Podcasts about The Color Purple

This is a 3 part mini Casting Director series, sponsored by Casting Networks.Tara Rubin started her company, Tara Rubin Casting in 2001 after working at Johnson-Liff Casting for fifteen years. During that time she cast for Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Guys and Dolls, and the daytime drama Another World.At Tara Rubin Casting she continued those associations and cast other Broadway productions, including Mamma Mia!, The Producers, Bombay Dreams, Spamalot, Jersey Boys, Mary Poppins, Billy Elliot, School of Rock, Aladdin, A Bronx Tale, Dear Evan Hansen, The Band's Visit, Six, Here Lies Love, and The Outsiders. Current Broadway shows include Six, Aladdin, Death Becomes Her, Boop: The Musical, Dead Outlaw, and Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends. She recently cast the film Here Today and the Apple + series Before both starring Billy Crystal.Tara serves on committees for the Entertainment Community Fund and the Noel Coward Foundation. She is an honors graduate of Boston University, a member of the Casting Society and recipient of the Hoyt Bowers Award for excellence in casting and outstanding contribution to the casting profession. She has taught classes at New York University and Sarah Lawrence College. In 2025 Tara Rubin Casting rebranded as the TRC Company.In this episode, we talk about all things ACTORS including:• How she casts a replacement for a show, particularly the balance between the individuality of the actor vs what the original performer did• How long does an actor have to rehearse before replacing another person in the role• The process of casting a Broadway show ensemble, with the makeup of one including understudies and skilled dancers• How many actors get submitted for a role and how many actors she brings in that she knows vs who she doesn't know• Process of casting a show from workshop to regional to Broadway• Booking the room vs the part - and how talent and imagination makes actors stands out to her in an audition• What has she noticed in actors that book a lot • How do you stay in touch or keep on her radar• Advice for new actors about starting on BroadwayGuest:Company Website IMDb PlaybillCasting Networks Sponsor:For a limited time, we're offering listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership. Use the code “MENTORSMIC”at checkout. Or if you're not ready to commit, take advantage of our 14-day free trial, which unlocks full access to all Casting Networks features so you can start submitting to casting calls right away. Terms and conditions apply. Visit ⁠https://www.castingnetworks.com/promo-codes/⁠ to learn more.Steps on how to redeem: Visit www.castingnetworks.comClick on the ‘Join Now' button Complete the Talent Registration form and follow the steps to verify your email and create your profile Proceed to checkout, leaving the' ‘Pay Yearly' option selectedEnter ‘MENTORSMIC' in the promo code field, click “Apply” to complete checkout.Don't wait! This offer expires soon!Host:Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MentorsontheMic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichelleSimoneMiller⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MentorsontheMic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichelleSimoneM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook page:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.michellesimonemiller.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.mentorsonthemic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you like this episode, check out:Close Up with Casting Director Paul Schnee (Barden/Schnee casting: "Pitch Perfect," "Sisters," "Palm Royale," "Winter's Bone")⁠Becoming Casting Director Erica Hart ("THAT DAMN MICHAEL CHE," "GODFATHER OF HARLEM," "THE BOLD TYPE")⁠⁠Becoming... award-winning Casting Director Bernie Telsey ("The Color Purple," "The Idea of You," "Hamilton," "SMASH," "Wicked," "The Gilded Age"

This is a 3 part mini Casting Director series, sponsored by Casting Networks.PAUL SCHNEE is originally from Wilmington, Delaware and is a graduate of Kenyon College. After graduating, Paul worked at ICM for agent Sam Cohn, then as assistant to director Mike Nichols. He and Kerry formed Barden / Schnee Casting in 2008. Paul is a member of The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, The British Film and Television Academy, and The Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. He lives in Brooklyn NY with his wife and daughters.In this episode, we talk about all things ACTORS including:• How he chooses to bring actors for roles• How many actors does he request self tapes from• Does he go through submissions himself or is it someone from his team• How actors can stay on his radar• What projects he's casting now• If he watches actor reels• Directing a project that's premiering at TribecaGuest:⁠IMDb WebsiteMother, May I have a Kidney? - TribecaCasting Networks Sponsor:For a limited time, we're offering listeners $65 off a Premium Annual membership. Use the code “MENTORSMIC”at checkout. Or if you're not ready to commit, take advantage of our 14-day free trial, which unlocks full access to all Casting Networks features so you can start submitting to casting calls right away. Terms and conditions apply. Visit https://www.castingnetworks.com/promo-codes/ to learn more.Steps on how to redeem: Visit www.castingnetworks.comClick on the ‘Join Now' button Complete the Talent Registration form and follow the steps to verify your email and create your profile Proceed to checkout, leaving the' ‘Pay Yearly' option selectedEnter ‘MENTORSMIC' in the promo code field, click “Apply” to complete checkout.Don't wait! This offer expires soon!Host:Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MentorsontheMic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichelleSimoneMiller⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MentorsontheMic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@MichelleSimoneM⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook page:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/mentorsonthemic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.michellesimonemiller.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.mentorsonthemic.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/user/24mmichelle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you like this episode, check out:Becoming Casting Director Erica Hart ("THAT DAMN MICHAEL CHE," "GODFATHER OF HARLEM," "THE BOLD TYPE")Becoming... award-winning Casting Director Bernie Telsey ("The Color Purple," "The Idea of You," "Hamilton," "SMASH," "Wicked," "The Gilded Age"

For this Don't Get Got segment we showed up exhausted, but like Celie in Color Purple, [we's] here!Listen in as we discussed American presidents, and outdated social media trends.

Angela Robinson Whitehurst returns to the show to bring her Broadway experience to discussing Wicked and the translation from stage to screen. Dr. Gee and Angela discuss the timing of seeing race brought to the forefront of this version of Wicked, compared to when the stage musical was first a part of our culture. The power of fantasy and musical stories is that deep ideas about culture can be explored through an alternate version of our world. It allows us to see the realities of our world through a different lens.  Angela also exposes the way that Black women were not allowed into the Alphoba role before the film version, but now that will be the standard as the significance of the character has been redefined by Blackness. They continue their conversation about Black voices and stories in Hollywood, including having to make representation happen for themselves.  A native of Jacksonville, FL, Angela Robinson is best-known as The Ice Queen Veronica Harrington of Tyler Perry's The Haves and The Have Nots. For her work as Veronica she is the 2015 recipient of the Gracie Award (Best Female Actress – One to Watch). Angela has worked on Broadway, off Broadway and on stages throughout the US and abroad. Broadway productions include The Color Purple with Fantasia, Wonderful Town, Bells Are Ringing, and Play On! She has participated in National Tours of The Color Purple, Dreamgirls, and The Wizard of Oz with Eartha Kitt. Her television/film credits include Law & Order: SVU, Another Bed and several regional and national commercials. She is the Winner of an Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) award for her work as Shug Avery in The Color Purple, Angela has been nominated twice for a Black Theatre Alliance Award (The Color Purple, Dreamgirls), and for an Audelco Award (Radiant Baby). She is also a member of the Tony Award winning Broadway Inspirational Voices. In 2008 Angela and her husband Scott founded the WhiteRobin Group. WhiteRobin Group is a consulting firm for aspiring and seasoned artists; providing training, inspiration and direction via acting workshops, private acting coaching, blogs and mentorship programs.   Listen to Angela Robinson's podcast - Art and Spirit   Follow Angela Robinson: Facebook Instagram   alexgee.com Support the Show: patreon.com/blacklikeme Join the Black Like Me Listener Community Facebook Group

Alice Walker (1944-present) is novelist, poet and essayist, best known for her novel The Color Purple, published in 1982, which won the Pulitzer Prize and made Alice the first Black woman to win the prize for fiction. Walker is also credited with coining the term Womanist in her 1983 collection of essays In Search of our Mother’s Gardens. For Further Reading: The Womanist Reader, Edited by Layli Phillips Alice Walker Has ‘No Regrets’ Alice Walker This month, we’re talking about Word Weavers — people who coined terms, popularized words, and even created entirely new languages. These activists, writers, artists, and scholars used language to shape ideas and give voice to experiences that once had no name. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Follow Wonder Media Network: Website Instagram Twitter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

