Performing Arts Head Doug Eivers has been a prominent figure of the Pinewood Performing Arts department over the past 24 years. Following Eivers’ departure, the PPA community will find their new rhythm with director Rob Bergenstock heading into the 2025-26 school year. 

   This year, Bergenstock has taken over many of Eivers’ responsibilities, with many new changes to PPA to follow. He is currently leading the Tech Theatre class as well as Theatre 1 and 2 and is directing the upcoming fall play, “Clue.” 

   “It’s been a while for me since I’ve directed shows, so while I feel a little rusty, we are making phenomenal progress,” Bergenstock said.

  Bergenstock said Eivers’ legacy assisted him greatly in transitioning into his role.

   “I’d been working with Mr. Eivers for the past four years at Pinewood,” Bergenstock said. “He had spent 25 years here molding PPA into what it is today. Having some insight into what it has been during his 10 years here has made that transition easier stepping into this role.”

   As a director, Bergenstock brings new teaching methods to the stage. Senior stage manager Gwen Chang said that Bergenstock has new methods of preparing the cast and that she appreciates his new approach to rehearsals.

   “He has a lot of experience, and he’s bringing a lot of his outside knowledge into what to do with the space,” Chang said. “With Mr. Bergenstock, the thing that happens [differently] is table work. Actors are able to look into their script more and analyze their characters and get their goals a lot deeper.

   Observing from backstage, Chang has gained a lot of experience over the years, working alongside both Eivers and Bergenstock.

   Chang and Bergenstock agree that PPA will continue to focus on expanding the theater community.

   “The personnel have changed, but our goals haven’t,” Bergenstock said.