It is with immense sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of the remarkable Mark Brokaw—an extraordinary director, a visionary collaborator, and a cherished friend whose presence enriched the lives of so many for over three decades. Mark died after a courageous and quietly fought two-year battle with cancer. He passed peacefully, surrounded by love, with the legacy of his life’s work shining brightly in the hearts of those who knew him best.
For more than 30 years, Mark was not only a consummate artist, but also a source of wisdom, warmth, and unwavering loyalty to the theater community. His instincts were unmatched, his insight sharp, and his compassion always apparent—even in the most pressure-filled rehearsal rooms. He directed with a rare blend of precision and generosity, treating every actor, writer, stage manager, and crew member with dignity and a fierce respect for the creative process. Mark’s gift wasn’t just in staging stories—it was in shaping them, deepening them, and helping others find truths in their characters they never knew they had.
Mark’s influence was far-reaching. His work illuminated stages from Broadway to regional theaters to international festivals. Whether collaborating on new plays or reimagining classics, he brought grace, intelligence, and a quiet confidence that elevated every project he touched. Writers loved him for his thoughtfulness. Actors trusted him for his steady hand. Producers leaned on him for his clarity. And those of us lucky enough to call him a friend leaned on him for everything else.
He had the rare ability to make you feel seen. Even when he was in the middle of a complicated tech run, he’d remember to ask about your dog, your kid, your side project. He sent thank you notes, actual handwritten ones. He gave pep talks backstage. He made people feel capable, valued, and safe. He had that twinkle in his eye, that sly sense of humor, and a laugh that could fill a lobby. And though he rarely made it about himself, Mark had stories—so many stories—and if you were lucky enough to sit at a dinner table with him, you’d get to hear some.
In these past two years, even as he privately faced the challenges of his illness, Mark remained deeply present and connected. He showed up for others when he could, stayed curious about new work, and continued to share wisdom with a whole new generation of theater artists. It was never about accolades or ego—it was always about the work, the collaboration, the people.
Today, we honor not only the extraordinary career Mark built but the deep humanity he brought to everything he touched. His passing leaves a space that cannot be filled. The lights on stage may still dim and rise, but they will never shine quite the same without him.
And to Mark—rest well, dear friend. You earned every moment of peace. We can imagine you somewhere, finally taking a breath, notebook in hand, watching a rehearsal in the clouds. But please—don’t cast any PB’s up there in Heaven. Just sit back and enjoy the show. You’ve given us enough brilliance for a lifetime.
With love, gratitude, and heartbreak,
Your friends, colleagues, and the countless souls you’ve inspired.
