your favorite place in the world?

The beach – any beach.

What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?

Loyalty, fidelity.

Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?

Cats.

What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?

It’s pretty darn good already.

What is your personal motto?

We’re all in this together.