In The City Of Makers: Mark Fleischer Continues CLO’s Legacy

Written by Grace Regan

For 80 years, The CLO has been an instrumental part of Downtown Pittsburgh, creating magic on stage. But this magic doesn’t happen by accident. 

It’s the people behind the curtains. 

Executive Producer of The CLO, Mark Fleischer, is coming up on his 11th summer at The CLO, and the goal has always been the same.

Create a parking problem. 

Mark became Executive Producer in the post-COVID era, with a mission to continue The CLO's legacy and bring people back downtown, and remind Pittsburgh that the arts and Downtown need each other.  “Attending a CLO performance is not just about the show—it’s about the shared experience of connecting with neighbors, supporting local art, and participating in a legacy of tradition and creativity."

A legacy of creation that has been instilled in Mark since he was a child. He recalls the times of his large collection of hats, dancing on the fireplace as if it were a stage.

He was destined to take a stage of his own. 

The arts are not only a formidable aspect of his life— he affirms that it’s a formidable aspect of Downtown. It creates a bond between a city and its inhabitants. Mark emphasizes,  "Sometimes people see the arts as an extra, as opposed to something integrated into the fabric of the community. It’s about being steps away from jazz, theater, and more—it creates a different energy."

The CLO and Mark Fleischer are undeniably Pittsburgh through and through. All CLO shows are produced locally, made by Pittsburgh’s very own artists and producers. Mark sees the value in locally made theater. "Producing shows locally, The CLO supports Pittsburgh’s identity as a city of makers, while employing talented artists and contributing to the Downtown economy." 

Mark recognizes the beauty of the arts and the beauty of Pittsburgh. He has the vision to see that the “makers” of Pittsburgh are what creates community. 

Mark Fleischer is a maker. He makes art, laughs, cries, and community.