Stages Podcast

Jasmine Amy Rogers is an Outer Critics Circle Award Winner and Tony Award Nominee for her Broadway debut as "Betty Boop" in BOOP! The Musical, directed by Jerry Mitchell. She has also graced the stage across the country as "Anita" in JELLY'S LAST JAM at Pasadena Playhouse, in the National Tour of MEAN GIRLS, as "Melody Green" in THE WANDERER at Papermill Playhouse, and in the world premiere of BECOMING NANCY at Alliance Theatre. In this episode, Jasmine shares her childhood moment that revealed she wanted to be a performer, why she trusts the universal plan, and how auditioning for BOOP! taught her how to stand up for herself in her career.  Boop! Tickets William Finns Falsettos Join Stages Mailing list

Adrienne Warren is currently starring as "Cathy Hiatt," opposite Nick Jonas, in the highly anticipated Broadway debut of THE LAST FIVE YEARS. She received a Tony Award for her performance as "Tina Turner" in TINA, THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL, after originating the role in the West End. Her additional Broadway credits include SHUFFLE ALONG, BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL, THE WIZ, and DREAMGIRLS. She has also starred on TV and film in Hulu's BLACK CAKE, Sony Pictures' THE WOMAN KING, and ABC's WOMEN OF THE MOVEMENT, where she starred as Mamie Till-Mobley. Adrienne is also dedicated to building a more equitable society through arts and storytelling, as a Co-Founder of Broadway Advocacy Coalition (BAC), which won an honorary Tony Award in 2021. In this episode, Adrienne shares how she gets to use every part of her voice in "Cathy," the ways she will always be connected to Tina Turner, and her belief that nothing happens in life before you are ready for it. The Last Five Years Broadway Advocacy Coalition Tina's Chant Album Check out Stages Podcast YouTube

Jonathan Groff is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor, who is beloved on Broadway and beyond. He is known on stage for his acclaimed performances in MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG, HAMILTON, and SPRING AWAKENING, as well as for his roles on TV and in film, including Glee, Looking and the Frozen franchise. Jonathan returns to Broadway as "Bobby Darin" in the new musical JUST IN TIME. In this episode, Jonathan shares what it felt like performing to empty houses before SPRING AWAKENING became a massive hit, transforming into a musical icon on-stage as Bobby Darin, and getting comfortable with failure on the path to growth.  Just In TIme Intimacy Idiot Broadway Impact

Gabrielle Nevaeh will make her Broadway debut in the highly-anticipated STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW. She is an Emmy-nominated actress who has graced the small screen throughout her teen years, starring in many hit shows, including Nickelodeon's "The Girl Lay Lay" and the revival of the sketch comedy show "All That." Gabrielle is also a singer, producer and clothing designer focused on sustainable fashion. In this episode, Gabrielle shares why being on Broadway is an childhood dream she never thought could come true, how comedy helped her outgrow her shy nature, and what the teamwork of live theater has taught her about acting. Stranger Things: The First Shadow  Join Stages Podcast Cast! PBS Stories From The Stage: Marylee Fairbanks

Nathan Lee Graham has illuminated stage and screen for decades. On Broadway, he performed in THE WILD PARTY and PRISCILLA, QUEEN OF THE DESERT. He is known for his roles on screen in the Zoolander movies, Sweet Home Alabama, Hitch, Theater Camp, and currently in Hulu's Mid-Century Modern alongside Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer, and the late Linda Lavin. In this episode, Nathan shares how powerful women have guided him, learning to perform for a multi-camera sitcom, and why he focuses on always moving forward in life while protecting his inner circle carefully. Mid-Century Modern on Hulu Jim Caruso's Cast Party The Telepathy Tapes 

Lizzy McAlpine is set to make her Broadway debut, opposite Jeremy Jordan, in the Lincoln Center Theater production of FLOYD COLLINS. After releasing her critically acclaimed debut album, Give Me a Minute, in 2020, she went on to release two more albums, hit the Billboard 100 charts and go viral on TikTok with her song, "Ceilings." In this episode, Lizzy shares how trusting her instincts has guided her music career and why her love of THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA connected her to work on another Adam Guettel musical.   Lizzy's Music Floyd Collins tickets Tickes to Marylee's Moth Radio Hour Competition

