The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

Joanna Gleason’s career has been nothing short of legendary. Best known for her Tony Award-winning performance as the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods, she’s graced Broadway in I Love My Wife, The Real Thing, Social Security, Nick & Nora, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Sons of the Prophet. Beyond the stage, her work spans film and television, with memorable roles in Boogie Nights, The Wedding Planner, Friends, The West Wing, and The Good Wife. But Joanna’s artistry doesn’t stop at performing—she’s also a writer and director, drawn to storytelling in all its forms.

In this episode, Joanna shares what brought her back to the stage in We Had a World, a deeply personal new play. She reflects on how her career has evolved, from shifting between stage and screen to stepping behind the camera as a director. We discuss the challenges of the industry, the changing role of social media, and why she believes in letting go of expectations. With humor and honesty, Joanna offers invaluable advice for artists at every stage of their journey, and we even play a fun round of "Plot in 60 Seconds" to wrap it all up.

Joanna Gleason is a Tony Award-winning actress known for her iconic portrayal of the Baker’s Wife in Into the Woods, which also earned her Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards. She has received multiple Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle nominations throughout her career, with Broadway credits including I Love My Wife, The Real Thing, Social Security, Nick & Nora, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Sons of the Prophet. Her film and television work includes Boogie Nights, The Wedding Planner, The West Wing, Friends, and The Good Wife. In addition to acting, Joanna has expanded her creative career into writing and directing, with her feature film The Grotto winning awards on the festival circuit. She now returns to the stage in We Had a World, an intimate new play at Manhattan Theatre Club.

Connect with Joanna:

• Instagram: @therealjoannagleason

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Matt Doyle has built an impressive career on stage, from originating roles on Broadway to stepping into legendary ones. He reflects on his journey, from his early breakout in Spring Awakening to his Tony-winning turn as Jamie in Company. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from unexpected career pivots, the realities of show business, and how he navigates the highs and lows of performing eight shows a week. His recent role as Frank Sinatra in Sinatra: The Musical marked a thrilling West End debut, and he’s now captivating audiences off-Broadway in Conversations with Mother, a deeply personal and heartfelt play.

Matt opens up about the moment he realized he needed a perspective shift early in his career, the intense experience of performing "Getting Married Today" the night Stephen Sondheim passed, and how his struggles with anxiety have shaped his performances. He also shares how his upbringing and personal relationships inform his work, especially in roles that explore complex family dynamics. From personal anecdotes to industry insights, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and a candid look at the life of a working actor.

Matt Doyle is a Tony, Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle Award-winning actor best known for his performance as Jamie in the Broadway revival of Company. His Broadway credits include Spring Awakening, The Book of Mormon, War Horse, and Bye Bye Birdie, while his Off-Broadway work features Little Shop of Horrors, Sweeney Todd, and Brooklynite. He made his West End debut as Frank Sinatra in Sinatra: The Musical and currently stars opposite Caroline Aaron in Conversations with Mother Off-Broadway. A frequent concert performer, he has headlined sold-out solo shows in New York and beyond, and has appeared with symphonies across the country.

Connect with Matt:

• 🔹 Instagram: @mattfdoyle

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

AnnMarie Milazzo is a musical storyteller with an incredible gift for shaping sound and emotion. Her concept album The Shape of Things, inspired by Joy the Musical, has completely captured my imagination, and in this conversation, we break down how it all came together. She opens up about her creative process, the organic way she approaches vocal arranging and songwriting, and why concept albums are having a resurgence in musical theatre. We also get into the balancing act of artistic integrity, learning from failure, and why she chooses to stay offline when it comes to reviews and feedback.

But one of the most unexpected and fascinating parts of this conversation? AnnMarie’s childhood stories of growing up in a former funeral home. From eerie encounters to an ever-present sense of energy in the house, her ghost stories are the kind that stick with you long after you hear them. Whether you’re a fan of her music, curious about the creative process, or just love a good supernatural tale, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and a few chills.

AnnMarie Milazzo is a Grammy and Tony-nominated vocal arranger, composer, and songwriter. Her latest work, The Shape of Things, is a concept album featuring songs from Joy the Musical, which tells the inspiring true story of Joy Mangano, the inventor of the Miracle Mop. She has been a key creative force behind some of Broadway’s most iconic modern musicals and continues to push the boundaries of storytelling through music.

This episode is powered by Welcome to Times Square, the billboard experience that lets YOU be a star for a day. Learn more: https://welcometotimessquare.com/

Connect with AnnMarie:

• 🎵 Stream The Shape of Things
• 🎭 See Joy the Musical this summer off-Broadway at the Laura Pels Theatre

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

From viral high notes to Broadway debuts, Kelsie Watts is making waves in the theatre world! You might remember her powerhouse vocals from The Voice, where she wowed audiences (and Kelly Clarkson) with her soaring range, but now she’s taking center stage in a whole new way—as Jane Seymour in Six on Broadway. In this episode, Kelsie shares how she built a career as an independent artist, the unexpected moment that led her to Six, and the challenges of stepping into musical theatre after years away.

She opens up about the realities of being an unsigned artist, balancing music and business, and how her opera training shaped her signature sound. Plus, she dives deep into her passion for mental health advocacy, the importance of authenticity in the industry, and how a single piece of feedback changed the course of her career. And yes, she even gives us a preview of her upcoming single—you don’t want to miss it!

Kelsie Watts is a vocalist, songwriter, and independent recording artist who first gained national recognition as a contestant on The Voice Season 19, where she landed on Team Kelly Clarkson. Known for blending pop and theatrical influences, she has built a strong following through social media and original music. In 2025, she made her Broadway debut as Jane Seymour in Six. A strong advocate for mental health awareness, she uses her platform to encourage self-care and resilience in the entertainment industry.

This episode is powered by Welcome to Times Square, the billboard experience that lets YOU be a star for a day. Learn more: https://welcometotimessquare.com/

Connect with Kelsie:

• 🔹 Instagram: @kelsiewatts
• 🔹 TikTok: @kelsiewatts
• 🔹 Music Streaming: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, and more

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Prepare to question what’s real and what’s just your imagination with renowned mentalist and illusionist Vinny DePonto. Known for his groundbreaking Broadway show Mindplay, Vinny doesn’t just perform tricks—he crafts immersive experiences that blend psychology, memory, and storytelling, making every audience member part of the magic. In this episode, Vinny opens up about the journey from a childhood fascination with a shoebox of vintage magic tricks to becoming a master of mind-bending performances that challenge perception and invite wonder.

We dive into the delicate art of mentalism, discussing how memories shape us, the ethics of mind-reading, and the emotional vulnerability that can surface during performances. Vinny shares the creative evolution behind Mindplay—a show that’s never the same twice—and reflects on how audience interaction breathes life into every performance. You’ll also hear about his deep appreciation for theater, design, and storytelling, as well as the unexpected ways his work connects people through shared experiences. This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the intersection of art, psychology, and the mysterious power of the human mind.

Vinny DePonto is a New York-based mentalist, illusionist, and theater maker whose work fuses psychological tricks with immersive storytelling. His critically acclaimed show Mindplay brings audience participation to the forefront, blurring the lines between memory and illusion. A former performer at the Geffen Playhouse, DePonto has collaborated with renowned directors and writers, continually pushing the boundaries of what mentalism can be. His work is driven by a deep passion for human connection, exploring how memory, perception, and theater intersect to create unforgettable experiences.

Connect with Vinny:

• Instagram: @vinnydeponto
• Website: vinnydeponto.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Tala Ashe has captivated audiences on screen as a time-traveling hacker in Legends of Tomorrow and on stage in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play English. Now making her Broadway debut, she brings a deeply personal perspective to her role, exploring themes of language, identity, and cultural assimilation.

In this conversation, Tala opens up about her own experiences growing up in Ohio after emigrating from Iran, the complexities of representation in Hollywood, and the emotional weight of performing English on Broadway. She shares the challenges of switching between accents on stage, how her family’s journey shaped her artistic path, and why she’s fiercely selective about the roles she takes. With humor, insight, and vulnerability, Tala offers a thoughtful perspective on storytelling, advocacy, and what it truly means to find your voice.

Tala Ashe is an Iranian-American actress best known for her role as Zari Tomaz/Zari Tarazi in DC’s Legends of Tomorrow. She has also appeared in Smash, American Odyssey, Covert Affairs, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and As the World Turns. On stage, she received critical acclaim for her performance in English, Sanaz Toossi’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, and is now making her Broadway debut in its transfer. A graduate of Boston University’s School of Theatre, she has built a career focused on complex, fully realized characters that challenge stereotypes and expand representation.

Connect with Tala:

• 📷 Instagram: @talaashe

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

From making her Broadway debut as a teenager in Spring Awakening to stepping into the iconic role of Glinda in Wicked, Alexandra Socha has experienced the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of a life in theater. In this candid and insightful conversation, she opens up about her journey, including the surreal experience of joining Spring Awakening right after the Tony wins, the hard lessons of navigating a career beyond that first big break, and what it’s like to take the stage in Wicked at a time when the show is having a massive pop culture moment.

Alexandra also shares her experience being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, how it reshaped her understanding of herself, and the ways neurodivergence has impacted both her personal life and her work as an actor. We talk about masking, resilience, and why she sees ADHD as both a challenge and a superpower—especially when it comes to problem-solving in rehearsals. Plus, we get into Broadway bootleg nostalgia, the balancing act of being a working parent, and why she believes having a full life outside of theater is essential for any artist.

Alexandra Socha made her Broadway debut in Spring Awakening and has since appeared in Brighton Beach Memoirs, Head Over Heels, and Wicked as Glinda. Her TV credits include The Big C, Damages, Royal Pains, Red Oaks, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

Connect with Alexandra Socha:

• Instagram: @alexandrasocha

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Marjan Neshat is having a moment, making her Broadway debut in English the same night The Night Agent Season 2 premiered on Netflix. In this episode, she opens up about navigating cultural identity, language barriers, and the deep emotional connection she brings to her work. Marjan shares the journey of her family leaving Iran, growing up between worlds, and how storytelling became her way of making sense of it all. She discusses the impact of English, a Pulitzer Prize-winning play about bilingualism and self-perception, and why she relates so deeply to its themes. Plus, she reflects on filming The Night Agent under high-stakes conditions and the importance of authentic representation in Hollywood.

With credits spanning Rescue Me, Law & Order, Royal Pains, Quantico, and more, Marjan has built a career that thrives on emotional honesty. She talks about the challenges of performing a one-woman show, the responsibility of portraying Iranian stories on stage, and the power of human connection in theater. Whether unpacking the complexities of identity or the thrill of live performance, Marjan brings a rare depth to every role she takes on.

This episode is powered by Welcome to Times Square, the billboard experience that lets YOU be a star for a day. Learn more: https://welcometotimessquare.com/

Connect with Marjan:

• Instagram: @Margie33

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Bill Berloni has dedicated nearly five decades to bringing animals to life on stage and screen, all while championing rescue work and humane training practices. From his semi-accidental start training Sandy for the original production of Annie to working with a menagerie of animals for Broadway, film, and TV, Bill’s journey is as heartwarming as it is inspiring. In this episode, Bill shares stories of training everything from dogs and cats to butterflies and snakes, and how he has created unforgettable moments in productions like Gypsy, The Greatest Showman, and Legally Blonde. He also discusses his groundbreaking work with Naomi Watts in The Friend and how this movie is redefining animal performance in film.

Bill’s commitment to treating animals with respect and compassion shines through as he recounts the joys and challenges of working in theater and entertainment. Whether it’s training an actor to command a dog or preparing a cat to handle audience applause, Bill’s creative solutions and passion for storytelling offer invaluable lessons for anyone working in the arts—or with animals. With humor, honesty, and insight, this episode is a tribute to the deep connections we share with our animal companions and the magic they bring to the stage.

Bill Berloni is a Tony Honoree for Excellence in Theatre and the founder of William Berloni Theatrical Animals, a company that provides trained animals for theater, film, and television. His career began in 1977 with the original Broadway production of Annie, where he trained Sandy, a rescued dog. Since then, he has worked on countless productions, including Legally Blonde, The Ferryman, Gypsy, and The Leftovers. Bill is an advocate for animal rescue and humane training practices, and his work has been featured in books, television, and film.

This episode is powered by Welcome to Times Square, the billboard experience that lets YOU be a star for a day. Learn more: https://welcometotimessquare.com/

Connect with Bill:

• Instagram: @berlonitheatricalanimals
• Website: berlonianimals.com
• Learn more about The Friend: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_friend_2024

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Originally aired as episode 198 on March 22, 2022.

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of eating disorders.

At the age of 25, Eva Noblezada is a two time Tony Award nominee, a Grammy Award winner, and a WhatsOnStage Award winning actress and singer. She starred as Kim in Cameron Mackintosh’s London revival of Miss Saigon when she was 17 years old, and shortly after played Eponine in the West End revival of Les Misérables. Eva later reprised her performance as Kim in the first Broadway revival of Miss Saigon (also her Broadway debut). In 2019, she made her film debut in Yellow Rose starring alongside Lea Salonga, who originated the role of Kim in Miss Saigon. Eva originated the role of Eurydice in Hadestown on Broadway, and it's in Hadestown where she continues to lead, and take audiences “way down under the ground”. 

Eva speaks candidly about her past toxic relationship with the word “perfect”, how it affected her life as a 17 year old all on her own abroad, leading Cameron Mackintosh’s London revival of Miss Saigon, and why she felt like she was “falling for years”. She opens up about living with anxiety, panic attacks, and body dysmorphia, and how she’s learned to come back to herself at those times, and ask the important questions - “Are we in danger? - We're okay”. Talking about Hadestown, Eva shares her thoughts on Eurydice (and playing Eurydice), and her love for the “extra layer of consciousness” that can be seen throughout the whole show. 

In this episode, we talk about: 

• Growing up Filipino Mexican, and discovering musical theater 
• A strong work ethic, instilled by her father 
• The mental and physical toll of an 8 show schedule 
• Meeting Tara Rubin at the Jimmy Awards
• Pole dancing as fitness, and how society sexualizes women 
• Her “all or nothing” way of life 

Connect with Eva:

• IG: @livevamaria
• Twitter: @EvaNoblezada

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Interviews live from the opening night of Eureka Day, which took place on December 16th, 2024. The order of interviews is:

• Thomas Middleditch
• Anna Shapiro
• Amber Gray
• Jonathan Spector
• Chelsea Kurtz
• Bill Irwin
• Jessica Hecht



Eureka Day brings comedy and contemplation to the stage, tackling personal beliefs, community conflict, and the art of truly listening. These interviews explore the play's themes of empathy, collective responsibility, and the nuances of human connection amidst a mumps outbreak at a progressive private school.

You'll hear insights about the challenges of portraying deeply layered characters who all believe they are "right," the parallels between the play’s themes and real-world conflicts, and the humor that helps audiences face uncomfortable truths. Whether you're a fan of theater, thoughtful storytelling, or the quest to find common ground in divisive times, this episode delivers heartfelt takeaways and plenty of laughs.

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Ethan Slater returns to the podcast, and what a journey he’s had since his last visit! Best known for his Tony-nominated performance as SpongeBob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical, Ethan has since showcased his versatility in the Spamalot revival and in the much-anticipated Wicked films, where he portrays the endearing yet conflicted Boq. In this conversation, Ethan delves into the evolution of his career, from embracing unexpected opportunities to stepping into beloved roles with fresh perspectives. His reflections on preparation, self-advocacy, and the importance of storytelling offer invaluable insights for anyone in the arts.

We explore his experience working with Broadway legends, the excitement and challenges of filming Wicked, and his process for making iconic characters his own. Ethan also shares a heartfelt deleted scene from Wicked and reveals how real-life friendships and moments of serendipity have shaped his career. Whether you’re a fan of Broadway, film, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with inspiration and fun.

Ethan Slater is a Tony-nominated actor, singer, and writer, celebrated for originating the role of SpongeBob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical. His recent stage credits include the revival of Spamalot on Broadway, and his screen roles span projects like Lost on a Mountain in Maine, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Wicked. Known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, Ethan continues to captivate audiences with his heartfelt performances.

Connect with Ethan:

• Instagram: @EthanSlater

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Welp, we've finally made it to the end of 2024. This year was full of changes, ups, downs, and some overall just weird behavior across the board. But hey, we got some amazing shows out of the new 2024-2025 season, and fortunately between the two of us, guest host Sarah Goodman (from the GOOD SHOW Podcast) and I were able to see a lot of them! Listen in as we recap some of our fav's, not-so-fav's, and tucked inside the episode is even a quick appearance from Jackie Burns. Happy new year!

Connect with Sarah:

• Instagram: @goodshowpodcast
• TikTok: @goodshowpodcast
• Listen to GOOD SHOW: https://bpn.fm/goodshow

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Andy Karl returns to the pod for the first time since episode 4, bringing his signature charm and thoughtful insights. Andy reflects on his incredible journey since his first appearance back in episode four, sharing how his career has grown and evolved over the years. From his Olivier Award-winning role in Groundhog Day to tackling diverse characters in Rocky and Pretty Woman, Andy dives deep into the physical and emotional challenges of performing on stage. He also discusses revisiting Groundhog Day in the UK years later, highlighting the profound personal and professional growth he experienced along the way.

Currently starring as Pastor Bill O’Keefe in the boundary-pushing Teeth: The Musical, Andy shares what it’s like to explore such a unique and provocative role. He opens up about the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and maintaining joy in the ever-demanding world of theater. This episode offers a perfect blend of inspiration, humor, and behind-the-scenes stories, making it a must-listen for Broadway fans and aspiring performers alike.

Andy Karl is a three-time Tony-nominated actor and Olivier Award winner known for his dynamic stage presence and versatility. His celebrated performances include Groundhog Day, Rocky, Pretty Woman: The Musical, Legally Blonde, and On the Twentieth Century. He has also appeared on television in Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, and Prodigal Son. Andy currently stars Off-Broadway in Teeth: The Musical, showcasing his ability to take on bold and innovative projects.

Connect with Andy:

• Instagram: @andy_karl
• Twitter: @andy_karl
• Facebook: Andrew Karl
• Official Website: teethemusical.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Jared Loftin takes us on a captivating journey from his Alabama roots to his thriving career in theater and television. With notable credits including Teeth at New World Stages, Tick, Tick… Boom! on Netflix, and Little America on Apple TV, Jared reflects on the unique process of developing new works, the highs and lows of regional theater, and his experiences in the evolving post-pandemic performing arts world. This episode shines a spotlight on his ability to bring complex, layered characters to life, sharing insights into the emotional and technical challenges behind his performances.

From the thrill of audiences turning against his character in Teeth to navigating the early days of his career without a showcase or agent, Jared’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His advice for aspiring performers is as inspiring as it is practical: dive in, embrace the challenges, and stay open to the magic of collaboration. This episode offers a blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom that will resonate with theater lovers and aspiring artists alike.

About Jared Loftin:

Jared Loftin is a New York-based actor with a diverse array of credits in theater and television. His stage work includes Teeth at Playwrights Horizons and New World Stages, Gigantic, The Panic of ’29, and regional productions of Peter Pan, All Shook Up, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. On screen, Jared has appeared in Tick, Tick… Boom! on Netflix, Little America on Apple TV, and Red Oaks on Amazon. Originally from Alabama, he studied musical theater at Elon University and has become a sought-after collaborator in new musical theater works.

Connect with Jared:

• Instagram: @jloftin2

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Alyse Alan Louis takes us on a deeply personal and inspiring journey in this episode. From her Broadway credits in Mamma Mia!, Amélie, and Soft Power to her groundbreaking work in Teeth: The Musical, Alyse opens up about the evolution of her career and the unique challenges of her craft. Her portrayal of Dawn in Teeth showcases her ability to embody bold, complex characters while navigating both emotional and physical demands. Alyse reflects on how years of collaboration shaped the role and shares the lessons she’s learned about setting boundaries and embracing vulnerability as an artist.

This conversation also dives into the fascinating connection between the body and performance. Alyse discusses how she discovered she was holding stress in her pelvic floor, the impact of that realization on her work, and how she’s learned to manage the physical and emotional toll of performing in demanding roles. From her experiences as a young performer in regional theater to her insights on the importance of self-advocacy, Alyse offers practical wisdom for aspiring artists and anyone navigating a creative path.

Alyse Alan Louis is a Broadway performer celebrated for her work in Amélie, Soft Power, Mamma Mia!, and Disaster! She currently stars as Dawn in the critically acclaimed Teeth: The Musical, a role she has helped shape over the past decade. Known for her fearless approach to bold material, Alyse has earned a reputation for bringing humor, depth, and nuance to her performances. Her dedication to storytelling and her advocacy for self-awareness make her a standout voice in musical theater.

Connect with Alyse:

• Instagram: @alysealanlouis
• Threads: @alysealanlouis
• TikTok: @alysealanlouis
• Facebook: Alyse Alan Louis
• Teeth: The Musical: @teeth_nyc
• Website: teeththemusical.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Broadway and beyond, Anna K. Jacobs is creating waves in musical theatre. A Sydney-born composer, lyricist, and educator, Anna's storytelling prowess shines through her diverse works, from the live-action adaptation of Moana for Disney Cruise Line to the boundary-pushing Teeth, a horror musical exploring ideology, faith, and desire. With a foundation in classical composition and a career built through bold experimentation, Anna’s journey is as inspiring as it is unique.

