A Lasting Legacy: Robert Redford and teh Soul of the Sundance Theatre Program
Robert Redford’s vision extended far beyond the silver screen. For over two decades, I had the privilege of leading the Sundance Institute Theatre Program, witnessing firsthand his deep commitment to supporting artists across all disciplines. This is a reflection on that experience, and the profound impact of a man who understood the power of storytelling in all its forms.
My initial encounter with Bob, as he preferred to be called, was unexpectedly revealing. I concluded a presentation with the iconic Wizard of Oz scene - Dorothy’s heartfelt declaration, “oh, Auntie Em, there’s no place like home!” The room fell silent after the clip ended.
Then, my colleague John Cooper, a veteran of the Sundance Film Festival, remarked, “That was the gayest thing I’ve ever seen.” Bob immediatly countered with, “Well, I am not gay, and I loved it!” My instinctive response – “You’re not gay?!” – sparked a moment of genuine connection. It unexpectedly unlocked Bob’s keen support for expanding the Sundance “ethos” globally.
Escorting Bob and his wife, Sibylle, to numerous New York plays became a cherished part of my role. I vividly remember our evening at St. ann’s Warehouse, witnessing a performance of Lolita Chakrabarti‘s Red Velvet, directed by Indhu Rubasingam. He was genuinely excited to engage with the cast, discussing their approaches to their roles with insightful curiosity. Later,on the drive back,he confessed,”Phil,how I wish I had returned to the stage when I was younger.”
Another memorable occasion was a Sundance benefit at New York Theatre Workshop, featuring Denis O’Hare and Lisa Peterson‘s An Iliad. I introduced Bob to the audience as “the only person in the universe who calls me Phil.” He playfully grabbed the microphone,quipping,”hey,thank you,whoever you are,” before expressing his astonishment at the power of the play.
Bob didn’t view the theatre program as merely an extension of his film labs. He saw it as a vital “pilot light” for Sundance - a source of energy fostering truly innovative storytelling. this, in turn, enriched the film industry he so passionately championed. Several stage fellows later adapted their plays into films, including Moisés Kaufman (The Laramie Project) and Stew (passing Strange).
Perhaps his affinity for theatre stemmed from a sense of nostalgia, a path not taken.Though, it was clear that Robert Redford considered the Sundance Theatre Program a deeply meaningful component of his institute. His vision provided hundreds of stage artists with the invaluable gift of time and space to realize their creative visions.
For this, we remain eternally grateful.
Philip Himberg served as artistic director of the Sundance Institute Theatre Program from 1996 until 2019.
