My name is Mason Pilevsky. I am a lifelong scholar of theatre and music. I have studied world theatre history, design for theatre (sound, lighting, scenic, costumes), writing, directing, stage management, art history, music composition and performance, and advocacy for underrepresented voices in theatre.

I have worked as a professional sound designer for over a decade, and also studied psychology alongside my theatrical pursuits. This combination has provided me with valuable insights into how people process art and ideas, and what live performance elements resonate with an audience.

A lot of people read reviews before they go to a show to decide if they’re going to like it. I’ve always had the opposite philosophy. I like to go into a show knowing very little of what it’s about and let it unfold in front of me. I like to feel whatever I feel in the moment and be surprised by it. I like writing about reactions that are authentically mine– the ideas and emotions I was processing after seeing the show that are based on what I experienced, not what I was expecting to experience.

In this blog, I will be sharing my reflections and takeaways. I encourage you to read them after seeing a production, especially if you’re wondering what other people thought about the show. I offer the perspective of someone who has studied every aspect of theatre except acting. As such, I see artistic intentions and meanings that others don’t.

Great art isn’t something you walk away from and never think about again. Great theatre sparks conversations and excitement and emotions and curiosity.

Join me on my journey! Even when the lights on the marquee go off, my ghost light is always on!