Backstage Babble

This is a bittersweet day on Backstage Babble. I am proud to present my interview, recorded in January 2025, with legendary Broadway dancer and choreographer Edie Cowan. Ms. Cowan passed away on May 22, 2025 at the age of 88. It is a very sad loss for theater lovers everywhere, and I hope this interview will give you a sense of her humor, talent, and unique spark. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her wonderful career, including how the original production of OKLAHOMA inspired her love of theater, why Carol Haney selected her for FUNNY GIRL, the changes made to “Cornet Man” and “Rat-a-Tat-Tat,” replacing George Sanders with Clive Revill in SHERRY, working with a cast of veterans on the tour of FOLLIES, finding her take on the role of Lily St. Regis in ANNIE, the advice she got from Dorothy Loudon, how the whole original company of ANNIE ended up getting fired, how her role in Equity led to being involved in the MISS SAIGON conflict, how she met Howard Ashman at Indiana University, casting the Urchins in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, choreographing “Mushnik and Son,” why the show belongs off-Broadway, how she ended up working for the State Department, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with a true theater veteran.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller, whose new memoir Theater Kid is available anywhere books are sold. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including celebrating HAMILTON's tenth anniversary, making RENT accessible to younger audiences, launching a Tony campaign for AVENUE Q, presenting DERREN BROWN: SECRET on Broadway, how the revivals of SWEENEY TODD and WEST SIDE STORY came about, his 50,000-ticket litmus test, directing FLY out of town, Broadway's recovery from the pandemic, working with Hal Prince on PRINCE OF BROADWAY, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's brightest creative minds.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway director Sarna Lapine, whose show CALL ME IZZY is currently playing on Broadway. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including working as an assistant director to Bartlett Sher, helping to cast the revival of AWAKE AND SING, how the Obama presidency aligned with the story of SOUTH PACIFIC, how her path to theater mirrored her uncle James Lapine, how the tour of WAR HORSE helped her find her own path as a director, why she doesn't like using projections, the challenges of adapting Almodovar in WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN, collaborating with Kate Hamill on LITTLE WOMEN and DRACULA, the work ethic of making theater in Japan, how she came to direct the Broadway revival of SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, importing technology from Germany to create the chromolumes, using her filmmaking experience for SONDHEIM ON SONDHEIM, the joys of collaborating with Jean Smart, and so much more. Don't miss this expansive conversation with one of Broadway's best directors.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with two-time Tony winner Judith Ivey. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including singing A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC for Stephen Sondheim, how Carol Woods gave her dinner eight times a week during FOLLIES, how her performance in STEAMING led to three feature film roles, finding the comedy in THE HEIRESS, meeting Neil Simon at the Tony Awards, performing BLITHE SPIRIT after Geraldine Page passed away, a memorable night out with Mike Nichols while working on HURLYBURLY, being directed by Zoe Caldwell in PARK YOUR CAR IN HARVARD YARD, acting opposite Jason Robards, acting with the audience in THE LADY WITH ALL THE ANSWERS, listening to Margaret Thatcher while performing in THE AUDIENCE, being directed by Edward Albee in THE AMERICAN DREAM, making the audience gasp during VOICES IN THE DARK, the difficulty of performing in GREATER CLEMENTS, developing a one-woman musical with George Furth, how Peter Hall chose her for BEDROOM FARCE, laughing with Eileen Heckart during THE FIVE MRS. BUCHANANS, bringing VANITIES off-Broadway, finding her own take on the leading role in PIAF, and so much more. Don't miss this honest conversation with one of Broadway's greatest stars.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Tony nominee Craig Bierko. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including what he learned from Meredith Willson's notes in the script of THE MUSIC MAN, dancing with Rebecca Luker, the “stop-start” feeling of THOU SHALT NOT, how James Lapine approached directing MODERN ORTHODOX, the Jewishness that is needed in GUYS AND DOLLS, why he didn't connect to the character of Miss Trunchbull in MATILDA, what it was like performing GIRL FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY just after the pandemic, why STANDING ON CEREMONY didn't work in New York, his efforts to revive LITTLE MARY SUNSHINE, talking to Patti LuPone backstage during COMPANY, a meaningful moment with Stephen Sondheim, playing opposite Len Cariou in HARRY TOWNSEND'S LAST STAND, and so much more. Don't miss this honest conversation with one of Broadway's greatest stars.