07/05/2025
Before The Violet Hour was a musical, it was a play by the brilliant and singular writer Richard Greenberg and we are heartbroken by his death.
When we met in 2018, he had never before allowed any of his work to be adapted, but from the very beginning he exhibited a generosity of spirit, a belief in our artistry, and an utter delight in the possibilities for how his wonderful play might be transformed.
In a way, all our work on the show and the studio cast recording stemmed from our commitment to both surprise him and make him proud.
It was one of the greatest honors of our lives to know him and to earn his trust.
He taught us a great deal about the intricate art of adaptation and how to build a life in the theatre.
And then there was his kindness.
Much will be said about Rich’s incredible erudition, eloquence, and wit (and they were each astonishing), but we believe his greatest attribute was an abundance of care – care for others, care for art, and care for the world.
He was a mensch and it was the precise and heartfelt consideration he applied to all aspects of his life which allowed all his other formidable qualities to shine so brightly.
We’re still working to achieve the world premiere production for The Violet Hour musical and it hurts so much that we’ll no longer be able to share that experience with Rich.
But it fuels our commitment to bring the show into the world with the first-class production he envisioned and we know that he’ll be right there with us, nudging, needling, guiding, cheering us on, and inspiring us, as always.
Thank you, Rich.
Your memory will be a blessing and your work will live forever.
We love you.
Eric & Will
