Carefully Taught: Teaching Musical Theatre with Matty and Kikau

Matty and Kikau connect with Josh Grisetti (Cal State Fullerton) about the question he posed on TikTok...Are there too many MT BFAs? They all weigh in on the conversation and it makes for a great episode! Let us know what you think about this topic! Josh recommends some of his favorite TikTokkers to follow: Michael Reilly Burke (@michaelreillyburke), Sam Stiglitz (@auditionprola), and The Musical Dealer (@themusicaldealer)!

Kikau, Matty, and special guest Shorey Walker talk all things SENIOR SHOWCASE! We have been talking about showcases for the last couple years and Shorey is a true expert. In this episode, we talk about how to prepare for a New York showcase experience and what you might look for when talking about showcasing with a prospective program. Shorey's recommendation is the website UpToDateActor.com and for listeners of our podcast you can type in SM2P5 to receive a FREE month of membership benefits. If you would like to reach out to Shorey directly, contact her at shorey@shoreywalker.com. —---Shorey Walker is a working actor in Theatre, Commercials, Hosting, Industrials, TV & Film. Pursuing a career in New York City since 1992, Shorey performed in 8 Broadway National Tours, 13 years in a row of summer stock, 20+ regional theatre productions, 10+ Off-Broadway credits including the 2018 production of Tchaikovsky: None But the Lonely Heart at the Signature Theatre and can be heard as The Cat In the Hat on the revival recording of Seussical. Recent TV appearances include White Collar, Diabolical, Redrum, One Life To Live, The Eric Andrew Show, Sprout TV and Deadly Sins.

Matty and Kikau interview the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance (MTEA) nominees for the office of the president. If you are a member in good standing you are eligible to vote right now! The deadline to vote is Monday, April 28th @ 11:59pm EST. If you are not a member, you can follow this LINK to get more information about joining. MTEA is an amazing organization and we are both excited about these incredible candidates, Ryan Scoble (Assistant Professor Musical Theatre at West Virginia University)  and Lauren Haughton-Gillis (Assistant Professor, Music Theatre and Director of the BFA Music Theatre Program at Florida State University).

Today Kikau talks to Kelly Todd from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. We have a fantastic conversation about her program, how her and her students survived two fires in the past few months, and hard work! Her recommendation is Brené Brown's podcast Dare to Lead. Kelly Todd received her MEd in mathematics education from UCLA in 1999 and her BA in theater arts also from UCLA in 1997. She has taught as a professor in the theater department at Pepperdine University for four years and has choreographed their recent musicals Big Fish, Crazy for You, and South Pacific. She is the 2014 Ovation Award Winner for Best Choreography for her work on Lysistrata Jones at the Chance Theater, where she is a resident artist. Some of her favorite credits there have been West Side Story, for which she received the LA Drama Critics Circle 2012 Special Award for Fight Choreography, and Triassic Parq, in 2013 and Jerry Springer: The Opera, in 2011 which both won the Ovation Award for Best Musical in an Intimate Theater and garnered her Ovation Award Nominations for Best Choreography. She was named Southern California's Choreographer of the Year in 2011 and 2012 by Stage Scene LA. Other credits include Once (Regional Premiere after Broadway), Light in the Piazza, Ivy and Bean, The Musical, Peter Pan and Seussical at South Coast Repertory, and The Who's Tommy at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Matty and Kikau discuss hanging out in New York for the Chico State Showcase, seeing some Broadway shows, Disney cruises, and moving to California! Please like, comment, and subscribe. Your comments will help others find our podcast!

Kikau and Matty chat with Aaron Galligan-Stierle, who is an Assistant Professor and Head of Musical Theatre at Slippery Rock University. This episode has some great gems! Hear about this up and coming program and how Aaron goes above and beyond! Aaron has a request from YOU: He is looking for recommendations on two topics: How do I become a better fund raiser? and Can we find a better way to recruit? Aaron's recommendation is an app called Things 3. ----Aaron Galligan-Stierle, Assistant Professor and Head of Musical Theatre, is an accomplished actor, director and producer with critically acclaimed work that ranges from Broadway musicals to Shakespeare. He is also a highly sought after audition coach providing exclusive workshops and one-on-one training for professionals in the Broadway community and at top universities across the country.Aaron performed on Broadway as Papa Who in Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Henry Ford in the Tony-nominated revival of Ragtime, and was selected by Harold Prince to replace the longest-running actor in a Broadway show, taking over the role of Monsieur Andre in The Phantom of the Opera. Aaron's touring credits include Mike Nulty in the national tour of White Christmas and Hark the Herald in the international tour of Cinderella, starring Lea Salonga.