In this episode, Anna dives deep into her creative process, her collaboration with talents like Michael R. Jackson, and the evolution of her musicals, including her experiences developing Teeth amidst a cultural shift. She also discusses her impactful work as an educator, her journey from Sydney to New York, and her upcoming performance at 54 Below, where she'll premiere songs from her new musical, A House Without Windows. Whether it's crafting larger-than-life stories or inspiring young artists, Anna’s artistry and passion for innovation stand out in today’s theater landscape.

Anna K. Jacobs is a celebrated composer, lyricist, and educator originally from Sydney, Australia. Her works include Teeth (co-written with Michael R. Jackson), Pop (a murder mystery about Andy Warhol), and the live-action stage adaptation of Moana for Disney Cruise Line. A recipient of the Jonathan Larson and Billy Burke Ziegfeld Awards, she is an alumna of NYU’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program and a mentor to emerging artists through the New York Youth Symphony and The New School. Anna’s vibrant, daring approach to musical storytelling continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Connect with Anna:

• Instagram: @theannakjacobs
• Website: annakjacobs.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Tony-nominated actor Grey Henson joins Alan for an engaging conversation about his journey through the world of Broadway comedy. Grey reflects on his rise from a Georgia-born performer with a background in ballet to a Tony-nominated role as Damian Hubbard in Mean Girls: The Musical. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning into comedic roles, including his current portrayal of Buddy the Elf in Elf: The Musical on Broadway. Grey shares the importance of embracing your unique qualities and how his comedic style evolved through his experiences in high school theater, college at Carnegie Mellon, and professional work.

Throughout the episode, Grey discusses the impact of comedy on his career and the importance of balancing preparation with spontaneity. He talks about his time in Shucked, a show that required him to be constantly aware of the audience's reactions and how that shaped his performance. The conversation also touches on his thoughts on comedy in general—how it should feel effortless and truthful rather than forced—and how he brings that mentality into every role, from Mean Girls to Elf. Grey also dives into the reality of performing eight shows a week, the pressures of portraying iconic characters, and how the key to a long career in theater is remaining grounded and generous to your scene partners.

Grey Henson is a Tony-nominated actor best known for his comedic roles on Broadway. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon’s prestigious School of Drama, Grey first made a name for himself as Elder McKinley in the Book of Mormon first national tour before joining the Broadway company. He later earned a Tony Award nomination for his standout performance as Damian Hubbard in Mean Girls: The Musical. Grey has also appeared in Shucked, playing Storyteller Two, and most recently, he’s been bringing holiday cheer as Buddy the Elf in Elf: The Musical on Broadway.

Connect with Grey

• Instagram: @greyhenson

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• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Jennifer Ashley Tepper, a celebrated Broadway historian, producer, and author, joins Alan for an inspiring conversation about preserving theater history and amplifying untold stories. As the programming director at 54 Below, Jennifer has curated over 7,000 performances, and her work as the author of The Untold Stories of Broadway series and her latest book, Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That the History Books Left Out, has cemented her as a vital voice in the theater community.

In this episode, Jennifer shares her passion for uncovering the forgotten corners of Broadway’s past, including musicals that never made it into the spotlight and the enduring impact of cast recordings on theater history. She also discusses the fascinating research process behind her new book, which spans centuries of contributions from female musical theater writers, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women shaping the art form. With insights on how Broadway can embrace a more inclusive future, this conversation is a must-listen for theater enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Jennifer Ashley Tepper is a Broadway historian, producer, and author. She has served as the creative and programming director at 54 Below, curating over 7,000 performances. She is the author of The Untold Stories of Broadway book series and Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That History Books Left Out. Her producing credits include Be More Chill, Broadway Bounty Hunter, Love in Hate Nation, The Jonathan Larson Project, and the revival of Godspell. She has also worked on [title of show] and her projects have been featured in outlets such as Broadway Podcast Network, The New York Times and TheaterMania.

Connect with Jennifer:

• Instagram: @jenashtep
• Get Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That the History Books Left Out
• Discover the 4 The Untold Stories of Broadway volumes
• Listen to ALBUM PODCAST with Jennifer and Joe Iconis: https://bpn.fm/album
• Listen to The Untold Stories of Broadway podcast: https://bpn.fm/untoldstories

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Heads up - this episode has lots of profanity!

Lea DeLaria has never been one to hold back—and thank goodness for that. From making history as the first openly gay comic on late-night TV to her unforgettable role as Big Boo in Orange Is the New Black, Lea’s fearless authenticity has paved the way for countless others. In this episode, she takes us through her groundbreaking comedy career, her love affair with jazz and theater, and the unyielding passion that fuels her activism. Along the way, we dive into hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, her creative process, and the ways she continues to use her platform to fight for LGBTQ+ representation.

Lea shares the origins of her famous brunch series at 54 Below, her experiences blending stand-up and music into a signature performance style, and her advice for embracing rejection in the entertainment industry. She also reflects on the highs and lows of her journey, reminding us all to keep pushing forward with humor, heart, and a little bit of rage when needed. This episode is equal parts inspiring, entertaining, and unapologetically Lea.

Lea DeLaria is an award-winning comedian, actress, jazz singer, and LGBTQ+ activist. She made history in 1993 as the first openly gay comic to appear on a late-night talk show with her debut on The Arsenio Hall Show. Her Broadway credits include On the Town (1998), The Rocky Horror Show (2000), POTUS (2022), and a national tour of Chicago as Mama Morton. Lea is best known for her SAG Award-winning role as Big Boo in Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black. A celebrated jazz musician, she has released several albums, blending comedy and music into her performances. Lea continues to champion LGBTQ+ representation in the arts and hosts a monthly brunch series at 54 Below in New York City.

Connect with Lea:

• Website: leadelaria.com
• Instagram: @realleadelaria
• TikTok: @realleadelaria

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• Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Laura Donnelly shares her powerful journey from her Belfast upbringing to becoming an acclaimed stage actress. In this episode, she delves into how Irish ballet first ignited her love for storytelling and how that passion evolved through drama school and a career full of emotionally rich roles. Laura reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind her performance in The Ferryman, sharing stories of family secrets and how her uncle’s tragic disappearance during the Troubles in Northern Ireland influenced the creation of the play.

Laura also discusses her current role in The Hills of California, offering insights into portraying two distinct characters—mother and daughter—and the emotional and technical challenges it presents. She candidly reflects on the mental toll of intense performances and how she learned to balance her personal well-being with the demands of the stage. In a surprising twist, Laura recounts her childhood gymnastics experience, revealing a unique connection to her life on stage. With an unwavering belief in the power of storytelling, she shares heartfelt advice on self-belief and pursuing one’s passion.

Laura Donnelly is a Tony-nominated and Olivier Award-winning actress known for her standout performances in theater and television. Born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland, she trained in drama in Scotland before embarking on a career that spans critically acclaimed roles such as Caitlin Carney in The Ferryman, Jenny Fraser in Outlander, and Amalia True in The Nevers. Her work also includes credits in Marvel's Werewolf by Night, Britannia, and The Fall. Currently, she stars in The Hills of California on Broadway, continuing her legacy of powerful and complex performances.

Connect with Laura:

• IG: @laurafdonnelly

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Ophelia Lovibond. Known for her diverse and memorable roles in film and television, Ophelia shares candid insights about her journey in the entertainment industry. This episode is filled with rich discussions that range from her early career breakthroughs to the creative processes that help her bring complex characters to life.

Ophelia opens up about the defining moments that have shaped her career, the invaluable lessons she’s learned from working alongside esteemed peers, and her approach to embodying authenticity in every performance. She delves into how the industry has evolved, the shifting landscape of storytelling, and why maintaining a balance between her professional and personal life is essential to sustaining her passion for acting. Listeners will appreciate her thoughts on what keeps her motivated, her commitment to storytelling, and the advice she has for aspiring performers.

A must-listen for fans and future actors alike, this episode is brimming with relatable stories, career reflections, and practical advice from an artist dedicated to her craft.

Ophelia Lovibond is a British actress renowned for her versatile performances across film, television, and stage. Born and raised in London, she began acting at a young age and gained early recognition with roles in popular TV series and films such as Guardians of the Galaxy and Nowhere Boy. Lovibond's career includes a standout portrayal in the comedy-drama series W1A, where she showcased her impeccable comedic timing as the enthusiastic junior executive Izzy Gould. More recently, she captivated audiences as Carrie Symonds in the political drama This England and earned acclaim for her starring role in Minx, where she embodied the determined feminist Joyce Prigger. 

Connect with Ophelia:

• Instagram: @opheliabits

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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Buckle up for a deep dive into Cheyenne's journey from humble beginnings in Washington State to becoming a Broadway star, TV favorite, and proud father. From his breakout role in All Shook Up to his stints on 30 Rock and American Horror Story, Cheyenne reflects on the unexpected twists that shaped his career, like a chance encounter with Tina Fey that landed him a role on 30 Rock. He shares candidly about the challenges of growing up in a religious, conservative environment and coming to terms with his identity, along with his battles with sobriety.

Throughout the conversation, Cheyenne reveals his love for storytelling, opening up about tough career choices, including the emotional trade-offs between stage and screen work. With humor and heart, he talks about the joys and demands of being a father to twins, balancing an eight-show week, and why his children still don’t quite understand his fame. Wrapping up, he shares advice for aspiring performers: follow your dreams only if it’s the first and last thing on your mind every day.

Cheyenne Jackson is a multi-talented performer known for his roles across Broadway, film, and TV. His Broadway highlights include All Shook Up, Xanadu, and Into the Woods, while TV fans know him from Glee, 30 Rock, and American Horror Story. Offstage, Cheyenne is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a devoted father. He is currently starring in La Cage aux Folles at Pasadena Playhouse.

Connect with Cheyenne:

• Instagram: @MrCheyenneJackson

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Get ready for an all-access pass to Broadway’s brightest stars in this special bonus episode. Join host Salisha Thomas as she takes us onto the red carpet for the highly anticipated opening night of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway, captured live for The Broadway Exclusive.

In this episode, Salisha catches up with cast members, creatives, and some surprise guests, delivering fun interviews full of behind-the-scenes insights, opening night energy, and advice for aspiring performers. From star-studded moments to career reflections, this episode perfectly captures the magic of a Broadway premiere.

If you love the excitement of red carpets and the charm Salisha brings to every conversation, this one’s for you!

Follow the podcasts:

• The Salisha Show: Listen here
• The Broadway Exclusive: Listen here

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Meghan Finn is leading the charge to reshape New York City’s theater landscape. As the artistic director of The Tank, she champions affordable access to creative spaces and amplifies new voices in the arts. Recently awarded the prestigious David Prize for her innovative ideas, Meghan is determined to revitalize theater by developing sustainable financial models and creating more venues to foster emerging talent. Her vision addresses the pressing challenges of rising production costs, theater closures, and the need for equitable opportunities.

In this episode, Meghan reflects on her journey from Ann Arbor, Michigan to becoming a pivotal figure in New York’s cultural ecosystem. She discusses her work with The Tank, including the challenges of managing a nonprofit theater and the success of revenue-sharing models that have allowed artists to thrive even amidst adversity. Meghan also shares insights on the intersection of art, advocacy, and accessibility, emphasizing the importance of nurturing new talent to keep theater vibrant for future generations.

Connect with Meghan:

• Website: meghanfinn.com
• The Tank: thetanknyc.org
• Instagram: @thetanknyc

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Aurin Squire’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing unexpected opportunities. Originally on the path to journalism, a paperwork mix-up in college led him into the world of film and theater. That detour launched him into a multi-faceted career as a writer, producer, and playwright. From producing hit TV shows like This Is Us, The Good Fight, and Evil, to contributing articles to outlets like the Chicago Tribune and ESPN, Aurin has honed his storytelling craft across various mediums. Now, he’s set to make his Broadway debut as the book writer of A Wonderful World, the new Louis Armstrong musical opening November 11 at Studio 54.

In this conversation, Aurin reflects on the blend of chaos and order in producing for TV versus theater, highlighting how each medium shapes his creative process. He discusses how his Miami upbringing, surrounded by diverse communities, deeply influenced his voice as a writer. Aurin also touches on his passion for telling complex stories through race, identity, and history. Whether he’s sharing how Armstrong’s four wives shaped the musical’s structure or offering advice on following uncomfortable opportunities, Aurin’s insights are both inspiring and practical.

Connect with Aurin:

• Instagram: @aurinsquire

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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Rising star Helen J. Shen, who is making her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending opposite Darren Criss, dives into her journey from a classical piano prodigy to a Broadway performer, reflecting on the intense years of piano competitions and how those skills have shaped her approach to musical theater. She shares stories from her time at the University of Michigan, where her passion for theater solidified, and talks about the thrill of playing a robot in her Broadway debut.

Helen also opens up about the creative process behind Maybe Happy Ending and how she's putting her personal spin on a role previously staged in Korea and Asia. She reflects on what it’s like working alongside Darren Criss and the supportive environment of her team. They discuss the unique challenge of playing robots and how the production explores themes of mortality, connection, and what it means to be human.

Helen J. Shen is an actor, musician, and writer. Before her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending, she starred in The Lonely Few at MCC Theater and captivated audiences in Teeth at Playwrights Horizons. Her regional credits include Man of God at Williamstown Theater Festival and Sunset Boulevard at ACT of Connecticut.

Connect with Helen:

• Instagram:insta
• TikTok: @miss.shelen

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Originally aired as episode 169 on October 22, 2021.

Gavin Creel is an actor, singer and songwriter who received a Tony Award for his performance as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, starring Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce. He made his Broadway debut originating the role of Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie, for which he received his first Tony Award nomination, and has additional Broadway credits that include La Cage aux Folles, She Loves Me, Mary Poppins, Waitress, and Hair, which earned him his second Tony Award nomination. Gavin originated the role of Elder Price in the West End production of Book of Mormon (earning an Olivier Award), and reprised the role on Broadway and the US National Tour. On television he co-starred alongside Julie Andrews in ABC’s Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime, and stars in Ryan Murphy's new spin off American Horror Stories.

From conservative Ohio, to the lights of Broadway, Gavin is a proud member of the theatre community, but also talks candidly about the mental, physical and emotional toll of a life on the stage. He reflects on the last few years through the pandemic, how he went “inward” in a way he never has before, and opens up about the ways in which therapy - “unconditional acceptance” and support - have helped him. Gavin talks about using his voice to support activists/activism, and shares the story of his involvement in getting the green light for the Broadway’s Hair to miss a show and join the National Equality March in Washington, D.C in 2009. He also chats about the history of Broadway Bares, and the magic of “I Put A Spell On You: The Sanderson Variant”. 

Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony Award-nominated book writer and lyricist, whose name is synonymous with Broadway hits like The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. From his humble beginnings in a small town where he fell in love with theater to becoming a key figure behind some of Broadway’s biggest productions, Chad shares his remarkable journey. He takes us behind the scenes of his latest creative venture, a novel called Showmance, giving us a glimpse into the challenges of transitioning from writing musicals to penning fiction. With parallels to his own life, Showmance follows a struggling Broadway writer navigating the highs and lows of theater life.

Chad opens up about the resilience it takes to thrive in show business, recounting career-defining moments like the crushing reviews of his early work and the ultimate triumph of Aladdin on Broadway. He also discusses the collaborative process of writing for musicals versus novels and shares advice for aspiring writers and theater professionals. Whether you're a fan of his Broadway musicals or curious about the world of showbiz from behind the curtain, this conversation offers something for everyone.

Chad Beguelin is a Tony-nominated book writer and lyricist known for his work on The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. He recently made his debut as a novelist with Showmance, a witty and heartfelt story inspired by his own experiences as a Broadway writer. Chad's works have graced both stage and screen, earning critical acclaim and legions of fans. With a career marked by both creative triumphs and challenges, Chad continues to be a dynamic force in the world of theater and beyond.

Connect with Chad:

• Get Showmance
• Instagram: @chadbeg
• Website: www.chadbeguelin.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Sydney Lemmon brings her authentic charm and deep insight to this conversation, sharing her journey from growing up in an entertainment family to her Broadway role in the thought-provoking play JOB. With an impressive background that includes rigorous training at the Yale School of Drama and roles in hit shows like Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession, Sydney opens up about the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in acting. She offers a candid look at how she balances the demands of heavy roles, the importance of self-care routines, and the role mentors have played in shaping her path. Her dedication to her craft shines through as she shares advice for aspiring performers about staying committed and following their passion.

We dive deep into what it means to stay grounded while navigating the highs and lows of a performer's life. Sydney’s genuine approach to handling intense roles, coupled with her light-hearted love for reality TV, makes her journey relatable and inspiring. She reminds us that while the road may be tough, it’s filled with unexpected moments of joy, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you're looking for insight into the acting world or simply want to be inspired by someone who’s living her dream, this episode has something for you.

Sydney Lemmon is a talented actress with a rich background in both stage and screen. She earned her master's degree from the Yale School of Drama, where she was the recipient of the Julie Harris Scholarship. Sydney made her Broadway debut alongside Uma Thurman in The Parisian Woman and has captivated audiences with roles in Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession. As a singer and guitarist, she also writes music with her brother, actor Jon Lemmon. Currently, she stars in the provocative Broadway play Job, which has been extended through October 27th.

Follow Sydney Lemmon:

• Instagram: @sydney_lemmon

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Miranda Ferriss Jones brings a refreshing blend of storytelling, activism, and creativity to this episode. With her upcoming concert, Spiral Bound, she discusses her passion for challenging societal binaries and feminine identity through her music and performances. We dive deep into how her upbringing in Vermont, with a Black father and a white mother, shaped her perspective and inspired her to explore themes of race, gender, and identity in her work. Miranda also opens up about her experience with ADHD, and how it fuels her creativity, helping her balance multiple projects, motherhood, and her commitment to activism.

Miranda's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of being true to oneself. She shares the story of how her father's passion for jazz and her mother's love for Motown influenced her artistic path, and how her work continues to be rooted in her lived experiences and the desire to see positive change in the world. Tune in to hear about her activism, her thoughts on societal binaries, and the inspiration behind Spiral Bound.

Miranda Ferriss Jones is a Vermont-born songwriter, theatrical storyteller, performer, and creativity/vocal coach whose work explores feminine identity and challenges societal binaries. She has four shows in development, including The Precipice, which received support from Bob Weir and was workshopped at Williamstown with Laura Benanti, who is also a creative producer on Miranda's song cycle Spiral Bound. Her other works include Edmonia, gearing up for a spring workshop, and Showing Up, which had readings at Middlebury College and Princeton University. As a mother of two and wife to Ben, Miranda embodies the multifaceted journey of an artist committed to crafting stories that challenge and inspire.

Social Media Accounts:

• Instagram: Miranda Ferriss Jones
• Get tickets to Spiral Bound

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

This heartfelt episode features the multi-talented Laura Benanti, a Tony Award-winning actress known for her unforgettable performances on Broadway and TV. From her powerful roles in Gypsy and My Fair Lady to her hilarious portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Laura shares the ups and downs of her diverse career. This conversation goes deep as Laura opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood and a thriving career, her struggles with postpartum depression, and how becoming a parent has shaped her approach to acting.

Beyond the stage and screen, Laura is a dedicated activist, working with theater maker Miranda Ferris Jones to present benefit concerts in support of political and social causes. A mother of two, Laura speaks openly about the struggles and joys of balancing parenthood with her career, and how these experiences have made her a more empathetic and dynamic performer.

Laura Benanti is a Tony Award-winning actress with an illustrious career that spans Broadway, TV, and film. Known for her roles in Gypsy, She Loves Me, and My Fair Lady, Laura has captivated audiences with her stunning vocal range and emotional depth. On TV, she's appeared in series such as Younger, Supergirl, and The Good Fight, while her portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has brought her comedic talents to a whole new audience.

Connect with Laura:

• On the web: laurabenanti.com
• IG & TikTok: @laurabenanti
• Voices for Victory Benefit Concert (September 25, 2024) at City Winery, NYC
• Spiral Bound Benefit Concert (September 30, 2024) at Racket, NYC
• Laura’s one-woman show on Audible: Nobody Cares

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

We dive deep into the incredible career of Roger Bart, a Tony Award-winning actor who has brought iconic characters to life on both stage and screen. Currently starring as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, Roger shares his journey with us, from his early Broadway debut in Big River to his voice work as young Hercules in Disney's animated classic.

Roger reflects on his career highlights, including his award-winning role as Snoopy in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, working with Mel Brooks in The Producers and Young Frankenstein, and his memorable TV roles in Desperate Housewives and Revenge. He offers fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his time developing Back to the Future from its early days in Europe to its current run on Broadway, touching on the challenges of portraying Doc Brown and how he brings his unique comedic flair to the role. Roger also discusses his love for comedy, the influence of Warner Bros. cartoons on his sense of humor, and how he balances broad comedic moments with genuine character depth. He offers heartfelt advice for young performers: be prepared, be kind, and don’t be afraid to make bold choices.

