Why I'll Never Make It - An Actor’s Journey

In the previous episode, you heard from actor and teacher Matthew LaBanca and his new show that just opened called Communion, a one-man show about his rather contentious experience with the catholic church and being fired from his teaching position once he married his husband. Well, now Matthew is back to talk about the solitary life of being an actor as well as his own struggle with vanity and several other topics by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. --- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber today. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A couple of months ago, I talked with a friend and fellow actor Dominic Thrasher about his experiences with a catholic church and the criticism and harsh accusations he faced for being gay and married. Well, another friend and fellow actor of mine also heard that episode and reached out to me with his own story to tell about being fired from his teaching job for the same thing. Matthew LaBanca has starred on Broadway in the original companies of Young Frankenstein, White Christmas, and A Christmas Carol. We touch on auditioning or both onstage and on-camera roles as well as the importance hair brings not only to our type and castability as men but how it also influences the way we carry ourselves and the confidence we bring into the room. A confidence that Matthew once had as a teacher as well at a private catholic school, but he shares how and why he no longer has that job.  ---------- Subscribe to get ad-free access to the full conversations, which include auditions stories. Donate to WINMI and support podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. Contact me directly if you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then I can offer you reduced-price or even free access to the subscription. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Theme music created by Patrick Oliver Jones, and background music is by John Bartmann (used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Producing theater is often difficult and never a guarantee. In fact, anything produced for the stage can be hit or miss. Just a few hours before I sat down to record this intro, a concert of Lerner & Loewe music that I was producing had to be canceled. Artists were dropping out and audiences weren't buying tickets. It was tough to let it go, but there came a point where the venue had to cut its losses. This was just a concert at a cabaret venue, so imagine the greater disappointment and loss when a Broadway show doesn't open. In the previous episode with Chad Beguelin, he shared how one of his musicals was headed to Broadway, until it wasn't. He turned that heartbreak into his debut novel Showmance that was released earlier this month. Well, he's back to talk about what has kept him going and what making it really means to him as he answers the final five questions here on this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It.  --- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber today. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tickets are available for in-person attendance and via livestream on The Green Room 42 website. Next month marks the 50th anniversary of The Little Prince, a musical film based on the classic children's story and the final collaboration of Broadway writing duo Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe. To celebrate this milestone The Green Room 42 presents “Lights, Camera, Lerner and Loewe” on November 5th at 9:30pm. And the special guest of the evening is Steven Warner, who was the child actor in the title role alongside Broadway luminaries like Richard Kiley, Bob Fosse, Donna McKechnie, and Gene Wilder. Two other movie musicals also celebrating anniversaries this fall are Brigadoon, which has enchanted audiences for 70 years with its tale of love and a mystical village, as well as My Fair Lady, the timeless classic reaching its 60th anniversary. And each of these three musicals will be brought to life with some of the finest voices on and off Broadway. This one-night-only concert features Grammy Award nominee Mykal Kilgore (Motown, Hair), Tony Award nominee Jane Summerhays (Me and My Girl, A Chorus Line), Tony Award Honoree Ben Davis (Once Upon a Mattress, La Boheme), E. Clayton Cornelious (Ain't Too Proud), and Ellis Gage (White Rose, James & the Giant Peach). Warner will reprise songs he sang in The Little Prince. Performers from recent Broadway revivals of Lerner & Loewe musicals are among the singers as well, including Rachel Fairbanks (Camelot), Michael Halling (My Fair Lady), and Valerie Torres-Rosario (Camelot). The associate conductor for both Camelot and My Fair Lady, Will Curry, will provide music direction and violin along with Megan Smythe (The Great Gatsby) on piano. Relive the magic of Lerner and Loewe's cinematic masterpieces through an evening of soaring melodies, romance, and nostalgia. The Green Room 42 is located at 570 Tenth Avenue inside YOTEL in New York City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the world of Broadway, success can seem like a dazzling dream. But behind every show that makes it to the stage, there are countless moments of uncertainty and setbacks. For writers, especially, the journey from writing a script to getting it produced is anything but predictable. As an actor, I know firsthand that without writers, I wouldn't have a character to play or lines to say. It's their words that bring us to life on stage, and one of my greatest joys is collaborating with writers—especially on new works—helping to refine characters and the dialogue that shapes them. And our guest today knows a little something about that unpredictable journey. Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony nominee and five-time Drama Desk nominee for his lyrics and book writing. And while he may not have any wins yet for his work, his shows have sure have been big hits with audiences, musicals like Aladdin, The Prom, Elf, and The Wedding Singer. However, his career has taken some surprising turns as well. He's been hung up on by a Broadway producer, he's tried venturing into motion pictures, and earlier this month he just released his debut novel called Showmance. Through it all, Chad has learned that success in this industry is never guaranteed, and perseverance is everything. But as you'll hear, even when a show seems poised for greatness, things can unravel in ways no one could predict. ---------- Subscribe to get ad-free access to the full conversations, which include auditions stories. Donate to WINMI and support podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. Contact me directly if you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then I can offer you reduced-price or even free access to the subscription. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Theme music created by Patrick Oliver Jones, and background music is by John Bartmann (used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Earlier this year, Actors' Equity Association, the stage union representing actors, dancers, and stage managers, made a big showing of celebrating swings and understudies for the annual Swing Day that happens each January. They even brought together a roundtable of four performers to talk about their experiences. Swings and understudies often have multiple roles to keep straight, each with their own nuance and character arc. And it's important to recognize the hard work that swings, understudies, and standbys do to keep shows running, and even keep them open on Broadway and on the road, like the Beetlejuice tour I'm currently on, where I play Otho but also understudy two other roles. You'll be hearing snippets from others in that roundtable as well as my own thoughts and experiences, and how Actors Equity says one thing but does another when it comes to honoring and crediting swings and understudies. All that and more in this special episode of Why I'll Never Make It.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode you heard from actor Dwayne Washington as he shared what he learned from leaving the industry. Well, now Dwayne is back to talk about what “making it” means to him as well as one of my least favorite parts of the business, self-tapes, by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. ---------- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber today. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Acting is behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances.” This is how renowned acting teacher Sanford Meisner defined what it means to be an actor. This principle helps performers build empathy with our characters and forge meaningful connections onstage. But as our guest today reveals, this approach can also be a powerful guide for navigating life offstage. Dwayne Washington, with the help of the prestigious Juilliard School, mastered the craft of acting and singing, but life itself has been one of his greatest teachers. From his time as a retail manager to his work as a high school teacher, Dwayne has grown in unexpected ways. We talk about his time in London as well as his current role in a new Off-Broadway production, That Parenting Musical. And while the personal growth he's experienced over the years may not always be visible, he has certainly gained a depth and perspective that now enrich his performances as well. Hear the full performance by Simon Estes and Grace Bumbry of "Amonasro" from Aida. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to full conversations with guests, including bonus auditions stories. Donate to WINMI and support podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Theme music created by Patrick Oliver Jones, and background music is by John Bartmann (used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the beginning of this season, I spoke with writer and producer Steve Cuden about his early collaborations with composer Frank Wildhorn. He gives us the real story behind the creation of the Jekyll & Hyde musical, which differs from the way Wildhorn tells the tale. We also get into his other writings and how he transitioned into teaching and also podcasting. A few months after his interview with me, he brought me onto his own podcast called StoryBeat, where I discussed my own ups and downs in this career as well as how I approach auditions and performances. So today I'm sharing our conversation where the microphone and questions are turned around on me, and I share more my own story, giving you a behind the scenes look at my own and even this podcast. --- Support Why I'll Never Make It and find previous episodes by going to whyillnevermakeit.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode you heard from actor and writer Dominic Thrasher as he shared how a diagnosis of ALS has dramatically changed his life and career. We also discussed how writing has given him a new focus for his energies and creativity. Well, now Dominic is back to talk playing one of his dream roles as well as share more lessons he's learned from his terminal illness by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. ---------- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast intro music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the year before the pandemic, I was on a contract with Norwegian Cruise Line performing the musical Footloose. In past seasons you've heard me speak with some members of that company (Megan Hoxie, David Ruttura, Eric Jordan Young) And in today's episode I'm bringing on another one of the people that I met through that show, Dominic Thrasher, one of the ones who I grew closest to during that contract who was actually in a cabin just a couple of doors down from my own. But just as the world was coming out of the pandemic, getting back to a somewhat normal life, Dominic was diagnosed with ALS, similar to Broadway actor Aaron Lazar. We talk about his very difficult journey of realizing and accepting his own illness and how he is choosing to live the remaining months and possibly years that he has left. And if there's anything you take away from this very heartfelt and thoughtful conversation, I hope it is a sense of both gratitude and persistence in your own life: being grateful for what you have, even the most basic of things, and a drive to continue to pursue the things that you want. It is a lesson that Dominic has carried with him his whole life and is now being put to the test in a way he never thought or imagined. ----- (And with this episode Why I'll Never Make It begins its new release day of Wednesday instead of Monday. This is mainly to adjust to my touring schedule with Beetlejuice, as the weekends are full of shows and Tuesdays give me more time to produce these episodes each week.) ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph. Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre. This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week you heard from singer and comedian Sarah Hester Ross, who talked about bringing her comedic songs to Vegas piano bars and the vocal injury that almost ended her singing career. Well, now Sarah is back to talk about lessons she's learned from those dueling pianos and why she feels like she may never truly “make it” by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. ---------- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When it comes to performing, whether in musical theater or in the pop world, a singer's voice can be their identity, their money maker, the one instrument that often defines their careers. And so losing their voice can be life-changing and demoralizing. On my other podcast Closing Night I did an episode on the Broadway production of Victor/Victoria and chronicled the surgery that ended Julie Andrews vocal career. There's also a new documentary out about Celine Dion and her battle with Stiff Persons Syndrome that has left her unable to sing. I've even had my own struggles with vocal paresis, which for me means that one of my vocal cords moves weakly and has a hard time fully closing compared to the other. And today's guest has had her own vocal struggles and knows what that loss feels like. Sarah Hester Ross has become a one-of-a-kind entertainer and social media star, amassing 2.4M followers on TikTok and over 260K on Instagram. She has also been touted as the “Best Of Las Vegas” for her comedy and one-woman show. And she's achieved all this with a vocal injury that still affects her to this day. We talk about that as well as her struggles with a lack of motivation and even interest in her comedy work. Nonetheless, her good-natured, comedic exuberance has earned her the moniker of "The Hilarious Redhead!" And I think you'll hear why in this witty and thoughtful conversation. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I just wanted to pop into your feed and give you all a quick update on Why I'll Never Make It and the lack of new episodes these past two Mondays. Well, I've been really busy since joining the Beetlejuice North American tour, and it's been an incredible experience! I finally made my debut here in Mexico City, not only for my main role of Otho but also for my understudy role as Charles. It's been a whirlwind of rehearsals and performances, and getting through the first week of shows has been both challenging and rewarding. I'm so excited to be part of this amazing production, and I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity. But I am also grateful to you, for your patience and understanding while I've been getting settled into life on the road. I promise that a new episode is on the way next week, and I can't wait to share my conversation with comedian Sarah Hester Ross. Your support truly means the world to me, and I appreciate you sticking around during this busy time. Stay tuned, and I'll be back with more episodes soon talking all about Why I'll Never Make It.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode you heard from theater writer and director Rob Melrose, who is the artistic director of Alley Theatre in Houston. He shared what it means to create and produce his own works and others. Well, now Rob is back to talk about lessons he's learned behind the table as well as from a heart attack he suffered two years ago by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a recent opinion piece for The Daily Iowan, a vital point was made about the importance of regional theater. It said “not every production is ultra famous, boasting popular actors in leading rules. But every production is important.” (I even posted about it on WINMI's instagram feed, which you can follow: @winmipodcast.) The point being made was that Broadway may get all the attention, but it is in venues across the country, including college theaters, where the true heart and soul of theater resides. They bring diverse stories to local communities, they nurture new talent, and ultimately keep the art form vibrant and accessible to so many people of all backgrounds and experiences. And today's guest has been on a mission to bring live theater to as wide an audience as possible. Rob Melrose faced many challenges in founding the Cutting Ball Theater, which involved a lot of crap, literally, and we'll discuss his current position at The Alley Theatre and the unique audition of sorts he had to go through to land that leadership role. But what's truly fascinating is the work he's done as a writer of new works and translator of existing plays. And by wearing many hats in theater from writer and director to producer, he's learned valuable lessons not only for his own career but for the theater arts as a whole. Support Cutting Ball in its efforts to remain open by donating here. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week you heard from actor and producer Aaron Ronnie Almani as he shared his creative journey from New York to Isreal and back again. We discussed audition challenges and even personal tragedies he witnessed in Isreal. Well, now Ronnie is back to talk about how to find fulfillment and balance in our creative life by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. ---------- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The art of theater and acting is a cornerstone of cultures globally, serving as a powerful medium for storytelling, expression, and communal reflection. It allows societies to explore and challenge social norms, convey historical and contemporary narratives, and foster a shared cultural identity through performances that resonate with audiences. For actors like Aaron Ronnie Almani, the discipline of theater and acting goes beyond mere performance; it is a transformative journey. The rigorous training and diverse roles demand deep emotional exploration and empathy, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. This immersive process enhances an actor's understanding of the human condition, cultivating a profound sense of connection and authenticity both on stage and in real life. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode you heard from theater director Schele Williams as she shared her journey from actress to director. We discussed her work in two of this season's most highly anticipated Broadway shows: The Wiz and The Notebook. Well, now Schele is back to talk about the importance of gratitude and what it means when she puts her name on a theater project by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. Schele mentions Black Theater United in our conversation, learn more about this organization here. ---------- To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2024 Tony Awards were certainly a night to remember, celebrating a very full Broadway season filled with remarkable performances and groundbreaking productions. Yet amidst the accolades and celebrations, some highly anticipated shows were left without a single nomination. One of these was The Wiz, a revival production directed by the wonderful Schele Williams. But despite the lack of Tony recognition, Williams' work on The Wiz has made its mark on Broadway this year with near capacity crowds at every performance and averaging more than $1.4 million dollars each week since it opened back in April. But Schele wasn't content with just one Broadway show this season, she was also part of the directing team for The Notebook musical. However, her illustrious career actually began as an actress, performing in iconic Broadway productions such as Rent and Aida, and eventually transitioned to directing. Her journey from celebrated performer to visionary director has been marked by perseverance and a commitment to amplifying diverse voices. As the first Black woman to direct a musical on Broadway in more than 40 years, she hopes her work this year will inspire kids of all backgrounds to follow their dreams. Here are her three stories: Schele shares her journey from being a child prodigy drummer to choosing a path in musical theater (Her father is famed drummer James "Diamond" Williams of the Ohio Players). We delve into her memories of seeing The Wiz as a child and the profound effect it has had on her, ultimately leading to her directing its first Broadway revival. We discuss the personal trials she faced as her mother struggles with Alzheimer's and how it influenced her decision to co-direct The Notebook with her longtime friend and collaborator Michael Greif. So listen as we explore the remarkable career of Schele Williams and the stories that shaped her path in the world of theater. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. A snippet of "I Want to Be Free" by the Ohio Players was used to highlight James "Diamond" Williams on drums. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As I leave New York City to join the North American Tour of Beetlejuice (to play the role of Otho and understudy Charles and Maxie) I wanted to share a special rewind episode of my memorable conversation with Kelvin Moon Loh from 2019, the original Otho on Broadway and a wonderful friend, who was an invaluable resource during my auditions for the show.  In this episode, Kelvin shares the story of how he landed the role of Otho and his own unique audition process. He also gushes about his fellow cast members and the show's journey from movie to musical. This chat goes beyond the fun and macabre world of Beetlejuice to touch on the broader aspects of the theater business, discussing what keeps us going and how to treasure the moments along the way. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode you heard from Conor Tague, one of the stars from the Broadway musical How to Dance in Ohio. He shared his experiences in that history-making production as well as the struggles he faced early on as an actor, both at school and in the audition room. Well, now Conor is back to talk more about his Broadway debut and share how auditioning is still a challenge for him by answering the Final Five questions in this bonus episode. To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every Broadway season, one of the most heated discussions about the Tony Awards centers the snubs—those notable shows that didn't get any nominations. This year they include musicals like The Wiz, Harmony, and The Heart of Rock and Roll. Another one of those shows that was left out made history as being the first Broadway musical to cast autistic actors in autistic roles, and it was called How to Dance in Ohio, based on a Peabody Award-winning documentary of the same name. And today's guest is one of the stars of the musical, Conor Tague. The musical dates back to early 2018 when the legendary Harold Prince announced he was working on a musical adaptation of the film. But after Prince died the following year, it was Sammi Cannold, a former guest of this podcast, who took over as the show's director. How to Dance is the real-life story of a group of young autistic adults and their families as they prepare for their first-ever formal dance. They face challenges and changes to their routines, and they experience all the things you go through when it comes to formal dances and asking someone out on a date—the love and stress and excitement of it all. The musical began previews on November of 2023, officially opening the following month, and played through February of this year.  Though completely shut out of the Tony Awards, How to Dance did receive Drama Desk nominations for Outstanding Book of a Musical (Rebekah Greer Melocik) and Outstanding Lead Performance (Liam Pearce). Conor and I talk about his experience with the show, but we also dig into his background and how his autism may be a unique and important part of him, but it's also just one facet of who he is as person and performer. ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week you heard from theater director Des McAnuff as he shared his experiences with three of his biggest shows, Tommy, Jersey Boys, and Big River. We discussed his approach to each of these unique musicals. Well, now Des is back to talk his musicianship and his composition efforts as well as share the lessons and insecurities he's discovered in the director's chair by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Who's Tommy is back on Broadway for its first revival, 30 years after the original production. And directing this revival is the original director from that first Broadway run, Des McAnuff. While he is known for his work in musicals, he is also quite adept in the works of Shakespeare and other classical works, having been Artistic Director of Canada‘s Stratford Festival. And we will touch on some of his other projects, but today's conversation will mostly focus on three of his standout shows: Tommy and this season's revival of it, the Best Musical smash hit Jersey Boys, and his Broadway debut and first Tony award for Big River. We talk about his penchant for doing musicals that feature pop music scores, and why some people look down on “jukebox musicals.” (03:14) The Dodgers theatrical group and his directing in Canada (08:53) Story #1 - Tommy (25:43) Story #2 - Jersey Boys (36:18) Story #3 - Big River ---------- Subscribe to get early and ad-free access to the full conversation with each guest, which includes the auditions stories that are only available to subscribers. You can also donate to WINMI and help further podcast production with a one-time or ongoing contribution. If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions and is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode, you heard theater producer and historian Jack Viertel share stories of how his talents and interests weren't in acting, his interactions with playwrights like Lanford Wilson, and the process of adapting a novel into a musical. Now he's back to talk about his new book Broadway Melody as well as share more lessons learned by answering the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. To listen to bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jack Viertel has the kind of knowledge I wish I had about Broadway history, having studied the various journeys of great shows for his book The Secret Life of the American Musical, but he's also worked with playwrights like August Wilson and Tony Kushner. He's even conceived the long running Smokey Joe's Café and the critically acclaimed After Midnight and served as dramaturg as well for Hairspray and Dear Evan Hansen. And through his many colleagues over the years he's learned the fine art of collaboration.  Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Theater can serve as a powerful platform for difficult discussions, especially offering a space for nuanced exploration of racial dynamics. It allows audiences to empathize with characters from diverse backgrounds, challenging preconceptions and fostering dialogue. It provides a visceral experience that can elicit strong emotions and provoke introspection. Kerry Sandell and Marci Duncan wrote such a play that was born from their own backgrounds, preconceptions, and even misunderstandings. They took on a difficult subject yet were both open to where it would take them. For the purposes of our conversation today, it's important to note that Kerry is white and Marci is black. Yet they not only share a common birthplace and are both mothers, but they each have a deep affection and appreciation for the performing arts. And by showcasing diverse perspectives, these two use theater to foster more inclusive storytelling and promote compassion. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sara Gettelfinger's Broadway debut came in 2000 with the musical Seussical. And she worked steadily on Broadway through the years until she and I met and worked together on The Addams Family national tour in 2011. But then she had to take a break from acting, a break from New York City as well. And except for an Off-Broadway musical in 2014, Sara focused instead on her life and let the career she loved so much take a back seat. She's now back on Broadway in a new musical, Water for Elephants, that opened at the Imperial Theatre on March 21st. We sat down during the preview process, and she openly talks about the struggle and warning signs that led up to her long absence as well as the lessons she'd had to learn, both personally and professionally. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we talked about in Part One, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is what put Gabrielle Ruiz on the map. However, it was her theater training and performance abilities that made it possible for her to be cast in the show. In this rewind episode from 2021, we talk more about her time on the stage and what drives her most as an artist. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the previous episode, you heard actress and singer Ann Harada share her stories of grinding it out as an Asian actress trying to fit in with what she thought casting directors wanted but then discovered her superpower as an artist, being herself. Now she's back to share more lessons she's learned and answer the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode of Why I'll Never Make It. To get more bonus content like Auditions Stories and get early access to these full conversations ad-free, become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ann Harada will be the first to tell you that finding happiness and satisfaction in the acting business didn't come quickly or easily for her. In fact, her first Broadway credit came as a production assistant, not as an actor. She followed that up with ensemble roles in M. Butterfly and Suessical. But between those two shows was a ten-year gap, and it wasn't until her next Broadway show that Ann Harada truly made a name for herself as Christmas Eve in Avenue Q. In our conversation, she talks about those lean years before Avenue Q but also how she has had continue working hard and pushing herself even after her breakout role at the tender age of 39. Listen to Ann's recent performance in BPN's audio drama TWITS. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week you heard actress, writer, and entrepreneur Lydia-Renee Darling share her stories of growing up in an immigrant household and then her own experiences of living and working in other countries as an artist. Now she's back to answer the Final Five Questions in this bonus episode. To get more bonus content like Auditions Stories and listen to these full conversations ad-free, then become a subscriber by going to whyillnevermakeit.com and click Subscribe. Podcast theme music created by host and producer Patrick Oliver Jones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lydia-Renee Darling is the very definition of a well rounded, multi hyphenate artist. She got her BFA in musical theater from Webster University in St. Louis and a Masters in writing for stage and broadcast media from the Royal Central School in London. She's a filmmaker and a playwright and founded her own DEI entertainment marketing and virtual production company called Oh! (My Gosh) Creative. Being someone who has both embraced and been challenged by changes throughout her life, Lydia-Renee shares with us how they serve as a motivation to continually better herself as an artist and an individual.  Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As an actor I fully appreciate and recognize that I couldn't do what I do without a writer doing what they do. Their words and characters are the basis for any work I've had in theater, television, or film. The writer's strike this past summer highlighted just how important they are, because without them there is no entertainment industry. In part one of my conversation with writer Steve Cuden, we talked about the process of creating the musical Jekyll & Hyde with Frank Wildhorn. For this second part of our discussion, we dive into his work in television, where he's written for shows like The Avengers, Biker Mice From Mars, Extreme Ghostbusters, and Pocket Dragon Adventures. Steve also gives us a crash course on what it takes to craft an engaging story that not only touches an audience but more importantly means something to the writer personally. Listen to StoryBeat with Steve Cuden and find his books here. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first guest of this season, I'm talking with writer Steve Cuden, who was a part of a musical and its beginning stages, but was eventually replaced right before it began to take off and become the hugely iconic Jekyll & Hyde musical we all know. In fact, it was Steve's first foray into writing with another unknown composer and writer at the time, Frank Wildhorn. And in part one of our conversation, Steve opens up about their personal and professional relationship in ways that he has not done so before publicly. A little backstory...Steve and I actually met last year when he reached out to me via email after listening to an episode of my other podcast Closing Night, which focuses on theater history. That began a series of emails back and forth that eventually led me to invite him onto this podcast to share his side of the story. A side of the story that Frank Wildhorn himself doesn't really talk about in his own interviews. The 1986 demo version of "Murder, Murder" featured in this episode can be found on Cuden's website. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Subscribing helps support this podcast, while also giving early access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Donating can be done on a one-time on ongoing basis. So whether you subscribe or donate, your financial contribution to this podcast is greatly appreciated! If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For Season 8, we're diving deep into the world of theater once agin with guests from Broadway, West End, and regional theaters near and far. From seasoned veterans to fresh faces on the scene, each episode is packed with candid conversations and inspiring stories about life in the performing arts industry.  Join me as I sit down with actors, directors, writers, and more to explore the highs and lows of chasing dreams in the spotlight. Subscribers will continue to get audition room horror stories as well as early access to every episode.  I'm also excited to bring back bonus episodes featuring the Final Five questions, where they share candid thoughts on life, love, and everything in between. These bite-sized episodes will follow each main interview, offering you even more insight into the personal lives and careers of our esteemed guests.  And just to give you a taste of what to expect this season, here are the final five questions I asked Lisa Howard last season (which was only available to subscribers). In these series of questions she opens up about the unpredictability of this industry and how embracing these challenges and uncertainties is so important as well as what “making it” means to her. Season 8 officially starts Feb 5th with the wonderful playwright and director Steve Cuden with a fascinating tale of how brought Jekyll & Hyde to life with Frank Wildhorn, yet it was another lyricist who actually took it to Broadway. It's a fascinating look behind the curtain of one the most iconic shows of the last 30 years. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Five years ago, "The Band's Visit," a musical defying convention, closed on Broadway after a year and a half of acclaim. Composed by David Yazbek and written by Itamar Moses, it emerged as a masterpiece, transcending Broadway norms. At the 2018 Tony Awards, it earned 11 nominations, winning 10, including Best Musical, beating stiff competition like SpongeBob Squarepants and Frozen. Now, in 2024, amidst current Middle East headlines dividing people, let's revisit this Arab-Israeli musical that explored human connection over 598 performances with an encore presentation of my 2018 interview with Jeff Theiss, associate conductor of "The Band's Visit." We delve into its score, unique storytelling, and its focus on shared human experiences beyond political divisions. Join me on this journey rediscovering the timeless beauty of "The Band's Visit," reminding us of the profound commonality that unites us all. Learn more about Closing Night and listen to it on your favorite podcast app. --- Just like this podcast, Closing Night is also a production of WINMI Media with Patrick Oliver Jones as host and executive producer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With politics becoming more and more a part of our daily lives, the theater and acting profession are certainly no strangers to it influence and impact. While it can be a force for change and understanding, my guest today talks about the ways in which it can further divide as well. In the first part of my conversation with Clifton Duncan, he shared deeply personal reflections on the complexities of the theater industry's response to the pandemic and the challenges he faced as an individual in the midst of it all. For part two, our conversation turns to a thought-provoking exploration of "groupthink" and the influences of social media on theater and the broader society as a whole. He offers valuable insights into the impact of differing viewpoints, the blurring of what is considered extreme, and the need for open-mindedness in the arts and beyond. Also, in the latter half of this episode are some bonus conversations with Clifton, offering a powerful conclusion to an episode filled with honesty and a quest for deeper understanding and introspection. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meryl Streep once said that "acting is not about being someone different. It is about finding the similarity in what is apparently different, then finding myself in there.” She is in essence urging us to discover the common threads in our seemingly diverse experiences. And the final guest of the season has had quite a few experiences these past couple of years. Clifton Duncan is a seasoned performer on stage and screen, with appearances in critically-acclaimed productions on and off Broadway and a TV slate that included work for NBC, Fox, CBS and Starz. But after the pandemic, Clifton's adherence to “authenticity” meant that opportunities slowly dried up and his agent eventually dropped him. His story in and around the effects and consequences of covid, vaccines, and theater shutdowns may be one you relate to or it may confuse or even anger you. But I hope that you can hear him out as I did and understand where he's coming from and the place he ultimately came to. Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We read and hear a lot these days about how actors need to be their own producers and creating their own work. In my own career about the only thing I'm creating are self-tapes, which are truly productions in and of themselves for sure--based on all the requirements and props and lines and technical aspects that are required to just put together a one-minute audition. But actually writing producing directing starring in our own work is a daunting task, so I wanted to talk to someone who is not only doing this, but helps those of us novices do it for ourselves. Learn more at the Pickford West Society For the past 15 years, Emily Grace has been helping actors create success on our own terms. And she comes out at not from a writing or producing angle, but as an actress herself. She even won an award at Sundance, a special jury prize for emotional truth. That's something we all want to bring to our work, right? So in this episode, Emily shares not only her own experiences in front of the camera, but what she has learned behind the camera as well, and how each of us can discover our own strengths and weaknesses, as we venture beyond acting.  INTRO - Catching the acting bug from her failed Annie audition STORY #1 - Smoking in a scene as a non-smoker and frustrating her director STORY #2 - The pressures of investor readings and what she learned from Judith Ivey STORY #3 - Why she branched out into making her own work and how she helps others Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of the acting world with today's guest, Luke Yankee, who is no stranger to the trials and triumphs of the industry. As a versatile artist sporting multiple hats, Luke draws inspiration from the incredible legacy of his mother, the legendary Eileen Heckart—a powerhouse who clinched the Oscar, Drama Desk, Golden Globe, and Emmy Awards with a special Tony Honor as well. In this engaging conversation, Luke unveils the behind-the-scenes tales of his journey, sharing the hard-fought lessons and uproarious moments that have shaped his career. From writing a captivating biography and a one-man show about his iconic mother to snagging his own accolades for playwriting, Luke's story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to the arts. But that's not all—Luke delves into his unexpected roles as a teacher and coach, shedding light on his unique perspective in the bonus final five questions (subscribe here). This episode is a treasure trove of anecdotes, showcasing Luke's love affair with theater and his ingenious ways of navigating the inevitable bumps in the road. INTRO - Hosting conversations with actors STORY #1 - Misadventures in regional theater STORY #2 - Lessoned learned from performing his one-man show STORY #3 - The bovine scene in the barn EXTRA - Anecdote from Broadway production of MAN OF LA MANCHA Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an enjoyable BroadwayCon encounter this past summer, I found myself in the heart of all things Broadway, rubbing shoulders with the stars and hosting live interviews for the Broadway Podcast Network. While my conversation with Jelani Alladin about Frozen and Hercules was already shared in a previous episode, today we delve into my interview with the talented Broadway actress Sharon Catherine Brown. I had the pleasure of working with her on a new musical last year, and we dive into some of the other shows on her resume, with a primary focus on her role in Jekyll & Hyde. We'll also explore her contributions to iconic musicals like Dreamgirls and Caroline, Or Change, gaining valuable advice for aspiring performers along the way. Join me in this special episode recorded live at BroadwayCon 2023 for an insightful and entertaining conversation with the remarkable Sharon Catherine Brown. INTRO - What she looks for when auditioning for roles and shows STORY #1 - Tackling the demanding role of Lucy in Jekyll & Hyde STORY #2 - Playing such iconic characters as Dorothy in The Wiz and Effie in Dreamgirls STORY #3 - Why she never gives advice to others on how to make it to Broadway EXTRA - What it was like working with Andre Deshields Subscribe or Donate to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get early access to full episodes and bonus content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tjasa Ferme is more than an actress; she's a dynamic creator who writes, produces, and stars in her own work. Her artistic vision revolves around transformation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and challenging traditional relationships between actors and audiences. Tjasa shares her journey from Europe as a rock star's daughter and early experiences on the Slovenia stage, to becoming a fearless actress and artistic director in the heart of New York City. We'll dive into three stories that have shaped her life and career... In Slovenia, Tjasa never used a headshot, but that changed once she moved to NYC. She called up an old friend to help her find work as actress, but came to realize the ability to create was within her the whole time. Her theater company Transforma blends science and stage into one theatrical exploration. Subscribe to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Rubinstein was born the son of renowned pianist Arthur Rubinstein, and his early exposure to theater in the 8th grade ignited a passion that would shape the trajectory of extraordinary career. He catapulted to Broadway stardom originating the title role in Pippin, directed by Bob Fosse, and won a Tony Award for his compelling performance in Children of a Lesser God. A true renaissance man, John's artistic pursuits extend beyond the stage into television and film as well, both as an actor and composer, where he's written the scores or theme songs for several movies and TV shows. We also talk about his work as a director, and even touch on one my favorite topics: the art and craft of auditioning. Never one to rest on his laurels, John also shares the impetus behind his return to New York in the current off-Broadway play Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground, which adapts General Dwight Eisenhower's memoirs, speeches, and letters into a one-man stage play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This summer marked the beginning of my new podcast venture, Closing Night, where I delve deep into the captivating world of Broadway history. Our journey takes us through the tales of shows that have graced the Marquis Theater in the heart of Times Square. Among the unforgettable productions is the notorious musical Nick & Nora, boasting a creative team brimming with legendary figures of musical theater: director Arthur Laurents, composer Charles Strouse, and lyricist Richard Maltby Jr. Several years back, during my very first off-Broadway contract, I had the privilege of collaborating with Richard. He held the title of creative consultant, but in essence, he served as the de facto co-director of a groundbreaking new musical called The Magdalene. So when the time came to explore Nick & Nora on Closing Night, I couldn't resist reaching out to Richard to share his remarkable experiences with the show. And believe me, he's got some stories to tell... How Nick & Nora came to be and what led to its ultimate demise Other Maltby shows including Miss Saigon and Ain't Misbehavin' Follow Closing Night on Instagram and listen it on your favorite podcast app. Subscribe to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a child, Jocelyn Panton attended a musical theater production that came to her hometown in Canada, and she just knew that's what she wanted to do one day. Well, she stuck to that dream and has gone on to do television and film, including Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, and the CW's DC‘s Legends of Tomorrow, among others. But as any actor will tell you, money becomes an important part of our career, whether you actually have it or not. It can inform the decisions we make and the opportunities we can or can't take advantage of, and at one point Jocelyn was $50,000 in debt because of acting expenses. She shares how she got out of debt, and what it taught her about the hustle needed to stay in this business. But as Jocelyn came to realize, family and personal life can mean so much more and are far more important than “making it” or not. INTRO - Our mutual degrees in Broadcasting STORY #1 - Learning from failure in the pageant world STORY #2 - Being $50,000 in debt from acting expenses STORY #3 - Connecting with herself in a deeper way from being a mom Subscribe to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Regional theater is really the lifeblood of the performing arts in America. It's the place where we get that first spark and inspiration to become lifelong theatergoers or decide to become actors ourselves. But in recent years regional theaters have been struggling to find audiences and to just stay open. The pandemic caused some to close their doors for good, and the ones that remain suffered through uncertain futures. Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, Texas was one such theater that canceled their season and lost millions of dollars in revenue and donations. But it slowly came back in 2021 and is about to start a new season under the leadership of its Tony-nominated artistic director, Dan Knechtges. He previously directed and choreographed Broadway shows like Xanadu and 110 in the Shade as well as his Broadway debut with The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. I've worked with him twice: at The Muny doing Seussical and then at TUTS with How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. We not only discuss Xanadu and his tenure at TUTS but we also delve into a creative crisis he faced, where he almost quit the business. It's a candid conversation with one of the most approachable and down to earth directors I've ever worked with. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In July of this summer, I did my very first BroadwayCon, which is an annual conference here in New York City about all things Broadway and theater, and while I was there, I got to be a part of events hosted by the Broadway Podcast Network. I conducted live interviews with two actors that I've had the pleasure of working with before: Jelani Alladin and Sharon Catherine Brown. Sharon's interview will actually be featured in a few weeks on my other podcast Closing Night, so follow that theater history podcast on my episode about Jekyll & Hyde. But for today on this podcast, you'll get to hear from Jelani Alladin as we discuss his time in Frozen and Hercules, and why the musical Violet is so meaningful and important to him. You'll also get to hear his answers to the final five questions, which I usually reserve for WINMI subscribers, but that's just some of the little treats you'll be getting in this special episode live from BroadwayCon 2023.  INTRO - Working together in Boy Meets Girl in 2017 STORY #1 - Making his Broadway debut in Frozen STORY #2 - What he learned and why he got fired from Hercules STORY #3 - He didn't always love singing EXTRA - the final five questions Subscribe to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the midst of the devastating impact of the pandemic on the arts, there's a unique perspective rarely explored--that of artists just entering the performing arts world when Covid struck. In this episode, Noah Crandell shares how he not only survived these challenges but also experienced a profound personal and artistic transformation. Noah's visionary approach to theater sets him apart, and we delve into how college programs prepare actors (or fall short) for the real world of acting. Interestingly, he turned down auditions for Hamilton not once, but twice. We'll also uncover the deeper meaning and purpose Noah has found beyond theater, shedding light on why being more than just an actor is essential to him. So, stay tuned for this inspiring conversation about resilience and self-discovery amidst trying times. INTRO - How he caught the acting bug from the Red Sea STORY #1 - Leaving NYC after a terrible year of auditioning STORY #2 - Saying no to Hamilton...twice! STORY #3 - rejecting the notion of always doing something to better your career Subscribe to WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I'm essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you'll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content   Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content.   Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I'll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices