Erich Rettstadt, Writer, Director, and Producer

A writer, director and producer of both theater and film, Erich graduated from New York University (NYU) in 2012 with a double major in Film and Television Production and Dramatic Literature. During his time at NYU, Erich wrote and directed twelve films. Of those films, both his freshman and sophomore efforts were selected for inclusion in student showcases highlighting outstanding work and one, The Lady in Black, is still shown to incoming students at the yearly Freshmen Retreat.

In 2008, Erich founded Tisch New Theatre (TNT), a NYU-sanctioned organization that allows students, regardless of major, an opportunity to work in all facets of theater as an extracurricular enhancement to their academic training. TNT (www.tischnewtheatre.com) is now one of the largest student theater groups on campus. During Erich’s tenure as Artistic Director, TNT presented numerous staged readings of original student work and offered free master classes by prominent theater artists. In 2009, Erich directed Move Over, Mrs. Markham, TNT’s inaugural main stage production at the Skirball Center for Performing Arts. This marked the first-ever student production at the largest theater south of 42nd Street in Manhattan. As a result of his efforts with TNT, Erich was selected as one of the 15 Most Influential Students at NYU by the Washington Square News and received a NYU President’s Service Award.

Erich was selected as an inaugural Pearson Prize National Fellow and is a recipient of the King Family Foundation Undergraduate Film Scholarship, two elite awards recognizing academic ability, professional potential, and community service. At NYU, Erich was a member of Tisch Scholars, a select group of students chosen for their leadership, artistic potential and commitment to service. Erich currently works at the Atlantic Theater Company in New York as a house manager and videographer.

Favorite Musical - Singin’ in the Rain