Emanuel Azenberg

Biography

Emanuel “Manny” Azenberg is a highly respected American theater producer known for his long-standing collaborations with some of the most celebrated playwrights in modern American theater. Born on October 6, 1934, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Azenberg developed an early interest in the arts and later pursued a career in theater production, where his organizational skill and keen sense of storytelling would set him apart.

Azenberg is best known for his decades-long partnership with playwright Neil Simon, producing many of Simon’s hit plays, including Brighton Beach Memoirs, Biloxi Blues, and Lost in Yonkers. His work helped bring Simon’s comedies and dramas to Broadway audiences while maintaining the high artistic standards that define his productions.

Beyond his collaboration with Simon, Azenberg has produced numerous other plays and musicals on Broadway, earning a reputation for combining commercial success with artistic integrity. His credits include The Sunshine Boys, Sweet Charity, Jake’s Women, and A Few Good Men. Over the course of his career, he has been nominated for and won multiple Tony Awards, reflecting both the popularity and quality of his work.

Azenberg is celebrated not only for his production achievements but also for his mentorship and guidance within the theater community, helping to shape the careers of countless actors, writers, and directors. His dedication to American theater has left a lasting impact, making him one of Broadway’s most influential producers.