[Encore] Kate and Franklin sit down with Steven Canals, the brilliant mind behind Pose, to talk about growing up Afro-Latinx in the Boogie Down Bronx, why Cardi B is everything, and how a 2004 screening of Paris is Burning lit the spark that would eventually become one of TV's most groundbreaking shows. They dig into the complicated, beautiful realities of intersectional identity, the tough questions that came up in the Pose writers' room, and how Steven stayed true to his vision every step of the way. Plus, he drops some incredible answers to the Black List Pod questionnaire — including a wild (and amazing) mash-up of The Color Purple and Transformers.Questions? Comments? Criticism? Hit us up on social media at @theblcklst.This conversation took place in 2021.To learn more about The Black List, visit www.blcklst.com.Mentions: +Pose: fxnetworks.com/shows/pose+Paris is Burning: rottentomatoes.com/m/paris_is_burning+The Color Purple: rottentomatoes.com/m/color_purple+Terminator: rottentomatoes.com/m/terminator

This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Broadway Drumming 101 – Episode: Quinton “Q.” Robinson (2025 Update)

This one originally dropped in September 2021 in two parts—but if you missed it back then, don't worry. I'm bringing it back as part of the Broadway Drumming 101 Classic Interview Series.Ray Marchica is one of those drummers whose name has been floating around the NYC scene for decades—and for good reason. He's done it all: gold records, TV house band gigs, iconic Broadway runs, off-Broadway, jazz big bands, the works. From James Brown's "Living in America" to The Rosie O'Donnell Show to Mamma Mia!—Ray's been laying it down with feel, power, and style.In this episode, Ray shares stories about:* Growing up in Brooklyn and learning drums from his uncle in the basement* Studying classical percussion at Brooklyn College with the legendary Morris Lang* Landing his first major gig on the A Chorus Line tour in the ‘70s* Navigating the world of jingle sessions, Radio Registry (yes, that was a thing for you young folk), and Broadway subs* Getting the gig with Dan Hartman and playing on hit records* What it was like playing for La Cage aux Folles, Starlight Express, Will Rogers Follies, and other major shows* His time in the pit for Miss Saigon, the long run with Mamma Mia!, and his approach to training subs* Real talk about the rise of drum machines, the shift in Broadway orchestra pits, and how he's stayed versatile through it allWhether you're a drummer, a fan of Broadway, or just someone who loves hearing stories from the road, the pit, and the studio, you'll dig this.Hit play. Subscribe if you haven't. And check out more at BroadwayDrumming101.com.If you loved this episode, check out some of the other powerful resources we've created for musicians looking to bridge the gap between the classroom and the Broadway pit:*

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In this exclusive clip from the upcoming Broadway Drumming 101 podcast, percussionist Andrew Atkinson shares how a one-off gig on America's Got Talent led to an unforgettable opportunity on Hamilton. Hear how a backstage connection, a feature in Modern Drummer, and pure preparation paved the way for his Broadway debut — all without asking for a single gig.Andrew recalls the moment he heard "My Name Is Alexander Hamilton" live for the first time, the wild audience reaction, and how he learned the book in just two weeks. Most powerful of all? His mindset: "I don't get nervous. I get prepared."

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The co-hosts question if Pres. Trump's tariffs will backfire or bring back American jobs as some Republicans join Democrats to rebuke his trade war. Then, after Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen took her newborn to work to demand the House vote on a bill to allow new parents to stay home and vote by proxy, the co-hosts discuss Speaker Johnson's response. Laurence Fishburne joins to discuss his new espionage thriller "The Amateur," the 40th anniversary of working with Whoopi Goldberg on "The Color Purple," and reveals if he would star in another "Matrix" movie. Six-time Tony-winner Audra McDonald shares how she came to play the iconic character Mama Rose in the revival of "Gypsy" and discusses the significance of three Black women starring as the leads. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Back in 2021, I sat down with one of the most versatile and in-demand drummers on Broadway: Sean McDaniel.Since that interview, Sean's career has only expanded. He's played Some Like It Hot, Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club and now holds the drum chair for one of the most buzzed-about new musicals on Broadway: Smash.So I figured—why not bring this conversation back to the forefront?In this re-released episode, Sean gives us an inside look at the early development of The Book of Mormon, starting with a modest 20-minute workshop. It's wild to hear how the show started with hand-drawn cartoons projected behind a reading stage—and how Sean's ability to adapt, play by ear, and control dynamics became essential in shaping the drum parts that evolved over the years.Broadway Drumming 101 is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.He talks about the two lives of Broadway drumming: playing with “toothpicks” during readings and unleashing full stadium energy in the pit once the show is fully staged. That flexibility—combined with a deep understanding of styles and musical storytelling—is what sets him apart.Sean also shares how his high school show choir days prepared him for the dynamic, mic-less world of workshops and readings. He developed a skill many overlook: playing softly while still maintaining intensity.If you're a drummer looking to understand what it really takes to build a Broadway career from the ground up—this is an essential listen.The full episode drops this Saturday.

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, we sit down with Andrew Beall, an accomplished percussionist, composer, and Broadway musician whose career spans international performances, musical theater orchestration, and a deep love for percussion. From his early days in Ohio to working on some of Broadway's biggest productions, Andrew shares insights into his journey, his influences, and his passion for composition.We dive into the art of orchestration, the challenges of subbing on Broadway, and how he balances multiple musical roles—including running Bachovich Music Publications and managing orchestras. Andrew also talks about adapting to technological advancements in music, the impact of Finale's discontinuation, and how biking in NYC keeps him in rhythm with the city's fast pace.Whether you're an aspiring Broadway musician or just love behind-the-scenes stories from the theater world, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical advice.Episode Highlights:

For anyone who's ever wondered if their dream is too big — or if they have what it takes to get there — this week's episode will encourage you to reach for more. Join me and my guest, Broadway star Morgan Anita Wood, as we talk about her journey to starring in one of the world's most famous productions, Hamilton.  If you're lacking inspiration or encouragement, tune in to refuel your creativity! Make sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss a thing! And don't forget to come hang with me on Instagram @jodie_king_ Interested in being a guest on a future episode of Honest Art? Email me at amy@jodieking.com Resources mentioned: Stay in touch with Morgan Anita on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mwood2013/  Book a Broadway Plus: Broadway VIP Experiences with Morgan Anita: https://www.broadwayplus.com/artists/morgan-wood  Learn more about Hamilton on Broadway: https://hamiltonmusical.com/new-york/  Join me in Santa Fe, NM, for an Honest Art® Workshop: https://www.santafeartistgetaway.com/service-page/honest-art-2?referral=service_list_widget  Learn more about joining the Honest Art® Society: https://www.jodiekingart.com/rebelartistssociety  Worthy by Jamie Kern Lima: https://amzn.to/4bHsOa1  Episode 15: The Power of Art & Community With Becky Joan Springer: https://jodieking.com/episode-15-the-power-of-art-community-with-becky-joan-springer/  Episode 77: How Your Art Validates the Human Experience: https://jodieking.com/episode-77-how-your-art-validates-the-human-experience/  Learn more about The Color Purple on Broadway: https://www.broadway.com/shows/the-color-purple-broadway/  Have a question for Jodie? Ask it here: https://forms.gle/hxrVu4oL4PVCKwZm6  How are you liking the Honest Art Podcast? Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform and let us know!     Watch this full episode on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC64Vn6NF5BfiwLNTSb_VnDA 

Throwback to one of the wildest and most unforgettable nights of my Broadway career—the opening night of Ain't Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations on March 21st, 2019, and performing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Playing live on national TV was already a huge deal, but throw in a mad dash through Times Square with a police escort to make it back to the Imperial Theatre for opening night? That took it to another level.After performing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon at 5 PM, we still had to race across town to the Imperial Theatre for our Ain't Too Proud opening night. Traffic leaving Rockefeller Center was brutal, and for a moment, it looked like we might not make it. But somehow, we pulled up just in time.I had a click track in my ears during this Tonight Show performance—same with the music director. The band and lead vocals were 100% live, but the background vocals were pre-recorded and locked to the click.Here's a little secret that not many folks—maybe not even most of my Ain't Too Proud cast and bandmates—know: between “Get Ready” and “Ain't Too Proud to Beg,” I had four clicks to cue me into the next tune. I was supposed to kick things off with that classic Benny Benjamin intro fill… but with the adrenaline rushing, nerves firing, and Questlove and The Roots watching from the wings, I skipped the fill and went straight into the groove.Thankfully—it worked. But man, knowing millions of people were watching, then thinking about how we had to jet across town and race to opening night right after this? My head was spinning.Looking back, I'm grateful for moments like that—creating something meaningful, making people smile, and sharing the stage with some of the best in the business. Ain't Too Proud should still be running, no doubt—but that's a convo for another day. For now, I'm just appreciating the journey. And with what I'm working on over the next few weeks, maybe there's one more Broadway run in my future.But if not? I'm good. I've had my shot—and I truly hope you get yours. There's nothing like the feeling of playing a show. It's one of the most rewarding experiences a musician can have.Have you ever had one of those moments where you knew the show or song like the back of your hand—but then one little thing throws you off? Let me know. I know I'm not the only one. Leave a comment here: Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.Clayton's Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, Ain't Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he's contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.comThis Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Broadway Drumming 101 at broadwaydrumming101.substack.com/subscribe

