Joseph W. Ritsch

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at The Mystery of Irma Vep – A Penny Dreadful at Everyman Theatre, where director, choreographer, and arts educator Joseph Ritsch brings gothic farce, drag, and campy spectacle together in a production bursting with sharp humor and political edge.In this episode, Joseph joins Rob Lee to unpack why Charles Ludlam’s cult classic still hits hard today — blending outrageous comedy with queer history, lightning-fast costume changes, and a message that feels more urgent than ever.Gothic camp unleashed: why Irma Vep still dazzles with drag, horror, and farceTwo actors, eight roles, 30+ costume changes: the technical choreography behind the comedyQueer theater as protest: honoring Charles Ludlam’s legacy and reclaiming space onstageBuilding community: Joseph’s 15-year journey at Everyman Theatre and why it feels like homeMentoring young artists: how Everyman University’s Observership Program connects students to the real work of professional theaterCheck out the THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP: A PENNY DREADFUL: Director Interview