For years, photographer and actor George Schiavone has been documenting life back stage as well as shooting the production photographs often seen on this site and most print publications. Since the beginning of rehearsals last month of Actors’ Playhouse’s epic production of Ragtime, he has been shooting photos of the rehearsal and production process, as well as playing the role of Grandfather. His shots document the sweat, concentration and even boredom endemic to the life of theatrical artists.
Schiavone wrote, “Whenever I am in a play I shoot photos of the development and the actors. I enjoy it and I enjoy giving the actors photos. The theater is the richest photo op depository I encounter. It compels me to take photos. So I enjoy the two things I love most besides my family — acting and photography. I never shoot with a plan although I can envision the possibilities but the moments come one at a time. How they will fit together is for later. You see this is not applied art for me… it’s passion. I love it.”
Ragtime plays through Feb. 22 at the Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Performances 8 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. Special performance 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4. Running time 2 hours 45 minutes including one intermission. Tickets $52-$59 depending on day and time. The theater offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Visit actorsplayhouse.org or call (305) 441-4181.