Broadway Drumming 101 – Classic Interview: Gary SeligsonIn this classic episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I sit down with the incredible Gary Seligson. If you've been around the Broadway scene, you already know his name. Gary's played on some massive shows, including Aida, Tarzan, Wicked, and Billy Elliot. His resume is stacked, but what really makes this interview special is the insight he shares about navigating the business, working in the pit, and adapting to the ever-changing world of theater drumming.We get into everything—how he got started, what it takes to lock in with a Broadway orchestra night after night, and how he keeps his playing fresh even after doing the same show hundreds (or thousands) of times. He also shares his approach to learning a book, staying prepared, and making a lasting career in this business.Gary's been in the game for a long time, and he's got a ton of wisdom to share. Whether you're an aspiring Broadway drummer or just someone who loves hearing behind-the-scenes stories from the pit, this episode is packed with gems.Episode Highlights:* Gary's Beginnings in Drumming: From banging on pots and pans as a child to his first toy snare drum, Gary's love for drumming was evident from an early age. His father nurtured this passion, leading him to study with Glenn Weber, who became a pivotal figure in his musical education.* High School and Early Gigs: Gary discusses his experiences in regional and all-state jazz bands, his first gig at age 13 with a Chicago/Blood, Sweat & Tears-style horn band, and how playing Bar Mitzvahs and country music gigs gave him a solid foundation for professional musicianship.* Music Education at Hartt School of Music: He shares why he chose the Hartt School over Berklee and North Texas, his influential mentor Al Lepak, and how studying in Hartford put him on a path toward a professional career in music.* Breaking into the New York Music Scene: After studying with legendary studio drummer Gary Chester, Gary received his first opportunity to sub on Broadway's The King and I in 1984. His first night in the pit was a nerve-wracking but pivotal moment that shaped his future on Broadway.* National Tours and Nine Years on the Road: Gary recounts his time playing Cats, Les Misérables, and Miss Saigon on tour, how driving between cities gave him a new appreciation for different parts of the U.S., and how this extensive road experience prepared him for his return to Broadway.* Landing Long-Running Broadway Shows: His journey from subbing on Chicago and The Lion King to originating the drum books for Aida, Wicked, and Tarzan. He shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including how Phil Collins personally insisted that Gary be the drummer for Tarzan after hearing him play Wicked live.* Working with Legends: Gary reflects on playing drums alongside Elton John and Phil Collins, what made their playing styles so unique, and how their guidance influenced his own musicianship.* Adapting to Different Roles: From drumming to percussion work on Motown: The Musical, Gary shares how playing alongside master percussionists like Roger Squitero and Javier Diaz elevated his approach to groove and feel.* Navigating Broadway's Ups and Downs: Gary talks about the transitions between gigs, the importance of subbing, and how he balanced a career that included School of Rock and subbing next to me at Ain't Too Proud.This in-depth discussion offers incredible insights into a Broadway musician's life, the industry's realities, and the dedication required to thrive in musical theater drumming. Whether you're an aspiring drummer or a theater enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen.Give it a listen, and let me know what you think!

#139 - The Color Purple by Alice Walker---Opening and closing themes composed by Brian Sanyshyn of Brian Sanyshyn Music.---Pick up your copy of 12 Rules for Leaders: The Foundation of Intentional Leadership NOW on AMAZON!Check out the 2022 Leadership Lessons From the Great Books podcast reading list!--- ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★ Subscribe to the Leadership Lessons From The Great Books Podcast: https://bit.ly/LLFTGBSubscribeCheck out HSCT Publishing at: https://www.hsctpublishing.com/.Check out LeadingKeys at: https://www.leadingkeys.com/Check out Leadership ToolBox at: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/Contact HSCT for more information at 1-833-216-8296 to schedule a full DEMO of LeadingKeys with one of our team members.---Leadership ToolBox website: https://leadershiptoolbox.us/.Leadership ToolBox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ldrshptlbx/.Leadership ToolBox YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadershiptoolbox/videosLeadership ToolBox Twitter: https://twitter.com/ldrshptlbx.Leadership ToolBox IG: https://www.instagram.com/leadershiptoolboxus/.Leadership ToolBox FB: https://www.facebook.com/LdrshpTl

The blues is more than just music—it's history, it's storytelling, and it's the soul of Black American life. In this compelling live broadcast, we explore Writing the Blues—the ways Black authors, poets, and filmmakers have infused their works with the rhythm, pain, resilience, and triumph of the blues.From Langston Hughes' poetic blues verses to Alice Walker's deeply emotional narratives, from August Wilson's stage masterpieces to period-piece films that use the blues as a backdrop, this discussion uncovers how Black storytelling in literature and cinema keeps the essence of the blues alive.Join us as we break down the themes of struggle, survival, love, and liberation found in both historical and contemporary works. We'll examine films like The Color Purple, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Ray, and Down in the Delta, alongside the written works of W.E.B. Du Bois, Zora Neale Hurston, and more.How does the blues shape Black narratives? How do these stories continue to evolve while honoring the legacy of the blues? Let's dive into these questions together in an insightful, thought-provoking, and culturally rich discussion.

On this episode of The Art of Braids Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Kelli Jones—a serial entrepreneur, celebrity hairstylist, and period stylist who has mastered hair artistry across all eras. With an impressive resume that includes The Color Purple, Black Panther, The Underground, and The SixTriple Eight Film, Kelli shares her journey of bringing authentic historical hairstyles to life on film and television.Beyond the big screen, Kelli is also shares that she is the founder of 404 Coffee in Atlanta and has her own beauty line, proving that creativity and business go hand in hand. We dive into her experiences, the impact of Black hair in cinema, and how she balances multiple ventures while staying true to her artistry. Tap in for an inspiring conversation with a true visionary!Check out her work at kellij.com.

Before there were influencers, Donald Byrd was busy influencing art and culture through his countless contributions in Dance. As an established force on both coasts with Seattle now his home, the iconic choreographer shares stories, insights and deep feelings that are the culmination of an artist's life well lived.    In this honest conversation with high school senior Gavin M., the legend articulates the significance of an Artist in 2025. He also debunks Drug use and addiction from a years-long struggle that he successfully overcame. He discusses Blackness in America, and how Black people are alchemists that turn pain and oppression into gold. And together they explore the ways that we can achieve more balance, growth and compassion through work on Self.    Donald Byrd has been the Artistic Director of Spectrum Dance Theater since December 2002. Formerly, he was Artistic Director of Donald Byrd/The Group, a critically acclaimed contemporary dance company, founded in Los Angeles and later based in New York, that toured both nationally and internationally. His career has been long and complex, and his choreographic and theatrical interests are broad. The New York Times describes him as “a choreographer with multiple personalities ... an unabashed eclectic.” He received a Tony-nomination for his choreography for The Color Purple and a Bessie Award for The Minstrel Show.   Co-presented by 4Culture, Coping 101's Artist Mental Health Stories amplify voices from King County's cultural sector to empower individual artists, uplift the creative community and destigmatize mental health from a teen's perspective. No matter our age or background we all face challenges, and there are many healthy ways to find balance. Get started with more episodes and resources hosted at c895.org/coping101 more about Donald Byrd: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Byrd_(choreographer) more about Spectrum Dance Theater 4Culture - 4culture.org