Kikau and Matty chat with the remarkable Valeria Accetta, who is the Head of Musical Theatre at The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her recommendation is an app called the Healthy Minds App and a book called Monsters: A Fan's Dilemma by Claire Dederer. Valerie is a member of Actor's Equity Association, an Associate Member of Stage Directors and Choreographers, and an Estill Master Trainer in Estill Voice Training. As an Equity actress, Valerie played Margy Frake in the First National Tour of Rodgers and Hammerstein's State Fair, starring John Davidson. She has performed in numerous other musicals including the title role in Cinderella, Maria in The Sound of Music, and Lady Larkin in Once Upon a Mattress, and she performs regularly in concerts and cabarets. She first began her studies in musical theatre at the University of Miami and received a BA in Musical Theatre Pedagogy from Otterbein University and an MFA in Theatre Pedagogy from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Matty and Kikau discuss all things A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) related when it comes to teaching MT with Lisa Hermanson who is an Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre in the New Mexico State Department of Theatre. At the end of the episode, Lisa recommends a podcast called Normal Gossip, which "delivers juicy, strange, funny, and utterly banal gossip about people you'll never know and never meet. Host Kelsey McKinney discusses reader-submitted comedic gossip with guests, diving into the lives and decisions of complete strangers. " Lisa is originally from Seattle, Washington. She holds her MFA in Theatre Pedagogy/Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University, where she was also adjunct faculty in Theatre and Speech, and her BA in Theatre and Music from Seattle Pacific University. Lisa is a music director, director, pianist, vocalist, and composer/playwright. She has worked in theatres in both the Seattle and Richmond areas, including Virginia Repertory Theatre (Richmond, VA) and the 5th Avenue Theatre (Seattle, WA), as well as multiple years in theatre education in Seattle.

Kikau and Matty speak with the amazing Adam Moxness on today's episode. Kikau was inspired to bring Adam on after his incredible presentation at the Musical Theater Educators' Alliance annual conference in New York City. They discuss Universal Design for Voice and Theatre Teaching (UDVTT). Adam's recommendations include CAST.org, which is the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) website, Think Protein Bars (specifically the peanut butter chocolate ones), John & Jen by Andrew Lippa, and the Sunset Boulevard revival by Andrew Lloyd Weber. Kikau shares that he is currently listening to Chita: A Memoir by Chita Rivera with Patrick Pacheco. Adam Moxness is a dedicated educator, accomplished performer, and innovative researcher serving as an instructor of musical theatre voice at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis. With an MFA in musical theatre vocal pedagogy from Boston Conservatory at Berklee, Adam has emerged as a leader in the field of inclusive voice education. His groundbreaking work in Universal Design for Voice and Theatre Teaching (UDVTT) focuses on accessibility-based and neurodiversity-affirming pedagogical approaches, aiming to create inclusive learning environments where every student, regardless of ability or background, can thrive. Adam's expertise extends beyond the classroom. He has presented his research at national and international conferences, including the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance, Pan American Vocology Association, and the International Congress of Voice Teachers, as well as through workshops and online courses designed to empower educators to adopt more inclusive teaching practices. His research and pedagogy have been recognized with grants from Berklee College of Music and collaborations with institutions such as the Voice Study Centre and Bowling Green State University.

Matty and Kikau discuss what they have been up to on this break. Spoiler Alert: We talk Hawaii and the Musical Theater Educator's Alliance Conference in New York. At the end of the episode, they discuss two very different documentary recommendations. Cheers to 2025!

Matty and Kikau talk about some of their favorite episodes of 2024. It has been quite a ride. Go back and take a listen to some of these great moments. Happy Holidays! We will see you soon with all new episodes and fun in 2025!

Kikau interviews RJ Magee who is a professional educator, actor, director, talent manager, and casting director. In addition to serving as the Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, RJ is currently an Associate Talent Manager for Baker Management in NYC where some of his recent client bookings include many of the nation's top regional theaters, national touring companies, and NYC episodics, as well as various Broadway shows. We discuss what it means to be a Visiting Professor and how being a talent manager and casting director is helpful in the classroom. RJ recommends a new movie called Saturday Night. ---- Richard (RJ) Magee is a professional educator, actor, director, talent manager, and casting director. In addition to serving as the Visiting Assistant Professor of Theatre at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, Richard is currently an Associate Talent Manager for Baker Management in NYC where some of his recent client bookings include many of the nation's top regional theaters, national touring companies, and NYC episodics, as well as various Broadway shows. Through his own casting office, RJ Magee Casting, Richard's casting credits include Children's Theatre of Charlotte, Iron Bridge Theatre, Arden Theatre Company, Top Hat Productions, Esther's Follies, The Girl Behind The Curtain Productions (Off-Broadway's Truffles), Flaviar (celebrity casting: Stephen Soderbergh, Carlos Mencia, Marc Summer, Aisha Tyler, and more), New City Stage Company, FunikiJam World Music, Childsplay Theatre, MainStreet Musicals: Philadelphia, and more. His most recent casting project, the hit reality series Theality TV, is currently streaming on Broadway On Demand, Revry, and YouTube. He has also been called upon to share expertise by serving as an entertainment industry adviser to prestigious market research and management consulting firms EY-Parthenon and Third Bridge. Richard is a proud member of the Music Theatre Educators Alliance. He is a graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy and holds a bachelor's degree in musical theatre from Temple University. Additionally, Richard received an MFA in Theatre Arts from Minnesota State University, Mankato and recently concluded a 9-month contract as the Visiting Assistant Professor of Acting at Longwood University (home of the 2016 Vice Presidential debate).

Matty put together a fantastic episode that includes interviews with Vicky Bussert (Oberlin College), Josh Grisetti (California State University, Fullerton), Jacob Brent (Elon University), Michael E. Mckelvey (Carnegie Mellon University), and Aaron Brown (Texas State University).  This is one of those episodes that you are going to want to listen to and then share with your colleagues as it is a conversation happening in many institutions across our MT educator community. If you like what you hear, it is helpful to like and review our podcast on all of the platforms. If you would like to join us or have an idea for an episode, reach out to carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com.

Matty and Kikau reconnect about our Thanksgiving holiday and talk all things WICKED. We have a couple more episodes before 2024 ends so be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends. We really love doing this. If you are interested in a particular topic or would like to be a guest on the show feel free to reach out to us at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com. Enjoy.

In this very special episode, Ben Lundy interviews Matty and Kikau. Ben is working on an article about the MT Podcast scene for the upcoming MTEA Journal. Take a listen because this was super fun! --- Ben Lundy is the chair of theatre at Wallace Community College and teaches theatre and speech courses while directing productions. Lundy is a Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance member and has presented his research at the organization's Atlanta and New York City conferences. Lundy's goal is to use the transformative art form of theatre to encourage students to find their voice, become content creators rather than passive culture consumers, and recognize the humanity in one another, making students not just career-ready, but, more importantly, community-ready.

In our series interviewing folks who are transitioning to a new institution, Matty and Kikau chat with André Garner who recently joined the Department of Musical Theatre as an assistant professor in the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. We talk about the strong UMICH alum community, how we nurture curiosity and rigor, and so much more!  Andre's recommendation is The Morning Show on Apple TV and we chat about America's Sweethearts on Netflix.   —-- Garner's Broadway credits include How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Music Man, Marie Christine, and Grease. Off-Broadway, he starred as the title character in Langston Hughes's Little Ham, as well as performing in From My Hometown. Garner appeared in the national touring productions of The Color Purple, Dreamgirls, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Miss Saigon. Internationally, he toured with the European and Asian companies of A Chorus Line. Garner has taught at Ball State University, Baruch College, New York Film Academy, and California State University, Long Beach. His professional memberships include SAG-AFTRA and the Actor's Equity Association, and he currently serves on the executive board of the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance. Garner received a BS from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and an MFA from California State University, Long Beach.

Jacob Brent joins Matty and Kikau in their series on MT educators who are transitioning to new institutions. Jacob is now an Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre at Elon University. Jacob's recommendations are the Netflix show The Perfect Couple and Jeffrey Kaplan Videos. --- Jacob Brent is a 10 year veteran Broadway performer with an MFA in Musical Theatre. With extensive experience performing, directing, choreographing and teaching, Mr. Brent has been recognized by The New York Times as knowing how to inspire actors. As a performer, Jacob is probably best known for his portrayal of Mr. Mistoffelees in the Broadway, London and DVD productions of Cats. Now on the other side of the table, he brings the same commitment and passion for performing to directing, choreographing and teaching.  Mr. Brent is actively involved in the International Junior Theatre Festival and pilot productions of new Broadway Jr. musicals. He adapted the high school editions of CHICAGO and A CHORUS LINE and has directed the premiere productions of LEGALLY BLONDE JR., RENT school edition and AVENUE Q school edition.  Jacob is passionate about inspiring the next generation of artists and audiences.

In our series of folks who are transitioning to new positions, Matty and Kikau chat with the incredible Lauren Haughton Gillis, who is the new Director for the BFA Musical Theatre Program at Florida State University. We talk about all of the amazing things that the program has to offer, serving the needs of the students, and the importance of work/life balance. Lauren's recommendation is the FX tv show, The Bear. ------ Lauren the new Director for the BFA Musical Theatre Program at Florida State University. She was previously an Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre at the Indiana University Department of Theatre & Dance where she won the 2022 Trustees Teaching Award. She is a proud member of Actors Equity Association and is the Head of Dance/Vice President of Conferences for Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance International (MTEA). She holds a BFA from Syracuse University and an MFA from San Diego State University.

In our series about folks who are transitioning from one institution to another, we invited the amazing Scott Susong to the podcast. Scott is now Visiting Professor of Musical Theatre for the 2024-25 school year at Ohio Northern University! His recommendations include The Great Lillian Hall, a film on HBO Max starring Jessica Lange and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. ---- Scott Susong is a sought after Theatre Educator and SDC*  Director. He has amassed numerous professional and academic credits, both nationally and internationally, contributing to fifteen world premiere musicals and two original international tours. Recently retired as Professor Emeritus after leading the Music Theatre program at Illinois Wesleyan University from 2007-2024, Scott is currently serving as a Visiting Professor of Musical Theatre for the 2024-25 school year at Ohio Northern University and is available as a guest artist, coach, and consultant.

Kikau and Matty are back with a brand new episode. They catch up after an eventful summer and talk about what is coming up for them for the new school year. Feel free to reach out to us at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you!

This episode was recorded on Monday, June 10th. University of the Arts officially closed on Friday, June 7th with only 7 days notice. Kikau shares his particular experience with this situation and this institution. We are still awaiting information, but Middle States Commision on Higher Education has approved teach-out agreements with the following MSCHE institutions: Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA (Drexel University Teach-Out Agreement) Montclair State University, Upper Montclair, NJ (Montclair State University Teach-Out Agreement) Moore College of Art and Design, Philadelphia, PA (Moore College of Art and Design Teach-Out Agreement) Point Park University, Pittsburgh, PA (Point Park University Teach-Out Agreement) Temple University, Philadelphia, PA (Temple University Teach-Out Agreement) The New School, New York, NY (The New School Teach-Out Agreement)

In this episode, Matty and Kikau have a follow up conversation with Aaron Brown about his recent recommendation Cowboy Carter. The blending of genres and exploring of styles that Queen B does with this album is surprisingly connected to conversations Matty has been having with his musical theatre students.

Matty and Kikau chat with Aaron Brown, Cassie Abate, and Tom Delbello, the co-heads of the Musical Theatre program at Texas State University. Their recommendations include Cowboy Carter, The Art and Practice of Musical Theatre, and Director/Choreographer, Tuan Malinowski. -------- Aaron currently serves as a Co-Head of Musical Theatre: Director of Student Relations, Production and New Work at Texas State University. He formerly, served as assistant professor and Co-Coordinator of Musical Theatre at Sam Houston State University from 2019-2023. Some of Aaron's past directing credits include the world premiere of ShaWanna Rivon's You're Cordially Invited to Sit-In (Stages), Houston for the Holidays (Stages), Shakespeare in Love, Airness, Detroit '67, Once on this Island, Violet, Godspell (WaterTower), Crazy for You, Hamoncé: A Devised Piece, Black Magic: A Shakespeare Adaption, The Pavilion, and Hairspray. His assistant director credits include the world premiere production of Regina Taylor's Bread (WaterTower Theatre), Ain't Misbehavin (TUTS), and the regional premiere of Dear Jack, Dear Louise (A.D. Players). Aaron Brown holds an MFA in Directing from Baylor University and a BM in Music Theatre from Oklahoma City University. Aaron is a proud supporter and promoter of diversity in the arts. He is a firm believer that Representation Matters! Aaron is grateful for the love of his amazing wife Holly and their two kids, Eliza Grace and Isaiah Carter Brown. Cassie Abate is a Co-Head of the Musical Theatre Program. Cassie originally hails from Sarasota, FL and has spent the last 15 years working as a performer, director and choreographer in New York and throughout the country. Cassie received a BFA in Musical Theatre from The University of Miami and an MFA in Musical Theatre from San Diego State University. Other training includes Ann Reinking's Broadway Theatre Project and Gil Stroming's Break the Floor in New York City. Cassie was an adjunct professor in the Musical Theatre Program at Montclair State University as well as a Graduate Student Instructor at San Diego State University where she taught dance at the undergraduate and graduate level. Tom is a Co-head of Musical Theatre: Head of Production and New Works. They hold a Masters in Directing from Texas State University. At TXST, Tom has directed Spring Awakening, Guys & Dolls, Cabaret, Hair, Speech and Debate, the New Musical workshop of Dylan Spencer's Cat Obedience School, and many other new works. In Texas he has worked as an associate director at regional theatres such as The Zach Theatre in Austin, and Theatre Under the Stars in Houston. Select acting credits include, the world premier and Toronto companies of Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Boys in the Photograph and the North American tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat. He has performed at regional theatres across North America and cruised the high seas as a lead vocalist with both Disney Cruise Lines and Princess Cruises.

Jessica Humphrey is the President of the Musical Theater Educators' Alliance and an Assistant Professor at Texas Christian University. In this episode we discuss the Musical Theater Common Prescreen Criteria developed in partnership with MTEA, Accptd, and several Musical Theater programs across the country. We also discuss the upcoming MTEA conference in London at the Guilford School of Acting from July 23rd to July 25th, 2024. Her recommendations include: Something Wonderful: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway Revolution by Todd S. Purdum and getting an “old-fashioned” planner!  Jessica is a native of Dallas, Texas and attended Western Carolina University where she received a Bachelors of Music in Musical Theatre. This is where she first started working as a dance captain for Tony nominee Charlotte d'Amboise and assistant to Tony Award nominee Terrence Mann both on productions and at their summer intensive, Triple Arts. She has continued to assist the husband and wife team until she moved to TCU. Both Terrence and Charlotte directed Jessica in shows such as A Chorus Line (where she eventually took over the role of Cassie when Tony nominated actress Ariana DeBose suffered an injury), Sweeney Todd (Johanna) and Pirates of Penzance (Edith). Jessica went on to work as a dance captain for original Rent dance captain, Owen Johnston and spent two summers as the dance captain for Wild Adventures Theme Park. After graduating in 2011, she moved to New York City where she performed in several regional shows including the regional debut of The Boy from Oz, Cats (Rumpleteazer) and Into the Woods (Little Red). Some other favorite productions have included Dames at Sea (Joan), West Side Story (Anybodys) and Brigadoon (Bonnie Jean).  Eventually she decided it was time to further her education and completed her Masters in Musical Theatre at San Diego State University where she received support from the Roscoe-Tiffany MFA Musical Theatre Scholarship and the Marion Ross Scholarship. The program is one of only a few in the nation with a terminal degree in musical theatre, and the only one that has a clear focus on both performance and academia. An important aspect of this program is working on developing new musical theatre works. Jessica worked with Dallas natives in developing the show “On the Eve” and with Tony Award Winner BD Wong and Wayne Barker on the show, “Mister Doctor”. Jessica went on to work with BD and Wayne again in New York, on a new musicalized version of Mister Holland's Opus. Jessica taught classes such as History of Musical Theatre, Acting I, and Musical Theatre performance. While completing her thesis on the evolution of rap in musical theatre, Jessica left California in order to perform in Alaska as Peter in Peter Pan. While flying every night, and completing her thesis, she also worked to choreograph numbers for the Aztec Follies, a cabaret of graduate students filmed for PBS. During her time in grad school, Jessica also worked at the famed La Jolla Playhouse, in the Development Department and the Musical Theatre Archive at SDSU, the largest Musical Theatre Archive west of the Mississippi. After moving back to New York City, where she resided until August 2018, Humphrey worked with organizations such as the Ziegfeld Society, Rosie's Theatre Kids, and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp. She continues to study voice with the esteemed instructor Andrew Byrne and works as a performer both onstage and in voiceover.

