Rep Chats

This episode of Rep Chats brings you two inspiring conversations from the heart of Nashville Rep! Dive into the creative mind of playwright Amy Tofte as she shares the journey of writing her darkly intriguing play, Blood Sucking Leech, for the Ingram New Works Project. Amy unpacks the unique inspirations and challenges in developing this fresh story. Then, catch up with the multifaceted Megan Murphy Chambers as she previews her upcoming concert with Nashville Rep. Megan gives us an inside look at her setlist, her approach to live performance, and what makes this show unforgettable.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Wesley Paine, the talented actor bringing the iconic Stage Manager to life in Nashville Repertory Theatre's production of Our Town. We'll explore her unique approach to this guiding role, her reflections on Grover's Corners, and how she connects the story to today's audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan of Our Town or experiencing it for the first time, this episode offers a closer look at the heart of Thornton Wilder's masterpiece from the perspective of its most essential character. Buy tickets to Our Town at http://cart.tpac.org/overview/13956

Today we sit down with Annabelle Fox and Douglas Waterbury-Tieman, whose real-life marriage adds an extra layer of chemistry to their roles in Waitress. We also talk with Amanda Clelland of Thistle Farms, an organization dedicated to helping women rebuild their lives. This episode is about love—whether on stage, in real life, or in the community. To learn more about thistle farms, visit https://thistlefarms.org/

Join us in this delightful episode as we sit down with Sarah Aili, who brings Jenna to life in our production of Waitress, and our brilliant music director, Sarah Michele Bailey. We'll dive into the sweet details of their experiences working on the show, from baking up the perfect performance to hitting the high notes in Sara Bareilles's score. Whether you're a fan of the musical or love behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is sure to serve up something special. Waitress runs September 13-22 at TPAC!

On this episode, Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with Broadway Brunch Chairs Holli Harrison and Kim Hewell. Together, they dive into the excitement of organizing Nashville Rep's 9th Annual Broadway Brunch, their passion for Nashville Repertory Theatre, and the joys of celebrating the theatre community. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring this beloved fundraiser to life. To buy tickets, visit https://onecau.se/broadwaybrunch9

In this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with Selina Fillinger, the brilliant playwright behind POTUS, and our talented director, Lauren Shouse, who is skillfully steering the play to our stage. Join them as they explore the process of creating this fiercely feminist farce and the joys of bringing it to life on stage.

On this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with The Color Purple's Carli Hardon, Shinnerrie Jackson, and Maya Antoinette Riley to discuss the creative process behind their unforgettable characters and how this show has touched their hearts and souls.

Check out the newest episode of our podcast, Rep Chats! On this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with Reggie Law and Joi Ware, the director and choreographer of our upcoming production of The Color Purple, to discuss the process of bringing the show to life on stage. To buy tickets to The Color Purple, visit https://cart.tpac.org/overview/12981

On this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer is joined by Ingram New Works Project Playwright, Lauren Bone Noble. Join them as they delve into Lauren's career, explore the playmaking process, and get a sneak peek into her new play, Madame Zarechnaya.

Nashville Rep's Artistic Director, Micah-Shane Brewer, engages in a captivating conversation with renowned playwright Paula Vogel. Together, they delve into the intricacies of bringing the compelling show Indecent to life, exploring the creative process, the relevance of the play, and Vogel's upcoming projects.

On this episode, Executive Director Drew Ogle is joined by playwright Jonathan Payne and Dramaturg Arminda Thomas. Join them as they delve into their illustrious careers, explore the playmaking process, and get a sneak peek into Narrative of the Life of Cedric Bartholomew.

Looking for some insight into what our upcoming REPaloud is about? Join Director Drew Ogle for a quick ten-minute conversation about Lucas Hnath's 'The Christians.' Reserve your seat for our FREE staged reading October 27th and 28th at https://nashvillerep.org/repaloud

Join Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer for a discussion with Krista Knight, one of our Ingram New Works Playwrights. Learn about her remarkable career, her influence on emerging playwrights, and the creative journey behind her brand-new play, Crybully! To reserve your free seat, visit nashvillerep.org

On this episode our Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer takes you on a journey through the melodies and memories with none other than Gregg Perry, the brilliant producer who shaped the sound of some of Dolly Parton's greatest hits, including 9 to 5! But that's not all! You can hear him play the keys LIVE in our production of 9 to 5 at TPAC! To buy tickets to Dolly Parton's 9 to 5, visit nashvillerep.org

On this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with the talented women who bring Violet and Judy to life on stage. Get an exclusive peek into their creative processes, their journeys in the industry, and the magic that happens when they step into character. Discover the secrets, stories, and inspirations that make '9 to 5' an unforgettable theatrical experience.

On this episode, Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer sits down with the director of our upcoming production of 9 to 5, Beki Baker, to discuss the process of bringing the show to life on stage. To buy tickets, visit https://cart.tpac.org/overview/12977

On this episode, we are joined by the brilliant minds behind "She Reached For Heaven," Oliver Houser and Hunter Bird. Listen in and learn about the process of bringing a musical to life, explore the story that sparked the creation of this show, and gain insights into their collaboration. And as an added treat, get a sneak peek of the music from the show! Don't miss out! Visit www.nashvillerep.org/ingramnewworks to secure your spot for the premiere staged reading of "She Reached For Heaven”

On this episode of Rep Chats,  Artistic Director Micah-Shane Brewer talks with Jeanine Tesori about her experiences composing for Broadway hits like Shrek, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and our upcoming show, Violet! Tune in for insights into Jeanine's creative process, reflections on her career, and advice for aspiring composers. Violet runs May 12-21, so get your tickets now at nashvillerep.org

On this episode of Rep Chats, join us for a deep dive into the world of Violet as we talk with actors Matthew Carlton and Kelsey Brodeur about their roles in the upcoming production. Listen as they discuss character development, the importance of the show's themes, and their own careers in the Nashville theatre world. Tickets to Violet are available at nashvillerep.org 

From their personal beginnings in acting to their experience with this challenging and thrilling play, in this episode, we sit down with Ben Friesen and Sejal Mehta from our production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time to discuss the process of bringing this captivating story to life. We delve into the intricacies of their craft and explore the unique perspective that each actor brings to their roles. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time runs March 24 - April 2, so buy your tickets now at nashvillerep.org.

Step behind the curtain and join director Micah-Shane Brewer and Olivier and Tony Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens in an exclusive and illuminating discussion about the making of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time runs from March 24 to April 2. Buy your tickets now at www.nashvillerep.org

100 Black Men of Middle Tennessee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources to further the academic and social development of black male students in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee. Want to know how to get involved? Tune in today with Mike Sallee Jr as he speaks with Executive Director Andre Lee and Program Manager Julisa Maxwell, as they discuss how you and this organization can make an impact. And be sure to join us for August Wilson's Fences March 3-5. Purchase tickets at https://nashvillerep.org/fences-1

Fences is ‘moving, powerful, spiritual, excitement, family, eclectic.' Tune in to today's episode to hear Mike Sallee Jr sit down with the cast of Nashville Rep's production of August Wilson's Fences, as they discuss the show and elaborate on how August ‘affirms the value of blacks and their humanity.'

On today's episode, we are joined by Director Jon Royal and Assistant Director Candace LaFayette to discuss our upcoming production of August Wilson's Fences. Join us as we dive into the importance and influence of August Wilson and the themes and creative process of producing this masterpiece. August Wilson's Fences runs March 3-5 at TPAC's Polk Theater. For tickets, please visit www.nashvillerep.org

We're baking the world a butter place! We take a whisk and batter things happen! Ok, enough with the cake puns. We're thrilled that THE CAKE is now open and playing through October 30th at TPAC's Johnson Theatre. On today's episode, Megan Murphy Chambers joins us to talk about her character Della and this beautiful production. Ms. Chambers is no stranger to the Rep stage. Last seen as Mother in Ragtime, Megan has been in such shows as Avenue Q, A Christmas Story, Urinetown, Company, and Sweeney Todd. For tickets, please visit www.nashvillerep.org

Our next show of the season is The Cake by Bekah Brunstetter. On this episode, we welcome Lauren Shouse back to the podcast. Lauren is the director of The Cake, and she'll discuss the show, its cast and how this production is very special to her. We also welcome Chris Sanders for this episode. He is the Executive Director of the Tennessee Equality Project. The Tennessee Equality Project advocates for the equal rights of LGBTQ+ people in Tennessee. Chris will discuss some of the legislative advocacy that the TEP has worked on. For more information about the Tennessee Equality Project, please visit www.tnep.org. You can learn more about Lauren Shouse at www.laurenshousedirects.com The Cake runs October 21-30 at TPAC's Johnson Theatre. For tickets to The Cake, please visit our website at www.nashvillerep.org.

On today's episode, Beki Baker joins us to talk about the REP Aloud production of The Revolutionists by Lauren Gunderson. Beki Baker is the chair of the theatre department at Lipscomb University. Beki is a freelance director and is returning to the Rep to direct our staged reading of The Revolutionists on October 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m. REP Aloud (Reading Excellent Plays Aloud) is an opportunity for Nashville Rep to share exceptional scripts as staged readings with casual and experienced theatre fans. The titles performed at REP Alouds cover a range of genres and topics, and the reading is immediately followed by a moderated talkback. Four beautiful, bad ass women lose their heads in this irreverent, girl-powered comedy set during the French Revolution's Reign of Terror. This event is free to the public. To register and learn more, please visit www.nashvillerep.org.

On this episode, we continue discussing RENT. We are joined by two of our cast members who discuss the show and their work. Mike Sallee, Jr. who plays Roger Davis. @mikesalleejr www.mikesalleejr.com Natalie Rankin who plays Maureen Johnson @shesgotpersonatalie www.singonevoice.com We are also joined by Jim Shulman, the Chief Executive Officer of Safe Haven Family Shelter in Nashville. Safe Haven is the premier shelter-to-housing program in Middle Tennessee that accommodates families experiencing homelessness. Check out their website at www.safehaven.org Also, join Safe Haven's "Hike for Safe Haven" on Saturday, November 12 at Percy Warner Park. More details at www.hikeforsafehaven.org.

Nashville Rep kicks off the 22-23 season this week with Johnathan Larson's RENT. Wood Van Meter who plays Mark Cohen joins Micah-Shane Brewer, director of the production to talk about the show and the message of this production. RENT plays September 16-25 at TPAC's Polk Theatre. We're also joined with Amna Osman, the CEO of Nashville Cares. Nashville Cares is the premier HIV/AIDS service organization in Tennessee. Annually, they serve more than 50,000 people statewide, and provide comprehensive services to clients throughout 17 counties in Middle Tennessee. Their upcoming AIDS Walk is October 1. Hear Amna talk about the services they offer and how you can volunteer. For more information about Nashville Cares, please visit www.nashvillecares.org. For more information or tickets to RENT, please visit www.nashvillerep.org.

We're back, Nashville! Join members of the Nashville Rep staff as they discuss what's in store for the upcoming 22-23 season. Get ready for a spectacular year!

Nashville Rep's 21/22 season will end with Disney's Mary Poppins, flying into the Polk Theatre at TPAC April 28-May 8. For today's episode, we chat with Christine McNeal Toole (Mary Poppins) and Jeremy Benton (Bert), the stars of the Rep's show. Tickets are on sale now at www.nashvillerep.org.

For this episode, we welcome Janet Kurtz and Jeanette Barker to the podcast. Janet and Jeanette are the co-chairs of this year's 7th Annual Broadway Brunch. Listen about the exciting details they have in store for this year's big event!

On this episode, I speak with Crystal Owens, the owner and counsellor at Red Cedar Therapy (https://redcedartherapy.com). Crystal joined our production teams this year for Ragtime and School Girls as a Mental Health Provider. Hear about her role working with out actors and why mental health is very important for artists. I get to chat with Rob Turner, the President of the Nashville Repertory Board of Directors. Rob is a lawyer and owner of Nashville Law Offices, PLLC. After serving on the board for six years and President for two, I chat with Rob about his time at the Rep and some of his memorable moments. And finally, for the first in a series we're calling "Getting to Know You," I sit down with my friend and colleague Amos Glass. Amos started as an Intern at the Rep and six years later is the Director of Audience Development. We'll chat with Amos about how he got into theatre and why it's important to him. Visit www.nashvillerep.org for more information about upcoming productions and events.

Meet the cast of "School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play," our next production written by Jocelyn Bioh. They are Kortney Ballenger, Ashley D. Brooks, Valicia Browne, Carli Hardon, Cynthia Harris, Tosha Marie, Joy Pointe, and Tamiko Robinson Steele. Hear from this incredible black female cast about what this show means to them and why you should see it! Performances February 10-20, 2022. Check out www.nashvillerep.org for tickets.

Happy New Year! Alicia Haymer joins us on the podcast to discuss "School Girls; or, the African Mean Girls Play" by Jocelyn Bioh. Recently seen in our 2019 production of "Pipeline," Alicia is an actor, writer and director, and is making her Rep directorial debut with this production.

"You'll shoot your eye out!" Yes, Nashville...Ralphie is back! On this podcast, we welcome Lauren Shouse, the director of our production of A Christmas Story. Hear about the process of bringing this holiday favorite back to life on the Rep stage. A Christmas Story plays through December 19. Check out www.nashvillerep.org.

Episode 3 of Nashville's premier theatre podcast is now streaming on all platforms! Tune in to hear from some of the dynamic cast members of Ragtime, The Musical.

Today on Rep Chats, we sit down with Eilliott Robinson of the Nashville Public Library and hear about the history of Nashville during the time period of Ragtime, The Musical. We also hear from Gary Hoff, Nashville Rep's scenic designer and Lori Gann-Smith costume designer for Ragtime. Episode 03 will be streaming 11/09. For more details on the resources/events at Nashville Public Library, visit: https://library.nashville.org/ For season and individual tickets to al Nashville Rep shows, visit: https://nashvillerep.org/ Rep Chats is hosted, recorded, and edited by Nivedhan Singh

We are so happy to finally share the debut episode of Nashville's premier theatre podcast! On the first part of today's episode, we sit down with Nashville Rep's Executive Director, Drew Ogle, to learn about some of the Rep's virtual programming, and hear about the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the company. Later, we'll speak with Micah-shane brewer, the director of the rep's season opener: Ragtime. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and review on your preferred podcasting platform! Episode 02 streaming 10/26. For season and individual tickets to al Nashville Rep shows, visit: https://nashvillerep.org/ Rep Chats is hosted, recorded, and edited by Nivedhan Singh

It's the trailer for the 21/22 season at Nashville Repertory Theatre! Like, follow, and subscribe for more content from your favorite regional theatre company's debut podcast.