Behind the Curtain at Hartford Stage and TheaterWorks Hartford

This week on Pulse of the Region, we’re taking a look behind the curtain with two of Hartford’s most influential creative forces: Melia Bensussen, Artistic Director at Hartford Stage, and Rob Ruggiero, Artistic Director at TheaterWorks Hartford.Melia and Rob will take us inside their upcoming spring productions—Circus Fire at TheaterWorks and Native Gardens at Hartford Stage—revealing the stories, themes, and artistic sparks driving each show.We’ll also explore an unprecedented collaboration between the two theaters as they join creative forces to stage a bold, intimate chamber production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, coming June 5 – July 5, 2026. This is a conversation about artistry, community, and the power of partnership in Hartford’s performing arts scene.Information & Tickets: Circus Fire at TheaterWorks HartfordInformation & Tickets: Native Gardens at Hartford StageInformation & Tickets: Sweeney ToddPulse of the Region is recorded at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Swift Factory ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and produced in partnership with the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ North End Partnership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.