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David Rothenberg, a prominent theatre producer, playwright, and press agent known for his extensive contribution to Broadway, is set to unveil his latest work, Manhattan Mayhem, a curated collection of short stories drawn from his extensive experiences in the entertainment sector across nine decades. The anthology is scheduled for release on April 2.
For those captivated by New York City and its vibrant culture, Manhattan Mayhem promises a rich exploration of urban life, with Rothenberg’s 18 narratives reflecting the city’s essence through themes of heartache, humor, and optimism.
“I began crafting these stories during the pandemic, although many ideas have lingered in my mind for years,” Rothenberg explained. He describes the collection as a blend of reality and fiction, with some tales steeped in personal experience. Rothenberg reminisced about his early love for reading, which began in third grade with the novel Toby Tyler or Ten Weeks in the Circus. He credits literature for fostering his sense of companionship throughout the years, stating, “I hope the stories in this book will offer you warmth and company during your reading journey.”
To celebrate the launch of Manhattan Mayhem, a special event is scheduled at The Castle, located at 625 West 140th Street, on April 2 at 3 PM. The celebration will feature a reading from the book along with discussions involving Rothenberg and notable guests, including two-time Tony Award-winner Christine Ebersole and former New Jersey Governor James McGreevey. Additionally, the event will feature a performance by actor Richard Hoehler and The Fortune Society Choir. Reservations can be made by emailing dprfortune@hotmail.com.
On April 14, Rothenberg will host a reading and discussion of Manhattan Mayhem at Ernie O’Malley’s, situated at 140 E 27th Street, starting at 7 PM.
Prior to the release of Manhattan Mayhem, Rothenberg penned Fortune In My Eyes: A Memoir of Broadway Glamour, Social Justice, and Political Passion, released by Applause Theatre Books in 2012. Rothenberg also co-authored and directed the off-Broadway play The Castle, which has been performed in various venues such as prisons, universities, and community organizations. The upcoming performances of The Castle include events on March 23 at the Ethical Culture Society, April 4 at Bedford Hills Correctional Facility for Women, and May 26 at the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Alternative to Violence Project at Manhattan University.
Rothenberg’s one-man play, Namedropping, has enjoyed its own success off-Broadway and he continues to bring the production to stages around New York City. Recently, he announced a performance of Namedropping at Theater 555 on April 27 at 6 PM, which will serve as a benefit for the New York Civil Liberties Union.
Additionally, Rothenberg is featured in the documentary film Broadway, Bars and Fortune, directed by Dr. Shuvendu Sen and Professor Karl Bardosh from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. This 40-minute film presents a social perspective on the transformative power of art and theater in the lives of those affected by trauma. It chronicles the experiences of four former inmates who have become actors under Rothenberg’s mentorship. The film is set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025, with additional screenings planned at the Indian Consulate in New York City and other international venues.
David Rothenberg’s remarkable journey spans beyond the realm of theater, touching on significant social issues such as prison reform and civil rights. He played a pivotal role in the production of Fortune and Men’s Eyes, a play by John Herbert that inspired him to establish The Fortune Society—a charity focusing on aiding formerly incarcerated individuals. This organization has grown immensely since its inception 58 years ago, now employing over 600 staff members across six residences dedicated to supporting individuals reintegrating into society.
An important chapter in Rothenberg’s life includes his experiences as a civilian observer during the Attica Prison riot, which profoundly influenced his advocacy for prisoner rights and led to the founding of The Fortune Society in 1967. Today, it stands as one of the foremost advocacy and service entities in the field of criminal justice reform in the United States.
As a theatre publicity agent, Rothenberg’s impact is felt in many award-winning productions, including notable works such as Richard Burton’s Hamlet, the original production of Hair, and plays by playwrights like Tennessee Williams and Edward Albee. His extensive career has seen him associated with nearly 200 groundbreaking productions.
David Rothenberg has also been active in various civic initiatives, including serving on the NYC Commission of Human Rights and multiple state and city committees concerning criminal justice and child abuse. His testimony has reached government committees at both the national and state levels, emphasizing the pressing need for reform.
In 1985, Rothenberg’s commitment to social issues led him to run for city council in Manhattan, where he focused on raising awareness about AIDS. As an openly gay candidate, he garnered significant support and became known as “The Gay White Hope,” receiving endorsements from various notable publications and ultimately achieving 46% of the vote—one of the top counts in the competitive race.
Rothenberg remains an influential voice in media, contributing as a columnist and hosting a radio program on WBAI in New York for over 50 years.
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