Photo by LANCE SHEARER

Jim Paddock is the semi-retired chairman of Titanium Industries in Rockaway, N.J. He and his wife, Jackie, divide their time between homes in Marco and Mendham, NJ.

What is your favorite production you have seen recently? Why?

We just saw the revival of “South Pacific” on Broadway, and I thought it was terrific. The woman who played Bloody Mary was fantastic. My father fought in the Pacific in the Second World War, so seeing that meant a lot to me. We also saw “Jersey Boys” recently, the show based on Frankie Valle, and I’m a Jersey boy myself.

What is your favorite type of theatrical performance?

Recently, we’ve been going to more musicals and fewer off-Broadway shows. A lot of it has to do with what gets produced in a given season.

What was your all-time favorite show?

I loved “Phantom of the Opera.” To me, that was just everything a stage show should be — great songs, a gripping plot, very theatrical.

Do you think theater today is getting better or worse?

I think it’s getting better. There’s such a group of great young talent. As I get into semi-retirement, I have more time to enjoy it, so I guess that could have something to do with it. I’ve been seeing shows more than I ever used to. My wife coordinates our theater-going, and I know she wants to go see the new “West Side Story.” I guess that’s both old and new.

Have you seen any local theatrical productions?

You know, we haven’t. We’ve talked about it, and we’re searching for where the good stuff is. So far, we just haven’t gotten around to it.

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