Roger Bart’s passion for performing began in childhood, using his singing talent to connect with his parents and spark his love for the stage. His professional journey truly began after studying acting at Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he transitioned from instinctual performing to a more profound understanding of the craft. This education laid the foundation for his wide-ranging career, where his unique blend of humor and depth has become a hallmark of his performances. His comedic style, influenced by the precise timing and structure of Warner Bros. cartoons, was refined during his collaborations with Mel Brooks in the beloved productions of The Producers and Young Frankenstein.

Roger’s career spans both stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in Big River and won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Snoopy in the 1999 revival of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. In addition to his stage work, Roger has also left a mark on television with notable roles in Desperate Housewives, Revenge, Good Trouble, and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Film and voice work include the 2005 movie version of The Producers and voicing young Hercules in Disney’s Hercules. Currently, he stars as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, a role that has earned him a Tony nomination and further solidified his reputation as a versatile and beloved actor.

SPECIAL ACCESSIBLE BTTF TICKET INFO, valid on performances Sept 17 - Nov 10, 2024 only

• Upper Level Seats from $59 (including fees)
• Stage Level Seats from $79 (including fees)
• Tickets are available at BackToTheFutureMusical.com, through Telecharge by calling 212-239-6200 or visiting Telecharge.com, or at the Winter Garden Theatre box office.

Connect with Roger:

• Instagram: @rogerbartofficial
• Watch the full "Shooting Star" cut song from Hercules: https://youtu.be/hkPhGYMGmno

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Originally aired as episode 200 on April 5, 2022.

With a remarkable 14 nominations and six wins across the Emmys, Grammys, Olivier, and Tony Awards, Patti LuPone is a force in the entertainment industry. Her illustrious career includes 27 Broadway credits, most notably her Tony Award-winning roles as Eva Perón in Evita and Rose in the 2008 revival of Gypsy. Other significant Broadway appearances include Anything Goes, Sweeney Todd, Noises Off, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, War Paint, Working, Oliver!, The Robber Bridegroom, and The Beggar's Opera.

LuPone has also made her mark on the London stage, originating roles in Les Misérables, The Cradle Will Rock, Sunset Boulevard, and starring in the West End revival of Company. Beyond the stage, her extensive career in television and film includes performances in Driving Miss Daisy, Frasier, Will & Grace, Ugly Betty, 30 Rock, Glee, American Horror Story, Girls, Penny Dreadful, and Life Goes On. A versatile performer, LuPone has also lent her talents to voiceover work, cabaret performances, and regular appearances with the New York Philharmonic, contributing to 22 albums. She is the first American to win an Olivier Award and has been inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame. Currently, she stars in the Broadway revival of Company.

In this episode, LuPone reflects on her introduction to Gypsy, recalling her role as Louise in high school, and shares the story of how she was once banned from working on any of Arthur Laurents' projects before ultimately winning a Tony Award for her portrayal of Rose. She opens up about the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 shutdown, discussing how the lack of purpose impacted her deeply. She also highlights the strong sense of camaraderie and support among the cast and crew of Company, forged through their shared experiences during the pandemic. LuPone delves into her rehearsal process, explaining why she completes all her preparation in the rehearsal room so that she and the audience can enjoy the spontaneity and energy of live performance. Additionally, she reveals why she makes it a point to look at the audience every night.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Being one of the first students in Juilliard’s School of Drama in the 1970s
• Her Marilyn Monroe impression at three years old
• The joy she finds in eliciting laughter from an audience
• The “Italian blast” and her unapologetic lack of a filter
• The infamous “Andrew Lloyd Webber memorial pool”
• Her frustration with producers who underestimate the intelligence of their audience

Connect with Patti:

• Twitter: @pattilupone
• IG: @pattilupone
• Web: pattilupone.com

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• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

We explore the remarkable journey of Evan Alexander Smith, whose path from Ontario to Broadway—and beyond—has been marked by diverse experiences and significant milestones. Evan's passion for theatre ignited in his early years, catalyzed by a transformative production of "Oliver" and a pivotal audition opportunity presented by a friend for an arts high school.

Evan reflects on his tenure with Disney Cruise Line, where he not only honed his craft but also experienced a "showmance" that blossomed into marriage, ultimately guiding him to the vibrant theatre scene of New York City. He discusses his role as an audition reader and how this experience helped him demystify the audition process, thereby alleviating his fears and enhancing his performance skills. Having shared the stage with luminaries such as Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez in the production of "Merrily We Roll Along," Evan emphasizes the centrality of storytelling in his approach to acting.

He delves into his current portrayal of George McFly in "Back to the Future: The Musical," a role he approaches with a blend of humor and depth, focusing on George's distinct mannerisms and psychological complexity. Evan concludes with practical advice for aspiring performers: prioritize authenticity and self-belief over concerns about others' perceptions. His insights offer valuable guidance for those navigating the competitive landscape of the performing arts.

Evan Alexander Smith is an actor, singer, and voiceover artist hailing from Toronto. A Dora Award nominee and Gemini Award winner, he starred in the original Canadian production of “The Toxic Avenger” musical and spent two seasons at Canada's prestigious Shaw Festival in productions of “Ragtime”, “His Girl Friday”, “Guys & Dolls”, and “Lady Windermere's Fan”. His National Tour credits include “Dirty Dancing” and “The Play That Goes Wrong”. His Broadway credits include “Amazing Grace” the recent revival of “Merrily We Roll Along" and now, “Back to the Future: The Musical” where he is currently starring as George McFly. 

Connect with Evan:

• Website: www.evanalexandersmith.com
• Instagram: @iamevansmith

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Isaac Mizrahi, an acclaimed fashion designer, performer, and television personality, has achieved an iconic status in the fashion industry—despite initially having little desire for a career in this field. In this episode, Mizrahi unveils the source of his bold creativity and charismatic presence, offering a candid look into his extraordinary journey. From his beginnings in Brooklyn, where his passion for fashion first took root, to his childhood fascination with designing clothes for puppets, his path has been both unique and inspiring. He discusses his formative years at Parsons School of Design and the subsequent launch of his celebrated fashion label.

Mizrahi also shares his personal habit of reading obituaries, driven by a desire to ensure his own legacy is accurately remembered—ideally as a performer rather than merely a fashion icon. Despite his substantial success in fashion, Mizrahi reveals a long-held aspiration to act, sing, and perform—dreams he once hesitated to pursue. With new acting opportunities on the horizon, his future is poised to be as dynamic as ever.

Reflecting on his experiences, Mizrahi expresses a preference for failure over success, acknowledging that setbacks are a natural part of pursuing an acting career. He emphasizes that, regardless of the outcome, delivering a stellar performance in auditions ensures that one's talent is recognized.

Isaac Mizrahi is a creative force with an unparalleled ability to blend fashion, entertainment, and art. He has left an indelible mark on each field he touches, and his journey from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the glittering stages of Broadway and the forefront of fashion innovation has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a decades-long career, he has become a household name known for his sharp wit, bold designs, and magnetic personality. Whether behind the scenes or in the spotlight, he has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be a modern-day Renaissance man. He can be seen performing at 54 Below from August 28th through 31st.

Connect with Isaac:

• Website: https://www.isaacmizrahi.com/
• Instagram: @imisaacmizrahi
• Isaac Mizrahi: A Brief History at 54 Below: Get tickets here

Connect with Heather Vickery and the Was it Chance podcast:

• Slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance
• More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
• More about Was It Chance using bpn.fm/wasitchance

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph.

Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre.

This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show.

Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation.

Sophie reflects on her remarkable journey from a passionate young dancer in the UK to a celebrated triple-threat performer on London’s West End and New York’s Broadway. She recounts her early dedication to dance, including her practice sessions in a local church hall and self-recorded rehearsals for critique. This unwavering commitment laid the foundation for her illustrious career, which began in the West End and culminated in her Broadway debut.

Sophie provides an insightful look into her audition process for “Moulin Rouge!” conducted via Zoom during the pandemic. She shares how she impressed director Alex Timbers with her fresh and dynamic interpretation of the role of Nini. Additionally, she discusses her transition into television and film, highlighting her significant milestone of securing a non-musical acting role in the UK soap opera “Casualty,” which demonstrated her versatility beyond dance and singing.

Sophie also delves into the camaraderie of performing in productions like “Moulin Rouge!” where the cast becomes a close-knit second family. She contrasts her experiences working in the UK and the US, addressing the challenges of accessibility and financial concerns faced by performers. With her deep passion for the craft, Sophie offers valuable advice to aspiring performers: to push beyond their comfort zones and maintain a balanced life that includes both professional growth and personal enjoyment.

Sophie Carmen-Jones has appeared in several West End productions and UK tours, including “Moulin Rouge!”, “Jersey Boys”, “Wicked”, “We Will Rock You”, and “Chicago”. Her film and TV credits include the live-action films of “The Little Mermaid”, “Cats”, “Aladdin”, and “Beauty and the Beast”, and she recently made her Broadway debut in the Broadway production of “Moulin Rouge!” as Nini. 

Connect with Sophie:

• Instagram: @sophiecarmenjones

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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David Harris is an Australian actor who somehow found himself moving from architecture school to the bright lights of Broadway. He shares his early passion for architecture and how he pivoted to a career in performing arts just three days into his studies. He looks back on his journey, including participating in talent quests at RSL clubs in Australia and having friendly competitions with Broadway performer Ricky Rojas. Being in the workshop and eventually being cast in "The Boy From Oz" marked a significant turning point in his career and what he considers his claim to fame. He reminisces about his experience working with Hugh Jackman in the show, and a memorable commercial shoot with him just before New York shut down for COVID (click here to watch). David reflects on the differences in how musical theatre is perceived in Australia, the UK, and the US, his personal experiences with it, and his frustrations with the lack of recognition for musical theatre actors in Australia compared to Broadway performers in the US. He emphasizes the critical importance of swings and understudies in theatre, and his gratitude for them in keeping the show running smoothly. While he’s already managed to prove naysayers wrong, David has no plans on stopping when it comes to the pursuit of growth and constant learning.

David Harris is a native of Australia, where he's one of the most acclaimed leading men of his generation. In the US, he has received critical praise for his performance of Dan in TheatreWorks’ “Next to Normal”. He starred as Jean Valjean in the Connecticut Repertory Theatre production of “Les Misérables”, which was co-starred and directed by Tony Award winner Terrence Mann. He starred as Billy Crocker in Goodspeed's production of “Anything Goes” and as Father in Barrington Stage Company's “Ragtime” in 2017. He originated the role of Max Bronfman in Stephen Schwartz's new production of “Rags” at Goodspeed Opera House. After playing the role of the Duke on the first national tour of “Moulin Rouge” in 2022, he can now be seen playing the same role in “Moulin Rouge” on Broadway.

Connect with Brian:

• Website: www.davidharrisofficial.com
• Instagram: @davidharrisoz
• Watch David with Hugh Jackman

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Brian Stokes Mitchell is a two-time Tony Award-winning actor who has always thought the universe chose him. Born on Halloween when “people dress up in costumes and pretend to be other people”, the stars have indeed decided. Aside from performing, he also writes, dances, produces his own music, and orchestrates, but out of all the things he can do, his best quality is being a really good student. He details his latest project, “HOPE”, realizing that sometimes creative works have their own timing - this video dropping exactly when we need to hear it the most. He presents a profound metaphor about life as a "long sentence" full of commas rather than periods, and what his “dead questions” are. With an upcoming role in “3 Summers of Lincoln” at the La Jolla Playhouse, he recounts how the project deeply resonated with him upon reading the script. Aside from all his projects, he always makes sure to give back to the community–from being chairman of the board for the Entertainment Community Fund for 19 years to providing entertainment from his balcony during the pandemic. Stokes shares how curiosity continues to motivate him, and why we should follow our heart in all our endeavors.

Brian Stokes Mitchell is a two-time Tony Award-winning, Drama Desk Award-winning, and Outer Critics Award winning actor. He is renowned for his powerful baritone voice and dynamic stage presence with standout performances in Broadway productions like “Ragtime”, “Kiss Me, Kate”, “Man of La Mancha”, and “Shuffle Along”. He's become a celebrated figure in musical theater, but beyond Broadway, he has showcased his talent on television, including shows like “Vampirina”, “Wolverine”, “Billions”, “Mr. Robot”, and of course, “Trapper John, M. D.” He's also recognized for his philanthropic work, particularly for his 19 years of serving as chairman of the board for the Entertainment Community Fund, and is a member of the Theater Hall of Fame since 2016.

Connect with Brian:

• Website: www.brianstokes.com
• Facebook: @bstokesmitchell
• Instagram: @brianstokesm
• Youtube: @brianstokesmitchell7280
• X: @bstokesmitchell
• Listen: Brian Stokes Mitchell - HOPE (feat. Jason Robert Brown)
• “3 Summers of Lincoln” at La Jolla Playhouse
• What’s Possible When the Arts Belong to Everybody | Lear deBessonet with Brian Stokes Mitchell | TED

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André Ward never played house when he was little, but he always played “New York City Apartment”, and with impressive Broadway credits, he can fully say he’s finally living in the midst of his dream. Growing up a “talkative” child, his teacher recommended he might need to find a way to work out some of his excess energy, and so they sent him to a children's theater company and hasn’t stopped performing since. He also delves into the challenges of transitioning between theater and film, highlighting the differences in performance styles required for each. Currently playing as Toulouse-Lautrec in "Moulin Rouge! The Musical," Andre takes glee in the opportunity to showcase both his comedic and emotional range. He opens up about his fears and aspirations regarding directing and writing, his dream of playing a sci-fi character, and why he continues to strive for balance between work and his personal life.

André Ward is a seasoned Broadway actor with an impressive Broadway resume dating back over 24 years or so, beginning with “Saturday Night Fever”, “Xanadu”, “Rock of Ages”, “Something Rotten”, and “Escape to Margaritaville”. He has five national tours under his belt, including performing as the leading player in “Pippin”, as well as numerous regional credits. His TV and film credits include “Masters of None”, “Broad City”, “Elementary,” and “High Maintenance”. He can be seen now as Toulouse-Lautrec in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” on Broadway, which just celebrated its 5th Anniversary.

Connect with André:

• Instagram: @theandrelward

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Originally aired as episode 276 on July 18, 2023.

Conrad Ricamora is a talented actor known for his roles on Broadway and his portrayal of Oliver Hampton in the hit TV series "How to Get Away with Murder." He shares his insights as they delve into his background, including his family's journey from moving to the U.S. to growing up in military bases, and how he got into acting and theater. Conrad discusses the significance of "Here Lies Love," a groundbreaking Broadway production featuring an all-Filipino cast, and shares his experiences with the show, including how it explores the intertwined history between the Philippines and America. He also looks back on how he auditioned and got involved with it 11 years ago. The discussion expands to the challenges of performing on Broadway, the staging of "Here Lies Love," and the unique experiences of interacting with the audience up close. Conrad reflects on the current state of democracy and political issues, drawing parallels between historical events and the fragility of democracy today. From sharing personal anecdotes to addressing important social issues, Conrad's passion for his craft shines through as he tells what motivates him as an actor: storytelling and connecting through stories.

Conrad Ricamora is an actor best known for his role as Oliver on the ABC network hit “How to Get Away with Murder”. His TV and film credits include “Fire Island”, “Over the Moon”, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby”, and “The Light of the Moon”. His stage credits include “The King and I”, which was his Broadway debut,” Little Shop of Horrors”, “Soft Power”, and numerous plays penned by Will Shakespeare. He is a 2016 Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award recipient and 2017 Equality California Award recipient. He can now be seen in the Broadway hit, “Here Lies Love”, reprising his role of Ninoy Aquino, which he developed 11 years ago in the original Off-Broadway Workshop.

Connect with Conrad:

• Instagram: @conradricamora
• TikTok: @conradwaynericamora

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• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Growing up in a family deeply entrenched in the arts, Lori Alan naturally gravitated towards the stage and microphone. Her parents were theater majors who later ventured into advertising and directing, so it’s no surprise that growing up in a creative environment played a pivotal role in shaping her career path. She looks back on the early stages of her career, including a Shakey's Pizza commercial she starred in that marked her initial foray into professional acting at the age of 5. Despite getting bullied for her unique voice, she chose to embrace her talent instead. After studying and pursuing a career in acting in New York, she decided to move to LA to explore new opportunities. This marked the beginning of her extensive work in voice acting, including iconic roles in "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Family Guy". She shares how she honed her skills, her ability to adapt to different genres, and where she usually draws inspiration from in bringing characters to life. Lori also talks about her time in “Reefer Madness”, the show’s success, and a memorable moment when she met Warren Beatty, who had once shown interest in her mother. Beyond her acting and voice career, she is also a dedicated voice acting coach, emphasizing the importance of studying the craft, being in the moment, and giving your all in whatever you do.

Lori Alan is an award-winning actor, writer, producer, and coach who fell out of the womb sitting in front of a microphone. She is the voice of Pearl Krabs on the “SpongeBob SquarePants” animated series and among many other roles has brought to life Diane Simmons on “Family Guy”, Sue Richards aka The Invisible Woman on “The Fantastic Four”, and The Boss on the “Metal Gear Solid” video game series. She originated the role of Mae Coleman in the award-winning musical “Reefer Madness” in 1988, and is now reprising the same role in the current LA production.

Connect with Lori:

• Website and VO Coaching: https://www.lorialan.com/
• Instagram: @loritalk4
• X: @LoriAlan1
• Reefer Madness Tickets: https://reefermadness.com/

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
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Alexi Melvin is making significant strides in the Broadway community as a producer in shows like "Here Lies Love," "The Outsiders," and "The Notebook". She highlights the struggle of balancing commercial success with artistic bravery, advocating for more support for innovative and risk-taking productions. Growing up with a professional baseball playing dad, she looks back on her journey to finding her calling, how she developed a love for the arts thanks to her mom, and the unwavering support she got from both parents along the way. With almost 100k followers on TikTok, she reflects on her experience with social media, transitioning from queer relatable content to theater-focused posts, and how her audience has positively received this shift. She also delves into the role of social media in modern theater marketing, and how shows like "The Outsiders" leverage platforms like TikTok to reach more audiences. As more and more shows feature queer stories and diverse casting like "The Notebook" and "Illinois", she stresses the need for more queer representation on stage and the challenges of achieving this in an industry dominated by big-budget musicals. Alexi opens up about her journey with pronouns and gender identity, sharing her transition from they/them to she/they and the importance of creating a safe environment for self-exploration. Whether it’s producing or posting on social media, she encourages aspirants to channel their “fan girl energy” and not shy away from doing what you're a fan of.

Alexi Melvin is a multi-Tony Award-nominated Broadway producer for her work on “Illinois” and “The Outsiders”. She has also done work on the producing teams of “Here Lies Love” and “The Notebook”. A writer and actor who takes the term multi-hyphenate to an all-new level, she is a proud member of and advocate for the LGBTQ-plus community and is deeply involved with type one diabetes organizations such as JDRF and Beyond Type 1. She has notable voice work in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”, onscreen appearances in “Time Out of Mind”, and “Quarter”, and a significant presence as an LGBTQ-plus creator on TikTok with almost 100,000 followers.

Connect with Alexi:

• TikTok: @theonlylex
• Instagram: @thealexijames

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

From loving TikTok to enjoying cold readings playing “delightfully stupid” characters, Mary Testa is a talented actress who’s “not on a stardom path and never will be”. She starts off where her acting journey began: choosing between law school and performing. Ultimately, she pursued the latter and eventually moved to New York in 1976, explaining why she just likes working on interesting things with people she loves. She discusses self-taping auditions during the pandemic, and that while she believes it's better to be in the room for auditions, she understands the preliminary role of self-tapes. Known for playing strong-willed characters, Mary reflects on her career as a character actress. She recalls asking Michael John LaChiusa to write a role for her as “a very stupid character”, challenging the usual type casting she gets. She also admits to loving cold readings, the spontaneity, and the challenges that come with them. Reflecting on her journey, she gets real as she talks about perfectionism, how insecurities can lead to tyrannical behavior, and why self-awareness and being comfortable in your own skin is important to keep you grounded.

Mary Testa is an actress with a phenomenal career spanning almost 50 years, which includes 12 Broadway shows such as “Oklahoma!”, “42nd Street”, and “On the Town”, resulting in her three Tony Award nominations. Her TV and film credits beginning in 1979 include “Cagney & Lacey”, “Sex and the City”, “Whoopi”, “The Battery's Down”, “Eat, Pray, Love”, and “The Good Fight”, “The Blacklist”, and many, many more. She's been a part of the “Ratatouille”, the TikTok musical, and is an experienced voiceover artist. She can be heard in the podcast comedy TWITS: A Streampunk Distraction available everywhere you find your podcasts.

Connect with Mary:

• Instagram: @marytesta.actress
• Listen to TWITS: http://bpn.fm/twits

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Jessica Fontana admits that her need to feel like she’s in control impacts her journey in balancing her professional and personal life. Her passion for performing arts began with ballet, which eventually set the stage for her career in musical theater. While Jessica’s mom highly supported her artistic endeavors, her father initially wasn’t. She talks about her college experience at the University of Michigan and its role in shaping her career and changing her dad’s mind. Married to fellow actor, Santino Fontana, she recalls how they met at Birdland Jazz Club, recounting how he left before they could get a drink together, only to friend her on Facebook later that night, slipping into her DMs. Jessica explained her shift from performing regularly to creating her album, "Every Day Special" – a transition that allowed her more control over her creative work and schedule, reflecting her desire for creative autonomy and finding joy and fun in whatever she does.