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with producer Jenny Gersten, who was recently named the new VP and Artistic Director of Musical Theater at City Center. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how Anne Kauffman and Lear DeBessonet brought her on board at City Center, the true mission of the Encores! series, what she looks for in a potential revival, the challenges of massively reworking a show, her experience running the Williamstown Theater Festival after the pandemic, how changing venues affected the experience of the Festival, how she ended up having the same job as her father at the Public Theater, how transferring a show to Broadway has changed since A CHORUS LINE, how the revival of HAIR transferred to Broadway, developing the marketing strategy for BEETLEJUICE, how they made the off-Broadway revival of SWEENEY TODD financially viable, finding the audience for JUST FOR US using digital marketing, designing the Perelman Arts Center, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's most important creative minds.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway favorite Michael Park, who is currently starring in REDWOOD on Broadway through May 18. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including how he almost quit the business before REDWOOD, the joys of performing with Idina Menzel, memorable stage door experiences at DEAR EVAN HANSEN, his extended audition process for HELLO, AGAIN, what he learned from Jerry Zaks on SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE, balancing his role on AS THE WORLD TURNS with Broadway, teaching young actors during the pandemic, how he almost inspired a new Neil Simon play during LITTLE ME, working with stars on HOW TO SUCCEED and CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF, turning down JAGGED LITTLE PILL and HEAD OVER HEELS, how Rob Ashford was pivotal in his career, why he writes backstories for every role he plays, directing TUCK EVERLASTING at Shenandoah University, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a theater veteran.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with 4-time Tony nominee Raul Esparza. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including how he got into character for TICK, TICK…BOOM!, finding his take on the Emcee in CABARET, how Stephen Sondheim rewrote “Being Alive” for him, his experience of being outed while starring in COMPANY, the joys of starring in OLIVER, how his wife convinced him to audition for THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW, the difficulty of working with Jeremy Piven on SPEED-THE-PLOW, leaning into film tropes for ROAD SHOW, why he struggled with his role in CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, John Doyle's repetition technique, partying with Boy George to prepare for TABOO, why LEAP OF FAITH didn't have more success on Broadway, his recent role in GALILEO, the lasting power of THE NORMAL HEART, the specificity of Tom Stoppard, his favorite audience reactions during THE HOMECOMING, how LAW AND ORDER gave him a reprieve from stage work, the surprising similarities between ARCADIA and SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a true Broadway legend.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with 4-time Tony nominee Judy Kuhn, who is currently appearing in BECOMING EVE at the Abrons Arts Center. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary carer, finding the physicality of her character in FUN HOME, singing on the Tonys with RAGS and LES MISERABLES in the same year, how that performance led to her role in CHESS, working with Trevor Nunn on FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, why her role in ASSASSINS scared her, being voted the killer in THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, acting with Glenn Close in SUNSET BOULEVARD, interpreting the role of Fosca in PASSION, auditioning opposite Boyd Gaines for SHE LOVES ME, and so much more. Don't miss this conversation with a Broadway favorite.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Tony winner Jonathan Groff, who is currently starring as Bobby Darin in JUST IN TIME. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary carer, including why he never felt ownership over the role of King George in HAMILTON, what he learned from his experiences with fans during SPRING AWAKENING, why MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG is a love story, why he turned down the role of Finn on GLEE and HAIR on Broadway, his lack of formal training as a singer, working with Olympia Dukakis on THE SINGING FOREST, why he chose THE SOUND OF MUSIC tour over going to college, the serendipity of starring in A NEW BRAIN at Encores!, how Gavin Creel inspired him to publicly come out, what he learned from getting bad reviews for THE BACCHAE, working with Larry Kramer on the film of THE NORMAL HEART, JUST IN TIME's journey from the 92nd Street Y to Broadway, and so much more. Don't miss this honest conversation with a true Broadway star.