Darren Criss is an Emmy Award-winning actor, songwriter, and beloved star of stage and screen. He gained a fan following as "Blaine Anderson" on Fox's Glee, and won an Emmy and Golden Globe for his portrayal of "Andrew Cunanan" in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.  He started his career, as both an actor and writer, in the viral hit A VERY POTTER MUSICAL, before making his Broadway debut in HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING, and continued starring on stage in HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH, David Mamet's AMERICAN BUFFALO, and currently in MAYBE HAPPY ENDING.  In this episode, Darren shares why he will always love humanity, what happened when director Michael Arden called him to be a part of MAYBE HAPPY ENDING and how the show feels like a "living, breathing hug."  Maybe Happy Ending StarKid Productions Darrin Criss

Brent Comer is making his splash on the Broadway scene, starring as "Darrel Curtis" in the Tony Award-winning hit THE OUTSIDERS. Before Broadway, he was traveling across the country in the national tour of LES MISÉRABLES.  In this episode, Brent shares his love of movies, why he almost quit show business, and how he stays grounded amidst the show's dedicated fandom.   The Outsiders Tickets Stephanie Concerts Better Help 

  Season Five of Stages Podcast start with a question and answe episode. We're joined by a fantastic group of Thespians, all connected through their work with the Educational Theatre Foundation. ETF is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association, and home to the International Thespian Society. In this episode, Cristiana, Marsae, Layla, Kenna, McKenzie & Lolly join Marylee and Stephanie to ask questions about working in the theater.  Educational Theatre Foundation   Join Stages Podcast Maiing list The Artists Way Better Help Thank you FeedSpot for voting Stages one of the top Broadway Podcasts

JAMES MONROE IGLEHART is a Tony Award-winning actor of stage and screen, currently co-directing and starring as Louis Armstrong in the Broadway musical A Wonderful World. You know him from Broadway hits Aladdin (Genie), Spamalot (King Arthur), Hamilton (Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson), Chicago(Billy Flynn), and Freestyle Love Supreme. Iglehart's television and film credits include recurring roles in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” “Maniac,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”,  "At Home with Amy Sedaris," "Girls5eva," and the feature film “Disenchanted.” He has also voiced numerous characters for animated shows including “Hazbin Hotel,” “Rapunzel's Tangled Adventures,” “DuckTales,” and “SuperKitties." In this episode, James shares his love for "the godfather of jazz", meeting his wife in show choir at the age of 16, and his nerdy love of comic books and his own books for Marvel Comics. Wonderful World Tickets Lil Harden James' Marvel comics

Marla Mindelle  is criminally deranged for writing and starring in her second musical, THE BIG GAY JAMBOREE. She co-created and starred as Céline Dion in the hit Off-Broadway show TITANIQUE, which won her the 2023 Lucille Lortel Award and Obie award. On Broadway she perfomed in SISTER ACT (Sister Mary Robert, Outer Circle Critics Nomination), Stepsister Gabrielle in CINDERELLA and SOUTH PACIFIC. Marla starred as Olivia in the Emmy- nominated series, “Special” (Netflix).  In this episode, Marla talks about her surprise and delight of being back on stage in New York and how resiliency and humor are the corner stones of success. She candidly shares her ongoing challenges with tinnitus, and how it has affected her as a performer. Marla Mindelle Tickets Big Gay Jamboree Tickets Titanique Join Stages Podcast Cast

