Podcasts about Delacorte Theater

Catch up with the summer cultural calendar with this pledge-drive miniseries.  Today, Adam Feldman , national theater and dance editor and chief theater critic at Time Out New York,  talks about the reopening of the Delacorte Theater in Central Park and other summer theater coming up this summer."Free outdoor theater this summer in New York" (TONY, 5/19/25)

On this episode of #LatinosOutLoud, Rachel chats virtually with Playwright Kristoffer Diaz, who is the noble pen behind the Grammy and Tony award-winning Broadway show, Hell's Kitchen. Diaz is the book writer for the Broadway hit which tells a story loosely based on Alicia Keys' life and incorporates some of her biggest hits. Rachel got the chance to see the show, and the two speak about key moments in the musical, the unity felt among the theatre audience and how both feel the same sense of fulfillment as college Professors, as Kristoffer teaches play writing at NYU and Rachel teaches podcasting at CUNY Brooklyn College. The playwright, screenwriter, and educator gained national acclaim in 2010, when his play The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity was produced in Chicago and New York and then named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in Drama. His work has been developed and performed at the Goodman Theatre, Dallas Theater Center, Geffen Playhouse, Second Stage, Actors Theatre of Louisville, and New York Shakespeare Festival's Delacorte Theater. He adapted Rent for television and wrote for the Netflix series GLOW. His newest play, Reggie Hoops, is about a female executive in the NBA. It will receive its world premiere in August at Profile Theatre in Portland, Oregon. Follow Rachel Follow Kristoffer Follow Hell's Kitchen Broadway If you're in Newwww York! Concrete Jungle where dreams are made of..., be sure to catch the show while you can! Click here for more info #LatinosOutLoud #Podcast #RachelLaLoca #HellsKitchen #KristofferDiaz #AliciaKeys #Broadway #LatinosOnBroadway

Today, I'm thrilled to be joined by Broadway star Luba Mason, who will be appearing in Backstage Babble: Beyond the Walls of Joe Allen Restaurant on Wednesday, February 19th at 7 PM at 54 Below. You can find in-person and livestream tickets here: https://54below.org/events/backstage-babble-joe-allen/ And tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including finding her take on the role of Hedy LaRue in HOW TO SUCCEED, the beauty of THE CAPEMAN, the experience of reviving the show at the Delacorte Theater, her circuitous path to starring in JEKYLL AND HYDE, the challenges of working on SID CAESAR AND COMPANY, co-starring with Brooke Shields in CHICAGO, performing in the West Coast tryout of SUNSET BOULEVARD, why PRETTY FILTHY didn't transfer to Broadway, how she got involved with the American Dance Machine at NYU, dancing for Agnes De Mille, why she loves working with Michael John LaChiusa, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview with a true Broadway veteran.

We'd love to hear from you! Please send us a Text Message!From the New York Times: Quote: “Much Ado About Nothing is a feast! Joseph Papp's 1972 CBS television production of the New York Shakespeare Festival's staging of Shakespeare's rollicking comedy is brassy, bouncy, and all–together entertaining. Featuring Sam Waterston, Douglas Watson and the Tony Award performances of Kathleen Widdoes and Barnard Hughes, Papp's turn of the century version was critically acclaimed and enormously popular with audiences. Much Ado About Nothing originated at the open-air Delacorte Theater in Central Park. It was such a hit in the park that producer, Joseph Papp,  that fall, transferred the entire show to Broadway and there it became the longest running Shakespeare production in Broadway history. In 1972, 20 million people saw the broadcast of this CBS – TV IBM sponsored production of Shakespeare's classic tale of romance, mistaken identity, and the battle of the sexes. Probably more people saw it on that one night than had seen it previously in history.Presented by Watchfire Music https://watchfiremusic.com/ To access all of the episodes in our podcast, please subscribe to Watchfire Music's Theater Of The Imagination Subscription Series. Unlock all of the episodes and experience so much more! Learn More here: https://bit.ly/theater-of-the-imagination-info Or, if you're ready to subscribe, subscribe here: https://bit.ly/subscribe-to-theater-of-the-imagination We'd love to hear from you! Please send us a Text Message!