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Tony nominee Daniel Davis. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary carer, including his fateful audition for COCO, bringing Katharine Hepburn to dinner with his parents, the disagreement he had with Ian McKellen about AMADEUS, what he admired about Gavin Creel in LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, competing with Roddy McDowall for the role of Niles in THE NANNY, taking inspiration from Eric Blore and Arthur Treacher, acting with Eva Le Gallienne in ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL, his unexpected Tony nomination for WRONG MOUNTAIN, the gift he got from Tom Stoppard during THE INVENTION F LOVOE, the difficulty of doing NOISES OFF at the American Airlines Theater, how Nathan Lane thought of him for THE FROGS, a full-circle moment appearing on ELSBETH, the challenge of playing Iago in OTHELLO, how he almost replaced Len Cariou in SWEENEY TODD, and so much more. Don't miss this honest conversation with a true veteran of the American stage.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Tony winning actress Miriam Silverman, who is currently starring in DEEP BLUE SOUND at the Public Theater. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including her long journey with THE SIGN IN SIDNEY BRUSTEIN'S WINDOW, how her birth appeared on national television, choosing between JUNK and MARY JANE, meeting her husband on AWAKE AND SING, balancing being a mother and being an actress, her long collaboration with Anne Kauffmann, developing CULT OF LOVE, her work as a teacher, and so much more. You won't want to miss this open conversation with one of Broadway's best performers.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Tony nominated actress Isabel Keating, who will be performing in my upcoming concert of the Katharine Hepburn musical COCO at 54 Below. You can find in-person and livestream tickets to that event at this link: https://54below.org/events/54-sings-coco-by-alan-jay-lerner-and-andre-previn/ Tune in to hear some of the stories of Isabel's legendary career, including what her research process was like playing Judy Garland in THE BOY FROM OZ, going on at the last minute in IT'S ONLY A PLAY, how she ended up taking over for Tyne Daly in last season's revival of DOUBT, a full-circle moment with John Patrick Shanley, why Madame Morrible in WICKED is misunderstood, how her time in Europe influenced her theater career, making her Carnegie Hall debut with FOLLIES, the experience of processing her personal grief while starring in SPIDERMAN on Broadway, the many changes that were made to that musical, her experiences with the real-life QUEEN OF VERSAILLES, and so much more. You won't want to miss this open conversation with one of Broadway's best leading ladies.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Tony winning librettist and performer Bob Martin, who is the author of two of this season's newest hits—SMASH and BOOP—both of which started previews on Broadway this week. Tune in to hear about the writing processes of those two musicals, and some of the other stories of his legendary career, including why he was sore every night after performing THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, the character he almost played in THE PROM, writing for the film adaptation of that musical, why he loves writing for Beth Leavel, the challenges of working on MINSKY'S, changing ELF between its three Broadway runs, what he learned from Charles Strouse and Thomas Meehan, revisiting unsuccessful musicals in HEY, LOOK ME OVER, how supply chain issues have affected Broadway, developing THE STING with Harry Connick, Jr., working with Kevin Kline on AMERICAN CLASSIC, his idea for a sequel to THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, revising KISS ME, KATE in London, and so much more. You won't want to miss this honest and fun conversation with one of Broadway's funniest and most prolific writers.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Samuel D. Hunter, whose play GRANGEVILLE is currently playing at the Signature Theater with Paul Sparks and Brian J. Smith. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including how his experiences teaching expository writing led to THE WHALE, working with Darren Aronofsky on adapting the play into a film, the pushback he received for writing about conversion therapy in A GREAT WILDERNESS, dealing with pathology onstage, how GREATER CLEMENTS was his take on a Trump play, premiering LEWISTON/CLARKSTON as separate plays, writing for TV with BASKETS, his religious upbringing, the mentors who influenced his work, reviving A BRIGHT NEW BOISE in 2023, the economic realities of writing for the theater, how he decided to rewrite THE FEW, developing THE HEALING for a cast of disabled actors, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of American theater's best writers.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Lane Bradbury, who played the role of Dainty June in the original Broadway cast of GYPSY. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including why Ethel Merman wasn't a good co-star, joining the Actor's Studio, method acting with Elia Kazan for J.B., why Bette Davis was suspicious of her during THE NIGHT OF THE IGUANA, watching Patrick O'Neill and Bette Davis in rehearsal, the moment in GYPSY that caused a rift between her and Jerome Robbins, Lee Strasberg's favorite acting exercises, why she didn't audition for FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, working with June Havoc herself on MARATHON '33, how an audition for GREENWILLOW led her to move to California, putting together her cabaret act, why Audra McDonald is Broadway's best Mama Rose, why she doesn't own the OBC of GYPSY, and so much more. You won't want to miss this episode with a true theater veteran.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Scott Wittman, who is the lyricist of Broadway's newest sensation SMASH. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his amazing career, including why CATCH ME IF YOU CAN appealed to him as a follow-up to HAIRSPRAY, putting together MATTERS OF THE HEART with Patti LuPone, why CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY was at its best in workshops, his experiences with Dame Edna and Elaine Stritch, watching Disney animators at work during MARY POPPINS RETURNS, being influenced by John Waters, how Matthew Lopez convinced him to adapt SOME LIKE IT HOT, the upcoming project he's working on with Bridget Everett, why John Slattery and Talia Balsam were perfect for THE SUBJECT WAS ROSES, and so much more. You won't want to miss this chat with one of Broadway's best writers.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway legend Norbert Leo Butz, whose solo show Girls, Girls, Girls will be playing at 54 Below from March 9-13. The ticket link is here: https://54below.org/events/norbert-leo-butz-girls-girls-girls/ Tune in to hear some of the stories of his amazing career, including his advice for actors playing Fiyero in WICKED, why audiences misunderstand Jamie in THE LAST FIVE YEARS, jumping into SPEED-THE-PLOW with only a few days' notice, why ENRON didn't work for American audiences, how he infused his father into CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, how Jack O'Brien grounded the humor in DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, acting in CORNELIA STREET just after the pandemic, how BIG FISH helped him with losses in his own life, the challenge of playing the Emcee in CABARET, how he first met Jason Robert Brown, the gift of HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE, his audition process for THOU SHALT NOT, how Ska music influenced “Dancing Through Life,” the lessons he learned from his Broadway debut in RENT, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's best actors.