Jessica Fontana is an actress, and the writer, host, co-creator, and co-executive producer of “Everyday Special”, an improvised satirical podcast. She has starred on Broadway in the title role of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella”, “Baby It's You”, and “Pipe Dream” in New York City Center's Encores! Series. She's been seen in the hit web series “Submissions Only”, and has starred in the world premiere productions at regional theaters, including the Goodspeed Opera House, Paper Mill Playhouse, Signature Theater, and Carnegie Hall. Also a songwriter, she recently released her solo debut album, “Every Day Special”.

Connect with Jessica:

• Website: www.jessica-fontana.com
• Instagram: @iamjessfontana
• Listen to “Every Day Special” Album

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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Listen in behind the scenes with this special episode featuring media room speeches from 2024 Tony Award winners Shaina Taub, Dede Ayite, Tom Scutt, George C. Wolfe, Justin Peck, Ryan Rumery, Nikiya Mathis, Will Brill, Kara Young, Daniel Radcliffe, Kecia Lewis, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, Sarah Paulson, Jonathan Groff, and Maleah Joi Moon.

Guest hosted and edited by fellow Broadway Podcast Network host Sarah Goodman! Make sure to check out her podcast too.

Connect with GOOD SHOW:

• Listen and follow the podcast at http://bpn.fm/goodshow

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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"I love this show and I love this production. This production was so much fun because it spans all theater fans, all ballroom fans, and just people who want to go have a good time will like this." This bonus episode is a recap of "CATS: The Jellicle Ball" featuring Mike and Alan Seales of the Theatre Podcast recorded immediately after seeing a preview of this incredible production. This episode contains a few spoilers about the show but gives a breakdown of the what to expect when you enter the PAC. Mike and Alan give the production high praise and rave about it from start to finish. Be sure to check out this Jellicle masterpiece during their limited run.

• Check out The Theatre Podcast on Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Check out The Theatre Podcast on Tik Tok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Check out The Theatre Podcast's Website: bpn.fm/ttp
• Get your tickets to CATS: The Jellicle Ball: pacnyc.org/whats-on/cats-the-jellicle-ball

Produced by:

Alan Seales & Broadway Podcast Network

Instagram/Twitter/Tik Tok: @TheWrongCatDied

Currently captivating audiences as Jay Gatsby in the Broadway production of “The Great Gatsby”, Jeremy shares insights into his career, both on stage and screen as we join him for a special press event discussing the upcoming pro-shot release of “Bonnie and Clyde”. After initially performing B&C on Broadway in 2011. He shares the differences between the Broadway and West End productions, especially the challenges of maintaining continuity in his costumes during the filming process, admitting that the lack of tech rehearsals with costumes led to some fun on-the-fly decisions. He also shares his favorite moment in the production, specifically "Bonnie," a solo he performs on the ukulele that makes him feel like a musician.

Jeremy Jordan is an incredibly versatile and dynamic Tony Award-nominated performer, and is currently captivating audiences as Jay Gatsby in the Broadway production of “The Great Gatsby''. He has established himself as a prominent figure in both theater and television, with credits such as “Waitress”, “Newsies”, “American Son”, “The Last Five Years”, “The Flash”, and “Supergirl” among others. Fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming pro-shot release of “Bonnie and Clyde” on June 24, 2024, where he will once again bring his extraordinary talent to the screen in the beloved musical.

Connect with Jeremy:

• Website: www.jeremy-jordan.com
• Instagram: @jeremymjordan
• Pre-order Bonnie and Clyde tickets: bonnieclydelive.com

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• Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• My personal Instagram: @alanseales

Welcome to a crossover episode of "Was it Chance" where Alan Seales and Heather Vickery peel back the layers of serendipity to uncover the hard work and opportunities behind what looks like mere chance. In today's episode, we bring you a conversation with the extremely handsome and talented Andy Mientus, a true maverick of the stage and screen. From accidentally becoming one of Broadway's first social media managers to his heartwarming experience with Dolly Parton on the set of Heartstrings, and one amazing Broadway production credit after another, Andy's journey is one you don’t want to miss. Andy shares with us his belief in staying proximate to your aspirations, even if the connection seems tangential, and how this philosophy led him to astounding opportunities—like touring with Spring Awakening and soaking in the Wicked Tour which felt like a "warm bath.” We're also have some juicy revelations—such as Alan Seales' surprising stance on Sondheim, the unexpected significance of The Met Gala for the theatre community, and the personal tales of failure that Andy calls his "close friends," teaching him resilience and the art of bouncing back. Moreover, Andy gives us a glimpse into his life beyond the stage lights. As a best-selling author of YA books and an actor who's not shied away from portraying significant LGBTQ+ roles, like the openly Gay character Hartley Rathaway in The Flash, Andy is a testament to the diverse avenues of artistic expression.

Connect with Andy on Instagram. Get his books The Backstagers series: Backstagers and The Ghost, Backstagers and The Theater of the Ancients, Backstagers and the Final Blackout as well as his latest book, Fraternity.

• Make sure to follow this podcast everywhere you find podcasts, leave a rating and a review, and slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance.
• More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files

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Eden Espinosa’s performance as Tamara in “Lempicka” garnered her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical…and she’s not guilty about it. She highlights both the triumphs and tribulations of her career – from being a part of Colby's Clubhouse and working at Disneyland when she was young to dealing with rejections and criticisms. Maybe best known for her role in “Wicked”, she shares how she got involved with the show (thanks to fellow Disney performer Stephanie J. Block) and why chose to be a standby over understudy. She delves into her recent role in the musical "Lempicka", how she auditioned for the part, and why ever since then, she made sure it was in her contract that if she had to be replaced, they’d have to pay her. She opens up about the challenges faced by the production, including dealing with its unexpected closing. She reflects on the importance of authentic representation, particularly in portraying queer characters, and the responsibility she feels to honor such roles. Eden shares a memorable interaction with an audience member during the show’s final performance, where she broke character to address a disruptive phone use incident. Despite the show’s sudden closing, Eden’s motivation to connect with others in any way, shape, or form is definitely not going anywhere.

Eden Espinosa made her Broadway debut in 2003 in the original cast of “Wicked” as the Elphaba standby and Nessarose understudy. She also garnered critical acclaim playing Elphaba full-time in the sit-down productions in Los Angeles and San Francisco. She originated the lead role in the show “Brooklyn” in 2004, before going on to the closing company of “Rent” as Maureen in 2008. She graced the screen with roles in shows like “Rapunzel's Tangled Adventure”, and “Alice's Wonderland Bakery” for which she earned an Emmy nomination for her portrayal of Queen of Hearts in 2022. She has two complete solo albums to her name, “Look Around” and “Revelation”, and most recently, her performance in the world premiere of “Lempicka” garnered her a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical.

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• Website: www.edenespinosa.com
• Instagram: @edenespinosa

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Dorian Harewood's career journey is anything but ordinary, and he's got three wonderful women (and luck) to thank for it. And after over 45 years, he’s back on the Broadway stage as Older Noah in “The Notebook”. He shares what made him want to come back, owing it to his manager who pushed him to audition for the role. With almost 200 credits under his name, he looks back on what got him to performing – from starting as a singer and auditioning for a four-year scholarship as advised by his teacher to moving to New York at 22 and doing a musical with the legendary Bette Davis, who also became his acting mentor. He looks back on his first acting role, “Don’t Call Back”, and why even though the show opened and closed the same night, it led him to even better opportunities. Being in an industry inherent to rejection and hardship, he discusses the necessity of having hobbies outside of one's profession and pursuing one's passion to help navigate life's challenges. Aside from theater, he actually has more passions: bowling, pool, and blackjack and shares the importance of respecting passions other than theater, whatever they may be, in order to stay happy and healthy. Currently starring as Older Noah in Broadway’s “The Notebook”, he talks about the challenge of keeping performances fresh for the audience and the communal experience live theater offers. With so many accomplishments and lasting legacy to leave behind, Dorian isn’t done learning new things. He shares his philosophy of viewing every day as a "birthday" and a new beginning, expressing gratitude for life itself.

Dorian Harwood made his Broadway acting debut in the 1971 production of “The Two Gentlemen of Verona”. His additional Broadway credits include “The Mighty Gents”, “Streamers”, and “Don't Call Back”. He pivoted to TV and film for almost the next 50 years, racking up a total of 187 credits on IMDb. His film credits include “Gothika”, “Levity”, “Pacific Heights”, and “Full Metal Jacket”. His TV credits include “7th Heaven”, “Criminal Minds”, “Twelve Angry Men”, and “The Roots: The Next Generations”. He's a voiceover artist for cartoons and video games and is now a Tony-nominated actor for his role as Older Noah in “The Notebook” on Broadway, which also happens to be his first time back on the Broadway stage since 1978.

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• Website: www.dorianharewood.com
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If there’s one lesson to take away from Rick Elice’s life story, it’s to never say no to a free lunch. He shares anecdotes from his past, including childhood memories of seeing theatre productions that got him to pursue acting and getting fired for his first Broadway show as an actor. While he’s always loved theatre, Rick also looks back on the beginning of his advertising career, which happened at a musical’s opening night at the Public Theatre where he found himself standing next to Matthew Serino. With so many successful stints and an amazing career trajectory, he likens himself to a pinball, getting flipped from one project to the next. Having written the book for Broadway’s “The Addams Family”, he recalls the show’s timeline and why the national tour became a much more successful version of the story then they had originally written. He talks about his latest work, “Water for Elephants”, and the show’s universal themes of belonging and loss. He reflects on his personal experiences, including grief over the loss of his partner that deeply influenced his approach to writing the musical – emphasizing the importance of storytelling as a way to connect with the audience and to provide comfort to those who feel marginalized or unheard. Ultimately, he talks about his motivations and inspirations in life, citing the beauty of the world and his sense of his own unimportance as the main ones.

Rick Elice is a four time Tony Award nominated author, a playwright, an actor, a teacher, and an entrepreneur who has been involved in the Broadway scene in one form or another since 1979. In 1982, he became the creative director of Serino Coyne, Inc., one of the top theatrical marketing agencies in New York, and then became a creative consultant for the Walt Disney Studio from 1999 to 2008. His first Broadway credit as a book writer aka playwright was “Jersey Boys”, which opened in 2005, and led him to write the stories, the books for the Broadway shows of “The Addams Family”, “Peter and the Starcatcher”, “The Cher Show”, and now, “Water for Elephants”, which just nabbed him his fourth Tony nomination. Rick is also writing the books for “The Princess Bride” musical, and “Smash” musical, among others.

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Liza lovers, this episode is for you! We had the incredible Bruce David Klein, director of the brand new documentary, "LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story," in the virtual studio dishing all about the film and the legendary Liza Minnelli herself. The first and only documentary Liza has personally approved and allowed herself to appear in, Klein pulls back the curtain on Liza's life and career, from her childhood under the spotlight with Judy Garland to her own meteoric rise and the challenges she's faced along the way. This is an exclusive look you won't want to miss! Tune in for behind-the-scenes secrets, never-before-heard stories, and all the reasons why we adore Liza Minnelli.

See the world premiere of the documentary at the 2024 Tribeca film festival: https://tribecafilm.com/films/liza-a-truly-terrific-absolutely-true-story-2024

Emmy-nominated filmmaker Bruce David Klein is a force behind some of your favorite documentaries and television shows. Founder of Atlas Media Corp., Klein has directed, written, and produced across various platforms. Whether it's exploring the eccentric world of rock legend Meat Loaf or diving into the high-stakes world of finance with "Icahn: The Restless Billionaire," Klein consistently brings captivating stories to life.

Connect with Bruce

• Get tix to see the film
• IG: @atlasmediacorp

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For Tony Award winner Maryann Plunkett, she will always be a shy person. But thanks to theatre she's learned how to enter a room and own it. Currently playing as Older Allie in the Broadway adaptation of "The Notebook," Maryann delves into her approach to embodying the character, the collaborative process with her co-stars and director, and the importance of observing her fellow actors to create a seamless portrayal of Allie across three different ages. With previous experiences on Broadway, she notes that her last starring role in a Broadway musical was in 1987. She reflects on her decision to return to musicals, and how she resonates with “The Notebook”, seeing her role as a way to honor her mother who lived with dementia and showcase the importance of entering the world of those affected rather than dismissing their experiences. Maryann gets more personal as she talks about her family, how she met her husband on an episode of a television show, and their first kiss… which was actually scripted and caught on film. Growing up shy, she opens up about overcoming her struggles through theatre, and “the power and strength in living one's life in a way that one can be proud of.”

Maryan Plunkett is a celebrated actress and singer who has captivated audiences on both Broadway and the screen for decades. Her career began on the prestigious stages of New York, most notably with her Broadway debut as Sister Agnes in “Agnes of God”, but it was her portrayal of Sally Smith in “Me and My Girl” that truly launched her into the spotlight and earned her a coveted Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical in 1987. She has delivered powerful performances in plays, including but not limited to Arthur Miller's “The Crucible”, “Sunday in the Park with George”, replacing Bernadette Peters, “A Little Hotel on the Side”, “The Master Builder”, and “A Man for All Seasons”. She also spent 12 years doing Richard Nelson's “Rhinebeck Panorama”. Her TV and film credits include “Bull”, “Chicago Med”, “Little Women”, “Blue Valentine”, “Dr. Death”, and “Manifest”. She can now be seen as Older Allie in “The Notebook” on Broadway, which just nabbed her another Tony award nomination.

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Four time Tony Awards nominee David Korins lets us into his world as he talks about his creative process and the intricacies of set design. He shares insights into his work's detailed and often granular nature, emphasizing the importance of even the smallest elements in creating a believable world for actors and audiences alike. He discusses set design for complex productions like “Beetlejuice”, and how he and director Alex Timbers viewed the house as a character itself, which led to numerous model versions to perfect the design. For “Hamilton”, he recounts starting with imaginative sketches and how the final design emerged through collaboration and feedback. While it might not make sense to the audience at times, David underscores the importance of (unseen) detailed set elements, and how they play an important role in helping actors perform authentically. He reflects on coming up with set designs for different mediums and finding new techniques to make his visions come to life, highlighting the evolving role of technology in set design and using Dear Evan Hansen and “The Who’s Tommy” as examples. With countless visions realized, David reveals that ultimately, he gets his motivation from the desire to help others realize their own.

David Korins is an internationally recognized award-winning creative director and designer responsible for creating 360-degree, fully immersive, holistic experiences for some of the biggest stars, brands, and events worldwide and in theatre and Broadway. He brought to life the environments for smash hits like “Hamilton”, “Dear Evan Hansen”, “Beetlejuice”, and “Mrs. Doubtfire”, among many others. He's worked as a creative director for Mariah Carey, Kanye West, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Sia, and Andrea Bocelli to bring their musical visions to the stage. His film and TV experience includes series on HBO, CBS, Bravo, IFC, and PBS. He received the 2016 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special for “Grease: Live”. His scenic designs were seen last season in the play, “Just for Us”, and this season's “Here Lies Love” and “The Who’s Tommy”.

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• Instagram: @davidkorins
• Twitter: @DavidKorins

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Thanks to her competitiveness in sports and being a “terrible loser”, Hannah Cruz found her way into performing and theatre. She shares insights into her journey, including going viral on YouTube and getting asked to audition for “Legally Blonde”, and eventually moving to New York. She opens up about the pressures of performing, including the constant self-doubt and anxiety she experiences, her struggles with perfectionism, and the internal battle to find validation in her work. Having played complex characters such as Eliza in “Hamilton”, and Robin in “The Connector”, she sheds light on the emotional depth required to portray them, the research process involved in preparing for these roles, and the personal connections she has forged with her characters. As someone who learned from her co-actors’ tough love, Hannah believes that for musical theatre, you don’t necessarily have to go to school to be the best. Currently making her Broadway debut as Inez Milholland in “SUFFS”, she shares how it differs from pre-Broadway, why silence is essential (and powerful) in a show, and the importance of providing the most truthful performance to the audience.

Hannah Cruz was most recently seen in the off-Broadway production of “The Connector”. Her additional off-Broadway credits include “Only Gold” and “SUFFS”. On tour and regionally, she was seen in “Hamilton”, “Bullets Over Broadway”, “The Da Vinci Code”, and “Young Frankenstein”. She is now making her Broadway debut in the Broadway transfer of “SUFFS”, playing the incomparable Inez Milholland.

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• Instagram: @thisishannahcruz
• Twitter: @heyhannahcruz

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Brent Comer caught the theater bug by accident in high school when he signed up for musical theatre class instead of a news casting class – and he hasn’t stopped performing since. While it was cut short for a bit during the pandemic, his passion for performing did not waver. He opens up about his struggles as an actor during the lockdown, learning how to do self-tapes, and why it hurt his heart to see a Zoom musical because the whole magic for him was being present. Currently starring as Daryl Curtis in the Broadway production of “The Outsiders,” he shares insights into his character, Danya Taymor’s unique audition process, and the broader themes explored in the show. Growing up in a household of predominantly male family members, he reflects on the impact of his upbringing on his portrayal of Daryl, highlighting the character's struggle to communicate and be seen authentically. He reflects on the authenticity of human interactions in contrast to what he terms as "robotic pleasantries", and the importance of experiencing life and connecting with others to fuel artistic creativity.

Brent Comer is an actor previously seen in the “Les Misérables” National Tour and in the La Jolla production of “The Outsiders”. He just made his Broadway debut as Daryl Curtis at the Broadway production of “The Outsiders,” which was also recently nominated for 12 Tony Awards.

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• Instagram: @_brentcomer_

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Jason Schmidt and Alan Seales discussed their experiences in music and acting, including the challenges of pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. Schmidt shared his personal approach to writing music, drawing from his own experiences and emotions, while I emphasized the importance of authenticity and perseverance in the face of hardships. Both speakers highlighted the transformative potential of artistic expression in healing personal struggles. We both shared our experiences as an outsider in various contexts, including high school and a Broadway production of "The Outsiders"'

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• IG/TikTok: @jason.s.schmidt

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A multifaceted talent known for his work as a book writer, composer, and lyricist, Justin Levine delves deep into the creative process behind his works, particularly "The Outsiders" musical adaptation. He draws parallels between his work on that production and his involvement with "Moulin Rouge." He also discusses the balance of honoring the original source material while also infusing the adaptation with a fresh perspective and vision. He shares how the team encourages each other to contribute ideas beyond their traditional roles, emphasizing the collaborative nature of musical theater and describing the process as a relay race. Justin challenges stereotypes about musical theater, arguing that it's a misunderstood art form with deep cultural significance. He highlights the influence of musicals on popular music and culture – as proven when he was asked by Anna Wintour to do the music for the Met Gala to celebrate Broadway coming back. With long credits under his name, he still encourages people to prioritize personal well-being, maintain meaningful relationships, and pursue work that aligns with one's passions above anything else.

Justin Levine is a theater book writer, lyricist, music supervisor, and orchestral arranger with Broadway credits that include “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson”, “Moulin Rouge!”, and “Here Lies Love”. His additional credits include creating original music for Shakespeare in the Park’s “A Midsummer Night's Dream”, arranging vocals for Vevo x Lorde - Melodrama, music directing “Love's Labour's Lost”, music directing “The Robber Bridegroom” at the Roundabout Theatre, and music directing “Murder Ballad” at MTC and Union Square Theatre. He is now the co-book writer, co-lyricist, music supervisor, and orchestral arranger for Broadway’s “The Outsiders”.

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• Instagram: @justinlevine

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For Brody Grant, his bug for performing all started with his love for Star Wars. He shares insights into his journey from being a shy kid and relating to the original "The Outsiders" book to receiving a Tony nomination for his role as Ponyboy (it’s just destiny!). He reflects on the significance of the book and how it resonated with both him and his mom, one of the most important people in his life. Brody discusses his initial audition experience, feeling uncertain about pursuing acting amidst his focus on music and songwriting. His passion for acting and love for "The Outsiders" persisted, eventually leading to his casting as Soda Pop and later as Ponyboy. Brody highlights the supportive and collaborative environment fostered by their director, Danya Taymor, emphasizing the importance of chosen family and genuine connections among the cast members. He shares moments of vulnerability and bonding during rehearsals, where checking in with one another became a norm, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie. Nominated for the Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, he recalls how he found out about it through his mom, and the overwhelming support he got from his family and friends–proving that “if you continue to water the seed of the garden that you're in, you're going to end up with a forest and it's going to be beautiful.”

Brody Grant is a New York-based, multi-hyphenate independent recording artist who has appeared in productions like “Parade” at the New York City Center and “The Outsiders” at La Jolla Playhouse. He just made his Broadway debut in “The Outsiders” as Ponyboy Michael Curtis, which has already nabbed him a Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical.

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Emma Pittman’s been “live, laugh, love-ing” dance ever since she was two years old–at least until she discovered in high school that it’s best partnered with acting. She looks back on her “The Search for Roxie” experience, winning and not being able to tell it to anyone right away, and the show getting postponed because of the pandemic. She shares her journey with the production of “The Outsiders”, including her early connection with the show, having read the book and performed in a play adaptation in high school. Emma describes the unique ensemble-based approach of the play and how it resonated with her. One standout moment she discusses is her audition process for the play, highlighting the personal connection established by director Danya Tamor, who prioritized genuine conversations with the actors during the audition process. Emma opens up about her personal experiences, including her life in high school and the challenge of breaking free from preconceived notions. She also talks about the impact of "The Outsiders" on younger audiences, and the profound effect of the show's raw and visceral scenes, particularly the rumble. In an industry where it’s easy to get boxed into a particular type, Emma imparts advice on embracing one's uniqueness and staying true to oneself wherever you go.