Julie Halston is one of New York's busiest actresses and was the recipient of the 2021 Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award for her advocacy on behalf of The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Her Broadway credits are numerous, including Tootsie, Hairspray, Gypsy, Anything Goes, and The Twentieth Century. She received the Richard Seff Award for her acclaimed performance in You Can't Take it with You and has garnered four Drama Desk nominations for her Broadway and off-Broadway work. Miss Halston was a founding member of Charles Busch's legendary theatre company and co-starred with Mr. Busch in many productions including TheDivine Sister, Red Scare on Sunset and The Lady in Question. They starred together in the independent feature film, The Sixth Reel. In addition, Miss Halston recently completed the independent feature films, Intermedium and Simchas and Sorrows and Chosen Family with Heather Graham. Television credits include a recurring role on the latest “Gossip Girl”, guest roles on “The Good Fight”, “Almost Family” and “Divorce”. In addition, she has reprised her role of the popular character , Bitsy Von Muffling on the Sex and The City reboot, “And Just Like That” on MAX. Miss Halston's web series, Virtual Halston was a pandemic hit with over 40 YOUTUBE. In this episode, Julie shares rehearsal room stories ranging from terrible to beautiful, her start as an actress and thoughts on living to the fullest.  Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Julie Halstoon Youtube Series OUR TOWN Tickets Tickets to see Marylee in Stories From The Stage with PBS Boston

Tony Award winner Joanna Gleason (Into the Woods, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels) and actor and fellow podcaster Chris Sarandon (The Princess Bride, Fright Night, The Nightmare Before Christmas) join us for our Season 4 return! They discuss their favorite dinner conversations on Chris' "Cooking By Heart" podcast, growing into multi-hyphenate performers as a married couple and individual artists, and building family on-set in Joanna's newest venture as the writer and director of her new film, The Grotto. Cooking By Heart The Grotto The Stay Gold Project Stephanie in concert Stories From The Stage PBS

It's Summertime! In this episode, Stephanie and Marylee take a moment to connect and reflect before the Summer break, discussing their Tony Awards experiences -- now both as winners!; why cultural and societal expectations change between generations, how they each found a sense of belonging in the theater community and unique birthday celebrations. See you in the September! Kiss Me Kate Birdland Support Stages Podcast

Emmy-nominated actor John Stamos is a favorite of stage and screen, known widely for his work on hit shows like "General Hospital, "ER, "Full House," and the sequel on Netflix, "Fuller House." He has also starred on Broadway in HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING, CABARET, NINE, and BYE BYE BIRDIE, and is beloved for his musical collaboration over the years with The Beach Boys. His memoir, If You Would Have Told Me, is a universal story about love, loss, and the courage to embrace love once more.  In this episode, John shares the ways writing a book forces you to reflect on your life, how his son watching "Uncle Jesse" helped him understand the "Full House" impact, and why he always asks for help in rehearsal rooms.    If You Would Have Told Me   John in Cabaret tickets to Kiss Me Kate Tickets to Birdland  concert

Ryan J. Haddad is an actor, playwright, and autobiographical performer known for his on stage and off. His acclaimed solo play, HI, ARE YOU SINGLE?, premiered at The Public Theater's Under the Radar Festival, and he continued his career with The Public, making his off-Broadway debut as a playwright and performer with his autobiographical DARK DISABLED STORIES, which was named a New York Times Critic's Pick. His latest work, HOLD ME IN THE WATER, was recently announced for the Spring 2025 season at Playwrights Horizons.   In this episode, Ryan shares how he transforms his personal essays into plays, the importance of taking up space, and getting creative about accessibility in live theater.   Ryan Haddad   Playwrights Horizons   Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows

Tony Award winner Lindsay Mendez has graced the Broadway stage in everything from modern hits like WICKED to theater classics like CAROUSEL. She currently is becoming "old friends" with audiences in the smash success revival of Stephen Sondheim's MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG. In this episode, Lindsay shares how she finds vulnerability in each of her characters, what it's like performing on Broadway while pregnant, and the advice that director Maria Friedman, who played "Mary Flynn" in the original production, has gifted her along their journey.  Don't miss the tony Awards on Sunday, June 16th on Paramount Plus Merrily We Roll ALong Tickets The Four Agreements Orange County School of the Arts

Danya Taymor is a Tony Award-nominated director for her first musical work on Broadway in THE OUTSIDERS. She holds a multifaceted portfolio of work, directing Will Arbery's HEROES OF THE FOURTH TURNING, Jeremy O. Harris' DADDY, Khat Knotahaiku's GRAVEYARD SHIFT, Antoinette Nwandu's PASS OVER, Danai Gurira's FAMILIAR, Martyna Majok's QUEENS and many more. Danya is a recipient of several awards and fellowships for her work, including the Cullman Award for Extraordinary Creativity from Lincoln Center, Time Warner Directing Fellowship at Women's Project, 2050 fellowship at New York Theatre Workshop, and the Lincoln Center Directors Lab. In this episode, Danya discusses building trust and creativity in a rehearsal room, looking for theater spirits in Ireland, and getting the stamp of approval from S.E. Hinton herself.    Tickets to THE OUTSIDERS Tickers to KISS ME KATE Watch Pass Over

Tony Nominee Jocelyn Bioh is an Award-winning Ghanian-American playwright and actress. Her most recent play, JAJA'S AFRICAN HAIR BRAIDING, is Tony-nominated for Best Play this season. Jocelyn's work can be seen across screen and stage. SCHOOL GIRLS; OR, THE AFRICAN MEAN GIRLS PLAY, won numerous awards including Lortel and Outer Critics Circle, and earned Drama Desk, Drama League, and Off-Broadway Alliance nominations. As an actress, Bioh received a Drama Desk nomination for IN THE BLOOD, and a Lortel nomination for her work in EVERYBODY. She is the Book writer for Broadway-bound musical GODDESS. Jocelyn has also written for TV on “Russian Doll”, Spike Lee's “She's Gotta Have It,” and “Tiny Beautiful Things.” In this episode, Jocelyn discusses the history and spirituality within hair braiding, the importance of originality in the American musical theater, and how her perspective on work and life has changed with motherhood. Jaja's African Hair Braiding History of Hair Braids Milton Hershey School

John Tartaglia has been working as a professional puppeteer since the age of 16, as one of the youngest performers ever to be in the cast of "Sesame Street." He earned a Tony award nomination for his Broadway debut in AVENUE Q, with additional stage credits in Disney's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST and SHREK THE MUSICAL. John's producing debut came with his Emmy-nominated preschool series, "Johnny and the Sprites" for Disney Junior, followed by creating the acclaimed musical IMAGINOCEAN that was re-imagined for PBS Kids as "Jim Henson's Splash and Bubbles." He can be heard every week on SiriusXM on Broadway's "Sunday Funday with John Tartaglia." John's newest project, a reimagining of the beloved 1980s series "Fraggle Rock," is streaming now on Apple TV+. Fraggle Rock Live Fraggel Blooper Reel Avenue Q at the Tony Awards ML's Finishing Our House Video

The personification of kindness, Jenn Colella, returns to Broadway as "Carrie Chapman Catt" in the new musical SUFFS. She shined on stage in IF/THEN, URBAN COWBOY, HIGH FIDELITY, CHAPLIN: THE MUSICAL, and was nominated for a Tony Award for her work in COME FROM AWAY. In this episode, Jenn discusses what she learned from her start in stand-up comedy, telling the suffragists' story during an election year, becoming a first-time mother, and transmuting fear into love when making choices. Suffs Tickets Head Space  Tiny Habits Book

Known as "the voice of Broadway," acclaimed and award-winning performer Betty Buckley has made her mark in iconic roles like "Norma Desmond" in SUNSET BOULEVARD, "Grizabella" in CATS, "Margaret White" in CARRIE, and "Alice Nutting/Edwin Drood" in THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, just to name a few.  In addition to her remarkable contributions on stage, she has release 16 solo albums and toured across the world. She has recently returned to the big screen in the highly anticipated thriller "Imaginary," playing in theaters now. In this episode, Betty discusses booking "Martha Jefferson" in the original Broadway company of 1776 on her first day in New York City, finding her voice through performing Bob Fosse's "Steam Heat" in her school talent show at 11-years-old, and hearing her younger self throughout pivotal moments in her multi-decade career. Tickets to Betty at Joes Pub Betty Buckley Cutting Horses Stages Podcast Swag

Tony Award winner Kelli O'Hara has established herself as one of Broadway's brightest stars and greatest leading ladies. She has starred in FOLLIES, THE PAJAMA GAME, NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT, THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, THE KING & I, and DAYS OF WINE & ROSES, just to name a few. She received an Emmy Award nomination for her work on "The Accidental Wolf" and can currently be seen on HBO's "The Gilded Age." In this episode, Kelli discusses finding a niche for voice when she moved to New York City, and what she's learned about herself through working with Adam Guettel for the past 20 years.  Tickets to Wine & Roses Kelli's Country/Opera song Feedspot podcast ratings Support Stages Podcast

Tom Broecker has helped bring your favorite sketch comedy characters to life for nearly 30 years, as an Emmy Award-winning costume designer for Saturday Night Live. He has also designed for hit TV series like Showtime's "The Big C," NBC's "30 Rock," HBO's "The Comeback," "House of Cards" on Netflix, the Mean Girls movie and more.  In this episode, he discusses how his love for the rehearsal process led him to costume design, the power of being present and going with the flow during a live TV show, and the costume reflects the emotional state of a character.    Aubrey Plaza Monologue - SNL Mean Girls Movie Tom Broecker

Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer dazzles with an illustrious career on Broadway and beyond, originating roles in hit shows like BEETLEJUICE, SOMETHING ROTTEN!, ELF, and A CATERED AFFAIR. She is also known for her work in LEGALLY BLONDE, HAIRSPRAY, and her currently show-stopping performance as "The Lady of the Lake" in the Broadway revival of Monty Python's SPAMALOT.   In this episode, Leslie discusses finding the freedom in loss, recreating an iconic role in her own way, and keeping up with cast text threads for 20 years.   SPAMALOT ENTERTAINERS COMMUNITY FUND LESLIE as Carole Burnett

Seth Rudetsky is a beloved Broadway music director, writer, and host of "Seth's Big Fat Broadway" and "Seth Speaks" on SiriusXM, where he gets to showcase his vault of musical theater knowledge. He and his husband, James Wesley Jackson, raised millions of dollars, with their live virtual show "Stars in the House," to support the theatre industry during the pandemic shutdown. In this episode, he discusses how he fell in love with musicals, the power of persistence, and the experience of playing the opening notes of RAGTIME with no rehearsal. Seth Rudetsky The Actors Community FundSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

George Brescia is a renowned style expert, TV personality, and author of  Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life. In this episode, he discusses how your wardrobe is the "window to your soul," the ways you can make fashion work for you, and why you'll see him doing the Electric Slide on QVC. George Brescia QVC Support the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the Season 4, Stephanie and Marylee discuss their visions and vibes for 2024. They dive into their lifelong fandom for Barbra Streisand, share their favorite books of the year and play a guessing game to discover the meaning of new words. Stephanie's Concerts Marylee's book reading workshop at Illume A Hole In The Wall Gang CampSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the final episode of 2023, Marylee gifts Stephanie a surprise visit from "Little House on the Prairie" stars Alison Arngrim ("Nellie Oleson") and Dean Butler ("Almanzo Wilder"). Alison and Dean share behind-the-scenes stories from set, why they feel the show has withstood the test of time, and gush over Michael Landon's signature chin quiver.  Little House Festival Confessions of a Prairie Bitch by Alison Arngrim Prairie Man by Dean Butler Protect.orgSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alli Mauzey is an acclaimed actress and singer known for her outstanding performances on Broadway. She starred as Glinda in WICKED, and HELLO DOLLY! with Bette Midler. She originated the role of "Lenora" in CRY-BABY, and is currently starring as "Pattie" in the Tony Award-winning KIMBERLY AKIMBO. In this episode, Alli discusses the joys and challenges of playing a "messy" character, early days of waiting tables at Tibbies Music Hall, and her adventures in raising monarch butterflies.  Kimberly Akimbo How to save Monarch Butterflies Eticket podcastSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eden Espinosa is an Emmy-nominated voice actor. She has performed on Broadway in the roles of Elphaba in WICKED, Maureen in RENT, and the title role in BROOKLYN. She portrayed Trina in the national tour of FALSETTOS and I currently starring in Lincoln Center Theater's THE GARDENS OF ANUNCIA. She will lead the new musical LEMPICKA on Broadway this spring. In this episode, Eden discusses the power of multi-generational storytelling, the tight-knit bond of her FALSETTOS family, and how a practice of surrender has opened her life to new possibilities. Eden Espinosa William Esper Acting Studio LimpickaSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Cheyenne Jackson is a beloved leading man of stage and screen, known for his work on and off Broadway in XANADU, FINIAN'S RAINBOW, THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, THE SECRET GARDEN, AIDA, ALL SHOOK UP, DAMN YANKEES and INTO THE WOODS. On screen, he starred in hit shows like 30 Rock, Glee and American Horror Story and in the Academy Award-nominated United 93.  In this episode, Cheyenne recounts his high school days in rural Idaho, the magical experience of his kids seeing him perform on Broadway for the first time, and  he and Stephanie share their love of Little House on the Prairie.Livin' on a PrairieStages Podcast MerchSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi started Sentimental Men Podcast three years ago out of the love (and their obsession) over WICKED. They started out as two friends bantering and bickering about theater during the shutdown and have ended up with a hit podcast on Theatrely. In this episode, they join their favorite Elphaba, for the 20th anniversary of WICKED, go behind-the-scenes of the early days of rehearsals, talk about how their friendship began, and the insecurities and sentimentalities that connect us all -- as theater lovers and human beings.  Sentimental Men A Scare is Born Polish People Magazine Wicked 20thSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Dulude is an award-winning make up designer and drag artist. His work includes WICKED, BEETLEJUICE, MATILDA, SPONGEBOB: THE MUSICAL, MJ: THE MUSICAL and many more. In this episode, Joe shares how nature inspires new ideas for colors, shapes and textures. He explains how he helps create a character from face chart on paper through completion on and actor's face, how his mentorship work brings new designers and artists to Broadway, and he and Stephanie reminisce on his record-making 7-minute "Elphaba" make-up application. Joe Dulude Application of" Elpheba" makeupSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leslie Odom Jr. is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor & singer. He shot to stardom in HAMILTON in the role of Arron Burr and is now on Broadway in PURLIE VICTORIOUS. In this episode, Leslie discusses his experience bringing PURLIE VICTORIOUS back to Broadway as an actor and in his new role as producer. He shares how he trusts his gut in making decisions, the importance of re-connecting with himself to start each day, and the power of different narrators telling stories of American history. Purlie Victorious Leslie Odom Jr. Lay My Burden Down DocumentarySupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Arielle Jacobs stars as Imelda Marcos in HERE LIES LOVE. She made her Broadway debut in IN THE HEIGHTS as Nina Rosario. She was starred on Broadway in Disney's ALADDIN, and WICKED. She starred Off-Broadway in BETWEEN THE LINES, and the world premiers of SOTTO VOCE and FARHAD OR THE SECRET OF BEING. In this episode, Arielle discusses the pride she feels telling the story of HERE LIES LOVE with an all Filipino cast. She shares how her parents supported her and her brother, Adam Jacobs, on their paths to Broadway, and why she is a California girl at heart.   Arielle Jacobs Broadway Pup Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Fest    Support the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sammi Cannold is a theater director and Documentary Producer. She directed EVITA at New York City Center and A.R.T, RAGTIME at Ellis Island, and SUNSET BOULEVARD at the Kennedy Center. In this episode, Sammi shares how attending the memorial for the late Hal Prince led her to the opportunity to direct her upcoming Broadway debut HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO. She shares her views on agism in the theater industry and how understanding the world and the cultures creates a stronger artist. LINKS: HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO Ted X Talk Human First CoalitionSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Faith Prince won a Tony for her outstanding performance as Adelaide in GUYS AND DOLLS. She also starred on Broadway in THE KING AND I, JEROME ROBBINS' BROADWAY, BELLS ARE RINGING, and A CATERED AFFAIR. In this episode, Faith reminisces about her work in music therapy and how it led her to the theater. She tells us why she moved her family and career to Los Angeles and she shares how she has learned to trust her instincts and open herself to healing and great joy through her work as a teacher. LINKS Faith Prince Kristin Chenoweth Broadway Bootcamp From Strength to Strength Support the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lillias White has performed on Broadway for four decades. Her shows include DREAMGIRLS, ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, CHICAGO and her Tony Award-winning performance in THE LIFE. She is currently starring in HADESTOWN as "Hermes". In this episode, Lillias discusses how she makes the role of "Hermes" in HADESTOWN uniquely her own. She shares her experience starting out on Broadway as a single mom, her fond memories of working with legendary composer Cy Coleman, and how trusting her instincts has guided her in life and on stage. HADESTOWN TICKETS Lillias at the Tony Awards GET YOURSELF SOME HAPPY Support the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessie Mueller has starred on Broadway in WAITRESS, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, CAROUSEL, ON A CLEAR DAY YOU CAN SEE FOREVER and won a Tony Award for her work in BEAUTIFUL:THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL. In this episode, Jessie discusses her venture into songwriting and how it makes her feel more vulnerable than acting. She shares her experience growing up in a family of professional actors and the importance of empathy in storytelling.   LINKS: VOTE FOR STAGES PODCAST The Four Agreements Neuro Gum Stages Listeners Strip Make for Stages ListenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nikki Renée Daniels has been in ten Broadway Shows including COMPANY, THE BOOK OF MORMON, THE GERSHWINS' PORGY AND BESS, ANYTHING GOES & LES MISERABLES. She starred in the role of Angelica Scuyler in the Chicago company of HAMILTON. In this episode, Nikki discusses her experience as the first black actor to play the role of "Bobbie" in the Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's COMPANY. She shares how she decided to pursue musical theater over opera as a Soprano and the joys and challenges she finds in raising her daughters in New York City. VOTE FOR STAGES IN PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS Nikki Renee Daniels Neuro Gum Stages Listeners Strip Make for Stages ListenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek Klena earned a Tony Award nomination for originating the role of "Nick Heally" in Alanis Morissette's Broadway musical JAGGED LITTLE PILL. He has preformed on Broadway in ANASTASIA and is currently in MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL. In this episode, Derek shares the exhilaration and challenges of a semi-immersive performance portraying "Christian" in MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL. He shares memories of his American Idol audition and running between baseball games and theater rehearsals as a child, and how his perspective has changed since becoming a father. PEOPLE CHOICE PODCAST AWARDS!  Moulin Rouge Tickets Improvised Shakespeare Neuro Gum Stages Listeners Strip Make for Stages ListenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Cariani is a playwright and Tony-nominated actor and has been seen on Broadway in The Band's Visit, Something Rotten!, and Fiddler On The Roof. In this episode, John discusses why weirdness is imperative to creating a compelling story. He shares his challenge with stage fright while on Broadway in The Band's Visit, his fun facts about his home state of Maine, and how a self-proclaimed "shy person" finds his voice through performing. Neuro Gum for 20% off Strip Makeup for 25% offRAGTIME at Tanglewood ticketsAstrotourismMount Katahdin HikeSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omny.fm/listener for privacy information.

Jordan Donica currently stars in Lincoln Center Theatre's revival of Camelot, which has earned him a Tony Award Nominee for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical. His other Broadway credits include Freddy in My Fair Lady, Raoul in The Phantom Of The Opera, and Lafayette in Hamilton. His television career included Blue Bloods and Charmed. In this episode, Jordan discusses how he deepens the storytelling with his own life experiences as "Sir Lancelot" in the Broadway revival of Camelot. He shares his views on participating in social media, the way his love of sports translates to the stage, and how the man he is today is due to the women who raised him.  Neuro Gum Link for 20% off Stages listenersStrip Makeup link for 25% off Stages listenersPoet Gill Scott HeronGleasons GymCamelot TicketsSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert Horn is a playwright, screenwriter and producer. He won the 2019 Tony Award for Best Book Of A Musical for his Broadway adaptation of Tootsie. His other musicals include 13, Disney Theatrical's Hercules and his current Tony-nominated musical Shucked. His television career includes Designing Women, Living Single, High Society, and more. In this episode, Robert shares how Shucked brings audiences together through the universal ideals of family, community and hope. He discusses how humor gets him through challenges in life and what inspires him to create stories in the new "Golden Age" of musical theater. Shucked The Musical Serious Jewish Comedy PBS Neuro Gum Link for 20% off Stages listeners Strip Makeup link for 25% off Stages listenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Betsy Wolfe is a Tony Award nominated actress and performer who is currently starring on Broadway in & Juliet. Her other credits include Falsettos, Waitress, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, and Bullets Over Broadway. In this episode, Betsy shares the joys and challenges of returning to Broadway with her Tony-nominated performance as ‘Anne Hathaway' in & Juliet. She discusses how being a mom has changed the way she portrays her characters, her favorite Max Martin hits to sing in & Juliet, and how she is helping to build the next generation of performers through her musical theatre training company, Broadway Evolved. & Juliet Tickets Broadway Evolved Killer Psyche Podcast Neuro Gum Link for 20% off Stages listeners Strip Makeup link for 25% off Stages listenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiler Peck is a Principal Dancer with the New York City Ballet and is also an actor and author. Tiler has been seen on Broadway in The Music Man, On The Town, and Little Dancer. This episode, Tiler discussed the differences between dancing in a Broadway show and being part of the New York City Ballet. She shares how she felt making her Broadway debut at the age of 11, in the 2000 revival of The Music Man with Susan Stroman, explains the musicality and speed required to dance in the George Balanchine style, and details her efforts to care for her mind and body off stage.  New York City Ballet RAGTIME concert with the BSO Tiler on TikTok Neuro Gum Link for 20% off Stages listeners Strip Makeup link for 25% off Stages listenersSupport the show: http://www.stagespodcast.netSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eva Noblezada is a Grammy Award winner currently starring in HADESTOWN as Eurydice, a role which earned her a Tony nomination in 2019. She also received a Tony Nomination for the role of Kim in the 2017 revival of MISS SAIGON. In this episode, Eva shares the parallels between her personal growth and the evolution of Eurydice after four years with HADESTOWN on Broadway. She reveals how the courage to ask questions has helped her on stage and in life, and how therapy helps her find strength in herself and in the art of storytelling.  Hadestown Tickets Eckhart Tolle The Chakra SystemSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kennedy Kanagawa is a performer & puppeteer.  He has performed the role of Milky White in INTO THE WOODS in the Broadway revival and the special engagement U.S. tour.In this episode, we learn how Kennedy helped transform “Milky White” from a cardboard prop to a beloved multi-dimensional Character in INTO THE WOODS. He shares stories of puppetry, family and his journey with Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's acclaimed fairytale musical, from New York City Center to Broadway to the U.S. tour. Into The Woods Tickets.  Mother Peace Tarot Round Deck. Kennedy Insta Page.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Lindsay Abaire is a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, screenwriter & lyricist.  His work spans Broadway and film and includes KIMBERLY AKIMBO, SHREK THE MUSICAL, GOOD PEOPLE, & RABBIT HOLE. In this episode, David shares how critically-acclaimed KIMBERLY AKIMBO transformed from a play to a musical over 20 years.  He talks about growing up on the South side of Boston, the women who continue to inspire many of his characters, and how he is driven to write the stories of connection and humor that he would want to see on stage.  Kimberly Akimbo tickets Anagram Scrambler American Playwrights ProgramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Newbury is an award winning theater, opera & film director. His work has been featured on PBS GREAT PERFORMANCES, and his work has been celebrated at Cincinnati Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Carnegie Hall & The Kennedy Center.   Brandon Kazen-Maddox is a dancer, director and American sign language artist.  His work as an interpreter has been featured on CNN. In this episode, Kevin and Brandon talk in depth about the founding of the Up Until Now Collective, a New York City based artist collective committed to inclusive, accessible, and equitable working environments.  They talk about their new vision for Andrew Lippas THE WILD PARTY, the day they met, and how their collaboration started at a camp in New Hampshire during covid. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.