Matty and Kikau talk to Josh Young, the Coordinator for the Musical Theatre BFA program at Missouri State University. Prior to his Tony-nominated Broadway debut as Judas Iscariot in Jesus Christ Superstar, Josh had the distinction of playing the role of Marius in Cameron Macintosh's Les Miserables and in more subsequent productions than any other actor. Josh also won the Theatre World Award for Best Debut Performance for his turn in Superstar. He went onto originate the role of John Newton on Broadway in the world premiere of Amazing Grace.  Josh is the co-founder of Cutting-EdgeComposers, a concert and weekly web series on broadwayworld.com, created to give exposure to musical theatre's next generation of songwriters. Josh is the Coordinator of Musical Theatre at MissouriState University having just left Oakland University where he led the musical theater program for the past four years and was the 2022 recipient of Oakland University's Faculty Recognition Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Matty and Kikau spent time with Tommy Iafrate (Coordinator of Musical Theatre BFA at Binghamton University Theatre Department) and Tim Espinoza (Chair of Theater at Boston Conservatory at Berklee). Today's roundtable topic was "Curriculum." We hope that this conversation about our programs helps you as you are making plans for the future. Recommendations today include an app called Sounds of Broadway, Universal Design and Multicultural Curriculum from Nicole Brewer, Pianotrax, and the Backup Dancers on Taylor Swift's Eras Tour!

In this episode of Carefully Taught, we have the privilege of hosting Chelsea Pace, co-founder of Theatrical Intimacy Education and the pioneering author behind "Staging Sex." With an impressive resume that includes serving as the intimacy choreographer for Broadway's "Strange Loop" and ongoing professional engagements nationwide, Chelsea is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of theatrical intimacy.   Listen in as Chelsea shares her insights and experiences, tracing the trajectory of intimacy choreography within the performing arts. From her groundbreaking work to her latest endeavor, Open Intimacy Creatives, Chelsea's contributions continue to shape and revolutionize the industry. A captivating conversation on creativity, professionalism, and empowerment in the world of stage intimacy.

After a brief hiatus, Kikau and Matty return to discuss showcase season, seeing shows, and what we have been up to for the last couple weeks. Send us a message on carefullytaught@gmail.com and like/follow us on instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast.

Matty and Kikau chat about Kikau's recent Short Travel Trip with students to London and Matty's experience with the recent California State University Strike. We also have special guest, Jami Witt Miller, join us at the end of the episode for a recommendation!

Matty and Kikau chat with Lara Teeter, Head of Musical Theatre at Webster University and former President of the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance. Lara has taught at Cal State Fullerton, Shenandoah Conservatory, and Northwestern University. Broadway credits include The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Pirates of Penzance, The Wizard of Oz, and On Your Toes for which he was nominated for a Tony Award. Lara's recommendations include regular meditation, The Lyrics by Paul McCartney, Shark Heart by Emily Habeck.

For our first ever one-on-one Matty sits down with star of Stage and Screen, Aaron Lazar. They discuss their friendship of 25 years, the state of Musical Theatre Education, and Aaron's recent announcement that he has been diagnosed with ALS. Click here to see Aaron's performance of the song Impossible Dream at 54 below Aaron's recommendation Life and Teaching of the Masters of the Far East. For more information about ALS and how you can help, please visit alsgoldenwest.org Aaron is an actor, singer, producer, and entrepreneur from Cherry Hill, NJ. An athlete and performer in high school, Aaron graduated magna cum laude from Duke University where he studied pre-med and music. After earning an MFA in musical theater from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Aaron put plans of being a doctor on hold and moved to New York City. His career spans Broadway, Television, Film, and Concerts and has allowed him to share his passion for the arts with audiences worldwide. Notable credits include Broadway's The Light in the Piazza, A Little Night Music, Mamma Mia... as well as Matty's directorial debut Piano Man at University of Cincinnati in 1999.