Emma Pittman is a Mississippi native who graduated from New York City's Wagner College. In late 2019, she won “The Search for Roxie”, an online contest to find the next Roxie for “Chicago” on Broadway. After she won, she made her Broadway debut in 2022, replacing Pamela Anderson. Her regional credits include Janet in the drowsy chaperone and Lola in damn Yankees. She's also a teaching artist, a director, and a choreographer. Her choreography credits include “On the 20th Century,” “In the Woods,” and “The Cradle Will Rock”. She was part of the original cast of Broadway’s “Back to the Future,” and is now making audiences cry eight times a week as Cherry Valance in “The Outsiders”, which just received 12 Tony nominations.

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Rick and Jeff Kuperman talk about their roles as choreographers for the Broadway production of "The Outsiders," diving deep into various aspects of the show's creation, from choreography and staging to its technical elements like sound and lighting. The two share how their collaboration with Danya Taymor began, their non-traditional theatre practices, and the story behind “The Outsiders” choreography, particularly the rumble scene. Apart from theatre and directing, Rick and Jeff share their other interests, such as Jeff's appreciation for Russian literature and Rick's fascination with philosophical introspection. With their success, the two reflect on the role of luck and how things aligned for them, the pride they take in their work, and the collaborative aspect of their job, highlighting the importance of teamwork, creativity, and dedication to storytelling.

Rick and Jeff Kuperman is a directing and choreographing team with many projects that you've seen on stage and screen. Their recent highlights include co-directing and choreographing the immersive show from the producers of “Sleep No More”, choreographing a new musical adaptation of “The Outsiders”, which just opened, and choreographing “Alice by Heart” which won the Lucille Lortel Award, the Chita Rivera Award, and the Callaway Award for Outstanding Choreography. They've also worked on “Cyrano” with Peter Dinklage, Phish at Madison Square Garden, and choreographed the feature film, “Dicks: The Musical”, which you can find streaming online. Other camera work includes “Living With Yourself” with Paul Rudd, and “Silent Retreat”.

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• Website: kupermanbrothers.com
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Welcome to the first of many episodes for 'The Outsiders' takeover here on the podcast!

Tony Award Nominee(!) Danya Taymor didn’t know that she was going to stick with theater until she was towards the end of her college career. She’s enjoyed being a director (or the captain of the ship, as they say) since then. She recalls doing plays in Duke and why it was a gift that allowed her to try and fail, and hone her directing style. Currently manning the ship for Broadway’s Tony Award Nominated “The Outsiders”, she discusses her experiences leading up to the opening night of the show, her creative process, and the challenges of bringing a beloved story to the stage. As a director, she emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of the collective health of a project and knowing when to stop working on it. She talks about how the show resonates with the younger audiences, her approach to make the show appealing and relatable to the youth, and the warmup they do every day to cultivate a safe space for the actors and crew. Dayna also looks back on her experience directing "Pass Over," the first Broadway show to reopen after the shutdown due to the pandemic. She describes it as an honor and a divine experience, and how it has been a blessing throughout her career. She shares the collaborative nature of directing, the importance of caring for actors' well-being and feeling their energies, and her belief in the healing power of theater.

Danya Taymor is a New York-based director who reopened Broadway with the play, “Pass Over”. Her other works include the out-of-town production of “The Outsiders”, Samuel Beckett's “Endgame”, Will Arbery's Pulitzer Prize finalist, “Heroes of the Fourth Turning”, “Evanston Salt Costs Climbing”, and Jeremy O'Harris’ “Daddy”. She's the recipient of the Joan Cullman Award for Extraordinary Creativity from Lincoln Center. Her latest credit is the Broadway production of “The Outsiders”, which just opened at the Jacobs Theater.

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• Website: about.me/danyataymor

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Full list of 2024 nominees here: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/30/theater/tony-awards-nominations.html

Find more of The Theatre Podcast at http://bpn.fm/ttp

Best Musical

- Hell's Kitchen

- Illinoise

- The Outsiders

- Suffs

- Water for Elephants

Best Play

- Jaja's African Hair Braiding, Author: Jocelyn Bioh

- Mary Jane, Author: Amy Herzog

- Mother Play, Author: Paula Vogel

- Prayer for the French Republic, Author: Joshua Harmon

- Stereophonic, Author: David Adjmi

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play

- William Jackson Harper, Uncle Vanya

- Leslie Odom, Jr., Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch

- Liev Schreiber, Doubt: A Parable

- Jeremy Strong, An Enemy of the People

- Michael Stuhlbarg, Patriots

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play

- Betsy Aidem, Prayer for the French Republic

- Jessica Lange, Mother Play

- Rachel McAdams, Mary Jane

- Sarah Paulson, Appropriate

- Amy Ryan, Doubt: A Parable

Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical

- Brody Grant, The Outsiders

- Jonathan Groff, Merrily We Roll Along

- Dorian Harewood, The Notebook

- Brian d'Arcy James, Days of Wine and Roses

- Eddie Redmayne, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club

Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical

- Eden Espinosa, Lempicka

- Maleah Joi Moon, Hell's Kitchen

- Kelli O'Hara, Days of Wine and Roses

- Maryann Plunkett, The Notebook

- Gayle Rankin, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play

- Will Brill, Stereophonic

- Eli Gelb, Stereophonic

- Jim Parsons, Mother Play

- Tom Pecinka, Stereophonic

- Corey Stoll, Appropriate

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play

- Quincy Tyler Bernstine, Doubt: A Parable

- Juliana Canfield, Stereophonic

- Celia Keenan-Bolger, Mother Play

- Sarah Pidgeon, Stereophonic

- Kara Young, Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch

Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical

- Roger Bart, Back To The Future: The Musical

- Joshua Boone, The Outsiders

- Brandon Victor Dixon, Hell's Kitchen

- Sky Lakota-Lynch, The Outsiders

- Daniel Radcliffe, Merrily We Roll Along

- Steven Skybell, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club

Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical

- Shoshana Bean, Hell's Kitchen

- Amber Iman, Lempicka

- Nikki M. James, Suffs

- Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer, Monty Python's Spamalot

- Kecia Lewis, Hell's Kitchen

- Lindsay Mendez, Merrily We Roll Along

- Bebe Neuwirth, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club

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Jayne Atkinson believes she has this kind of magic superpower of getting what she wants if she puts her attention to it, and she’s got a long list of credits to prove just that. She looks back on her childhood and having an English sensibility (and sense of humor) even though she grew up in America. She credits her high school drama teacher as the one who gave her the foundation of her work, and thinks fellow classmate Michael Greif is her “theatre angel”. Jayne talks about her latest play, "Still," which she stars in alongside her old friend Tim Daly. She shares the story of what made her say yes to the play after receiving the script from Will Rucker, and the show’s themes of love, connection, and the importance of listening to each other. Jayne gets real as she reflects on the impact of technology on human connection, why she thinks “the SAG strike didn’t hit some of the issues it needed to hit”, and the significance of live theater, especially today. With a successful acting career and so many credits under her name, she shares her personal motivations, advising aspirants to prioritize self-care and enjoyment in auditions.

Jayne Atkinson is a British American actress who's graced everything from Broadway's grand stages to popular television shows. You might recognize her from her Emmy-nominated role as Karen Hayes on “24” or her powerful performances in “House of Cards” and “Criminal Minds”. Her accolades extend far beyond the screen, including Tony Award nominations for her captivating theater work in the 2000 production of “The Rainmaker” and the 2003 production of “Enchanted April”. Her other TV and film credits include “Parenthood”, “A Year in the Life”, “Gossip Girl”, “Madam Secretary”, and “Death and Other Details”. Jayne is also a three-time Drama Desk Award nominee. She was last seen on stage starring alongside Angela Lansbury in “Blithe Spirit”, and can now be seen in the off-Broadway production of “Still” at the DR2 Theater.

Connect with Jayne:

• Instagram: @jayneatkinsonofficial

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A lot has changed since Izzy McCalla first appeared in episode 38 back in 2019 and she’s more than happy to share the latest news in her journey – from her early roles to now playing Marlena in "Water for Elephants." She reflects on how each role built her confidence and prepared her for new challenges, her tendency to gravitate towards ensemble pieces, and her ability to go back and forth between the comedic and dramatic genres. Izzy opens up about the challenges of replacing actors in established shows, the pressure of delivering in front of audiences, and the process of finding inner peace and self-acceptance. She shares an important lesson on being funny on stage, and that nothing kills comedy faster than hesitation and anxiety. Currently playing as Marlena in “Water for Elephants,” she talks about the character’s complexities, and her evolving perspective on love, relationships, and self-worth. She also discusses her Haitian heritage and its personal connection to her role, sharing her family's history and how they immigrated to Haiti with the Danish circus. Izzy gets real as she opens up about vulnerability, self-discovery, her tendency to fix others, and the importance of setting boundaries while maintaining empathy as she navigates emotional growth.

Izzy McCalla first appeared in episode 38 back in 2019 and our special 150th Pride episode in June of 2021. Since then, she has added more credits, including the Paper Mill Playhouse production of “Clue” and “Hercules”, and “Footloose” at the Kennedy Center, and was part of the closing cast of "Shucked" earlier this year. She’s currently part of the recently opened production of “Water for Elephants” as Marlena.

Connect with Izzy:

• Instagram: @izzymccalla

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Andrew Samonsky believes that Jerry Garcia’s death (yes that Jerry Garcia) may have instigated his performance career in some way. From being a “deadhead” to becoming a Broadway actor, Andrew opens up about his years of following the Grateful Dead and dealing with drug problems that led him to go to rehab. Lost and feeling helpless, he decided to pray to help find his path. He soon received a letter from his old voice teacher encouraging him to pursue a career in singing, and the rest is history. He looks back on his childhood, his love for singing despite being a shy kid, and how, ultimately, theatre and its community are what saved him during his troubled years. Currently playing as Tadeusz Lempicki in “Lempicka”, Andrew shares the story behind his cosmic connection to the show, which goes all the way back to 22 years ago and a random interaction with the Peace Corps. He discusses the challenges and joys of originating a role, the importance of trust and collaboration between actors and creative teams, and the feeling of gratitude for the opportunity to bring characters to life and how it can impact audiences.

Andrew Samonsky made his Broadway debut in the 2008 production of “South Pacific” and has additional Broadway credits, including “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, and “Scandalous: The Life and Trials of Aimee Semple McPherson”. His TV credits include “Madam Secretary”, “It Could Be Worse”, and “Elementary”. He can now be seen as Tadeusz Lempicki in the Broadway production of “Lempicka”. 

Connect with Andrew:

• Instagram: @asamonsky

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Ryan Vasquez looks back on his career journey, including living with French acrobats in a seven-bedroom house while doing a show, and eventually booking Hamilton. Playing as many characters as he has in Hamilton was to him just “paid therapy”. Having passed up competing offers to star in Water for Elephants and The Outsiders, he is now starring as Middle Noah in "The Notebook", Ryan opens up about why he chose to be part of the show–believing in its impact and just how it personally hits him hard. He reflects on the various aspects of the show, from having diverse couples portray the different stages of Noah and Allie's relationship to witnessing the audience cry and experience deep emotions during performances. He also discusses the misconception that the show is purely about sadness, noting that it touches on a range of emotions like joy and self-actualization. Ryan also talks about her chemistry with his co-star Joy Woods and how much real life fun they have performing together. Aware that he's stepping into an iconic role, he reveals that he doesn't feel pressured but instead focuses more on the importance of bringing his own authenticity to the character. After all, it’s what motivates him: bringing his “authentic-isms” and self to the world.

Ryan Vasquez can probably reenact all of Hamilton on his own having played multiple roles in the ensemble, including Philip Schuyler, Reynolds, Hercules Mulligan, James Madison, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr, and ultimately, the title role of Hamilton himself. He has been in “Wicked” as Fiyero and other roles, and in Broadway's production of “Waitress”. He can be seen on both the big and little screens in “The Good Fight”, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, “Tick, Tick... Boom!”, and “In the Heights”. He can now be seen as Middle Noah in the Broadway cast of “The Notebook”.

Connect with Ryan:

• Website: www.ryanvasqueznyc.com
• Instagram: @itsryanvasquez

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Join us for an extraordinary deep dive inside the most transformative decade on Broadway through gripping behind-the-scenes accounts of shows such as Sunset Boulevard, Rent, Angels in America, Chicago, The Lion King, and The Producers - shows that changed the history of the American theater. Host Michael Riedel, author of the best-selling book Singular Sensation: The Triumph of Broadway, has created a companion podcast featuring his never-before-heard, taped audio interviews with legendary artists from Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim, Patti LuPone, and so many more.

Michael presents the drama behind the decade’s mega-hits and shocking flops, bringing readers into high-stakes premieres, fraught rehearsals, tough contract negotiations, intense Tony Award battles, and more. From the bitter feuds to the surprising collaborations, all the intrigue of a revolutionary era in the Theater District is packed into Singular Sensation. Broadway has triumphs and disasters, but the show always goes on.

Enjoy Singular Sensation: The Podcast everywhere you get your podcasts or use http://bpn.fm/singularsensation to listen and learn more, and be sure to get the book here: https://amzn.to/4cNdfO3.

You don't have as much time as you think you do, so you better be prepared. At least that’s how Joy Woods lives her life. She shares how she caught the acting bug, starting as a dancer but eventually fell in love with theatre and acting. She looks back on her time in “Little Shop of Horrors”, her audition process in “SIX The Musical” and the sisterhood among cast members. She moved around during the pandemic, “broke, alone and free”, realizing that part of her needed that freedom to grow. Now starring as Middle Allie in Broadway’s “The Notebook”, Joy talks about the different aspects of the show, including the depth of its characters, and the unique experience of performing in a production that resonates deeply with audiences while also invoking intense feelings of nostalgia. She reflects on her personal connection to her character, and the things she’s learned about herself in the process.

Joy Woods made her Broadway debut in 2022, taking over the role of Catherine Parr in “Six The Musical”. She was part of the ongoing hit production of the off-broadway production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” returning to play the role of Audrey in 2023 after originating the role of Chiffon in the original 2019 revival cast. Her additional credits include the 2020 production of “Mac & Mabel” at City Center on Chorus!, the viral “Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical”, and a 2023 production of “I Can Get It For You Wholesale” off-Broadway, and a 2023 production of “Dreamgirls,” which took place at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. She has just opened “The Notebook” on Broadway as Middle Allie. 

Connect with Joy:

• Instagram: @joynwoods
• TikTok: @joynwoods

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Cayleigh Capaldi may have the perfect pitch, but she’s not letting perfectionism get in the way of finding who she is as an individual and as a performer. She delves into her background, growing up surrounded by artists, and how it helped her embrace her talents. She also reflects on her role in “Titanique”, the challenges and joys of portraying Celine Dion, including incorporating her own style while honoring the character's legacy, and how the show helped her grow as a performer. Now part of “Figaro: An Original Musical”, she shares her involvement in the musical and the collaborative process behind recording the album. Cayleigh candidly shares her unique vocal abilities, and what actually happens to her throat muscles when she does a whistle tone. Having millions of views and thousands of followers on her social media, she talks about how it all started during the pandemic, and how she eventually found and established her niche–giving her a new and different avenue to be creative and express herself.

Cayleigh Capaldi is an actress and singer whose performance career started at the age of three and was recording professional vocals by the age of seven. She had her undergraduate studies in music and East Asian studies at Columbia University and trained in acting and performance at New York University Tisch School of the Arts, AMDA, and AADA. She hosted the “Discovery Channel Europe and China's Hangzhou Global Tour”, and has a massive following on social media where she's known for her incredible riff challenges, harmonies, whistle-tone videos, and perfect pitch videos. Her stage credits include “Tatanique”, “Frozen”, “Macbeth”, “Into the Woods”, and “Little Women” among others. Cayleigh can now be heard leading a brand new world premiere cast recording called “Figaro: An Original Musical”.

In addition to her film, TV, and theater credits, Cayleigh has amassed an impressive social media following of over 275K followers. Her fanbase has grown primarily on TikTok, where she has gained over 7 million total likes, 80 million views, and countless viral videos. She is best known for her riff challenges, harmonies, covers, and her musical theater & lifestyle content.

Connect with Cayleigh:

• Website: www.cayleighcapaldi.com
• Instagram: @cayleigh.capaldi
• TikTok: @cayleigh.capaldi
• Learn more about Figaro: An Original Musical: https://www.figaromusical.com/

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John Tartaglia believes everything happens for a reason, and his career trajectory is a testament to this. He lets us into the world of puppetry and theatre as he shares his experiences, and how he got started in pursuing his “dual dream” of becoming a successful puppeteer and performing on Broadway. He talks about the influence of Jim Henson in his career, how devastated he was when Jim died, and how one earnest letter he sent Jim when he was eight years old led to working for “Sesame Street” as a puppeteer at the age of 16. He reflects on the profound impact of puppetry on audiences, recalling heartwarming moments from doing shows. He also talks about the process of creating characters for shows like “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock”, and finding the balance between practical puppetry and CGI. John offers advice to young puppeteers and performers, encouraging them to trust their passion, ignore naysayers, and being as certain in your dreams as possible.

John Tartaglia is an Emmy and Tony award nominated actor who began his professional career at age 16 as a puppeteer for “Sesame Street”. His Broadway debut in “Avenue Q” earned him a Tony nomination for originating the dual roles of Princeton and Rod. His other Broadway credits include Lumière in “Beauty and the Beast” and originating Pinocchio and the Magic Mirror in “Shrek The Musical” on Broadway. He has received eight Emmy Award nominations for “Johnny and the Sprites” on Disney Junior, a show that he created, executive produced, and starred in. John is also an executive producer, director, writer, and radio personality. He most recently wrapped filming season two of “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock”, and this time he is also the creative supervisor for the whole series.

Connect with John:

• Website: www.johntartagliaproductions.com
• Instagram: @johnnytartags
• Facebook: @John-Tartaglia
• Cameo: www.cameo.com/johnnytartags/book

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Powerhouse actors Cecily Strong and Andrea Syglowski provide insights into their acting careers, and how they navigated life’s complexities throughout their journey. The two talk about the show they currently co-star in,“Brooklyn Laundry”, their admiration for playwright John Patrick Shanley, and the play’s portrayal of women. Cecily opens up about how she relates to the play’s themes, reflecting on her own experiences of loss and self-discovery, particularly the loss of her cousin to brain cancer and the impact it had on her outlook on life and love. This loss inspired her to write her memoir, "This Will All Be Over Soon". She recalls her time on SNL, and what made her shift from comedy to “serious acting”. Andrea shares her love for teaching acting, how she deals with uncertainties. Both recall their motivations for pursuing careers in the theater, highlighting the joy of storytelling and the opportunity to connect with audiences, and perseverance.

Andrea Syglowski is an actress who was last seen in “DIG” at Primary Stages. Her additional stage credits include Broadway's “Passover”, off-Broadway’s “Halfway Bitches Go Straight to Heaven” and “queens”. Her TV credits include “Evil”, “New Amsterdam”, “Blue Bloods”, “Elementary”, “The Good Wife”, and “How to Get Away with Murder”. 

Cecily Strong is best known for her work as a cast member on Saturday Night Live from 2012 to 2022, which garnered her multiple Emmy Award nominations. She was most recently seen on Apple TV's hit musical series, “Schmigadoon!”, in addition to film credits that include “The Female Brain”, the recent “Ghostbusters” reboot, as well as Melissa McCarthy's “The Boss”, “The Bronze”, and “The Meddler”. She made her New York stage debut in 2021 and hasn't looked back since. 

Together, Andrea and Cecily are 50% of the four-member cast of “Brooklyn Laundry”, a world premiere play written by Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, John Patrick Shanley.

Connect with Cecily and Andrea:

• Instagram: @justcaseylikes
• Twitter: @justcaseylikes
• TikTok: @justcaseylikes

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Schele Williams has never been afraid to immerse herself in the thing that she loves in order to achieve what she wants. She reflects on her journey, the motivations and support from her family, and the significance of storytelling in her life, which has led her to where she is today. She shares how she chooses which projects to work on, given her busy schedule, her creative process, and making sure to foster a sense of involvement and connection with her children in whatever she does. She also emphasizes the importance of building relationships throughout her career and creating a supportive network. While she’s accomplished so many things already, Schele opens up about dealing with imposter syndrome, particularly when transitioning to new roles, and how she overcame it. Currently co-directing “The Notebook”, Schele explains the conscious choice to diversify the casting in the show, which aims to make the story more inclusive and relatable to a broader audience. We also dive into her excitement about directing “The Wiz”, its impactful storytelling, how it celebrates blackness, friendship, and courage, and the joy of seeing children in the audience.

Schele Williams is a Broadway director who was originally pursuing her dreams of playing with the London Philharmonic Orchestra as a teenager. She eventually became an actor with credits, including both “RENT” and “Aida” on Broadway, leading her to become dance captain for “RENT” on Broadway and an associate choreographer for the tour. She uncovered her true calling to being a director. She associate-directed “Motown the Musical” on Broadway, and is currently working on a stage adaptation of “Hidden Figures”. She is also co-directing “The Notebook” alongside Michael Greif, which just opened on Broadway, and is also solo directing the incoming extremely highly-anticipated production of “The Wiz”, scheduled to open on April 17th at the Marquis Theater–the first black woman to direct a Broadway musical in over 50 years.

Connect with Schele:

• Website: schelewilliams.com
• Instagram: @schelewilliams

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Ali became enamored by the idea of performing since he was a kid as a way to study the human condition. He looks back on his multicultural upbringing that blends American and Moroccan influences, and his journey into acting and performing, revealing his passion for storytelling. Despite growing up surrounded by artists, he opens up feeling alone at one point when his dad wasn’t fully on board with his dream of pursuing an acting career yet. Playing the lead role in the production of “The Who’s Tommy”, Ali shares his involvement in the show, highlighting his deep dive into the music and ethos of The Who for his role. He also talks about the cathartic nature of performing and the immersive experience of being on stage, as well as its unique format, which eliminates applause during the show to maintain uninterrupted storytelling and for the audience to fully immerse themselves into the story.

Ali Louis Bourzgui is one of the industry's newest rising stars who truly embraces what makes him unique. He recently just finished the first national tour of “Company 1st”. He was previously in the national tour of “The Band’s Visit” and originated the role of young amazing Yosef in The Goodman’s World Premiere play, “Layalina”. Apart from that, he’s also an accomplished voiceover artist. You can hear him in the popular podcast, “Quiet Part Loud”, produced by Jordan Peele. He is also a jazz artist, a guitar player, and a songwriter, and you can soon catch him making his Broadway debut in the lead role of Tommy in the upcoming production of “The Who's Tommy”.

Connect with Ali:

• Website: www.alilouisbourzgui.com
• Instagram: @ali.louis

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Exclusive interviews from inside the 'The Outsiders' rehearsal room on a special, invite-only press junket. Watch the behind the scenes video here: https://www.instagram.com/theatre_podcast/reel/C4mRRe6uoYG/

Hear from:

• Brody Grant (Ponyboy Curtis)
• Sky Lakota-Lynch (Johnny Cade)
• Joshua Boone (Dallas Winston)
• Brent Comer (Darrel Curtis)
• Jason Schmidt (Sodapop Curtis)
• Emma Pittman (Cherry Vallance)
• Daryl Tofa (Two-Bit Matthews)
• Kevin William Paul (Bob Sheldon)
• Dan Berry (Paul Holden)
• Tilly Evans-Krueger (Ace, Associate Choreographer)
• Danya Taymor (Director)
• Adam Rapp (Book)
• Justin Levine (Book, Score)
• Zach Chance (Score)
• Jonathan Clay (Score)
• Jeff & Rick Kuperman (Choreography)

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Marc Summers believes that if he didn’t have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), he wouldn’t be where he is today. He looks back into the humble beginnings of his diverse career, his struggles with severe OCD, battles with cancer, and his resilience that ultimately defined his career journey. Marc highlights the unique aspects of “Double Dare”, how he landed the job, and his creative input in the physical challenges and the show's distinctive nose that’s supposedly modeled after his own. His off-Broadway show, “The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers” written by Alex Brightman and featuring music by Drew Gasparini, showcases his life, including the various challenges he faced throughout, from a car crash where he broke every bone in his face to the stigma of having obsessive-compulsive disorder on his career. It also touched on his early career as a magician and comedian, his experiences at the Comedy Store alongside legends like Dave Letterman and Robin Williams, and the supportive role his wife played in his life and career for over 50 years. He discusses the show's exploration of overcoming obstacles and the theme of perseverance–traits that Marc takes pride in.

Director Chad Rabinovitz and composer Drew Gasparini talk about their collaboration on "The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers", including the creative process and thematic elements behind bringing the show to fruition. Chad reminisces about his childhood admiration for Marc, his dream of participating in "Double Dare", and the journey from being a fan to collaborating with Marc, Drew, and Alex Brightman in creating and directing the show. Drew shares how a summer stock production of "Grease" brought him and Marc together, the immersive nature of the production, intertwining the nostalgic elements of "Double Dare" with heartfelt storytelling about Marc's life, and his unique perspective as the composer of the show.

Marc Summers is a TV personality, comedian, game show host, producer, and talk show host known from the original “Double Dare” game show on Nickelodeon, and as the host of “Unwrapped” on the Food Network. He was the executive producer for Food Network's “Dinner: Impossible” and “Restaurant: Impossible’, and now he has an off-Broadway, almost one-man show called “The Life and Slimes of Marc Summers” written by Alex Brightman, and with music by Drew Gasparini.

Connect with Marc Summers:

• Instagram: @realmarcsummers
• Instagram: @drewgasparini

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A globally renowned actor known for his iconic roles in shows like "Quantum Leap", “Star Trek: Enterprise” and "NCIS: New Orleans," Scott Bakula looks back on his fruitful and diverse career, including his time as Dr. Sam Beckett (Becket?), and some interesting behind-the-scenes details including whether or not that final end screen of the series actually has a typo! With so many changes that occurred post-pandemic, he shares his thoughts on doing self-tapes for auditions, why he thinks it’s become an empty experience, and why it can be limiting and isolating. He talks about his current role in the new Jason Robert Brown musical “The Connector”, his view on journalism after doing the show, and the reason behind their incredibly designed double-raked stage. With his family and the joy of connecting with people as his driving forces, Scott advocates theater as a foundational learning ground for aspiring actors.

Scott Bakula is an actor who commanded the leading role of Dr. Sam Beckett in “Quantum Leap” from 1989 to 1993 and has earned him a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy Nominations. His other TV and film credits include “Star Trek: Enterprise” where played Captain Jonathan Archer, “American Beauty”, “Necessary Roughness”, “Murphy Brown”, and Ray Romano's “Men of a Certain Age”. Aside from lending his voice to animated series such as “American Dad”, “The Simpsons”, and “Archer”, he also has a Tony Award nomination for his performance in the 1988 Broadway production of “Romance/Romance”. His additional stage credits include “Is There Life After High School” in 1982, “Marilyn” in 1983, and “Three Guys Naked from the Waste Down” in 1985 for which he received a Drama Desk Award nomination. Apart from acting, he’s now showing off his dancing and singing skills eight times a week as Conrad O'Brien in “The Connector”, extended through March 17th at MCC Theater in New York.

Connect with Scott:

• Instagram: @scottbakula

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A renowned choreographer, director, and educator, Camille A. Brown gives us a rundown of her artistic journey and the challenges and triumphs she faced in the world of dance and theatre. She looks back on her early experiences and influences, particularly her introduction to dance through her mother. From concert dance to musical theatre, she reveals how she got the courage to pursue her passion despite facing skepticism and stereotypes as a black female choreographer in a field dominated by males, including reaching out to mentors like Diane McIntyre and Marlee Ciorri for guidance. Camille’s Broadway directorial debut with “for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow Is enuf” was a success, earning her Tony nominations for Best Direction and Best Choreography. She shares her emotional journey working on a beloved work and the value of staying true to your artistic vision. Her latest project, "Hell's Kitchen: The Musical" opens up new challenges and opportunities for Camille, such as her approach to the choreography and working with Alicia Keys' music. With her continuous success, she imparts simple but valuable advice to aspiring artists: to believe in the possibility of all things.

Camille A. Brown is a widely acclaimed choreographer, director, educator, and storyteller. She has a total of 62 award honors to her credit so far, including three Tony Award nominations. Her 2016 TED-Ed talk, “Camille A. Brown: A Visual History of Social Dance in 25 Moves” was chosen as one of the most notable talks of the year by TED curator Chris Anderson. Her Broadway credits include “A Streetcar Named Desire”, “Once On This Island”, “Choir Boy”, “for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf”, and now, the upcoming production of “Hell's Kitchen: The Musical”.

Connect with Camille:

• Website: www.camilleabrown.org
• Instagram: @camilleabrown
• Facebook: @camilleabrownanddancers

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With Anoushka Lucas’ talent and success as a songwriter, it may come as a surprise for some that she initially had no interest at all in working in theatre. Just like in most of her endeavors, she fell into it. She expands on this as shares her journey, revealing her initial passive disposition, which contrasts with her willingness to embrace diverse experiences–the duality of man, as they say. From playing the piano and writing songs at an early age, Anoushka talks about her upbringing, writing songs from the point of view of the characters on TV, and how the piano became her sanctuary. She reflects on failure and her aversion to it, and the heartbreak and acceptance that her initial plan of becoming a pop star and securing a record deal isn’t going to happen. Despite the initial struggle, she recognizes the value of the experience, emphasizing the usefulness of failure in shaping her life positively, proving that tenacity goes a long way.

Anoushka Lucas is a singer, songwriter, musical theatre composer, and actor who has starred in West End productions, including “Oklahoma!” and “Jesus Christ Superstar”. She began composing music at the age of 14 and has a degree in Russian and Italian from Oxford University. She has been nominated for an Olivier award, an Evening Standard Theatre Award, and a Black British Theatre Award. She was the recipient of the Best Writer award in the 2023 stage debut awards. Among other films. You can also see her in “Murder on the Orient Express” and starting on the 21st of February, she can be heard in a brand new original musical podcast called “U.Me: The Complete Musical”.

Connect with Anoushka:

• Website:www.anoushkalucas.com
• Instagram: @anoushkalucasmusic
• Listen to U.Me: The Complete Musical

Connect with Heather Vickery and the Was it Chance podcast:

• Slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance
• More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
• More about Was It Chance using bpn.fm/wasitchance

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From cults and documentaries to their deeply thought out character motivations, actors John Lavelle and Haskell King look back on their theatre journey. The two share their background, doing productions when they were younger, and what eventually made them pursue acting as a career. Currently starring in "Russian Troll Farm: A Workplace Comedy", they talk about how they got involved with the show, hitting it off on the first meeting, and the allure of cults and how people get drawn into them. With the show being as relatable as ever today, they reflect on how it changed their relationship with social media, how they interact with it, and the complexity of playing as bad guys. John and Haskell also impart some advice to aspiring actors and their motivations, including the desire to be seen and connect with others and become a better person for one’s family.

Haskell King has performed all over the Off-Broadway and regional stages such as the Irish Repertory Theatre, Ensemble Studio Theatre, and the Abingdon Theatre. His TV and film credits include “Dear Edward”, “Law & Order: Criminal Intent”, “As the World Turns”, “The Fly Room”, and “Shadow & Lies”. John Lavelle has been on Broadway in “The Graduate”, and off-Broadway stages including La Jolla Playhouse, The Shakespeare Center LA, and The Old Globe. His TV and film credits include “Selma”, “Frozen”, “Wreck-It Ralph”, “Zootopia”, “The Taking of Pelham 123”, “Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts”, and “Grace and Frankie” among many others.

They are both part of the stellar cast of the off-Broadway production of “Russian Troll Farm”, an office comedy, at the Vineyard Theater in New York City. More info and tix here: https://vineyardtheatre.org/shows/russian-troll-farm/

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Among all the things Jai Rodriguez knows how to do well, not punching down is at the top of the list . Sharing his journey from going to Broadway to landing a role in the groundbreaking TV series, “Queer Eye For The Straight Guy”, his grit and talent took the stage by storm, playing in shows like “Rent” and “The Producers”. He shares how he got started by going to his first audition at the age of 12 – a funny but inspiring anecdote on why you shouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer easily. Jai also recounts his “Queer Eye” audition, the success of the show, and the overwhelming response they received early on. Despite the external glamor, Jai reveals his financial struggles during the press tours. He also gets real as he talks about a pivotal moment in his career during a meeting with agents, and how he was told that he may not be castable due to his identity – an untrue trope that stayed with him throughout a lot of his career. While it may have affected him deeply, Jai did not let it stop him from taking up space in the industry by rephrasing “you can’t do it” as “it’s just never been done before”.

Jai Rodriguez is an actor and musician best known for his role in the original Fab Five 'Culture Vulture' in the award-winning show “Queer Eye For The Straight Guy”. He had his Broadway debut at the age of 18 when he was cast as Angel in the critically-acclaimed musical, “Rent”. His other credits include the long-running musical, “The Producers”, “Zanna, Don’t!”, and an off-Broadway hit, “Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man”. He has a web series, “The Horizon”, which is the most-watched LGBTQ web series in the world. 

Connect with Jai:

• Website: linktr.ee/jairodriguez
• Instagram: @jairodriguez
• TikTok: @jairodriguezworld

Connect with Heather Vickery and the Was it Chance podcast:

• Slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance
• More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
• More about Was It Chance using bpn.fm/wasitchance

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A multifaceted artist, Melissa Errico talks about her career, including her album "Sondheim In The City," her latest project which pays tribute to the legendary Stephen Sondheim. Melissa also reveals the reason behind her Instagram username, what it’s like raising kids in a “tough city”, and how theatre became her place to organize her emotions. Living in New York, she’s developed a deep connection with the city, which also reflects on her exploration of Sondheim's profound relationship with Manhattan–emphasizing the importance of preserving its vibrant and pluralistic spirit. With an upcoming residency at Birdland, Melissa shares her plans to combine Sondheim, jazz, and film noir elements, creating a unique and immersive experience for the audience. 

Melissa Errico is a Tony Award nominated actress who made her Broadway debut in the 1992 production of “Anna Karenina”. She's since added a bazillion more credits to her resume, including “My Fair Lady”, “Amour”, “High Society”, and “Dracula, The Musical”. Her TV and film credits include the 1995 TV series, “C.P.W.”, “Law & Order”, “Blue Bloods”, “The Good Wife”, “The Jim Gaffigan Show”, “The Knick”, and “Billions” among many others. She's also a writer and a recording artist and was a frequent collaborator with the late great Stephen Sondheim for decades. Her 2018 album, “Sondheim Sublime”, was called “The best all-Sondheim album ever recorded” by the New York Times. She now has a new album dropping on February 16th called “Sondheim in the City”.

Connect with Melissa:

• Website: melissaerrico.com
• Instagram: @melissa_errico_fairymom
• TikTok: @melissa_errico_fairymom
• Melissa Errico and Billy Stritch: "BABY ITS WOKE OUTSIDE" by Adam Gopnik
• Listen to Sondheim in the City: found.ee/SondheimInTheCity

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From growing up a self-proclaimed overachiever to her recent success in “Dancing with the Stars”, Ariana Madix remains unstoppable as she makes her Broadway debut in an eight-week run as Roxie Hart in the Broadway production of “Chicago”. She reflects on her childhood, what got her into performing and theatre, and the shows she drew inspiration from. She also looks back into her early career, including moving to New York as a theater major after college, and the realities of the industry that led her to move to Los Angeles. As she returns to New York for her Broadway debut in “Chicago”, she talks about her role and the preparations she’s doing for the show and imparts an important piece of advice for aspiring actors: “Get in line. Never get out of line because one day your number will be called.”

Ariana Madix is a TV personality, actress, model, and author who’s known for being a cast member on the Bravo reality TV series, “Vanderpump Rules”, and was one of Variety's 40 Most Powerful Women on Reality TV. She just finished in the top three in the latest season of “Dancing with the Stars”, and has a book out called “Single AF Cocktails”. Starting January 29th, 2024, she's making her Broadway debut in an eight-week run of “Chicago” as Roxie Hart.

Connect with Ariana:

• Instagram: @arianamadix
• TikTok: @arianamadix
• Book: Single AF Cocktails: Drinks for Bad B*tches by Ariana Madix

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An accomplished actress, singer, author, and educator, Alexandra Silber delves into her extensive career as she shares her origin story, revealing that her early influences, particularly her deep connection to literature and theater, emerged from the challenges of her father's illness when she was a child. Believing in the transformative power of storytelling, it became her sanctuary to explore profound questions about life and death, including reading (listening to, and watching) “The Secret Garden” and how it impacted her life. She opens up about her GI battles, her father’s death, and dealing with grief through acting. Currently starring in the limited off-Broadway run of "Our Class", Alexandra explores the unique chemistry and connection formed between actors on stage, its significance in creating authentic performances, and why having a community with your co-actors is necessary. She also talks about the unique “exit practices” in their production, her perspective on being a multidimensional artist–underscoring the importance of exploring different creative outlets, especially for aspiring artists.

Alexandra Silber is a Grammy nominated artist who has performed roles on Broadway, the West End and on TV and film, and many concert stages. She had her Broadway debut in 2011 in the production of “Master Class”. She also starred as Tzeitel in the 2015 revival of “Fiddler on the Roof", and on the West End, she created the role of Laura Fairlie in “The Woman in White”, played Hodel in the 2007 production of “Fiddler on the Roof", and was Julie Jordan in “Carousel”. She's also an author, with "After Anatevka” as her debut novel, and her memoir "White Hot Grief Parade". She’s currently starring in the limited off-Broadway run of “Our Class”.

Connect with Alexandra:

• Website: alexandrasilber.squarespace.com
• Instagram: @alsilbs

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It's always better the second time around! Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer returns to the podcast to talk about her life and career post-pandemic back on her time in “Beetlejuice”, the show closing during the pandemic, and everything that went down in between. Currently starring in “Spamalot”, she takes pride in the exceptional ensemble dynamics in the show and shares how she’s approaching her role as The Lady of the Lake. She also provides an insider's perspective on the decision-making process behind a potentially controversial number in the show and the cast's collective discussion and commitment to presenting the performance in the spirit of joy and celebration. Leslie shares her insights into the role of theater both as a means of escapism and a space for reflection, as well as the audience's right to interpret and experience the show in their own way. She reflects on the vocal challenges of her role and gets real as she opens up about going through vocal injuries, and learning the importance of knowing your limits and “maintaining your vintage Porsche [body]”.

Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer made her Broadway debut in “Hairspray” in 2004, followed by a string of amazing roles in “Legally Blonde”, “A Catered Affair”, “Elf”, and “Something Rotten”. She’s also starred in TV shows like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Bridge and Tunnel”, “New Amsterdam”, and “The Broadway Show with Tamsen Fadal” among others. Leslie is now tearing up the stage as the Lady of the Lake in the Broadway revival of “Spamalot”.

Connect with Leslie:

• Instagram: @lesliekritzer
• Twitter: @LeslieKritzer
• Tiktok: @leslierodriguezkritzer

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An actor, writer, and Shakespeare enthusiast, Ellen Adair shares their journey into acting and the profound impact it has had on their life. From their early fascination with Shakespeare to experiences in various productions, they emphasize the importance of connection in their work and the collaborative aspect that comes with it. They find joy in interacting with fellow actors, exploring characters, and being present in the moment. Ellen also delves into the challenges artists face, highlighting the necessity of mental equilibrium for navigating the unpredictable nature of the industry. Starring in the 2023 horror movie “Herd”, they reflect on the message of the movie and how it reflects our society today. Ellen shares personal anecdotes, from their aversion for anything with tentacles to growing up with no TV. They get personal as they talk about gender identity, the joy of being an actor, and connection as a form of motivation.

Ellen Adair is a star of stage and screen with TV credits that include “Bull”, “The Good Fight”, “Billions”, “The Sinner”, “Homeland”, and “Nurse Jackie” among many others. Her stage credits include off-Broadway and Regional Productions of “Sleep No More”, “Romeo and Hamlet”, “As You Like It”, “The Importance of Being Earnest”, “A Doll's House”, “Macbeth”, “Taming of the Shrew”, and “The Merchant of Venice”, among many more other credits. You can now watch Ellen in the lead role of Jamie Miller in a new horror film called “Herd”.

Connect with Ellen:

• Website: www.ellenadair.com
• Instagram: @ellenadairg
• Twitter: @ellen_adair
• TikTok: @ellen.adair

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Can we call it a tradition now? Diana Salameh, Vice President of Brand Integration at Serino Coyne, once again co-hosts the final episode of the year. Serino Coyne is the nation's longest-running theatrical advertising agency, so as always Diana brings some fun insider insight to how this strange business of show actually goes down.

What was your favorite show of 2023? What are you most looking forward to seeing in 2024? Tag me in your stories and let me know!

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• Instagram: @_dianasalameh
• Twitter: @_dianasalameh

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• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

For Stephanie, she was either going to be a nun or a musical theatre actress. She elaborates on this as she looks back on her early days and her influences growing up, including her mom. She reflects on her journey as an actress, moving to New York in her early 20s and being intimidated by the city, leaving and eventually finding her way back. Being involved with the original creation of “Wicked”, Stephanie recalls how she dealt with rejection and why she believes that rejection is protection. She shares more anecdotes, including the two-hour work session she had with Hugh Jackman, meeting her now husband Sebastian Arcelus on the Wicked 1st Nat’l Tour, what made her say yes to playing Cher, and getting the right speaking voice for the role… with the help of Crest Whitestrips. She also talks about balancing motherhood and a performing career, revealing how they give importance to portraying a sense of teamwork with her family. She recently released a Christmas album called “Merry Christmas, Darling”, and shares the process of recording it, while on tour for “Into the Woods”.

