Randy Topper

Randy Barrett Topper: BFA, LMSW, Artistic Director Emeritus

Randy has a BFA in Theater from Wayne State University in his native Detroit and a Masters in Social Work from the College of Staten Island. He is currently a Social Worker at PS 59 and previously was the Clinical Coordinator at Project Hospitality’s Shine Center for HIV Services. Randy served as Artistic Director for IlluminArt Productions from March 2010-June 2018.  In that capacity, he oversaw IlluminArt’s Touring Company and directed all of IlluminArt’s plays as well as the annual Empowering Voices Musical Revue Benefit. Randy was responsible for training and developing IlluminArt’s teaching staff. He created IlluminArt’s Write-A-Play and ACTive Adults programs, and taught in IlluminArt school residency programs.  Additionally, he developed and facilitated a class in Musical Theater Appreciation for senior adults as well as an adapted curriculum for adults with dementia.  Randy authored the plays Sometimes I Just Want Ice CreamTruth in Excess, Prescription for Addiction, Table Service and A Nation of Immigrants, all performed by IlluminArt’s Touring Company. As an actor, Randy has toured nationally with children’s theater companies such as Theatreworks USA, National Theatre for Children, and Dandelion Productions.  He also spent a season as a teaching artist at the Florida Studio Theatre. Favorite directorial credits include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamcoatArsenic and Old Lace, The Last Night of Ballyhoo and Isn’t it Romantic.   In addition, Randy has over 20 years of experience in the summer camp field having worked as an administrator at the JCC Day Camp of Metro Detroit, The JCC of Greater Monmouth County, Surprise Lake Camp, and The JCC of Staten Island.  Randy provides ongoing consultation to IlluminArt.