Matty and Kikau talk with Erin Farrell Speer, the Head of the Musical Theatre Program at The University of Utah. She just completed her first semester in this new position after leading the MT program at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. She was the Director of Undergraduate Studies for the School of Theatre at the UNCG, where she developed a new BFA musical theatre program with music director and arranger Dominick Amendum. Her recommendations include the series Jury Duty on Amazon Freevee, Brenee Brown's podcast "Unlocking Us", Justin Su'a's podcast "Increase Your Impact", Liz Gilbert's Big Magic, and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho! --------------------- Before joining the Department of Theatre, Erin was an Assistant Professor specializing in Musical Theatre and Director of Undergraduate Studies for the School of Theatre at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she developed a new BFA musical theatre program with music director and arranger Dominick Amendum (Wicked, Prince of Egypt). While at UNCG Erin was also recognized as the College of Visual and Performing Arts Outstanding Teacher in 2021. In 2022 she was the recipient of the UNCG-wide James Y. Joyner Award for excellence in teaching.  A Los Angeles native, Erin made her Broadway debut serving as the Directing Assistant to Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley on Escape to Margaritaville, the Jimmy Buffett musical. She also served in that capacity for the show's pre-Broadway tour. Erin's career has taken her from coast to coast, giving her the opportunity to work off-Broadway at the York Theatre and regionally with companies like Center Theatre Group/the Mark Taper Forum, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sarasota Opera House. In addition to her directing career, Erin has worked professionally as a performer in theatre, film, and commercials, even spending a year as an agent assistant in LA. She couples her directing and performing knowledge with nearly two decades of teaching experience, covering a wide range of abilities from true beginners to Broadway performers and television stars. Erin was previously an adjunct faculty member in musical theatre and dance at Florida Southern College and instructed/lectured in musical theatre, directing and theatre history at Penn State. She earned her MFA in Directing for the Musical Theatre Stage from Penn State University where she studied in their nationally recognized musical theatre program under the mentorship of veteran Broadway director and former SDC President Susan H. Schulman. Erin is also a proud graduate of The University of Michigan, where she earned her BFA in Acting from another nationally recognized program and studied alongside many future Broadway and film/TV stars.   Some of her favorite university direction/choreography credits include American Idiot, Rock of Ages, The SongeBob Musical, The Bridges of Madison County, Sweet Charity, Hot n' Cole, ‘S Wonderful!, Dreamgirls, The Wild Party, Stones in his Pockets, Romeo and Juliet, and many others. Professional direction/choreography credits include All Shook Up, Little Shop of Horrors, Oklahoma!, Bye Bye Birdie, Seussical, Footloose, Cinderella, Annie Get Your Gun, and Guys and Dolls among many others. Film direction: Hear Our Voices, Radio. Film producing: One Week at Woolworths, Flatbush Avenue. Erin is a proud Associate of the Society of Directors and Choreographers (SDC), and an alumna of the Director's Lab West.

Kikau and Matty chat about ending the semester and beginning the recruitment/audition season for BFA MTs. They both attended Drewnifieds, put on by Drew Boudreau, Autumn Kirkpatrick, and the College Audition Pros team! Let us know what you think of the episode. We would love for you to be a part of the conversation. We also are chatting with MT programs across the country. If you are interested in being featured on our podcast, please reach out to carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com!

Kikau and Matty speak with the amazing Josh Grisetti who runs the Musical Theatre program at California State University Fullerton all while being a successful working actor. We talk about how he balances everything, while bringing his knowledge of the industry directly to his students. Josh's recommendation is an author named Michael Kostroff. He wrote several books, notably Audition Psych 101: A Refreshing Approach to the Dreaded Process and The Stage Actor's Handbook: Traditions, Protocols, and Etiquette for the Working and Aspiring Professional, a book he wrote with Julie Garnye. --- JOSH GRISETTI. As a performer, Josh starred in Broadway's SOMETHING ROTTEN!, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU (Clarence Derwent Award winner), and Neil Simon's revival of BROADWAY BOUND.  Off-Broadway, Josh starred in RENT, PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, ENTER LAUGHING (Theatre World Award winner), RED EYE OF LOVE, CANDIDA and AFTER THE BALL. Regional credits include PRINCE OF BROADWAY (Tokyo), CAMELOT (The Kennedy Center), MATILDA (The Muny), HOW TO SUCCEED… (Reprise Theatre – Los Angeles Ovation Award winner), BEAUTY & THE BEAST (LaMirada), SPAMALOT (Las Vegas), WHERE'S CHARLEY? (Goodspeed) and others. On television, Josh starred in the ABC sitcom THE KNIGHTS OF PROSPERITY, as well as multiple series regular roles in pilots for other networks. Film credits include THE IMMIGRANT, REVOLUTIONARY ROAD, THE NAMESAKE and others. Josh recently directed SOMETHING ROTTEN! at Musical Theatre West, and IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU at Musical Theatre Guild in Los Angeles. Prior to Josh's appointment at CSUF, Josh taught acting, musical theatre and business of theatre at Fullerton College and Loyola Marymount University; he also authored the book, God In My Head (Tantor Media, LLC). Visit www.joshgrisetti.com , and follow @joshgrisetti.

Matty and Kikau chat with Sarah Kay, who graduated from Pace University and Nathan Angelo, who is a current student at Montclaire State University! Both are performing nightly in Here Lies Love on Broadway! They both talk about what prepared them for this moment and what they are discovering while performing in this immersive show.

Matty and Kikau talk to Ben Cherington (@bencherington), Eden Mau (@Edenelizabethmau), and Christopher James Tamayo (@_cjtam) from the National Tour of Les Miserables. They discuss tour life, as well as the things they learned in their Musical Theatre degree programs that are most applicable to their careers. For more information about the Les Miserables tour visit https://us-tour.lesmis.com/ Their recs- BEN  Podcast - Living the Dream with Rory O'Malley and Geffen Playhouse Unscripted CHRIS  Brian Cranston's Memoir “A Life In Parts”  EDEN  Getting out of my routine for a while. We are going to Malibu in a swimming hole. Wandering around Target. Doing things that take me out of the world.

In this episode, Kikau and Matty chat with Tiernan Tunnicliffe and Matt Raffy, two members of the Broadway company of & Juliet. They reflect on their MT education, opening on Broadway, and the importance of Dungeons and Dragons. TIERNAN TUNNICLIFFE (she/they) is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut with such a magical cast. Credits include: Bat Out of Hell (NY City Center),The Who's Tommy (Kennedy Center). T would like to thank her friends, family & everyone in between that has supported her journey-so much love for y'all. (BFA, NYU-Tisch) MATT RAFFY (he/they) Theatre: & Juliet (Mirvish); Exit, Pursued by a Bear, Mamma Mia! (Globe Theatre); Mythic (Segal Centre); Beauty and the Beast (Capitol Theatre); Cinderella, Mamma Mia! (Neptune Theatre); Disgraced (Magnus Theatre); TV/Film: “Workin' Moms” (CBC); Pillowcase (KP Films). Matt is over the moon to make his Broadway debut in & Juliet!

Carefully Taught is a podcast to discuss Musical Theatre pedagogy and create a community of sharing amongst Musical Theatre Educators. In this episode Matty and Kikau get caught up about their summer activities and prepare for another exciting semester of teaching Musical Theatre at the collegiate level. Follow us on instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast

Matty and Kikau catch up on what they've been working on, including Kikau's production of Urinetown at University of the Arts and Matty Sabbatical writing project Burn Ban: A Horror Musical. They also discuss their feelings about the state of summer theatre and a little Disneyland. Carefully Taught is a podcast to create a community of sharing amongst musical theatre educators. Make sure to follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast! Music provided by Joshua Hegg follow him @joshhegg23

Matty (@teaguemiller) and Kikau (@kikautown) speak with Making Light Productions Executive Director, Juliet Yaques, Making Light Productions Executive Director, Mandi Broadfoot, and Director Actor and Educator, Christine Hansen about theater performers and audience members of all ages who might be neurodivergent. ​Making Light Productions is a non-profit organization in Tallahassee, Florida with the mission of providing an inclusive arts education for children, teens, and adults of all abilities. Here are links to their recommendations: askjan.com Fearlessly Different: An Autistic Actor's Journey to Broadway's Biggest Stage by Mickey Rowe Shakespeare's Heartbeat: Drama Games for Children with Autism by Kelly Hunter Playing Shakespeare: An Actor's Guide by John Barton The Professional Actor's Handbook by Julio Agustin Sense of Direction: Some Observations of the Art of Directing by William Ball Directing Your Heart Out by Tom Dugdale Office of Accessibility ... Founded by Mandi Broadfoot and Juliet Yaques, both mothers of children with autism, Making Light offers classes and lessons in music, art, dance, acting/theatre, and stagecraft. Visit our Classes and Lessons page for all the details and to register online! We are excited to hold classes at our facility at 2720 S. Blair Stone Rd. For more information on our thorough health and safety protocols please click here.  Please visit our blog and sign up for our email newsletter to see when Making Light is Making News!

Matty (@teaguemiller) and Kikau (@kikautown) check in with Jacob Brent (@jacobbrentstagram) and David Coolidge (@david.coolidge.3) who are now both at different institutions since we last spoke on the podcast. Some of their recommendations include taking a trip to NYC, asking students for New Musical recommendations, embedding Spotify lists on Canvas, meditation, the importance of being surrounded plants and flowers! Read Bios Below: Jacob Brent is a veteran Broadway performer with a MFA in Musical Theatre. With extensive experience performing, directing, choreographing and teaching, Mr. Brent has been recognized by The New York Times as knowing how to inspire actors. As a performer, Jacob is probably best known for his portrayal of Mr. Mistoffelees in the Broadway, London and DVD productions of Cats. Now on the other side of the table, he brings the same commitment and passion for performing to directing, choreographing and teaching.  When not working as a Director and Choreographer around the United States, Jacob is an Assistant Professor at Shenandoah Conservatory and frequently teaches at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in NYC.  Mr. Brent is actively involved in the international Junior Theatre Festival and pilot productions of new Broadway Jr. musicals... always looking to inspire the next generation of artists and audiences. David Coolidge joins ONU as an Associate Professor and Head of Musical Theatre. He is a certified Master Teacher in Archetypes for Singers and Actors with specializations in New Works and Acting Through Song. David was a member of the Broadway National Tour of Parade, Jeff Calhoun's highly acclaimed pre-Broadway production of Big River at Deaf West Theatre, and he has appeared in numerous roles in regional theatres across the country. David is the former Assistant Artistic Director of TheatreworksUSA in New York City where he directed six national tours and oversaw thirty national touring productions reaching an annual audience of over three million. David received his BFA in Musical Theatre from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM) and his MFA in Acting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Kikau (@kikautown) and Matty (@teague.miller) chat with the amazing Vicky Bussert, who is the Director of Music Theatre at Baldwin Wallace University. In addition to running the MT program at Baldwin Wallace, Victoria Bussert is resident director for musical theatre for the Great Lakes Theatre, Idaho Shakespeare Festival and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. She has taught as a guest faculty member at UNCSA, Kent State, and Northwestern University. She has directed worldwide including productions in Russia, Denmark, Africa, England, and South America. Bussert is the 2019 recipient of the Cleveland Arts Prize for outstanding mid-career artists. Bussert is also a member of SDC. Vicky's recommendation is a book called The Ballerina Mindset: How to Protect Your Mental Health While Striving for Excellence by Megan Fairchild. You will read all about the "successes, failures, body image and what she went through getting her mind ready for a career in the performing arts." An excellent read no matter what your artistic practice is!

Matty (@teague.miller) and Kikau (@kikautown) get caught up on what is happening! Kikau talks about directing his first show at UARTS and Matty updates Kikau on sabbatical life. They talk about the senior showcase landscape, and debrief about Matty's recent family trip to Disneyland! Follow Carefully Taught on Instagram @CarefullyTaughtPodcast!

Kikau and Matty discuss Musical Theatre Education and Social Justice in Theatre with multi-hyphenate artist and teacher Rose Van Dyne (@Rose_Van_Dyne). Rose is currently in the final semester of her MFA at the Boston Conservatory, and serves as the administrative assistant to the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance. She served on the music team of the post COVID remounting of Waitress on Broadway, and appeared as several different roles in the recent Broadway revival of 1776. She also presented at the 2023 International MTEA conference in New York City. Click this link for Rose's recommendation! http://www.aapacnyc.org/uploads/1/3/5/7/135720209/aapac_report_2018-2019_final.pdf

Matty (@teague.miller) and Kikau (@kikautown) speak to the amazing Van Angelo, who is currently at San Diego State University working on their MFA in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre. At the end of the episode, Van recommends YouTube University, the College of Google, Google Chrome Extension: Transpose, Tik Tok, and Joe Deer's Acting for Musical Theatre. Van Angelo (they/them) - is a proud Westminster Choir College graduate and served as Director of Choral Activities for five years at the high school level. Van is currently a teaching artist for Moonlight Youth Theatre and New Village Arts. Select Regional Credits: Something Rotten, Memphis (Moonlight), Catch Me If You Can (SDMT), Seussical (Candlelight), West Side Story, Tarzan, Hairspray (Performance Riverside), The View UpStairs (Desert Rose Playhouse). Music Directing Credits: Leonard Bernstein's New York (NVA), Moana Jr. (MYT), Little Shop of Horrors, Seussical, and The Little Mermaid (VVUSD). Van has performed with the New York Philharmonic, Vienna Chamber Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Zelda Symphony Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Van is a two-time Inland Theatre League Award winner, and a Desert Theatre League Award winner. Van is currently a Teaching Associate at San Diego State Universty and an MFA in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre candidate.

Matty and Kikau discuss the MTEA Conference and some of the other things from their trip to NYC. Follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast on Instagram and reach out to us by emailing carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com

Kikau (@kikautown) and Matty (@teague.miller) reflect on the last year and discuss what they are looking forward to in 2023! Thank you for supporting our little podcast! Give us a follow @carefullytaughtpodcast, rate and review the podcast, and send us a message at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com.

Matty and Kikau have a chat with the amazing Alisa Hauser, Assistant Professor of Music Theatre at Florida State University. She is the Program Director for the BM in Music Theatre. As a performer, Alisa appeared on Broadway in the original cast of Thoroughly Modern Millie (Alice), Grease! (Frenchy), and in the original cast of Disney's Beauty and The Beast (Silly Girl). In 2014 Alisa was nominated for a national primetime Emmy award for Outstanding Music and Lyrics for the song “No Trouble” from A Christmas Carol – The Concert (PBS). With music by Bob Christianson, she wrote the book adaptation and lyrics for this symphonic retelling of the Dickens classic. Also for television she has written lyrics with composer Stephen Sislen, for the Disney Channel's Johnny And The Sprites. In this episode they discuss the program at Florida State University, taking over as the New President of Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance, and New Works! Todays recommendation (besides the MTEA Conference - January 4th, 5th, and 6th) is the app/website called Sounds Of Broadway! Follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast or send us a message at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com!

Matty and Kikau sit down with two of the most popular Musical Theatre TikTokers @BroadwayBob and @Theatreislife.  They discuss TikTok, Musical Theatre TikTok and ideas about how to use TikTok in our pedagogy! Do you use TikTok in the classroom?  Email us at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com and tell us about it! Music provided by Joshua Hegg

Matty and Kikau look at the world of Musical Theatre TikTok, and have conversations about how this technology can be used in our classrooms. Jessica Humphrey (@jmhumphrey1) from Texas Christian University talks about ways she uses TikTok in the classroom. Co-creator of Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical, Daniel Mertzlufft (@danieljmertzlufft), discusses his relationship with the app and ways it can be shaping the future of Musical Theatre. Don't forget to follow Matty, the musical theatre professor, on TikTok (@Teaguemill)! Music provided by Joshua Hegg

Matty and Kikau speak to the amazing Kristy Cates this week. Hear her talk about balancing family with Broadway and teaching obligations! We chat about international students and New York Film Academy's new BFA programs. At the end of the show Kristy recommends the books 'The War of Art' by Steven Pressfield, '50 Key Stage Musicals' edited by Robert W. Schneider and Shannon Agnew, and the instagram account of self-care and mental health educator, @minaa_b! Kristy Cates's credits include Elphaba in Wicked (Broadway, First National Tour, Chicago), Miss Bassett in Finding Neverland (Broadway), Grandma Josephine in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Broadway), Jerry Springer: the Opera (Carnegie Hall), a handful of off-Broadway shows, and many regional productions. She is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA. Kristy is an original member of the NYFA Musical Theatre faculty and is a professional voiceover artist.