Stephanie J. Block is a three-time Tony Award nominee and six-time Drama Desk Award nominee for her work on the Broadway stage. She has originated or starred in many Broadway productions including “The Boy From Oz”, “Wicked”, “9 to 5”, “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, “Falsettos”, the recent revival of “Into the Woods”, and the first national tour of “Wicked”, and of course, “The Cher Show” where she won a Tony Award in 2019. Her TV and film credits include “Madam Secretary”, “Orange is the New Black” and “Homeland”. She recently released her latest album, “Merry Christmas, Darling,” available everywhere you find your music.

Connect with Stephanie:

• Instagram: @stephaniejblock
• Stream “Merry Christmas, Darling” everywhere you listen to music
• Listen to the “Stages Podcast”

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A two-time Tony Award-winning actor and singer, Norbert Leo Butz opens up about his childhood, the challenges he faced pursuing a career in acting, and the remarkable twists of fate that brought him to Broadway. Hailing from a large family of 11 siblings, he shares how the importance of education was instilled to them by his parents. Despite his family's support for school plays, his strict upbringing and limited resources led Norbert to sneakily pursue his love for acting. Norbert eventually had to confess to his father about attending a different college and studying to become an actor, a moment that ultimately led to his parents becoming his biggest supporters. He recounts his serendipitous entry into Broadway with "Rent," joining the cast as a cover for the roles of Roger and Mark–a right place, right time moment for him. He also talks about how he dealt with the pandemic through music, which eventually resulted in releasing his 4th solo album “King of Hearts” co-written with her daughter, Clara Davis. Growing up, Norbert developed a sense of self-reliance and resilience that shaped his approach to hard work and dedication. He encourages aspiring actors to avoid seeking validation through advice and instead cultivate self-awareness and a love for their craft.

Norbert Leo Butz is a four-time Tony Award nominee having won two of those four nominations for his performances in “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”, and “Catch Me If You Can”. He made his Broadway debut in “Rent” in 1996 before moving on to a slew of additional Broadway credits, including “Wicked”, “The Last Five Years”, and “Big Fish”, among many others. He’s also an accomplished TV and film actor with credits such as “Justified: City Primeval”, “The Good Wife”, “Blue Bloods”, Fosse/Verdon”, Dan in Real Life”, “Better Nate Than Ever” and the most recent, “The Exorcist: The Believer”. His fourth and latest solo album, King of Hearts was co-written with his eldest daughter, Clara Butz.

Connect with Norbert:

• Instagram: @norbert_leo_butz
• Listen “King of Hearts” on YouTube
• Stream “King of Hearts” everywhere you listen to music

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Casey Cott, a talented actor best known for his role as Kevin Keller on "Riverdale," discusses his current role and Broadway debut as Christian in the Broadway production of "Moulin Rouge! The Musical”. He shares insights into his journey from television to the Broadway stage, including how he landed the role, finally fulfilling one of his lifelong dreams. Casey reflects on the challenges and rewards of performing on Broadway, including the supportive and encouraging atmosphere within the "Moulin Rouge" cast and crew. He talks about the unique experience of singing in the show and the mental aspects of navigating the demanding schedule of eight performances a week while caring for a newborn at home!. He shares their pre-show routines and rituals, involving a "Ted Lasso Believe" sign in Casey's dressing room and slapping a lamp before going to the stage. He opens up about moments of self-doubt and anxiety, and realizing the importance of enjoying the imperfections and finding grace in the pursuit of perfection instead. Casey gets personal as he discusses the significant influence of his family, particularly his newborn son and wife, on his motivation and performance. He advises aspiring artists to give themselves grace and enjoy the journey, acknowledging the inevitability of failure in the performing arts.

Casey Cott is an actor best known for his role as Kevin Keller in the long running CW series “Riverdale”. His other TV film credits include “Asking for It”, “All The Little Things We Kill”, “Law & Order: SVU”, “Katie Keene”, “Instinct”, and some theater credits which include “The Who's Tommy” at the Kennedy Center. He recently had his Broadway debut as Christian in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical”.

Connect with Casey:

• Instagram: @caseycott

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From dancing to “Chicago” songs to finally playing the role of Mama Morton in the long-running musical, Lili Thomas’s acting career has definitely come full circle. Celebrating her first anniversary on the show, Lili shares the unique experience of being part of a production with constantly changing casts, and the show’s dynamics, including the encouragement for actors to bring their individuality to their characters. She also talks about her Broadway debut and the excitement of performing on opening night, the complexity of her character, and the challenges of adapting to a fast-paced environment. As a mother and Broadway performer, Lili sheds light on the balancing act required to manage her career and responsibilities at home. She reflects on her unique journey as a single mom in the industry and offers advice to aspiring performers, highlighting the importance of being true to oneself.

Lili Thomas is an actress who just recently ended her leg of the “Dear Evan Hansen” First National Tour playing the role of Cynthia Murphy. Before that, she appeared in Dave Malloy’s pre-Broadway run of “Octet” and has other off-Broadway credits including “We're Gonna Die”, “The Hello Girls”, and “Only Human”. She is now making history in her Broadway debut as the first Asian American to play the role of Mama Morton in “Chicago”.

Connect with Lili:

• Website: www.lili-thomas.com
• Instagram: @thelilithomas

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Pulitzer Prize winner James Ijames starts off by sharing his love for writing and the meaning behind the philosophy on his website. He discusses the transformative power of his first encounter with a play and how it ignited his desire to help “expand the range of storytelling about black people”. The conversation also delves into his play "Fat Ham" wherein he reflects on its creative process, the play's resonance, and the impact it had, especially in the context of Black and queer representation in the theater. As a founding member of Orbiter 3, James discusses the unique model of his group. He emphasizes the importance of creating a community and supporting local playwrights, giving light to the collaborative and inclusive aspects of their work. He shares how long it normally takes for him to write a full-length and the common themes found in his works. Additionally, James provides insights into his role as an associate professor at Villanova University where he teaches acting and collaborative theater-making, and how working with bright and enthusiastic students keeps him inspired and engaged.

James Ijames is a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright who recently received five Tony nominations, including Best Play for his hit Broadway show, “Fat Ham”. He's also an actor in his own right, a professor, a two-time winner of the Barrymore Awards for Outstanding Direction of a Play, and the 2015 winner of the Terrance McNally New Play Award, among many others.

Connect with James:

• Website: www.jamesijames.com
• Instagram: @jwijames



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Steve discusses his role as Harry Potter in the Broadway production of "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" and delves into the challenges and thrills of bringing such an iconic character to life on stage. He recounts his initial reactions to being cast as Harry Potter and the overwhelming nature of playing a famous character. He shares his experiences with the production, the preparation involved, and the unique aspects of the show, including the magical illusions and set design that immerse the audience in the world of Hogwarts. Steve opens up about his personal journey, such as his therapeutic motorcycle trip from Washington State to New York City, and how it’s great to put yourself in environments to learn from yourself. He reflects on the hardships he faced, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Steve also opens up about the concept of self-compassion, emphasizing its significance in overcoming self-criticism and fostering personal growth.

Steve Haggard made his Broadway debut in 2019 as part of the year two company of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”. He's appeared regionally at Steppenwolf Theatre in “Tribes”, at Writers Theatre in “Witch”, “The Importance of Being Earnest”, “Doubt” and “Old Glory” among others. He's also appeared on television shows like “The Chai”, “Chicago P.D.”, “Chicago Fire”, and “Prison Break”. Steve is currently starring on Broadway’s “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”.

Connect with Steve:

• Instagram: @s.haggard

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A dynamic duo with impressive acting credits, Marilu Henner and Caroline Aaron discuss their friendship, careers, and their play "Madwomen of the West." The two fondly share their strong and enduring friendship, how they met, and their mutual respect and support for each other despite their differences They also talk about their current play, "Madwomen of the West", the relationship they have with the other actresses, its success in Los Angeles, and bringing the show to New York. The two look back on how they got into theatre and what made them fall in love with performing. Marilu discusses her early struggles in auditions and how she learned to embrace her uniqueness, encouraging aspiring artists to celebrate what makes them special instead of conforming to expectations. She also talks about her highly superior autobiographical memory and the book she wrote about it. Caroline, on the other hand, opens up about being driven by early experiences with death, emphasizing the value of cherishing life and leaving a positive impact.

Marilu Henner has been in seven Broadway shows, and two classic sitcoms, namely “Taxi” and “Evening Shade”. She has five Golden Globe nominations, is a New York Times bestselling author of 10 books, and is one of 12 people documented with highly superior autobiographical memory.

Caroline Aaron gained prominence in the 1980s with roles in films directed by Woody Allen, Mike Nichols, and Nora Ephron. Her television career includes recurring roles in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Transparent”, and “The Leftovers”. A seasoned theater actress, Caroline has performed on Broadway and in numerous off-Broadway and regional productions.

Marilu and Caroline are both currently starring in the new off-Broadway comedy, “Madwomen of the West”.

Connect with Marilu and Caroline:

• Instagram: @therealmarilu, @therealcarolineaaron
• Twitter: @TheRealMarilu, @therealcarolineaaron

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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

With impressive stage credits at a young age, Casey Likes who’s currently playing the iconic role of Marty McFly in "Back to the Future: The Musical" is someone to watch out for in the Broadway scene. Starting his acting career at age three, Casey talks about his road to Broadway and the lessons he learned from his mom who’s also an actress. The rising star shares how he initially heard about "Back to the Future: The Musical" when it was announced in 2018, considering it a fun idea to play Marty McFly one day potentially. Casey talks about his audition process, getting the part, and learning to play the guitar to portray Marty better. He shares that Huey Lewis, who performed the song, "The Power of Love" in the movie, provided him with a note about the song's timing. Casey describes the challenge of incorporating iconic movie scenes into the show and highlights his favorite moments. He emphasizes the importance of continuously working on your craft–stressing the significance of continued growth and improvement in his talents.

Casey Likes is one of Broadway's brightest rising stars who made his Broadway debut as the lead in last season's production of “Almost Famous”. His film credits include playing the young Gene Simmons in the Neil Bogart biopic, “Spinning Gold”, Richie Shepard in the leading role at MGM's feature “Dark Harvest”, and the film “Everything Must Go”, where he portrayed a young Will Ferrell. His TV credits include the recent Crypt TV and Facebook Watch series, “The Birch” and National Geographic's “American Blackout”. A filmmaker himself, he has won awards for the direction of his films, “Seriously” and “How to Romance”, and at the age of just a wee 17, he won the ASU Gammage High School Musical Theatre Awards for best lead male and was a finalist in the 2019 Jimmy Awards. He can now be seen tearing up the stage as Marty McFly in Broadway's “Back to the Future”.

Connect with Casey:

• Instagram: @justcaseylikes
• Twitter: @justcaseylikes
• TikTok: @justcaseylikes

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Liana Hunt is a triple-threat actress currently gracing the stage as Lorraine Baines in the Broadway musical, "Back to the Future". She talks about her journey to theatre, sharing that even though nobody in her family is in the arts, or into theater and music, their unwavering support was more than enough. Having experiences with improv comedy, Liana highlights the importance of trust and vulnerability in improvisation, and how it helped her to embrace unpredictability and let go of perfectionism. Playing an iconic role in "Back to the Future," she recalls the time of her audition process, the challenges that came along with it, bringing their own uniqueness to their roles while being faithful to the movie, and why she thinks the show is filled with “Broadway magic”. Beyond her work on stage, Liana emphasizes the significance of spending time with herself, personal growth, and authenticity in her journey as a performer.

Liana Hunt is known for her remarkable performances on stage. She has appeared on Broadway, national tours, regionally, on television, and in films. She's a skilled improviser, teacher, and private coach, and has been seen on the Broadway stage previously in “Newsies” and “Mamma Mia”. Now she's bringing her flavor to the iconic role of Lorraine McFly in “Back to the Future” on Broadway.

Connect with Liana:

• Instagram: @lianamariehunt
• Twitter: @lianamariehunt

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

This is the second of four of the “Back to the Future” podcast takeover! This episode features Merritt David Janes and Jelani Remy, two real-life friends and on stage frenemies. Merritt talks about the show’s influence on his childhood and describes being a part of the show as a pinch-me moment for him, Jelani discusses his early experiences with performing and touring and the two talk about their experiences with the production of "Back to the Future" , how they auditioned for their roles, and what it means to them. They emphasize the positive and collaborative atmosphere on the set and how the cast gets along well, their favorite parts of the show, and the fulfillment they get from the support of younger fans and the theater community. Merritt and Jelani share their motivations and advice for aspiring performers, including finding reasons to show up to pursue one's dreams (and good food!).

Merritt David Janes and Jelani Remy are both no strangers to the Broadway stage. Jelani Remy’s credits include “Ain't Too Proud”, “The Lion King”, “High School Musical” (1 and 2), and “Smokey Joe's Cafe”. He was recognized as a Paper Mill Playhouse Rising Star and is a Chita Rivera Award recipient. Merritt David Janes, on the other hand, recently graced the Broadway stage in the original cast of “School of Rock” and has performed in national tours of “School of Rock”, “Sweeney Todd”, “Beauty and the Beast”, “The Wedding Singer”, “Phantom of The Opera”, “Shrek”, and “Catch Me If You Can”, and was recently in the world premiere of “The Griswolds’ Broadway Vacation”. Together, they have numerous credits, including Jelani now playing Mayor Goldie Wilson and Marvin Berry and Merritt playing Principal Strickland, both in the Broadway production of “Back to the Future”.

Connect with Merritt David Janes and Jelani Remy:

• Instagram: @mdjtanner, @itsjelaniremy
• Facebook: @merritt.janes

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

From playing Jean Valjean in “Les Misérables” to working with some of the best orchestras in the world, Nathaniel Hackmann has etched his mark as a versatile artist. Nate grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona, doing community theater at a very young age which eventually led to his love for theatre and performing arts. He talks about his initial goal of becoming the youngest baritone to make his debut at the Metropolitan Opera and life lessons along the way that made him realize the music theater community and the people who work in music theater are his tribe. Nate looks back on his turning point which came when he auditioned for the NETwork’s Beauty and the Beast National Tour in 2010. Currently playing as Biff Tannen in the production of Broadway's “Back to the Future”, he reveals his in-depth knowledge of the film, its production history and the challenges it faced, and his starstruck moment with Huey Lewis. Nate reflects on his motivations as an artist, emphasizing service, community, and spreading joy, and why young artists should find their voice and what motivates them.

Nathaniel Hackmann is an incredibly versatile actor who has held many roles alongside many of the world's greatest orchestras. He's played both Jean Valjean and Javert in “Les Misérables” on Broadway in addition to iconic roles like Jekyll and Hyde and Hunchback of Notre Dame for the internationally televised BBC Proms at Royal Albert Hall. He was Curly with the John Wilson Orchestra in the acclaimed production of “Oklahoma!”. He’s also an opera singer, and an alumnus of the prestigious Merola Opera Program in the San Francisco Opera and has performed with the Virginia Opera, Michigan Opera, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, San Francisco, Lyric Opera, and many others. On the concert stage, he appeared with the John Wilson Orchestra, Sinfonia of London, Hong Kong Symphony, San Francisco Opera Orchestra, and Springfield Symphony. He can now be seen as Biff Tannen in the current production of Broadway's “Back to the Future”.

Connect with Nathaniel:

• Instagram: @n8hackmann
• TikTok: @nathanielhackmann

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

If grit, talent, and perseverance were a person, it would be in the form of Gordon Greenberg. The multifaceted artist looks back at his younger years, sharing his first creative moment, and anecdotes about his journey which includes secretly taking a bus and walking into a producer’s office in the hopes of getting offered a role. Gordon also shares his experiences in writing and directing, including his latest off-Broadway work, "Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors," a comedic adaptation of the classic vampire tale, which originally found a home in 2020 as a radio play comedy. He talks about the creative process, casting choices, and the unique and campy style of the show. He reflects on the evolution of his career, juggling multiple creative roles, and how he ensures that his outputs remain authentic and engaging. Driven with passion and purpose in whatever he does, Gordon shares a powerful piece of advice to  aspiring artists: “All the things you think are your greatest liabilities are going to become your greatest virtues.”

Gordon Greenberg is an accomplished writer, director, producer, and teacher, and has collaborated with people like Zachary Quinto, Calista Flockhart, Antonio Banderas, Steven Schwartz, Steve Rosen, Neil Patrick Harris, Jerry Seinfeld, and Gary Marshall among others. He's created multi-award-winning shows all over the world, including places like the Geffen Playhouse and the Old Globe Theater. Gordon has created musical adaptations for Nickelodeon, the Disney Channel, and Universal Pictures, as well as TV commercials for J. Walter Thompson, one of the largest creative agencies in the world. His latest project, “Dracula, a Comedy of Terrors”, recently opened off-Broadway at New World Stages.

Connect with Gordon Greenberg:

• Website: www.gordongreenberg.com
• Instagram: @gordongreenberg
• Listen to the original Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors radio comedy: http://bpn.fm/dracula
• Listen to the Dracula off-Broadway companion podcast, Dracula the Podcastula: http://bpn.fm/podcastula

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Get to know Molly Bracken, Lisa Hawkins, and Adriana Rodriguez, the talented trio behind Pipeline Vocal Project, a groundbreaking professional a cappella group hailing from Alaska. The three talk about PVP’s origins, from Lisa and Adriana’s initial meeting in high school to Molly auditioning, and becoming the all-female a cappella sensation they are today. The three fondly look back on how they ended up headlining a festival just one month after meeting in a parking garage for the first time, and how the pandemic contributed to their quick rise to fame. They discuss getting in with Disney through LinkedIn, how they choose what to sing, and their experiences performing on cruise ships. They also delve into the challenges and joys of life on the road as they share stories from their travels, and how it can be unpredictable but fulfilling at the same time. They highlight the impact of music on people worldwide, sharing their mission to inspire the youth to pursue their dreams through music and workshops.

The Pipeline Vocal Project (PVP) is Alaska's first professional vocal trio composed of a lead (Adriana Latonio), bass/alto (Molly Dieni), and vocal percussion (Lisa Hawkins). The all-female group puts a unique twist on well-known favorites whatever era or genre they may be (and yes, including Disney songs!). They’ve been invited to perform all over the world, resulting in the creation of a trail of acca-nerds and viral videos all over the internet. They recently released their second full-length album titled, “Silver” which accompanies their debut album titled “Bronze”.

Connect with Pipeline Vocal Project:

• Listen to their latest album, “Silver”
• Website: www.pipelinevocalproject.com
• Instagram: @pipelinevocalproject
• TikTok: @pipelinevocalproject
• Facebook: @pipelinevocalproject

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

What do you get when you cross Dracula with a podcast? Bite-sized episodes that will have you howling with laughter! Welcome to the official companion podcast for off-Broadway’s Dracula A Comedy of Terrors, now playing at New World Stages. Hosted by blood curdling Broadway veteran Andrew Keenan-Bolger, this podcast takes you inside the show’s (teeny tiny backstage) world with interviews and games featuring the cast and creatives that helped bring this hilarious comedy to life. So grab a wooden stake, a satchel of garlick, pull out your bloody mary recipe, and settle in under your favorite cape for a podcast guaranteed not to drive you batty!

From playing iconic people to trying different artistic endeavors, Chilina Kennedy is just getting started. Growing up in different parts of the world, she discusses her early experiences and influences that ultimately led her to grace the Broadway stage. From portraying iconic people like Carole King to releasing her own album called “What You Find in a Bottle”, she talks about how she splits her focus between joining other people’s works and creating her own, and why she finds it way harder to play a real person on stage. She also gets real when asked if she ever gets tired of playing the same role over and over, and why she loves it when people don’t recognize her from the previous roles she played. Putting your work out there can be nerve-wracking, but for Chilina, it’s the point of being creative: to be confident and bold and not be afraid to make mistakes. She explains why auditions are a bit like dating, the complexities of casting, and how perseverance can create luck! 

Chilina Kennedy is an actress, singer, and songwriter known for playing Carole King in “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” on Broadway. She made her Broadway debut in 2012 in “Jesus Christ Superstar”, and originated the Tony Award-winning role of Dina in the first Broadway National Tour of “The Band's Visit”. She was most recently seen on Broadway in “Paradise Square”, and was part of the originating cast of the first National Tour of “Mamma Mia”. She has her own full-length album called “What You Find in a Bottle”, and has co-written a new musical called “Call It Love”. Chilina is part of the upcoming release of the world premiere recording of “Wild About You”.

Connect with Chilina:

• Website: www.chilinakennedy.com
• Instagram: @chilinakennedy
• Facebook: @ChilinaKennedyOfficial

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

A Broadway actor, author, and web series co-creator, Andrew Keenan-Bolger opens up about his personal experiences, life lessons, and insights into the world of theater, social media, and literature. He recalls his introduction to theater and his early influences, which include his older sister, and how he was able to pursue a career in acting, thanks to the overwhelming support he received from his parents at such a young age. Currently playing seven different characters in “Dracula, a Comedy of Terrors”, Andrew shares a glimpse of what the production is like, including costume changes, and why having chemistry with the people you work with is essential. While he successfully grew his online presence, he candidly reveals the toll social media can take on one’s mental health, ultimately choosing to show only certain aspects of his life and providing valuable content to his followers. Andrew also touches on the transition from co-creating the digital series, “Submissions Only” to co-writing the book series, "Jack and Louisa". He reflects on the responsibility of writing for a younger audience, getting inspired by other people’s works, and the importance of staying true to one's unique voice.