After inventing the Hollywood blockbuster with Jaws, creating the world's most loveable alien with E.T., and resurrecting the classic adventure serial with the Indiana Jones franchise, of course the next logical step in Steven Spielberg's career was to…adapt Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize winning novel about the survival and strength of queer black women in the American south? Duh! Obviously! Comedian Kenice Mobley joins us to talk about 1985's truly baffling and seismically important The Color Purple in our latest episode. We want to thank Quincy Jones for discovering Oprah and producing this movie. We want to yell at Quincy Jones for his awful, treacly score. Sign up for Check Book, the Blank Check newsletter featuring even more “real nerdy shit” to feed your  pop culture obsession. Dossier excerpts, film biz AND burger reports, and even more exclusive content you won't want to miss out on. Join our Patreon for franchise commentaries and bonus episodes. Follow us @blankcheckpod on Twitter, Instagram, Threads and Facebook!  Buy some real nerdy merch Connect with other Blankies on our Reddit or Discord For anything else, check out BlankCheckPod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apologies for the delay, Chelsea has had yet another rough week, but we are back to discuss Hollywood's biggest night and all of the best Karla Sofía Gascón jokes. Topics discussed include the deeply healing The Color Purple reunion, Anora's shocking sweep, Demi Moore's life-imitating-art moment, the sensational Wizard of Oz tribute, David Lynch erasure, and Adrian Brody's deeply annoying acceptance speech.  P.S. this episode was recorded before we knew the deeply f**ked up and unbelievably tragic details of Gene Hackman's death. R.I.P. King. Let's watch The Birdcage in his honor

Thanks for reading Broadway Drumming 101! This post is public so feel free to share it.In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, host Clayton Craddock sits down with the incredibly talented drummer Jaylen Petinaud to discuss his journey from an eager young musician introducing himself at LaGuardia High School to playing with Herbie Hancock and holding the drum chair for Hell's Kitchen on Broadway.Jaylen shares stories about his early aspirations of playing in the NBA, how his love for music eventually won out, and his experiences at SUNY Purchase, where he studied both jazz and economics. He takes us through his path from jam sessions at Smalls and New Blue to working with artists like Kenny Seymour (For Colored Girls, The Harder They Come) and his pivotal mentorship with Zane Mark that introduced him to the world of theater.Jaylen talks about the moment he received a life-changing call from Herbie Hancock, his approach to preparing for the gig, and the whirlwind experience of balancing Broadway, jazz, and international touring. He also discusses what it was like auditioning for Alicia Keys' Hell's Kitchen, getting the approval of Adam Blackstone and Alicia Keys herself, and his first experience playing on electronic drums for the show.From studying Tony Williams and Jeff "Tain" Watts to working with Terrence Blanchard, Jaylen offers insights into developing his unique voice on the drums, handling the pressures of high-level gigs, and the importance of always being ready for the unexpected.This is an inspiring conversation for anyone looking to break into Broadway drumming, navigate the jazz scene, or just hear an incredible success story of a young drummer making waves in the music industry.

On Sunday, comedian Bowen Yang joined other actors onstage at the Academy Awards, dressed in his costume from the movie 'Wicked' -- to praise the artist who dreamed it up. It’s hard to list all the projects the award-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell has been responsible for on Broadway, but here’s a sample: Bring in Da Noise, Bring in Da Funk, The Color Purple musical, In The Heights, and Hamilton - for which he won a Tony. On screen, he won an Emmy for his work on The Wiz! Live. And now, Tazewell has an Oscar to add to his list of accolades. Soundside host Libby Denkmann sat down with Tazewell when he was in town back in February, and in light of his win, we thought we would revisit that conversation. He was here for a new production at the Pacific Northwest Ballet.... an organization he has a long history with. His costumes for Kent Stowell's Swan Lake, which debuted in 2003, are still in use. This time around, Paul Tazewell created the lavish costumes for the company's re-imagined Sleeping Beauty -- from ball gowns and dinner jackets to tutus. Guest: Costume Designer Paul Tazewell Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Madigan discusses feminist author and activist, Alice Walker, best known for her novel The Color Purple. This episode uncovers the good (and the problematic) sides of a feminist icon. Share your thoughts, or a topic that you want the show to take on! Email: neighborhoodfeminist@gmail.com Social media:     Instagram: @angryneighborhoodfeminist Get YANF Merch! https://yanfpodcast.threadless.com/ JOIN ME ON PATREON!! https://www.patreon.com/angryneighborhoodfeminist Sources: Main Source: https://salempress.com/Media/SalemPress/samples/walker_pgs.pdf My Father's Country Is the Poor: https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/books/98/10/04/specials/walker-poor.html?_r=1&oref=slogin When I Had My First Abortion: Or, I Was Spared To Be Here For You: https://alicewalkersgarden.com/2022/06/when-i-had-my-first-abortion-or-i-was-spared-to-be-here-for-you/ “Beauty”: https://www.oleanschools.org/cms/lib/NY19000263/Centricity/Domain/166/Beauty.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our February book club selection is Possessing the Secret of Joy by Alice Walker. This is the final book in The Color Purple Trilogy after The Color Purple and The Temple of My Familiar. According to several sources online, you do not need to read the other two books before you read Possessing the Secret of Joy. They help to fill out the atmosphere, but they all work as stand-alone novels. Listen in while I read the last ten parts of Possessing the Secret of Joy by Alice Walker. What a fantastic book we've chosen for this month's book club selection RSVP to join our book club meeting at www.songsoftoriamos.com/bookclub

What happens when the spaces meant to welcome us become spaces we need to leave? Drawing from Jamar Tisby's #LeaveLoud movement and "The Color Purple," this episode dives into the complex dynamics of leaving religious institutions, toxic workplaces, and communities that no longer serve us. We explore a fresh take on an ancient story about standing in your truth, even when facing pushback from authority figures. Whether you're contemplating a major life transition or processing past spiritual trauma, this conversation offers a framework for understanding that sometimes, leaving isn't just okay - it's sacred. No guilt trips, no clichés - just honest talk about finding your way forward.

Send us a textWelcome back for Part Two of our conversation about The Color Purple (2023). This week's episode is all about the highs and lows. Joy, sisterhood, and the phenomenal music and dancing are some of the most important components of the film, showing off black love, joy and desire. We get into the relationship between Celie and Shug Avery. Necessarily, we speak on the venom of racism that we see play out in Sophia's storyline, and the way it still runs rampant today.We invite you to read Mouths of Rain: An Anthology of Black Lesbian Thought to participate in our next episode. Black Artist Shout Out this week goes out to Sofie, a Ghanaian singer, songwriter, and producer based in Los Angeles. Her style of R&B and Afrobeats is smooth and contains messages about what she finds important in the world. Support her on Instagram (@lionessofie), Spotify, and Apple Music.Trigger Warning: Rape, Physical and Sexual Abuse, Generational Trauma, Poverty, Racism, PatriarchyIf you would like to support us, please download and review. You can reach out to us on Instagram or TikTok, or send us an email.  Instagram/TikTok: @lesbianbookclubpodEmail: lesbianbookclubpod@gmail.com

Born and raised in south London, Cynthia Erivo made her name with musical theatre in London, starring in shows including The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg and Sister Act. In 2015 she became a Broadway star and won Tony, Emmy and Grammy awards for her role in The Color Purple, the musical adaptation of the Alice Walker novel which had transferred from London. Her screen acting credits include the title role in Harriet, about the 19th century abolitionist and campaigner Harriet Tubman, a film which earned her two Academy Award nominations, including for Best Actress. Oscar nominated again for her lead role in the musical film Wicked, she became the first black British woman to receive multiple Academy award nominations for acting. An acclaimed singer, she performed a solo show of songs made famous by female artists including Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Barbra Streisand at the 2022 BBC Proms.Cynthia Erivo tells John Wilson about the influence of her Nigerian born mother, who raised her as a single mum. She remembers two mentors who encouraged her to perform at at young age; school music teacher Helen Rycroft, and Rae McKen who ran a local drama club. Cynthia recalls winning a place at the prestigious drama school RADA, and returning to become Vice President of the institution last year. She talks about the emotional pressures she underwent on playing Celie in The Color Purple, a story of abuse and survival, and how the themes of prejudice and acceptance explored in the musical Wicked, resonated so strongly with her. Cynthia also chooses the 2015 Alexander McQueen exhibition Savage Beauty at the V&A as a inspiring creative moment, and discusses her love of glamorous fashion.Producer: Edwina Pitman

Our February book club selection is Possessing the Secret of Joy by Alice Walker. This is the final book in The Color Purple Trilogy after The Color Purple and The Temple of My Familiar. According to several sources online, you do not need to read the other two books before you read Possessing the Secret of Joy. They help to fill out the atmosphere, but they all work as stand-alone novels. Today we explore The Temple of My Familiar with a full synopsis, analysis, review and a few selections from the novel. We'll be back next Sunday to explore Possessing the Secret of Joy, the third novel in the trilogy. RSVP to join our book club meeting at www.songsoftoriamos.com/bookclub

Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I chat with the legendary Jonathan Haas about his incredible journey from studying liberal arts to becoming a virtuoso timpanist and professional musician. We talk about his groundbreaking work in Broadway and orchestral music, his passion for drumming, and his thoughts on navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry.Highlights from the Episode:* Jonathan's Journey: How he transitioned from liberal arts to music and became a timpanist with the St. Louis Symphony before moving to New York to study at Juilliard.* NYU Broadway Percussion Seminar: The creation of a one-of-a-kind program that brought over 400 students from around the world to learn from Broadway professionals, observe live pits, and engage with union leaders.* Broadway Experiences: Jonathan shares stories about his early days as a sub on Broadway, a memorable sword accident during Pirates of Penzance, and the lessons he learned.* Making Connections: Why being a good person and building relationships is essential for success in the music industry.* The Role of Luck and Hard Work: Jonathan reflects on serendipity, the reality of hard work, and balancing dreams with practical goals.Key Takeaways:* Aspiring percussionists need to sound exactly like the person they're subbing for—the best compliment is being mistaken for the regular.* Always respond promptly to emails and calls, and don't take on tasks you're not ready for.* Hard work, connections, and adaptability are crucial in building a sustainable career in entertainment.Subscribe and Don't Miss Out!Make sure to subscribe to Broadway Drumming 101 on your favorite podcast platform and turn on notifications to be the first to hear this inspiring episode with Jonathan Haas!Virtuoso timpanist Jonathan Haas has raised the status of the timpani to that of a solo instrument throughout his unique career that has spanned more than twenty years. From classical concertos to jazz and rock & roll, from symphonic masterpieces to the most experimental compositions of living composers, Haas has championed, commissioned, unearthed and celebrated music for his instrument, becoming, as Ovation magazine hailed him, "The Paganini of the timpani."His concerts on the world's most prestigious musical stages and his ground-breaking recordings have delighted critics and listeners on both sides of the ocean. The New York Times wrote, "Wherever one finds a percussion instrument waiting to be rubbed, shook, struck or strummed, [Haas] is probably nearby, ready to fulfill his duties with consummate expertise... he is a masterful young percussionist."Most recently, Haas has garnered widespread praise and attention for his performances of Philip Glass' Concerto Fantasy for Two Timpanists and Orchestra, a piece conceived by Haas and completed because of his quest to spotlight the timpani. The Concerto Fantasy features not only two timpanists, but also 14 timpani, all placed downstage in front of the orchestra. In 2000, Haas performed the world premiere of the piece with the American Symphony, and he has subsequently performed it at Carnegie Hall and in Phoenix, New Jersey, Baltimore, Pasadena, Long Beach (California), St. Louis and Mexico City. Haas also performed the European premiere with the BBC Symphony in London, the world premiere of a chamber orchestra version with the Iris Chamber Orchestra in Memphis, the Czechoslovakian premiere with the Prague Symphony Orchestra at the International Music Prague Spring Festival, the Norwegian premiere with the Bergen Philharmonic, and he will perform the Australian premiere with the Sydney Symphony and the Turkish premiere with the Istanbul Philharmonic.Haas' successful efforts to expand the timpani repertoire have led him to commission and premiere more than 25 works by composers in addition to Philip Glass such as Stephen Albert, Marius Constant, Irwin Bazelon, Eric Ewazen, Thomas Hamilton, Robert Hall Lewis, Jean Piche, Karlheinz Stockhausen, Andrew Thomas, and many others.Haas built the world's largest timpani and debuted it in 2003 at the Aspen Music Festival. This unprecendented, incredible instrument -- nearly 6' wide and nearly 4' tall – beats the world's second-largest timpani — a 48-incher used by Amsterdam's Concertgebouw Orchestra — by almost half.Haas' recordings include the trail-blazing 18th Century Concertos for Timpani and Orchestra and Johnny H. and the Prisoners of Swing, both on Sunset Records. The latter was named for his jazz group and features innovative renderings of jazz compositions featuring "hot timpani" in front of a full jazz ensemble. His rediscovery of Duke Ellington's brilliant composition for jazz timpani, "Tympaturbably Blue," is included on this recording, as are other jazz standards played on a set of ten kettledrums.Demonstrating a remarkable versatility as a musician, Haas has performed and recorded with Emerson, Lake and Palmer, played on the Grammy Award-winning recording Zappa's Universe, recorded with Aerosmith, Michael Bolton, Black Sabbath, and explored heavy metal with his rock group Clozshave.The rarest of modern virtuosi, Haas embarked on his career as a solo timpanist by performing the only solo timpani recital ever presented at Carnegie Recital Hall in 1980. As an orchestral soloist, he made his debut with the New York Chamber Orchestra under Maxim Shostakovich and his European solo debut with the Bournemouth Sinfonietta. He made his French debut performing Andrez Panufnick's Concerto for Percussion, Timpani and Orchestra with the Orchestra de la Garde Republicaine. He was the soloist in the Druschetsky Concerto for Eight Timpani, Oboe and Orchestra with the Aspen Chamber Orchestra. He has also performed as a solo timpanist for the Distinguished Artists Recital Series at New York's 92nd Street ‘Y' and as a guest artist with the Lincoln Center Chamber Society, the Chamber Music at the ‘Y' Series, and the Newport Chamber Music Festival. He has championed new music by presenting adventuresome programming such as The Music of Frank Zappa, showcasing the music of Edgar Varese and Frank Zappa, under the auspices of Lincoln Center's Great Performers Series.Haas is the principal timpanist of the New York Chamber Orchestra, the Aspen Chamber Orchestra and EOS Ensemble, principal percussionist of the American Symphony Orchestra, and a member of the American Composers Orchestra. He performs with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra, New York Pops, and New Jersey Symphony and has performed and recorded with the New York Philharmonic, the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Haas received his Master's Degree from the Juilliard School as a student of Saul Goodman. An inspiring teacher, he has been the director of the Peabody Conservatory Percussion Studio for twenty years and a faculty artist of the Aspen Music School, and he conducts the percussion ensembles at both schools. He has presented master classes throughout the United States and internationally at the Toho Gauken, Hanoi Conservatory, Paris Conservatory, and the Graz Percussion School. Sharing his enthusiasm for music with young people, he has presented over two hundred concert-demonstrations with his "Drumfire" program, under the auspices of the Lincoln Center Institute, the New York Chamber Symphony's Sidney Wolff Children's Concert Series, and the Aspen Festival Young Person's Concert Series.As active an entrepreneur as he is an artist, Haas heads Sunset Records, Kettles and Company, and Gemini Music Productions which contracts musicians for Lincoln Center, New York Pops, and many other organizations. He also works closely with percussion industry manufacturers Pearl/Adams, Promark and Zildjian, among others.Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.Clayton's Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, Ain't Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he's contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com Get full access to Broadway Drumming 101 at broadwaydrumming101.substack.com/subscribe