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by novelist and librettist Dan Elish, author of the wonderful new book King of Broadway. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his wonderful career, including how a letter to Stephen Sondheim led to his most recent book, turning THE WORLDWIDE DESSERT CONTEST into a musical, how he started working with Jason Robert Brown, changes that were made to 13, the difference between writing novels and writing musicals, writing for the screen with WONDER PETS, how HARRY POTTER changed the market for children's books, his experience at the BMI workshop, writing THE EVOLUTION OF MANN with Douglas J. Cohen, the musical he's working on with Scott Frankel, and so much more. You won't want to miss this episode with a literary mastermind!

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Broadway star Luba Mason, who will be appearing in Backstage Babble: Beyond the Walls of Joe Allen Restaurant on Wednesday, February 19th at 7 PM at 54 Below. You can find in-person and livestream tickets here: https://54below.org/events/backstage-babble-joe-allen/ And tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including finding her take on the role of Hedy LaRue in HOW TO SUCCEED, the beauty of THE CAPEMAN, the experience of reviving the show at the Delacorte Theater, her circuitous path to starring in JEKYLL AND HYDE, the challenges of working on SID CAESAR AND COMPANY, co-starring with Brooke Shields in CHICAGO, performing in the West Coast tryout of SUNSET BOULEVARD, why PRETTY FILTHY didn't transfer to Broadway, how she got involved with the American Dance Machine at NYU, dancing for Agnes De Mille, why she loves working with Michael John LaChiusa, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with a true Broadway veteran.

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Emmy nominee Jill Eikenberry, who will be appearing with me in Backstage Babble: Beyond the Walls of Joe Allen Restaurant on Wednesday, February 19th at 7 PM at 54 Below. You can find in-person and livestream tickets here: https://54below.org/events/backstage-babble-joe-allen/ And tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how Tennessee Williams helped her with her performance in THE ECCENTRICITIES OF A NIGHTINGALE, being bullied during her Broadway debut in MOONCHILDREN, how Dustin Hoffman directed ALL OVER TOWN, what she learned from Robert Burstein and Paul Sills at Yale, sharing a trailer with Liza Minelli during ARTHUR, the compliment she got from Lillian Hellman during WATCH ON THE RHINE, how she opened up her performance in ONWARD VICTORIA, embracing the power of Ann Kelsey on L.A. LAW, narrating TWYLA THARP DANCE while pregnant, acting in plays written by her husband, Michael Tucker, the intimacy of working with Wendy Wasserstein on UNCOMMON WOMAN, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of stage and screen's greatest stars.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Tony winner Kelly Bishop, whose memoir The Third Gilmore Girl is now out from Gallery Books. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how A CHORUS LINE changed the trajectory of musical theater, how she ended up taking over for Stockard Channing in SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION, how dying her hair led to her Broadway debut in GOLDEN RAINBOW, why she didn't prepare a Tonys acceptance speech, the miscasting that took place in ON THE TOWN, why PROPOSALS was a disappointing experience, breaking the fire code at the Public Theater, getting put into THE LAST NIGHT OF BALLYHOO, standing up to the creative team during RACHAEL LILY ROSENBLOOM…, why she loved her role in BECKY SHAW, going on the road with IRENE, and more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of stage and screen's best actresses.

“Good news!” Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Winnie Holzman, the author of the libretto and screenplay for the musical WICKED. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including what she learned from Betty Comden and Arthur Laurents while studying at NYU, how she came to star in the first production of Christopher Durang's BETTE AND BOO, ideas that came from the stage production of WICKED, learning from the reviews of BIRDS OF PARADISE, her journey to studying at Princeton, what inspired her to adapt THE SEAGULL, why Jon M. Chu was the perfect director for WICKED, one idea that got cut from the musical and the movie, how conversations around the movie changed through the years, the dimensions that Joe Mantello added to the musical, and so much more. You won't want to miss this conversation with a brilliant writer in all mediums!

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Tony-nominated actor Reg Rogers, who is currently starring as Mr. Mushnik in Little Shop of Horrors at the Westside Theater. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including his favorite joke that was cut from TOOTSIE, understudying Brian Bedford in THE MOLIERE COMEDIES, being cast against type in MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, his research process for HOLIDAY, the surprising audience reaction to PROPOSALS, taking notes during THE ICEMAN COMETH, performing ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL in the rain, the gift that Rosemary Harris gave him during THE ROYAL FAMILY, discovering YOU CAN'T TAKE IT WITH YOU, and so much more. You won't want to miss this conversation with one of the funniest actors around!

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with two-time Tony nominee Jessica Hecht, who is currently starring on Broadway in Jonathan Spector's EUREKA DAY. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how FIDDLER ON THE ROOF led to The Campfire Project, finding her character's voice in SUMMER, 1976, learning from Arthur Miller during AFTER THE FALL, how she related to her character in THE LAST NIGHT OF BALLYHOO, finding her interpretation of Blanche in A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, the challenges of playing opposite Denzel Washington in JULIUS CAESAR, how she got cast on FRIENDS, why she connects to the work of Neil Simon, and so much more. You won't want to miss this honest conversation with one of Broadway's finest actresses.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with theater veteran Michael Berresse. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including his brief moment being directed by Jerome Robbins during FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, the process of bringing TITLE OF SHOW to Broadway, creating his version of “Bianca” in KISS ME, KATE, understudying the lead role in DAMN YANKEES, bringing Bob Mackie to the stage in THE CHER SHOW, how he became artistic director of The Weston Playhouse, staging a revival of THE GOLDEN APPLE at Encores!, his onstage accident during BUSKER ALLEY, the isolation of playing Zach in A CHORUS LINE, auditioning for Ann Reinking for CHICAGO, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's best actors and directors.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with one of stage and screen's funniest comedians, Lea DeLaria. You can buy tickets to her “Brunch is Gay” series at 54 Below at this link: https://54below.org/events/lea-delaria-brunch-is-gay-2/  Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how she made everyone break during POTUS, winning over Adolph Green at her ON THE TOWN audition, a memorable ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW stage door encounter, going solo in HAPPY DAYS, her friendship with Elaine Stritch, the joy of working with Gavin Creel on PROMETHEUS BOUND, being the first openly gay comedian on TV, her journey to playing “Big Boo” on ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, developing SOME LIKE IT HOT and THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, starring in ONCE UPON A MATTRESS in California, why she thinks LIL' ABNER should be revived, sharing a special moment with Austin Pendleton during NIGHT OF THE IGUANA, and the current Broadway show she would love to star in. You won't want to miss this honest and hilarious conversation with a beloved star.

Today, I am thrilled to announce my episode with star of stage and screen Annie Golden. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including being discovered by Milos Forman at CBGB's, how Marc Shaiman played her HAIR audition, why LEADER OF THE PACK didn't work on Broadway, how her role in ASSASSINS was inspired by Kate Bush, learning from Colleen Dewhurst during AH, WILDERNESS!, rehearsing with Kathleen Freeman for THE FULL MONTY, recording demos for HAIRSPRAY, being directed by Howard Ashman in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, workshopping BROADWAY BOUNTY HUNTER at the West Bank Cafe, performing with Veanne Cox in NATIONAL LAMPOON'S CLASS OF '86, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a theater veteran. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Tony-winning director Michael Mayer, whose musical SWEPT AWAY is playing on Broadway through December 15th. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including the process of bringing SWEPT AWAY to Broadway, how Howard Ashman inspired his revival of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, working with new faces on SPRING AWAKENING and AMERICAN IDIOT, how Giulietta Massina inspired his take on FUNNY GIRL, working with Charles Schulz on YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, directing MARNIE and GROUNDED at the Metropolitan Opera, the process of reviving ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER, a last-minute switch with UNCLE VANYA, working with Arthur Miller on AFTER THE FALL and A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE, his current work on GALILEO, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's best directors. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway veteran Betsy Joslyn. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including why she crossed her eyes while singing “Green Finch and Linnet Bird” in SWEENEY TODD, preparing to go on at the last minute in THE GOODBYE GIRL, the many changes that were made to A DOLL'S LIFE, how she ended up with the final bow in INTO THE WOODS, a treasured piece of art from her time in THE FANTASTICKS, why she decided to leave the business after LES MIS, the kindness of Stacy Keach during CAMELOT, what she learned from Bernadette Peters and Angela Lansbury, playing cards during HIGH SOCIETY, her one performance in A FEW GOOD MEN, why you should never be funnier than Mel Brooks, how she convinced George Hearn to star in LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, and so much more. You won't want to miss this conversation with one of Broadway's best leading ladies. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with one of theater's most brilliant directors, Daisy Prince. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how she first met Jason Robert Brown at a piano bar, the way in which Stephen Sondheim and Hal Prince were opposite sides of a coin, the day that THE LAST FIVE YEARS was performed in chronological order, meeting her husband during THE PETRIFIED PRINCE, why she wasn't shocked by the closing of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, how a Yoko Ono musical led to SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD, the mentorship she has received from Paula Vogel, Richard Maltby, Jr., and other great theater artists, how she came up with the idea for THE CONNECTOR, casting Ben Levi Ross and Hannah Cruz in starring roles, the rewards of staging a period piece, and so much more, including a heartfelt tribute to Gavin Creel given on the day of his tragic passing. You won't want to miss this conversation with a theater artist whose legacy has spanned generations. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with one of musical theater's fastest-rising stars, Anna Zavelson, who is currently starring in Broadway's THE NOTEBOOK. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her fantastic career, including collaborating with her fellow Allies Maryann Plunkett and Aisha Jackson, working with Michael Greif and Schele Williams to find her unique take on the role, her audition process for THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA at Encores!, the challenges and rewards of staying in school while performing in New York, putting together her solo show, her two thwarted attempts at starring in SPELLING BEE, her lasting friendship with Andrea Burns, the ins and outs of performing in the Jimmy Awards, her dream jukebox musicals, the secret weapon she uses for an eight-show week, and so much more. You won't want to miss this chat with one of Broadway's best! 

Today, I am thrilled to announce the release of my interview with Broadway legend Sherie Rene Scott, who is currently starring as Audrey in LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her career, including how she discovered theater growing up, the process of training for THE LAST FIVE YEARS, transferring EVERYDAY RAPTURE to Broadway in twelve days, the challenges she faced as a replacement in RENT, deciding between two roles in GREASE, the joys of working with Disney on AIDA, learning from her Broadway debut in TOMMY, the roles she almost played in CABARET and NEXT TO NORMAL, a last-minute audition for OVER AND OVER, how an opening night gift for WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN led to her show WHORL INSIDE A LOOP, learning to fall out of a window in THE FRONT PAGE, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's best.

Today, I am so incredibly thrilled to announce the release of my interview with Pulitzer-Prize winning Broadway legend Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose new album WARRIORS, co-written with Eisa Davis, is now out on all platforms. Tune in to hear stories and insights including how WARRIORS became his “Roman Empire,” the challenges of adapting an action movie into a musical, how Twitter helped him develop HAMILTON, the hardest role to cast in IN THE HEIGHTS, how he approaches the dual roles of actor and writer, why he loves writing New York stories, working with Thomas Kail on saving the Drama Book Shop, coming back to Broadway in ALL IN, how his experiences with FOSSE/VERDON and MARY POPPINS RETURNS led to TICK, TICK…BOOM!, filming at the New York Theater Workshop during the pandemic, taking inspiration from Jonathan Larson, the phone call from John Kander that led to NEW YORK, NEW YORK, meeting Stephen Sondheim in his senior year of high school, the enduring legacy of HAMILTON, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of theater's most brilliant writers.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Tony nominated actress Kathleen Chalfant. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how Tony Kushner invited her to be part of ANGELS IN AMERICA, a letter from Larry Kramer during JUST SAY NO, how a fight broke out during her Broadway debut in DANCE WITH ME, the enormous difficulties of working with John Dexter on M. BUTTERFLY, taking on the role of Ronald Reagan in Sarah Ruhl's PASSION PLAY, how she ended up on staff at Playwrights Horizons, the production of MILLENNIUM APPROACHES that was dubbed MR. TOAD'S WILD RIDE, performing in workshops of FINDING NEVERLAND and FIRST DAUGHTER SUITE, and her most memorable reviews from John Simon, Michael Feingold, and more. You won't want to miss this conversation with a true theater veteran. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce the release of my episode with legendary director and actor Joe Mantello. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including why he decided to stop acting after ANGELS IN AMERICA, what it meant that Terrence McNally took a chance on him with LOVE! VALOUR! COMPASSION!, working with and without Stephen Sondheim on HERE WE ARE, what he learned from Glenda Jackson in THREE TALL WOMEN, why he had the sound designer in the rehearsal room during GREY HOUSE, the unique experience of I'LL EAT YOU LAST, the process of maintaining WICKED, his experience with CORPUS CHRISTI and the backlash that came with it, what has made him decide to act on Broadway in THE NORMAL HEART and THE GLASS MENAGERIE, staging sensitive scenes in TAKE ME OUT and FRANKIE AND JOHNNY IN THE CLAIR DE LUNE, what it was like making his Broadway debut with WHAT'S WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE?, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of Broadway's most brilliant directors.

Today, I'm thrilled to present my episode with triple threat Stephanie Pope. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her fantastic career, including her long collaboration with Bob Fosse, from her first audition for SWEET CHARITY to her conversations with him on the day that he died, why she was hounded by press during THE WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, what made her decide to recreate her role in JELLY'S LAST JAM, doing research for her role in A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM, going on at the last minute for Patina Miller in PIPPIN, how the pandemic led her to start directing, premiering SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE in London, going on the road with her daughter in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, announcing Gwen Verdon's death from the stage during FOSSE, studying dance while attending high school, standing by for Chita Rivera in KISS OF THE SPIDERWOMAN, how she aimed to leave the door open for fellow Black performers, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of Broadway's most talented stars. 

Ticket Link: https://54below.org/events/beth-leavel-sings-sondheim/ Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Tony winner Beth Leavel, who will be performing a 54 Below concert celebrating the works of Stephen Sondheim on October 26 and 27. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including the advice she got from Elaine Stritch, her process of finding the character of Dee Dee Allen in THE PROM, how 42ND STREET ruined a trip to Disneyland, performing for Elton John and Steven Spielberg, why her involvement in LEMPICKA felt fated by the universe, the role of hers that Eartha Kitt and Joan Van Ark also auditioned for, working with Casey Nicholaw on TUCK EVERLASTING and SOMETHING ROTTEN, the tragic closing of THE CIVIL WAR, taking inspiration from Margaret Dumont for THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, the most important lines in THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, and so much more. You won't want to miss this uproarious conversation with a true Broadway treasure. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with star of stage and screen Allan Corduner, who just finished a run as Hume Cronyn in THE MOTIVE AND THE CUE on the West End. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including crawling on the floor with Barbra Streisand, the unique process of working with Mike Leigh on TOPSY TURVY, how a coffee with Bartlett Sher led to MY FAIR LADY, dealing with technical issues during TITANIC, the antisemitism he faced in the British entertainment world, working with Joseph Papp on SERIOUS MONEY, the actor who died during the table read of YENTL, why he was more impressed by John Gielgud than Laurence Olivier, working with Mike Ockrent on his theater debut, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of our most charming and delightful stars.

I could not be more thrilled to announce my guest for this week, olympic gymnast and Tony nominee Cathy Rigby. Tune in to hear some of the stories of Cathy's incredible career, including how Disney on Parade turned her into a musical theater star, why competing in the Olympics almost led to her failing high school gym class, what it was like competing internationally during The Cold War, why she views Peter Pan as one of the saddest characters, why her last performance in the role was her best, a poignant experience helping a sick girl fly, casting her real-life children in touring productions of PETER PAN, observing that children are the same across the globe, learning SEUSSICAL in ten days, producing the upcoming revival of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF with Jason Alexander, collaborating with John Kenley, the challenge of appearing in STEEL MAGNOLIAS, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with an interdisciplinary master.

Today, I'm thrilled to present my interview with star of stage and screen Mario Cantone. Tune in to hear the stories of his legendary stage career, including how a phone call with Joe Mantello led to ASSASSINS, an early audition for TORCH SONG TRILOGY, when he almost co-starred with Pamela Adlon in THE PRISONER OF SECOND AVENUE, why he turned down THE PRODUCERS and THE LION KING, his struggle to find the comedy in THE TEMPEST, how a birthday party performance led to his Broadway solo show LAUGH WHORE, why a good impressionist is like a caricaturist, his friendships with Dorothy Loudon and Fred Ebb during OVER AND OVER, talking about Joan Crawford with Stephen Sondheim, developing BLISS out of town, the audition he walked out of, how AND JUST LIKE THAT has changed his life, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with one of the funniest men in show business.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with legendary director and choreographer Susan Stroman. Tune in to hear all about her upcoming projects LEFT ON TENTH, ANGEL OF ARKANSAS, and SMASH, as well as some of the stories of her great career, including the lessons she learned from John Kander and Fred Ebb, the choreographic journey of THE MUSIC MAN, why CRAZY FOR YOU felt like it was in her blood, the art of partnering in STEEL PIER, why Hal Prince credits SHOWBOAT for his entire career, staging tryouts from Hunter College to Japan, watching Nathan Lane and Stephen Sondheim collaborate on THE FROGS, how an experience in a club and an offer from Andre Bishop led to CONTACT, finding the structure of NEW YORK, NEW YORK, her collaborations with dance arrangers including Glen Kelly and Peter Howard, the similarities and differences between Mel Brooks and Woody Allen, using visual inspiration for LITTLE DANCER, working on THOU SHALT NOT during 9/11, how research influenced her choreography for OKLAHOMA, the joys and challenges of directing POTUS right after the pandemic, and more. You won't want to miss this interview with a true master of the American theater.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with the brilliant, Tony winning actor Jefferson Mays. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including how three 5-minute plays at the Sundance Theater Festival evolved into I AM MY OWN WIFE, his experience performing that play in Poland, Brazil, and Australia, the backstage game he played with Angela Lansbury during THE BEST MAN, his unique take on Henry Higgins in PYGMALION, why he wishes a film had been made backstage at A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER, the greatness of the late Steven Lutvak, a bloody accident during a site-specific ORESTES, why he used a prosthetic nose during THE MUSIC MAN, performing OSLO for the real-life Terje Rod-Larsen, what inspired his solo performance of A CHRISTMAS CAROL, how his vocal chords hemorrhaged during BLOOD AND GIFTS, taking advice from Robert Morse and Nathan Lane during THE FRONT PAGE, his next idea inspired by The Grand Guignol, and so much more. You won't want to miss this episode with a once-in-a-generation talent.

Today, I am thrilled to announce my interview with star of stage and screen Alyson Reed. Tune in to hear some of the stories of Alyson's legendary career, including her difficult decision to leave A CHORUS LINE on the road, making amends with Michael Bennett, how “Let Me Dance For You” was restored to the film of A CHORUS LINE, a meaningful note from Hal Prince, the bumpy road to starring in MARILYN, how that show led to her role in HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, dealing with protestors during OH, BROTHER, the cast's nickname for DANCE A LITTLE CLOSER, replacing Karen Ziemba in A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING, her passion for arts education, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce the second part of Backstage Babble's 200th episode celebration—a conversation with two of my favorite former guests, two friends, two mentors, two veteran performers, two Tony nominees--Lee Roy Reams and Brandon Maggart. Tune in to hear some of the stories of their parallel lives in the theater, including what it was like sharing a dressing room during APPLAUSE, the difference between Lauren Bacall and Carol Channing, their unusual experience arriving in Oklahoma City with LORELEI, how Tamara Long influenced the cast of that show and what made Jule Styne decide to keep her in it, what it was like for Lee Roy to teach Madeline Kahn the humor of HELLO, DOLLY!, how Susan Stroman convinced Brandon not to quit MUSICAL CHAIRS, how Lee Roy almost directed a revival of ANNIE 2, and Brandon's run-in with Howard Keel during South Pacific. Plus, they talk about Ron Field, Karen Morrow, Oric Bovar, and Jane Powell, and both of them answer the James Lipton questionnaire! You won't want to miss this episode with two super talents and very special people.

The first part of Backstage Babble's 200th episode celebration is here, and it is an honor to be talking theater legend Jack O'Brien, who recently received the lifetime achievement award at the 2024 Tonys. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his expansive career, including the genesis of his newest show THE ROOMMATE, his advice for young directors, his friendship an collaboration with Stephen Sondheim, figuring out the sensitive timing of SHUCKED, learning from Ellis Rabb about how to give notes to actors, the show of his that launched more careers than any other, his unique relationship with the cast of PORGY AND BESS, how he decided to leave his position as artistic director of The Old Globe, the intriguing critical response to IMAGINARY FRIENDS and CAROUSEL, how his revival of ST. LOUIS WOMAN almost came to Broadway, revising DAMN YANKEES with George Abbott, his criteria for choosing shows to direct, how INTO THE WOODS changed the regional theater landscape, and so much more. This episode is a masterclass in directing from one of the greatest theatrical minds of all time. I can't think of a more perfect way to celebrate 200 episodes.

Today, I am thrilled to announce my interview with 2024 Tony award winning playwright David Adjmi, whose play Stereophonic has quickly become Broadway's newest sensation. Tune in today for a deep dive into the making of that play, including its Reagan-focused political undercurrent, the plane trip that gave him inspiration, why he views his plays like jigsaw puzzles, the reason why some audiences don't respond to the play, the site-specific production he originally imagined, how the pandemic foiled the initial plans for a Broadway production, how band practice created chemistry among the cast, the process of securing Playwrights Horizons, how he ensured his vision for the timing of the play was maintained, and so much more. You can also hear other stories from his great career, including why Marian Seldes made a great collaborator, how an unpleasant experience at Juilliard influenced his subsequent work, his interactions with Stephen Sondheim, why he looks up to Edward Albee, what he looks for in a director, why he wants to tackle musical theater next, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with a true genius in the American theater.

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with one of Broadway's best young directors, Sammi Cannold. Tune in to this interview to hear stories and insights from her amazing career, including how a DM led to her Broadway debut, the ins and outs of being an assistant director, how she first contacted Diane Paulus, putting Ingrid Michaelson into NATASHA, PIERRE, AND THE GREAT COMET OF 1812, her inspiration for staging VIOLET on a bus, staging RAGTIME as a young director, her guideposts for casting the role of Eva Peron, the immersive production she'd still like to do, how she made everyone involved with HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO feel comfortable along the way, looking at Hal Prince's notes on the show, how she uses her mathematical mind in her directing work, and so much more. 

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with the brilliant director Michael Greif, who completed a rare trifecta this season, directing the Broadway productions of Hell's Kitchen, Days of Wine and Roses, and The Notebook. Tune in today to hear him share insights from his storied career, including the personal significance of directing at the Shubert Theater, how a production of MACHINAL jumpstarted his career, the challenges and rewards of reviving ANGELS IN AMERICA, what drove him to accept a position as the artistic director of the La Jolla Playhouse, developing and refocusing NEXT TO NORMAL with Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, why he uses music in many of his plays, why NEVER GONNA DANCE couldn't ultimately succeed, the joy of collaborating with Patti LuPone, his long tenure with The Public Theater, how he addresses the cast of every production of RENT, the special qualities he saw in Idina Menzel and Maleah Joi Moon at the beginning of their careers, why he decided to bring Schele Williams on as his co-director for THE NOTEBOOK, the play of his that almost moved to Broadway, the musical rule that he discovered while working on GIANT, WAR PAINT, and IF/THEN, and so much more. 

The Tonys are coming up! And Backstage Babble is giving you the perfect way to celebrate. On this episode, I am joined by Eila Mell, the author of the wonderful new book “The Tony Awards: Celebrating Excellence in the Theater,” a must-have for any theater fan, and Heather Hitchens, the CEO of the American Theater Wing, which presents the Tonys every year. Tune in for some fascinating anecdotes and insights, including how the legacy of Antoinette Perry influences the Tony Awards later on, how the Obie Awards were incorporated into the American Theater Wing, the Tony nominee that was hardest to track down for an interview, the many photo collections that were used in creating the book, the best Tony performances and biggest upsets from over the years, a last minute pedi-cab incident in getting to the ceremony, the logistics of choosing a host and a venue, the beauty of the Working in the Theater series, the Tony-nominated theater writers who received the Wing's Jonathan Larson grant (and one who didn't!), the experience of watching all the awards ceremonies, and so much more. Don't miss this fascinating insider glimpse into the biggest night of the season!

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with legendary lyricist Susan Birkenhead. Tune in to hear the stories of her great career, including how Shirley Bernstein introduced her to Mary Rodgers, the song of hers that was cut from WORKING, the Patti LaBelle-led project that led to JELLY'S LAST JAM, the show she gets recognized for the most, the hardest role to cast in THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, how she became involved in BOOP, the lyric that Frank Sinatra loved, how Jule Styne became her mentor, the advice she got from Stephen Sondheim, workshopping the music of Cole Porter with Carolee Carmello, why she ultimately pulled out of FANNY HACKABOUT JONES, the musical she initiated, how she ended up in Lehman Engel's workshop, adapting MOONSTRUCK, working with Cy Coleman on SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS, and so much more. You won't want to miss this in-depth conversation with one of theater's most fascinating figures.