The Zacek Tapes: Reflections about Theater, Community and Leadership

A series of interviews with Dennis Zacek, a seminal figure in the “Chicago Theater Movement” based on his experiences as artistic director, producer, director, actor, designer, teacher, and student. “Part memoir, part insight into the art and craft of the stage, and part first-hand account of one of the most significant periods of Chicago Theater, The Zacek Tapes has something for everyone,” says Charles Smith (Playwright and Distinguished Professor of Playwriting, Ohio University).

Dennis Zacek, Ph.D., is Artistic Director Emeritus of Victory Gardens Theater and Full Professor Emeritus of Theatre at Loyola University. Currently Mr. Zacek is Resident Director of the Fringe Theater in Key West. He has directed more than 250 productions in his career and has received numerous awards including the 2011 Association for Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE) Ellen Stewart Award for Career Achievement in Professional Theatre, the 2001 Regional Theatre Tony Award presented to Victory Gardens Theater, the 2014 League of Chicago Theatre’s Artistic Leadership Award, the 2005 Jeff Award for Distinguished Achievement, and inclusion in Utne Reader’s Movers and Shakers: The 40 Most Exciting Soulful Artists of 2003.

Mary Filice is Associate Professor of the Business and Entrepreneurship department, Columbia College Chicago.