Get ready for an exciting upcoming episode of Broadway Drumming 101! I'll be talking with the legendary timpanist Jonathan Haas about his groundbreaking work with the NYU Broadway Percussion Seminar. Jonathan shares how the program started, its impact on over 400 students worldwide, and how it gave young musicians a real taste of Broadway—playing with top percussionists, sitting in active pits, learning about unions at Local 802, and getting advice from icons like contractor John Miller.We'll also dive into how a simple lunchroom conversation sparked the creation of the NYU Broadway Orchestra Program. You won't want to miss these incredible behind-the-scenes stories about Broadway music education and what it takes to succeed.Subscribe now to Broadway Drumming 101 on your favorite platform and turn on notifications so you'll be the first to know when this episode drops!Virtuoso timpanist Jonathan Haas has raised the status of the timpani to that of a solo instrument throughout his unique career that has spanned more than twenty years. From classical concertos to jazz and rock & roll, from symphonic masterpieces to the most experimental compositions of living composers, Haas has championed, commissioned, unearthed and celebrated music for his instrument, becoming, as Ovation magazine hailed him, "The Paganini of the timpani."His concerts on the world's most prestigious musical stages and his ground-breaking recordings have delighted critics and listeners on both sides of the ocean. The New York Times wrote, "Wherever one finds a percussion instrument waiting to be rubbed, shook, struck or strummed, [Haas] is probably nearby, ready to fulfill his duties with consummate expertise... he is a masterful young percussionist."Most recently, Haas has garnered widespread praise and attention for his performances of Philip Glass' Concerto Fantasy for Two Timpanists and Orchestra, a piece conceived by Haas and completed because of his quest to spotlight the timpani. The Concerto Fantasy features not only two timpanists, but also 14 timpani, all placed downstage in front of the orchestra. In 2000, Haas performed the world premiere of the piece with the American Symphony, and he has subsequently performed it at Carnegie Hall and in Phoenix, New Jersey, Baltimore, Pasadena, Long Beach (California), St. Louis and Mexico City. Haas also performed the European premiere with the BBC Symphony in London, the world premiere of a chamber orchestra version with the Iris Chamber Orchestra in Memphis, the Czechoslovakian premiere with the Prague Symphony Orchestra at the International Music Prague Spring Festival, the Norwegian premiere with the Bergen Philharmonic, and he will perform the Australian premiere with the Sydney Symphony and the Turkish premiere with the Istanbul Philharmonic.Haas' successful efforts to expand the timpani repertoire have led him to commission and premiere more than 25 works by composers in addition to Philip Glass such as Stephen Albert, Marius Constant, Irwin Bazelon, Eric Ewazen, Thomas Hamilton, Robert Hall Lewis, Jean Piche, Karlheinz Stockhausen, Andrew Thomas, and many others.Haas built the world's largest timpani and debuted it in 2003 at the Aspen Music Festival. This unprecendented, incredible instrument -- nearly 6' wide and nearly 4' tall – beats the world's second-largest timpani — a 48-incher used by Amsterdam's Concertgebouw Orchestra — by almost half.Haas' recordings include the trail-blazing 18th Century Concertos for Timpani and Orchestra and Johnny H. and the Prisoners of Swing, both on Sunset Records. The latter was named for his jazz group and features innovative renderings of jazz compositions featuring "hot timpani" in front of a full jazz ensemble. His rediscovery of Duke Ellington's brilliant composition for jazz timpani, "Tympaturbably Blue," is included on this recording, as are other jazz standards played on a set of ten kettledrums.Demonstrating a remarkable versatility as a musician, Haas has performed and recorded with Emerson, Lake and Palmer, played on the Grammy Award-winning recording Zappa's Universe, recorded with Aerosmith, Michael Bolton, Black Sabbath, and explored heavy metal with his rock group Clozshave.The rarest of modern virtuosi, Haas embarked on his career as a solo timpanist by performing the only solo timpani recital ever presented at Carnegie Recital Hall in 1980. As an orchestral soloist, he made his debut with the New York Chamber Orchestra under Maxim Shostakovich and his European solo debut with the Bournemouth Sinfonietta. He made his French debut performing Andrez Panufnick's Concerto for Percussion, Timpani and Orchestra with the Orchestra de la Garde Republicaine. He was the soloist in the Druschetsky Concerto for Eight Timpani, Oboe and Orchestra with the Aspen Chamber Orchestra. He has also performed as a solo timpanist for the Distinguished Artists Recital Series at New York's 92nd Street ‘Y' and as a guest artist with the Lincoln Center Chamber Society, the Chamber Music at the ‘Y' Series, and the Newport Chamber Music Festival. He has championed new music by presenting adventuresome programming such as The Music of Frank Zappa, showcasing the music of Edgar Varese and Frank Zappa, under the auspices of Lincoln Center's Great Performers Series.Haas is the principal timpanist of the New York Chamber Orchestra, the Aspen Chamber Orchestra and EOS Ensemble, principal percussionist of the American Symphony Orchestra, and a member of the American Composers Orchestra. He performs with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra, New York Pops, and New Jersey Symphony and has performed and recorded with the New York Philharmonic, the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Haas received his Master's Degree from the Juilliard School as a student of Saul Goodman. An inspiring teacher, he has been the director of the Peabody Conservatory Percussion Studio for twenty years and a faculty artist of the Aspen Music School, and he conducts the percussion ensembles at both schools. He has presented master classes throughout the United States and internationally at the Toho Gauken, Hanoi Conservatory, Paris Conservatory, and the Graz Percussion School. Sharing his enthusiasm for music with young people, he has presented over two hundred concert-demonstrations with his "Drumfire" program, under the auspices of the Lincoln Center Institute, the New York Chamber Symphony's Sidney Wolff Children's Concert Series, and the Aspen Festival Young Person's Concert Series.As active an entrepreneur as he is an artist, Haas heads Sunset Records, Kettles and Company, and Gemini Music Productions which contracts musicians for Lincoln Center, New York Pops, and many other organizations. He also works closely with percussion industry manufacturers Pearl/Adams, Promark and Zildjian, among others.Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.Clayton's Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, Ain't Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he's contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com Get full access to Broadway Drumming 101 at broadwaydrumming101.substack.com/subscribe

In this American classic we will follow Celie throughout her life of trauma, hardships, love, and connection.  We'll talk about the acting performances, the Oscar nominations, the design of this adaptation, and mix up a purple lemonade to have along the way. This week's cocktail inspiration comes from DaVinci Gourmet! Oscar 2025 Pick'em!⁠ Merch Shop - drinkthemovies.square.site https://www.patreon.com/drinkthemovies https://www.instagram.com/drinkthemovies/ https://bsky.app/profile/drinkthemovies.bsky.social https://www.facebook.com/drinkthemovies https://www.drinkthemovies.com https://www.youtube.com/@drinkthemovies https://discord.gg/fsdW2QqqpS *Please Drink Responsibly*

Born and raised in south London, Cynthia Erivo made her name with musical theatre in London, starring in shows including The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg and Sister Act. In 2015 she became a Broadway star and won Tony, Emmy and Grammy awards for her role in The Color Purple, the musical adaptation of the Alice Walker novel which had transferred from London. Her screen acting credits include the title role in Harriet, about the 19th century abolitionist and campaigner Harriet Tubman, a film which earned her two Academy Award nominations, including for Best Actress. Oscar nominated again for her lead role in the musical film Wicked, she became the first black British woman to receive multiple Academy award nominations for acting. An acclaimed singer, she performed a solo show of songs made famous by female artists including Aretha Franklin, Etta James and Barbra Streisand at the 2022 BBC Proms. Cynthia Erivo tells John Wilson about the influence of her Nigerian born mother, who raised her as a single mum. She remembers two mentors who encouraged her to perform at at young age; school music teacher Helen Rycroft, and Rae McKen who ran a local drama club. Cynthia recalls winning a place at the prestigious drama school RADA, and returning to become Vice President of the institution last year. She talks about the emotional pressures she underwent on playing Celie in The Color Purple, a story of abuse and survival, and how the themes of prejudice and acceptance explored in the musical Wicked, resonated so strongly with her. Cynthia also chooses the 2015 Alexander McQueen exhibition Savage Beauty at the V&A as a inspiring creative moment, and discusses her love of glamorous fashion. Producer: Edwina Pitman

Whoopbruary is here! We're dedicating a whole month to the incomparable Whoopi Goldberg, spotlighting a trio of films she made after her powerhouse performance in The Color Purple—plus one extra for good measure. Kicking things off is Jumpin' Jack Flash (1986), the high-energy spy comedy directed by Penny Marshall. Whoopi stars as Terry Doolittle, a quick-witted computer technician who unwittingly stumbles into international espionage when she makes contact with a British spy. With a script originally penned by David H. Franzoni, Whoopi's signature charm is on full display.Ian Brownell joins this month's co-host, Razzie-nominated writer Kevin Lehane, for a fun discussion of where and how this fits into Whoopi's filmography.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-projection-booth-podcast--5513239/support.

Whoopbruary is here! We're dedicating a whole month to the incomparable Whoopi Goldberg, spotlighting a trio of films she made after her powerhouse performance in The Color Purple—plus one extra for good measure. Kicking things off is Jumpin' Jack Flash (1986), the high-energy spy comedy directed by Penny Marshall. Whoopi stars as Terry Doolittle, a quick-witted computer technician who unwittingly stumbles into international espionage when she makes contact with a British spy. With a script originally penned by David H. Franzoni, Whoopi's signature charm is on full display.Ian Brownell joins this month's co-host, Razzie-nominated writer Kevin Lehane, for a fun discussion of where and how this fits into Whoopi's filmography.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-projection-booth-podcast--5513239/support.

Send us a textWe welcome Black History Month and the opportunity to celebrate Black History, Heritage and Culture with a conversation about famed The Color Purple. In this Part One episode, we cover the 2023 film adaptation of Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize winning novel and the context surrounding all of its renditions. This is a story of Black Women - of survival, sisterhood, betrayal, pain, faith, hope and joy. We walk through the lives of each of the beloved women in this film, as well as the men who accompany them on their journeys. In Part Two, we will talk more about the phenomenal music and dancing, Sophia's story, Black Joy, and what happened to the actors and Black film community after the release of the first film in the 1980s.Thank you for joining us in conversation today, we encourage you to uplift Black voices, seek out education about Black culture and history, and support Black artists and businesses. Featured Black artists of the week: “Black History, For Real” Podcast by Francesca Ramsey and Conscious Lee.Trigger Warning: Rape, Physical and Sexual Abuse, Generational Trauma, Poverty, Racism, PatriarchyIf you would like to support us, please download and review. You can reach out to us on Instagram or TikTok, or send us an email.  Instagram/TikTok: @lesbianbookclubpodEmail: lesbianbookclubpod@gmail.com

In this episode of Broadway Drumming 101, I sit down with Jonathan Haas, a percussion legend who revolutionized the timpani and built an extraordinary career performing with major orchestras, rock bands, and jazz icons. We talk about what it really takes to make it on Broadway—the hard work, the unexpected breaks, and the reality of starting at the bottom. Jonathan shares real-world advice and stories from his career, giving you a no-nonsense look at the industry. If you're serious about breaking into Broadway or curious about what it takes to succeed as a musician, you have to listen to this episode!Virtuoso timpanist Jonathan Haas has raised the status of the timpani to that of a solo instrument throughout his unique career that has spanned more than twenty years. From classical concertos to jazz and rock & roll, from symphonic masterpieces to the most experimental compositions of living composers, Haas has championed, commissioned, unearthed and celebrated music for his instrument, becoming, as Ovation magazine hailed him, "The Paganini of the timpani."His concerts on the world's most prestigious musical stages and his ground-breaking recordings have delighted critics and listeners on both sides of the ocean. The New York Times wrote, "Wherever one finds a percussion instrument waiting to be rubbed, shook, struck or strummed, [Haas] is probably nearby, ready to fulfill his duties with consummate expertise... he is a masterful young percussionist."Most recently, Haas has garnered widespread praise and attention for his performances of Philip Glass' Concerto Fantasy for Two Timpanists and Orchestra, a piece conceived by Haas and completed because of his quest to spotlight the timpani. The Concerto Fantasy features not only two timpanists, but also 14 timpani, all placed downstage in front of the orchestra. In 2000, Haas performed the world premiere of the piece with the American Symphony, and he has subsequently performed it at Carnegie Hall and in Phoenix, New Jersey, Baltimore, Pasadena, Long Beach (California), St. Louis and Mexico City. Haas also performed the European premiere with the BBC Symphony in London, the world premiere of a chamber orchestra version with the Iris Chamber Orchestra in Memphis, the Czechoslovakian premiere with the Prague Symphony Orchestra at the International Music Prague Spring Festival, the Norwegian premiere with the Bergen Philharmonic, and he will perform the Australian premiere with the Sydney Symphony and the Turkish premiere with the Istanbul Philharmonic.Haas' successful efforts to expand the timpani repertoire have led him to commission and premiere more than 25 works by composers in addition to Philip Glass such as Stephen Albert, Marius Constant, Irwin Bazelon, Eric Ewazen, Thomas Hamilton, Robert Hall Lewis, Jean Piche, Karlheinz Stockhausen, Andrew Thomas, and many others.Haas built the world's largest timpani and debuted it in 2003 at the Aspen Music Festival. This unprecendented, incredible instrument -- nearly 6' wide and nearly 4' tall – beats the world's second-largest timpani — a 48-incher used by Amsterdam's Concertgebouw Orchestra — by almost half.Haas' recordings include the trail-blazing 18th Century Concertos for Timpani and Orchestra and Johnny H. and the Prisoners of Swing, both on Sunset Records. The latter was named for his jazz group and features innovative renderings of jazz compositions featuring "hot timpani" in front of a full jazz ensemble. His rediscovery of Duke Ellington's brilliant composition for jazz timpani, "Tympaturbably Blue," is included on this recording, as are other jazz standards played on a set of ten kettledrums.Demonstrating a remarkable versatility as a musician, Haas has performed and recorded with Emerson, Lake and Palmer, played on the Grammy Award-winning recording Zappa's Universe, recorded with Aerosmith, Michael Bolton, Black Sabbath, and explored heavy metal with his rock group Clozshave.The rarest of modern virtuosi, Haas embarked on his career as a solo timpanist by performing the only solo timpani recital ever presented at Carnegie Recital Hall in 1980. As an orchestral soloist, he made his debut with the New York Chamber Orchestra under Maxim Shostakovich and his European solo debut with the Bournemouth Sinfonietta. He made his French debut performing Andrez Panufnick's Concerto for Percussion, Timpani and Orchestra with the Orchestra de la Garde Republicaine. He was the soloist in the Druschetsky Concerto for Eight Timpani, Oboe and Orchestra with the Aspen Chamber Orchestra. He has also performed as a solo timpanist for the Distinguished Artists Recital Series at New York's 92nd Street ‘Y' and as a guest artist with the Lincoln Center Chamber Society, the Chamber Music at the ‘Y' Series, and the Newport Chamber Music Festival. He has championed new music by presenting adventuresome programming such as The Music of Frank Zappa, showcasing the music of Edgar Varese and Frank Zappa, under the auspices of Lincoln Center's Great Performers Series.Haas is the principal timpanist of the New York Chamber Orchestra, the Aspen Chamber Orchestra and EOS Ensemble, principal percussionist of the American Symphony Orchestra, and a member of the American Composers Orchestra. He performs with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra, New York Pops, and New Jersey Symphony and has performed and recorded with the New York Philharmonic, the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.A graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, Haas received his Master's Degree from the Juilliard School as a student of Saul Goodman. An inspiring teacher, he has been the director of the Peabody Conservatory Percussion Studio for twenty years and a faculty artist of the Aspen Music School, and he conducts the percussion ensembles at both schools. He has presented master classes throughout the United States and internationally at the Toho Gauken, Hanoi Conservatory, Paris Conservatory, and the Graz Percussion School. Sharing his enthusiasm for music with young people, he has presented over two hundred concert-demonstrations with his "Drumfire" program, under the auspices of the Lincoln Center Institute, the New York Chamber Symphony's Sidney Wolff Children's Concert Series, and the Aspen Festival Young Person's Concert Series.As active an entrepreneur as he is an artist, Haas heads Sunset Records, Kettles and Company, and Gemini Music Productions which contracts musicians for Lincoln Center, New York Pops, and many other organizations. He also works closely with percussion industry manufacturers Pearl/Adams, Promark and Zildjian, among others.Clayton Craddock founded Broadway Drumming 101, an in-depth online platform offering specialized mentorship and a carefully curated collection of resources tailored for aspiring and professional musicians.Clayton's Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Altar Boyz, Memphis The Musical, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, Ain't Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical. As a skilled sub, he's contributed his talents to Motown, Evita, Cats, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Rent, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical, Hadestown (tour), and many more. He has also appeared on major shows, including The View, Good Morning America, Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and performed with legends like The Stylistics, The Delfonics, Mario Cantone, Laura Benanti, Kristin Chenoweth, Kerry Butler, Christian Borle, Norm Lewis, Deniece Williams, Chuck Berry, and Ben E. King.Clayton proudly endorses Ahead Drum Cases, Paiste Cymbals, Innovative Percussion drumsticks, and Empire Ears.Learn more about Clayton Craddock here: www.claytoncraddock.com Get full access to Broadway Drumming 101 at broadwaydrumming101.substack.com/subscribe

In his storied career, Paul Tazewell has dressed American revolutionaries, a scarecrow and a tinman, and witches with a penchant for pink and green. It’s hard to list all the projects the award-winning costume designer has been responsible for on Broadway, but here’s a sample: Bring in Da Noise, Bring in Da Funk, The Color Purple musical, In The Heights, and Hamilton, for which he won a Tony. On screen, he won an Emmy for his work on The Wiz! Live. Tazewell has two Oscar nominations: One for 2021’s West Side Story and most recently for Wicked, Part 1. His relationship with Seattle goes back to the early 2000s – the tutus he created for Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Swan Lake are still in use today. And Tazewell is back in town with a new PNB collaboration. He’s created the lavish costumes – from ballgowns and dinner jackets to tutus – for the company’s new production of The Sleeping Beauty. Guest: Paul Tazewell, costume designer for PNB's The Sleeping Beauty Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our February book club selection is Possessing the Secret of Joy by Alice Walker. This is the final book in The Color Purple Trilogy after The Color Purple and The Temple of My Familiar. According to several sources online, you do not need to read the other two books before you read Possessing the Secret of Joy. They help to fill out the atmosphere, but they all work as stand-alone novels. Today we explore The Color Purple with a full synopsis, title analysis, critical acclaim and even selections from Alice Walker's reading of her novel. Spoiler alert and content warning: graphic violence including sexual violence. We'll be back next Sunday to explore The Temple of My Familiar, the second novel in the trilogy. RSVP to join our book club meeting at www.songsoftoriamos.com/bookclub

The Oscar nominees were announced, and we have some thoughts. Jason and Rosie discuss AI use in The Brutalist and Emilia Perez, plus the snubbing of Nicole Kidman and Denzel Washington. They also ponder whether or not Ryan Gosling will join the Star Wars Universe, Robert Eggers duel movie announcements, and those Marvel Rivals leaks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another Broadway Drumming 101 Classic episode! This time, I'm revisiting an incredible conversation I had with the talented Shannon Ford back in late 2021. Shannon has an amazing story, and I'm excited to share it with you again today.Broadway Drumming 101 is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Shannon is a versatile drummer and percussionist who has carved out an inspiring path in the Broadway world. Whether it's his impeccable groove, his dynamic adaptability, or his incredible professionalism, Shannon has earned his place in this tight-knit and supportive community. His journey into Broadway is a testament to hard work, persistence, and the power of connection.In this episode, Shannon dives into how he got his start in the Broadway scene, sharing both the challenges and triumphs of building a career in this unique industry. He talks about the importance of relationships, the mentorship he's received along the way, and how the Broadway drumming community has been welcoming and encouraging to him. If you're an aspiring Broadway musician, Shannon's story is one you'll definitely want to hear—it's filled with insights and advice that can help you on your journey.I loved hearing Shannon talk about his approach to the craft and what it takes to succeed in this competitive but rewarding world. There's so much to take away from his experiences, whether you're a drummer, a musician, or just someone who appreciates the hard work that goes into making Broadway magic happen.So take a listen, and let Shannon Ford's journey inspire you. This is an episode filled with heart, wisdom, and the kind of perspective that makes the Broadway drumming community so special. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did when I first recorded it.Be sure to check it out today, and as always, feel free to share your thoughts after listening—I'd love to hear what resonated with you. What's New at Broadway Drumming 101?We're always working on bringing you more incredible content! Here's what else we've got going on:* Exclusive Articles & Tips: Subscribe to our website to gain access to exclusive behind-the-scenes posts and resources you didn't learn in music school.* Video Content: Check out our YouTube channel for interviews, tutorials, and in-depth discussions with Broadway's top drummers. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button!* Shop Broadway Drumming 101: Grab your favorite merch, including T-shirts, hoodies, and more, at our Shopify store to show your love for the art of Broadway drumming.

This episode of The Other Side of the Bell, featuring trumpeter Aaron Smith, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass.  About Aaron : Aaron Smith is an active freelance trumpet player in Los Angeles, CA. He also writes, arranges, and publishes music through his small business, TrumpetSmith Publishing (ASCAP). In addition, he serves on the Hearing Board for the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 47 and on the Board of Directors for the Recording Musicians Association Los Angeles (RMALA).  Raised in an Army household with musician parents who played jazz and r&b, and later to receive classical conservatory training, Smith thrives on versatility, consistency, and accurate delivery of musical intent. As a trusted freelance musician in Los Angeles, he performs regularly for live orchestral events, musical theatre, films, independent recording projects, streaming, television, and video games.  He has recorded on film/tv projects for celebrated composers including Alan Menken, Bear McCreary, Branford Marsalis, Germaine Franco, Heitor Pereira, Kris Bowers, Rob Simonsen, and Terence Blanchard; on sound recordings for Adrian Younge, Austin Wintory, Charles Gaines, Dr. Dre, Joachim Horsley, John Daversa, and X Ambassadors. He has performed as a sideman in bands on the Academy Awards, Dancing with the Stars, Disney's Encore!, Ellen, the LATE LATE Show, and The Voice. He's also appeared as a sideman onscreen for films including Babylon and Joker: Folie à Deux; and tv commercials for Capital One and Microsoft. He's backed major artists including Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Common, Danny Elfman, Jennifer Holliday, Josh Groban, Kelly Clarkson, Labrinth, Lady Gaga, Sigur Rós, Steve Lacy, and more. He has also performed for contemporary/new music ensembles and series including Alarm Will Sound, the Industry's Hopscotch Opera, Jacaranda, Southwest Chamber Music, wasteLAnd, WildUp, Green Umbrella, Monday Evening concert series, and Noon to Midnight Festival. In the L.A. theater world, Smith performs regularly at the Hollywood Pantages, Dolby, La Mirada Theaters and Pasadena Playhouse. Some notable shows from these theaters with Smith on solo trumpet include Back to the Future, Beetlejuice, Color Purple, Jelly's Last Jam, Les Misérables, Moulin Rouge, Wicked, and the Wiz.  As a composer, Smith strives to curate a top-tier experience for brass players especially. The primary focus is exploring boundaries while expressing a story; both through adapted arrangements structurally sound to the composer's intent and through his own original compositions. His work has been performed internationally. He has also created original chamber music commissioned by Marissa Benedict for University of Minnesota, Jim Self for University of Southern California, also by the Interlochen Center for the Arts, and Stomvi-USA.  Smith's training as a music performance major includes a Master of Fine Arts degree from California Institute of the Arts where he studied with Edward Carroll and John Fumo; and a Bachelor of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music with professor James Thompson. He is also a graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy with Stanley Friedman.

In this week's episode of the Black Girl Nerds podcast, we welcome Oscar-nominated actor Margaret Avery. 'A Man on the Inside' which premiered on November 21st features Margaret Avery, a Hollywood mainstay with decades of screen and stage experience. She brings an unforgettable warmth to the show.  Known for her Oscar-nominated performance in The Color Purple, Avery now charms as Florence, a spirited, poetry-loving resident in a retirement community that's anything but typical. Avery's portrayal highlights her enduring talent, blending humor and depth. This role not only reaffirms her versatility but positions her as a powerful presence in comedy. Host: Jamie  Edited by: Jamie Broadnax Music by: Sammus

Kris Bowers is no stranger to using music to build a world. The Oscar-winning composer has worked on films like "Green Book," 'Origin," and "The Color Purple," and on the hit Netflix series "Bridgerton." He's also known for his on-the-spot compositions, illustrated in this conversation with 1A Entertainment Correspondent John Horn.His latest project is "The Wild Robot". In the animated feature directed by Chris Sanders, Roz is a robot is marooned on a deserted island, unable to communicate with the animals and the natural world she finds herself in.As her programming evolves, and as she learns to speak to her animal neighbors, the score evolves with her.Kris Bowers joins us to talk about putting music to this wild world. Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Connect with us. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Cynthia Erivo (Wicked, Harriet, The Color Purple) is an award-winning actor and singer. Cynthia joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the vibes of South London, how she feels about people calling her cute, and her desire to connect with the audience when she's on stage. Cynthia and Dax talk about the differences in acting in dramas vs comedies, the burdens of doing political roles, and why she picked extensive makeup over CGI for Wicked. Cynthia explains if she prefers songs led by lyrics or music, how she experiences synesthesia, and how much she loves Ariana Grande. Follow Armchair Expert on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch new content on YouTube or listen to Armchair Expert early and ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.