Matthew August Jeffers currently stars in An Enemy of the People now playing at Circle In the Square Theatre. A prolific actor, some of his other credits include Richard III at the Delacorte Theater, the film Unidentified Objects and the TV shows New Amsterdam, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and The Walking Dead. This episode was recorded on April 5, 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway star Caesar Samayoa (Come From Away) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss his heart-lifting new show How to Dance in Ohio, self care on Broadway and much more under the kindness sun. Caesar Samayoa is a performer who's been seen in the original broadway companies of Come From Away (Kevin J./Ali), Sister Act (Pablo), The Pee-wee Herman Show and now, How to Dance in Ohio (Dr. Emilio Amigo). Off-Broadway/Regional credits include: Evita (Perón, A.R.T./STC); Los Otros (Carlos, A.R.T./New York); Love's Labour's Lost (Don Armado, The Delacorte Theater); Bernstein's Mass (Carnegie Hall); Yale Rep, La Jolla Playhouse, Goodspeed Musicals, Tectonic Theater Project, Seattle Rep. Film/TV credits: Come From Away (Apple TV+); “Ray Donovan” (Showtime), “The Blacklist” (NBC). Awards: HOLA José Ferrer Tespis Award. Follow Caesar: @caesarsamayoa Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are excited to bring you this new podcast series, The Art of Collaboration. This series will focus on directors and choreographers in conversation with some of their collaborators on a specific production. This series will explore the ins and outs of these processes, both the finer details as well as overarching ideas about what goes into a productive collaboration on a show. In this inaugural episode, Director Alex Timbers, Costume Designer Catherine Zuber, and Lighting Designer Justin Townsend are interviewed by Foundation Director Dani Barlow to discuss their experience working together on Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Learn more about this episode's guests below. Bios: Alex Timbers (Director) is the recipient of Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, and London Evening Standard Awards, as well as two Obie and Lortel Awards. Broadway credits include Gutenberg the Musical; Here Lies Love; Moulin Rouge!; Just For Us; Beetlejuice; David Byrne's American Utopia; Oh Hello with Nick Kroll and John Mulaney; The Pee-wee Herman Show; Peter and the Starcatcher; and Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson (also bookwriter). For television, he co-created Amazon's “Mozart in the Jungle” (Golden Globe Award) and has helmed the Netflix specials “John Mulaney: Kid Gorgeous,” “Ben Platt: Live at Radio City,” and most recently “John Mulaney: Baby J” (2023 Emmy Award nomination). His debut picture book, Broadway Bird, set in an all-animal version of Broadway, is published by Macmillan. @alextimbers   Justin Townsend (Lighting Designer): His professional lighting design work includes such productions as: Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award); Jagged Little Pill (Tony Nomination); American Psycho (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award, Henry Hewes Award); The Humans (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award); Here Lies Love, (Drama Desk Award, Public Theater); Vietgone, (MTC); Pretty Filthy, (Civilians); Mr. Burns, a Post Electric Play, Milk Like Sugar, (Playwrights Horizons); Odyssey, A Winter's Tale, (Public Works at the Delacorte Theater); Venus, (Signature Theater); Unnatural Acts, Mother Courage, and Galileo (Classic Stage Company) Catherine Zuber (Costume Designer) Broadway: Moulin Rouge, (Tony Award, Olivier Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award), Mrs. Doubtfire, My Fair Lady, (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award), Oslo, War Paint (Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award), King & I, (Olivier Award, Tony Award), Fiddler on the Roof, Golden Boy. South Pacific (Tony Award); The Coast of Utopia (Tony Award); The Light in the Piazza (Tony Award); Awake and Sing! (Tony Award); The Royal Family (Tony Award);  Gigi (Drama Desk Award). Metropolitan Opera: Rigoletto, Porgy & Bess, Il Barbieri di Siviglia, Les Contes d'Hoffman, Comte Ory, L'elisir d'Amore, Otello, Dr. Atomic, Roméo et Juliette. 2016 Induction: Theater Hall of Fame.  Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation: Founded in 1965, Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation (SDCF) exists to foster, promote, and develop the creativity and craft of stage directors and choreographers. SDCF's mission is to create access to the field, to connect artists to each other and to the public, and to honor these artists' theatrical legacies. The centrality of directors and choreographers in theatre and the impact they have on other artists' careers—from playwrights to designers to actors—makes SDCF's services essential to the wider theatre industry's continued health and vitality. Through its dynamic educational programming, including Observerships, Fellowships, public panels, and day-long symposia, SDCF serves the needs of directors and choreographers at every stage of career. www.sdcfoundation.org

It's a wrap for Central Park's Delacorte Theater until the Spring of 2025. The home of the Public Theater's annual "Shakespeare in the Park" shows is getting a $77 million dollar facelift that will keep it closed for the next 18 months. Also, the union representing Staten Island Ferry workers has reached a contract agreement with the city for the first time in 13 years. And five women in Brooklyn are winners of the inaugural "Just Brooklyn Prize" which honors individuals fighting for racial justice in the borough. And lastly, WNYC's David Brand has advice for people who want to get involved in a community garden.

