Tom Kleinman, a successful businessman based in Philadelphia, has transitioned his career from Wall Street to the world of theater, where he now excels as an investor and producer for celebrated productions.
For Kleinman, the allure of live theater is unparalleled. “There is something magical about a live play,” he remarked, describing the dynamic relationship between the actors and the audience. He recalled the first production he worked on post-retirement, titled “The Cottage,” and highlighted the audience’s vital role, deeming them the seventh member of the play.
Unlike novels and films, he articulated, live performances create a unique level of engagement not easily replicated through other mediums.
Kleinman frequently frequents New York City’s Broadway and London’s West End, both to watch his own productions and experience others. Despite his close ties to these theatrical hubs, he expresses a deep pride in his adopted city of Philadelphia. Having moved there nearly 50 years ago, he described Philly affectionately as the “San Francisco of the East,” though he humorously noted that its recent winters more closely resemble those of San Diego.
“It’s just a real city,” Kleinman said, emphasizing its friendly atmosphere. He also compared it to Boston, lauding its walkability and convenience. With a range of offerings from restaurants to sports, he insists that Philadelphia is a vibrant city thriving with culture and art.
With a passion for theater, Kleinman is actively involved in promoting the arts in Philadelphia. He participates in the Broadway at the Kimmel Center program, which showcases some top-tier productions in Center City. His enthusiasm extends to the Philadelphia Theater Company, where he enthusiastically urged those who have yet to experience a performance there to attend, jokingly adding that they sell their tickets too cheaply.
Kleinman’s acumen as a businessman plays a crucial role in his success as a theater producer. Though he genuinely enjoys theater, he emphasizes that this passion alone isn’t sufficient for profitability or audience engagement. His decision to enter production stemmed partly from a desire to direct his focus away from Wall Street, which he found less fulfilling after his years in the industry.
“I wasn’t interested in getting involved in producing plays for a vanity exercise,” he said, highlighting his pragmatic approach.
His first endeavor, “The Cottage,” directed by Jason Alexander from the iconic show *Seinfeld,* was a great success, leading to a film adaptation in the coming months. This success emboldened Kleinman, who, along with his wife, launched into the theater scene with full commitment.
Last year marked a significant milestone for the couple as they co-produced five plays, four of which garnered a combined total of 24 nominations for Tony Awards, a testament to their discerning choices and dedication.
Kleinman takes a meticulous approach when selecting projects, often weighing the scripts he reads. He has invested in plays he didn’t personally enjoy while refraining from others he found more appealing but deemed unsuitable for financial reasons.
In addition to balancing his theater commitments and real estate ventures, Kleinman strives to maintain his ties to his community. Although he is often away attending shows or managing his second home in Italy, he remains an active supporter of Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel (BZBI), contributing financially and attending services when possible.
Having served on the synagogue’s board of directors for 15 years, he now embraces his role as a congregant, acknowledging the remarkable growth and community spirit he has witnessed at BZBI.
Joining BZBI decades ago offered Kleinman a sense of familiarity, reminiscent of his childhood synagogue experience in White Plains, New York.
As he navigates between continents, award ceremonies, and high-profile collaborations, his commitment to Philadelphia and the arts remains steadfast.
Kleinman concluded with a firm resolve: “We’ll just continue to support the Philadelphia arts.”
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