Andrew Keenan-Bolger is a multi-talented actor, author, and social media influencer who began his professional theatrical journey at the age of 10, with his earliest roles in productions like "A Christmas Carol", “Beauty and the Beast”, and "The Sound of Music." His other stage credits include roles in productions such as "Seussical,""Mary Poppins," "Newsies," and "Tuck Everlasting." His TV credits include “The Undoing”, “The Blacklist”, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Nurse Jackie”, and “Naked Brothers Band”. He co-authored the middle-grade novel series "Jack and Louisa" alongside Kate Wetherhead, a delightful series that explores the adventures of two theater-loving friends. He is the co-creator of the critically acclaimed web series, “Submissions Only” and is currently part of the ensemble cast of “Dracula, a Comedy of Terrors” now playing at New World Stages.

Connect with Andrew:

• Website: www.andrewkeenanbolger.com
• Instagram: @KeenanBlogger
• Threads: @KeenanBlogger
• YouTube: @AndrewKeenanBolgerTV
• Twitter: @KeenanBlogger

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Katie Rose Clarke is known for her roles in many musicals, including “Wicked” (where she holds the record for playing Glinda the longest), “The Light in the Piazza,” and “Miss Saigon.” Katie delves into her career highlights, particularly on her iconic role as Glinda in the hit musical "Wicked." She discusses the challenges and joys of portraying an iconic character and the unique demands of performing in a long-running Broadway show. Katie reflects on her involvement in the Broadway musical “Merrily We Roll Along,” wherein she auditioned when she was nine months pregnant. She looks back on her involvement in the development of the musical “Heart of Rock and Roll” with Huey Lewis and the News, highlighting her collaboration with the creative team and working with Huey Lewis himself. The conversation also delves into personal aspects of Katie's life, including her experience as a mother of three and balancing her career and family. She shares some anecdotes, such as playing a game of Fishbowl with her co-actors including Daniel Radcliffe, and advice for aspiring performers, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and self-compassion, and trusting one’s journey.

Katie Rose Clarke is a talented actress who’s played iconic roles, including Glinda in the hit musical “Wicked”. She also left an indelible mark as Clara in “The Light in the Piazza” and as Ellen in "Miss Saigon". She was also involved in the development of the musical “Heart of Rock and Roll” alongside Huey Lewis and the News. Her TV credits include “The Good Wife”, “Relevant”, and “Submissions Only”. Katie is set to play Beth Shepard in the upcoming Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim’s “Merrily We Roll Along”.

Connect with Katie Rose:

• Instagram: @katieroseclarke
• Website: www.katieroseclarke.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

A globally renowned magician and performer, Asi Wind shares his journey in the world of magic and the art of performance, including his childhood encounter with a magician that shaped the rest of his life. He shares insights into his creative process, discussing how he designs and refines his tricks, always striving to balance perfection and enjoyment. Asi reflects on his views on failure, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and finding beauty in imperfections. He speaks about the unique connection between a performer and their audience, highlighting the role of empathy and sensitivity in delivering a memorable experience. He also touches on various topics, including the significance of perspective, the inspiration drawn from everyday acts performed with care and attention to detail, and the idea of continuous improvement–providing a fascinating glimpse into the mind and philosophy of a dedicated magician and artist.

This episode is a special crossover with Heather Vickery, the co-host of my other podcast, Was It Chance.

Asi Wind is a highly acclaimed magician known for his innovative and captivating performances in the world of magic. He has performed all over the world and is currently sharing his talent on the off-broadway stage in "Asi Wind's Inner Circle" which is produced by David Blaine and is currently scheduled to until January 2024 at the time of this episode drop (it’s already been extended at least 4 times – we lost count!).

Connect with Asi:

• Instagram: @asiwind
• Youtube: @asiwind
• Twitter: @asiwind
• Facebook: @AsiWindsInnerCircle
• Magician REVEALS trick and still fools Penn & Teller!!! - Asi Wind on Penn & Teller: Fool Us

Connect with Heather and Was It Chance:

• Slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance.
• More about Heather via @vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
• Follow Was It Chance

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Being a social media influencer is harder than it sounds, and comes with its own unique set of challenges and growth blockers. Kerry Skinner, the brain behind @thebwaybuzz on IG and @SixBroadwayFanForever on YouTube, shares some of her behind the scenes stories in this bonus episode.

Connect with Kerry:

• IG: @thebwaybuzz
• YouTube: @sixbroadwayfanforever

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Originally released as episode 48 on Aug 20th, 2019, here's another episode from the vault with Once Upon A One More Time's Prince Charming Himself, Justin Guarini!

Original description as follows:

Justin Guarini’s robust performance career launched with the first season of American Idol in 2002, performing alongside Kelly Clarkson. His stage and screen appearances since then include Broadway productions of American Idiot, Romeo and Juliet, Wicked, and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. Justin has hosted shows shows like Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight along with live events for the TV Guide Network, the Oscars, the Emmys, and the Grammys. He continues to reprise his role as the lovable Lil’ Sweet in commercials for Diet Dr. Pepper while branching out into the new world of podcasting, book writing, and audition coaching.

Growing up in Atlanta, he was exposed to the entertainment industry at an early age. He moved to New York and actually turned down his Broadway debut when he was offered a spot on American Idol, a show no one had heard about at that time. After his success on Idol came, he was left feeling empty and wanting more as he dealt with the struggles of overnight fame and fortune.

Connect with Justin online:

• Twitter: justinguariniI
• G: justinguariniJustinGuarini.com
• AuditionSecrets.com

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Miriam Silverman’s journey through the world of theater traces a path from graduate school to regional theater and eventually to Broadway. She reflects on the complexities of balancing motherhood, acting, and teaching, highlighting the building of her teaching career while prioritizing her passion for acting at the same time. Miriam reveals the heartwarming and humorous aspects of involving her children in her profession, sharing their reactions to her performances and her recent Tony win. She offers insights into portraying complex characters, like her role in "The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window”, and recounts the unique trajectory of the show from an Off-Broadway run that was thought to be its conclusion to a surprise Broadway transfer. Miriam's portrayal of Mavis garnered praise, and she humbly shares her disbelief at receiving the Tony Award for her outstanding performance. Through her experiences, Miriam emphasizes the communal power of theater and the value of meaningful work, and embracing the beautiful chaos along the way.

Miriam Silverman made her Broadway debut in 2017 in “Junk”. Her TV credits include “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Fleishman Is In Trouble”, “Dead Ringers”', “Blue Bloods”, “NOS4A2”, and “The Blacklist” among others. She's also an acting coach and currently a theater professor at NYU Tisch School of the Arts. Miriam just won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Mavis in the recent off and on Broadway revival of “The Sign in Sidney Brustein's Window” alongside Rachel Brosnahan and Oscar Isaac.

Connect with Miriam:

• Instagram: @miriamsilverman

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Jose Lana, a talented actor and performer, delves into historical events, politics, theater, personal experiences that shaped his family’s story and brought him full circle to the story told in Here Lies Love.. He shares his deep insights into his role as Ferdinand Marcos, discusses the challenges and responsibilities of portraying a controversial figure, and shares how the show brings to light important historical events. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of power, delusion, and ego in the context of political leaders like Marcos, Trump, and Putin. Jose reflects on the motivation behind his work, including the desire to make his family proud. He offers advice to younger individuals starting out in the industry, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey and staying true to oneself.

Jose Llana has been gracing the Broadway and international stage for over two decades now, having appeared in both the 1996 and 2015 revivals of “The King and I”. He has also appeared in “Rent”, “Martin Guerre”, “Street Corner Symphony”, “Flower Drum Song”, “Wonderland”, and “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”, which earned him a Drama Desk Award. His TV and film credits include “Sex and the City”, “Hitch”, and “Unconscious”. Jose can now be seen tearing up the dance floor on the Broadway stage again as President Marcos in “Here Lies Love”.

Connect with Jose:

• Website: www.josellana.com
• Instagram: @thejosellana
• Twitter: @thejosellana

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Recorded live on Aug 10th, 2023, this red carpet coverage of "The Shark is Broken", a show based on the true events that happened between takes on set with Roy Schneider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw. This opening night episode includes convos with Alex Brightman, Colin Donnell, Ian Shaw, Peter Bradbury, Stephen Dexter, Coby Getzug, James Monroe Iglehart, Patti Murin, Elizabeth Teeter, Blake Roman, Guy Masterson, Christian Slater, and an actual shark: Robert Herjavec.

Do YOU remember who the leader of the Sharks is!?

Be sure to visit https://thesharkisbroken.com/ for more info.

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

The talented and charming Zoe Jensen is currently making waves on Broadway as part of the cast of "Six: The Musical". Zoe takes us on a journey through her career, sharing anecdotes about her path to the Broadway stage. She opens up about her transition from studying journalism to pursuing her passion for musical theater, a decision that has led her to grace the Broadway stage. Doing numerous shows a week, she talks about the camaraderie and genuine friendships among the "Six" cast members, both on and off the stage. Zoe delves into her early musical education, which has contributed to her versatility as a performer. Even as a seasoned actress, Zoe gets real as she shares her experiences of dealing with nerves before going on stage and finding ways to stay grounded and focused, such as reading intention cards before a performance. She offers valuable insights, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself, embracing new opportunities, and remaining open to unexpected paths.

Zoe Jensen was recently seen as Eliza Hamilton in the first national tour of “Hamilton", and in the Broadway production of “Dear Evan Hansen”. She’s currently on Broadway, rewriting her story eight times a week as Katherine Howard in "Six: The Musical".

Connect with Zoe:

• Instagram: @lanazoejensen
• Twitter: @lanazoejensen

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
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• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

With an illustrious career spanning all throughout theater, TV, and film, Kevin shares his experiences and insights through his life in the spotlight. He looks back on his early years, including his life as a professional rodeo clown (starting at the age of 6!) and his role in the iconic musical "The Lion King." As a young actor in a different cultural landscape, Kevin reflects on the challenges and triumphs he faced during a time when representation and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals were still evolving. Kevin delves into one of his career-defining moments—his role in the groundbreaking rock musical “Hedwig and the Angry Inch”. He reveals how this daring and transformative production became a turning point in his artistic journey, inspiring him to embrace authenticity and express his true self both on and off the stage. Kevin's latest project "Shucked" opened on Broadway and gained critical acclaim as it evolved from its early stages to its current form, highlighting its impact on representing small-town communities and challenging stereotypes with humor and heart. Kevin emphasizes the power of empathy and connecting with others, the joy of making people laugh, and the importance of embracing individuality to create a better and more inclusive world.

Kevin Cahoon is an actor and a Tony nominee for his breakout comedic role of Peanut in “Shucked”, which also marks his Broadway return after a 16-year hiatus. He is also critically praised for his role as drag queen Bobby Barnes on “GLOW”. His other TV credits include “Monarch”, “A Series of Unfortunate Events”, “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”, “Nurse Jackie”, “Modern Family” among others. His stage credits include “The Wedding Singer”, “The Rocky Horror Show”, “The Lion King”, and “The Who’s Tommy”.

Connect with Kevin:

• Instagram: @kevincahoon
• Twitter: @KevinCahoon

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Recorded LIVE at BroadwayCon 2023 on July 23rd, we talk with Laura Bell Bundy, Lilli Cooper, Dana Steingold and Sandy Rustin about the new soon-to-be-Broadway smash hit, THE COTTAGE. Set in the English countryside in 1923, this tale of sex, betrayal and love unfolds when Sylvia (played by LBB) decides to expose her affair to both her husband and to her lover’s wife. The true meaning of fate, identity and marriage are called into question as a surprising and hilarious web of secrets unravels in this ridiculous – potentially murderous – romantic comedy.

Visit https://thecottageonbroadway.com/ for more info and tix!

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• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Dana Steingold is a talented actress known for her versatile performances on Broadway and recent role in the uproarious comedy "The Cottage." Dana takes listeners on a journey through her career, from her early days as a performer to landing roles in hit Broadway productions. She shares the challenges and joys of playing different characters, from the hilarious Girl Scout in "Beetlejuice" to Dierdre in "The Cottage." She opens up about the audition process and how she approaches each role with dedication and creativity. Dana discusses the significance of "Beetlejuice" and its impact on Broadway fandom and how social media has changed the landscape of theater, including the special connection it creates between the show's cast and its devoted fans. As they dive into "The Cottage," Dana sheds light on the collaborative process of creating an original comedy and the thrill of working with an exceptional ensemble. From hilarious moments on stage to unexpected mishaps, she shares behind-the-scenes stories. Beyond the stage, she discusses her views on marriage, fidelity, and the boundaries of relationships, all of which were explored in "The Cottage." Throughout the episode, Dana's passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences shines through, making it clear why she's a standout performer on stage.

Dana Steingold was last seen on Broadway originating the role of Girl Scout in “Beetlejuice” on Broadway, where she also covered the role of Lydia Deetz. Her other notable stage credits include “Godspell” and “Avenue Q”. Dana can now be seen on the Broadway stage as the hilarious Deirdre in “The Cottage”. 

Connect with Dana:

• Instagram: @dsteinface
• Twitter: @dsteinface
• TikTok: @dsteinface

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Talented actress Tatiana Maslany is currently helping creep up the stage as Max in the critically acclaimed Broadway show, "Grey House." She delves into the captivating complexities of her character, what happens behind the scenes, and the dynamics at play in this spooky production. Amidst the nature of the play, she shares the process of uncovering more about the story alongside her fellow cast members, and recounts how she and Paul Sparks, who plays her husband in the show, helped each other in navigating their characters' relationship. She looks back on her improv years and becoming a certified improvisational trainer, and studying for a while before pursuing acting for good. A seasoned actor, it's no surprise that she always brings her A-game to the table. She reflects on the digital age and why she yearns for authentic, in-person connections just like in the analog days. In a world where self-tapes and virtual auditions have become the norm, she advocates for the revival of in-person interactions and the “magic” that occurs when artists come together. Tatiana also expresses her unwavering support for the writers' strike, standing up for the rights of artists and the importance of storytelling—proving that despite her success, her heart remains rooted in community and fostering connections in whatever she does.

Please note that as this episode was recorded before the SAG strike began, we do briefly discuss several of her past TV projects. 

Tatiana Maslany is an award-winning actress who began her dance career at age four and started performing on the stage at the age of nine. She rose to fame on TV for her multiple roles in “Orphan Black,” and won her a Primetime Emmy Award. Her tv credits include “Heartland”, “The Harper House”, “Perry Mason”, “3Below: Tales of Arcadia”, “The Nativity”, “Heartland”, and “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” where she earned a 2023 Critics Choice Super Award for Best Actress in a Superhero Series. She appeared in movies like "Stronger", "Cas & Dylan", "The Other Half", and "The Vow". She's lent her voice to several audiobooks, including the “Hunger Games” trilogy before making her Broadway debut in 2018 in “Network” alongside Bryan Cranston. She can now be seen as Max in the Broadway thriller, “Grey House”.

Connect with Tatiana:

• Instagram: @tatianamaslany

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Conrad Ricamora is a talented actor known for his roles on Broadway and his portrayal of Oliver Hampton in the hit TV series "How to Get Away with Murder." He shares his insights as they delve into his background, including his family's journey from moving to the U.S. to growing up in military bases, and how he got into acting and theater. Conrad discusses the significance of "Here Lies Love," a groundbreaking Broadway production featuring an all-Filipino cast, and shares his experiences with the show, including how it explores the intertwined history between the Philippines and America. He also looks back on how he auditioned and got involved with it 11 years ago. The discussion expands to the challenges of performing on Broadway, the staging of "Here Lies Love," and the unique experiences of interacting with the audience up close. Conrad reflects on the current state of democracy and political issues, drawing parallels between historical events and the fragility of democracy today. From sharing personal anecdotes to addressing important social issues, Conrad's passion for his craft shines through as he tells what motivates him as an actor: storytelling and connecting through stories.

Conrad Ricamora is an actor best known for his role as Oliver on the ABC network hit “How to Get Away with Murder”. His TV and film credits include “Fire Island”, “Over the Moon”, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby”, and “The Light of the Moon”. His stage credits include “The King and I”, which was his Broadway debut,” Little Shop of Horrors”, “Soft Power”, and numerous plays penned by Will Shakespeare. He is a 2016 Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award recipient and 2017 Equality California Award recipient. He can now be seen in the Broadway hit, “Here Lies Love”, reprising his role of Ninoy Aquino, which he developed 11 years ago in the original Off-Broadway Workshop.

Connect with Conrad:

• Instagram: @conradricamora
• TikTok: @conradwaynericamora

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Sophia is a talented and multifaceted actress currently creeping up the stage as Marlow in the hit Broadway show, “Grey House”. She talks about her role as Marlow, the complexities of her character, and her deep appreciation for the creative freedom provided by the playwright, Levi Holloway, the open-ended nature of the play being open to interpretation. With her innate ability to tap into the dark side partnered with her empathic nature, it’s no surprise that she’s able to perform and connect to both her character and the audience. She shares how she embraces curiosity as a driving force and how this allows her to explore different emotions, and the importance of balance between her personal life and maintaining a healthy separation from the characters she plays. She also delves into generational differences and why she’s a fan of Gen Zs despite the bad rap they get. Apart from acting, she unveils her love for painting which she considers as a meditative practice that keeps her aligned. Despite the chaos the industry brings sometimes, curiosity has been a driving force for Sophia, and this curiosity is what keeps her going. 

Sophia Anne Caruso is a talented actress with tv and film credits such as the Netflix hit feature, “The School for Good and Evil”, "37", "Jack of the Red Hearts", "I Am Number Four", CBS’ “Evil”, and the NBC's hit series “Smash” among others. Her stage credits include "Beetlejuice", "Lazarus", "Runaways", "Blackbird", "The Nether", and "The Sound of Music Live!". She’s currently playing as Marlow in the hit Broadway show, “Grey House”.

Connect with Sophia:

• Instagram: @sophiaannecaruso
• Twitter: @sophiaannecaruso

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales

Originally released as episode 5 on Nov 19th, 2018, here's another episode from the vault with 2023 Tony Award winner, Bonnie Milligan! Make sure to listen to her in the BPN original "As the Curtain Rises": bpn.fm/atcr, and go see her as Aunt Deb in Kimberly Akimbo!!

Original description as follows:

Bonnie Milligan discusses her childhood, growing up in a religious household in Illinois, finding self confidence in controlling her narrative, and the importance of representation on the stage. Bonnie is currently making her Broadway debut in Head Over Heels as Princess Pamela, though she has been with the show since its early years in workshops and out of town tryouts. She tells us about being active and using her voice to promote love, light, and acceptance.

Connect with Bonnie:

• Instagram: @beltingbons
• Twitter: @BeltingBonnie

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan’s personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Jillian’s personal Instagram: @jillianhochman
• Email us at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. We want to know what you think.

Thank you to our friends Jukebox The Ghost for our intro and outro music. You can find them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @jukeboxtheghost or via the web via jukeboxtheghost.com.

Originally released as episode 2 on Oct 26th, 2018, I'm bringing you one of my oldest episodes with Oscar winner Ariana DeBose! Make sure to listen to her in the BPN original "As the Curtain Rises": bpn.fm/atcr

Original description as follows:

This week we speak with 2018 Tony nominee Ariana DeDose. She discusses how her early childhood as a competitive dancer led her to So You Think You Can Dance. She eventually moved to New York to land her first job on her first day in the city. Ariana tells us about the importance of legacy, what it was like to be part of the Hamilton theatrical revolution, how she feels staring in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, her thoughts on pride and sexuality, and the need to keep moving forward without getting too comfortable. 

UPDATE Jan 14, 2019: Ariana will also star as Anita in the upcoming remake of “West Side Story,” being recreated by Steven Spielberg.

UPDATE Jan 14, 2021: Holy crap, her career has exploded! Congrats, Ari!

Connect with Ariana on social:

• Twitter: @ArianaDeBose
• Instagram: @arianadebose
• Facebook.com/ArianaNDeBose

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
• Jillian's personal Instagram: @jillianhochman
• Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think.

Thank you to our friends Jukebox The Ghost for our intro and outro music. You can find them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @jukeboxtheghost or via the web via jukeboxtheghost.com.

A very special thanks to our patrons who help make this podcast possible!

If you would like to see your name in this show notes or get a shout out on the pod itself, visit ttp.fm/patreon to become a member and show your support!

Join Robert Peterpaul of The Art of Kindness podcast and Alan Seales of The Theatre Podcast as they recap their night at the 2023 Tony Awards! Hear from all the winners they were honored to speak with in the press room, including: Jodie Comer (Prima Facie), Sean Hayes (Good Night, Oscar) , J. Harrison Ghee (Some Like It Hot), Victoria Clark (Kimberly Akimbo), Bonnie Milligan (Kimberly Akimbo), Brandon Uranowitz (Leopoldstadt), Michael Arden (Parade), and many more! Buckle up, friends!

PS, watch this IG reel to see where #kermitandhermit was born: https://www.instagram.com/p/CtXWuh9rRI1/

Connect with Robert Peterpaul and listen to The Art of Kindness

• @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul
• https://bpn.fm/theartofkindness

Connect with The Theatre Podcast:

• Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
• Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
• TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
• Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
• TheTheatrePodcast.com
• Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales