The Back Stairs Podcast

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott are recording live from the Norway Music and Arts Festival. This annual event is the highlight of the summer for many in the historic downtown of Norway, Maine, during which the arts are celebrated. The BSP Guys are joined in lively conversation by Ben Wells-Goodwin ( www.MaineFungiFest.org ), Hillary Perry, Hannah Perry Shepherd ( www.indiegogo.com/projects/blood-sweat-and-tears-short-film ), Steve Corning ( www.SteveCorning.com ), Sabrina Mandell ( www.sabrinaselmamandell.com ) and Rachel Potter.

In this episode, the guys were joined by one of the stars of OHMPAA's production of Misery, CarlaRose Dubois. Together they talk all things Misery, Cowardly Lion coincidences, and how many years of marriage it takes to forget how many years of marriage you are up to. 

In this episode, Jon, Scott, and Janelle are joined by Vice President of Community Little Theatre Brandon Chaloux. Together they will recount Brandon's theatrical history, discuss his latest directorial venture, “Little Women,” give the scoop on lemon shirts, and dish out some of the hottest theatrical hot takes in town. The BSP Crew discusses the future of the podcast as Janelle and Aaron (who?) gear up for their performances in “Little Women” and “Clue.”

In this episode the BSP crew, minus Aaron and Janelle (so really just Jon and Scott), talk about improv. Scott talks about his time at iO (improv Olympic in Chicago) and his experiences there. They also talk about how their fathers inspired them to be performers and how they miss Aaron and Janelle so much.

In this episode, the BSP Guys sit down with Aaron Louque. Aaron is the director of OHMPAA's "Clue On Stage." Aaron is an Oxford Hills alumni and has a passion for all things theatre. This passion has followed him through childhood, college, and his professional life. Between learning how OUR Aaron got cast in his latest role and learning from GUEST Aaron's (too many Aarons) immense theatre knowledge, we had a blast with this episode!

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott are joined by three high school aged performers. Each a talent in their own right, their theatrical credits include acting, choreography, and performing in orchestral pits. Together Camden, Gabby, and Maren will share their experiences, discuss their thoughts on the local theatre scene, and look forward to the future. Curious about the episode title? Stay tuned for a special story time from Jon.

In this episode, hosts Aaron and Scott are joined by guest host Janelle Raven and Norway Maine's “Poet Laureate” Lisa Moore. A gifted poetess and playwright, Lisa has a rich history in theatre and performance. Together they will explore Moore's process and inspiration, as well as the idea of creating theatre in the mundane and normal moments in our everyday lives. Listeners will also be in for a treat as Lisa reads a piece of her poetry.

In this episode, the BSP Crew is joined by guest Danny Gay. Danny is a talented actor who also serves as a board member and Artistic Director/Education Director for Monmouth Community Players and Tech Director for L/A Community Little Theatre. He was recognized for his excellence in lighting design with the 2022 BroadwayWorld Maine award for Best Lighting Design of a Play or Musical (Non-Professional). Together Danny and the BSP Crew will unpack Danny's performance history, his passion for diversity in theatre, and all things tech.

Join the BSP Guys as they learn all about the art of clowning around with the beautifully talented Amanda Huotari (can we still say that to people?). Amanda is a performer and teaching artist specializing in creating original physical theatre, ensemble work, clown and improvisation. She certainly gave us a run for our money!

Aaron and Jon are joined by special guest host Janelle Raven and the BSP's number one fan Kristen Searles Brackett while Scott is away at “the Ice Capades.” Together they will deep dive into Kristen's latest directorial endeavor and discuss the challenges of stepping into a role unexpectedly. They will then discuss Kristen's role as Vice President on the OHMPAA board of directors and what it means to leave a legacy behind for the next generation. Janalex Trebek makes a triumphant return to play a game of Hot Takes with the gang.

Join hosts Aaron, Jon, and Scott as they chat with Rachel Potter. Rachel is not only Jon's wife, but a true talent in her own right. Her theatrical credits include music directing, playing as part of many pit orchestras, and now acting and singing onstage as part of OHMPAA's “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” It was a pleasure to chat with Rachel about her career as a music educator, her passion for playing in pit orchestras, and her journey out of the pit and onto the stage!

Join hosts Aaron, Jon, and Scott as they welcome a new friend to the podcast, actor Zack Balkcom. Originally from Upstate New York, Zack recently moved to Southern Maine. He made his Maine theatre debut as William Barfée in OHMPAA's production of “Spelling Bee.” Together, he and the BSP Guys will unpack his performing history, make a Radio Shack commercial, and share some hot takes.

They said we couldn't do it, but we are BACK! The BSP Crew is excited to share what we've been up to during our three month hiatus since the end of season one. Join Aaron, Jon, Scott, and Janelle as we give you the rundown on our recent involvement in OHMPAA's “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and vision cast for our second season

As season one of the Backstairs Podcast draws to a close, the BSP Crew takes a look back on some of their favorite moments from the show so far. Stay tuned for season two, airing in October, 2022!

The BSP Crew has been busy this past week with auditions and callbacks for the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. In this special bonus clip taken from Episode 12 - First Impressions, Janelle discusses a deeply meaningful role in her theatrical history and why getting a certain role in Spelling Bee is so meaningful to her. Spoiler alert - she got the part!

There's excitement in the air this week as OHMPAA, our local theatre holds auditions for their production of the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Executive Producer Janelle Raven joins the BSP Guys to talk all things auditions - tips, tricks, and tales from auditions past. Come along with us as we explore the idea the audition being one big first impression.

Passion may be something people do, but for Laurie, it's who she is. Come along with the BSP Guys as they follow Laurie's passion for theater, her struggle with brain surgery, and her stent as a horror film actress (it's a Scream). 

We've all had those magical moments while watching a performance where we've gotten goosebumps, right? Today, The BSP Guys are joined by the talented Kelsey Franklin-Sukeforth, an actress who has successfully given many goosebump-worthy performances over the years. Together she and the Guys will unpack her theatrical history and dish on the local theatre scene.

In this episode, The BSP Guys are joined by local business owner and actress Adrienne Cote. Adrienne has a rich performance history that includes Off-Broadway and touring productions. Together they will discuss what it means for Adrienne to be an Equity Actress, tell some stories from her time on tour, and share some passion projects.

In this episode, the BSP Guys are joined by local business owner and patron of the arts Ryan Ricci. Ryan has performed in The Wizard of Oz (OHSCBS), seen tons of community and professional productions, and his business 290 Maine Street has funded a few local shows as a sponsor. Together he and the guys will explore ideas for selling tickets, how to approach local businesses to secure sponsorships, and discuss all of the ways that it takes a village to put on a show!

In this episode, hosts Aaron, Jon, and Scott are joined by Kristen Searles Brackett. A local treasure  (and friend of the podcast), Kristen has had a prolific theatrical career as an actress, producer, and most recently director. Together, she and the BSP Guys will recount her history, share some stories, and unpack what's so great about community theatre!

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott sit down for a conversation with local actor and director Jonny Buldoc. Together they discuss the joy Jonny exudes on stage, tell some stories, and talk about some of Jonny's passions and upcoming projects.

In this episode, Aaron, Jon, and Scott are recording live from the Norway Music and Arts Festival. This annual event is the highlight of the summer for many in the historic downtown of Norway, Maine, during which the arts are celebrated. The BSP Guys are joined in lively conversation by local treasures Kristen Searles Brackett, Jonathan Leavitt, Michael Newsom, Maren Pinkham, and Norman Hutchins.

In this special bonus episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven and Jon Potter look back upon their time co-directing OHMPAA's production of Godspell. Co-hosts Aaron and Scott chime in as the group discusses what it takes to stand out when pitching a show to a board of directors as well as some upcoming opportunities for prospective directors in the area.

In this special bonus episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven and The BSP Guys outline 5 tips for how to respond to instruction well. Jon discovers that the advice is secretly an intervention. Scott discovers that he needs to talk more. Aaron discovers the dangers of double entendres.

In this episode, Executive Producer Janelle Raven interviews the Back Stairs Podcast Guys (Aaron, Jon, and Scott). Together they will explore the relationship between actors and directors, and what it looks like to give and take direction well. They will also discuss the Guys' theatrical histories a bit, share some stories, give some advice, and play a game. 

In this episode, Aaron Skolfield, along with co-hosts Jon Potter and Scott Parsons discuss the wonderful feeling of coming home after one has been away for a while. They are joined by Joshua Witham, a local actor, music director, and talented multi-instrumentalist. An Oxford Hills native, Josh recounts his roots in local theatre and his time trying to make it as an actor in New York City before returning home to Maine. Together, the guys will discuss their love for the local community and the relationships found therein, play a game, and give some advice.

In this episode, Scott Parsons, along with co-hosts Aaron Skolfield and Jon Potter, discuss what it means to “become” a theatrical character. They are joined by Daniel Rennie, a local actor and friend of the podcast who is known for his larger than life character roles on stage. Together they will explore the concept of “becoming” using specific examples from Dan's life and theatrical resume. They will also play a game and talk about Daniel's upcoming role in OHMPAA's Circle Mirror Transformation.

In this episode, Jon Potter, along with co-hosts Aaron Skolfield and Scott Parsons explore what it means to apply “maximum effort” to both small and large roles in the theatre. They are joined by Janelle Raven, executive producer of the Back Stairs Podcast and local performance artist. Together they will explore specific examples of “maximum effort” from Janelle's theatrical resumé, give some advice, and play a game.