Steven Milton Rudolf

Steve was born and raised in Philadelphia. He studied Theater at University of Tampa and received a BA in 1969. He had a long and distinguished career in the performing arts world. After graduation, he continued to study, perform and work back of house at the renowned Hedgerow Theatre in Philadelphia. He returned to his adopted home town of Tampa and toured in management positions with bus and truck tours for GREASE, HAIR and 1776 and also did a Canadian / US tour as the Treasurer for THE ICE CAPADES. He never skated, but they did let him conduct the 18 piece orchestra on the last performance of the tour! After returning to Tampa, he founded a theatrical company called The Playmakers, which became Tampa's first resident professional theater company. The Playmakers presented entertaining and cutting edge theater for 9 years in Ybor City, helping shape the city’s early creative landscape. They presented great Broadway hits like Pippin, Jesus Christ Superstar, No No Nanette and Grease as well as shows that dealt with provocative issues like Children of a Lessor God, The Elephant Man, BENT, and Boys in the Band. Steve also wrote about theater/performing arts in Tampa for regional magazines and reviewed shows for a local paper. He also worked on the first Bowl Game played in Tampa called The American Bowl, ( now ReliaQuest Bowl).

In 1989 he became an agent with Producers, Inc. a national entertainment agency based in Tampa, where he worked for over 30 years, becoming a deeply respected agent. Many of his clients continued asking after him long after his retirement , a true testament to the genuine relationships he built over a lifetime in the entertainment industry. He was a much-loved member of the Producers, Inc. family. Steve was kind, funny and committed to his work. He worked tirelessly for artists and presenting organizations alike. Steve brought integrity, empathy, and professionalism to every interaction, and he excelled in his ability to connect with others in a way that was both sincere and lasting. He loved his family & friends dearly and had a special place in his heart for animals—especially his beloved dogs. Steve is survived by sisters, Deborah Manheim and Gloria Rudolf; nephews Reid Rudolf Frazier and Aaron Manheim; nieces Ramona Manheim and Caren Spungen, stepsister Nina Cushner and her children - and many dear friends and colleagues he made throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Humane society or WMNF Community Radio. 

Services will be held at Congregation Beth Am on July 24 at 11:00 AM.