While many visitors flock to Central Park, only a handful truly delve into the rich past and hidden gems of the 840-acre park! Whether you have half an hour or an entire day to spare, the park's sheer expanse offers something for everyone. But how do you learn about these landmarks as you explore?! Enter the Central Park Audio Guides which provide interesting audio readings of 40+ places in Central Park. In this episode, we'll dive into how to use the free audio guides, where to find them, and even give you a preview of what the audio guides sound like. While you can certainly book guided tours of Central Park, those cost money & require you to be there at a certain time and for a certain amount of time. If you're more of a DIY explorer and like to go at your own pace, the Central Park Audio Guides are for you! These guides offer historical information, fun facts, and little-known tidbits of info about 40+ landmarks. Each audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, and ASL. For most locations, the audio snippets range anywhere from 90 seconds up to about 4 1/2 minutes. Here are the 2 ways you can use the Central Park Audio Guides. ⏬ Option 1: Phone Call Call the phone number listed on the sign near the location Enter the “extension number” listed on the sign Listen to the audio (preferably with headphones) If you want to save it in your contacts, here's the Central Park Audio Guide phone number: 646-862-0997 The main disadvantage of the phone call route is that you have to find the extension on the sign in the park. Option 2: Bloomberg Connects App Option 2 is to download the Bloomberg Connects app and find the Central Park Audio Guide there. The advantage of the app is that you can search for locations/landmarks without being right next to them. That makes it easy to learn about sections of the park before (or after) you check them out. Alright, here are all of the locations available on the free Central Park Audio Guide & each corresponding extension number (if there's a hyperlink, it's for an article we've written about that specific landmark): Explore the North End: #100 Blockhouse: #101 Fort Clinton: #102 McGowan's Pass: #103 Great Hill: #104 The Harlem Meer: #105 (previously read by S. Epatha Merkerson) The North Meadow: #106 (previously read by Jimmy Fallon) North Woods: #107 Huddlestone Arch: #108 The Ravine and Loch: #109 The Pool: #110 (previously read by Susan Lucci) Duke Ellington Circle: #111 Frederick Douglass: #112 Explore the South End: #113 The Pond: #114 (previously read by Sarah Jessica Parker) Heckscher Playground and Ballfields: #115 (previously read by Scott Clark) Children's District and the Dairy: #116 (previously read by Kelly Ripa) The Mall: #117 (previously read by Jerry Seinfeld) Concert Ground: #118 (previously read by Paul Shaffer) Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: #119 (previously read by George C. Wolfe) Bow Bridge: #120 (previously read by Julia Louis-Dreyfus) Cherry Hill: #121 Conservatory Water: #122 (previously read by Glenn Close) Alice in Wonderland: #123 (previously read by Whoopi Goldberg) Balto: #124 (previously read by John Stossel) Sheep Meadow: #125 (previously read by Matthew Broderick) Strawberry Fields: #126 (previously read by Yoko Ono) The Lake: #127 (previously read by Penn Jillette) The Ramble: #128 (previously read by Isabella Rossellini) Hallett Nature Sanctuary: #129 Dene: #130 Adventure Playground: #131 Merchants' Gate: #132 Grand Army Plaza: #133 (previously read by Regis Philbin) Explore the Mid-Park: #134 Great Lawn: #135 (previously read by Alec Baldwin) Seneca Village Site: #136 Delacorte Theater: #137 (previously read by Anne Hathaway) Shakespeare Garden: #138 (previously read by Marcia Gay Harden) Obelisk (Cleopatra's Needle): #139 Arthur Ross Pinetum: #140 (previously read by Martha Stewart) Reservoir: #141 (previously read by Kevin Bacon) Bridge No. 28: #142 Welcome to the Belvedere: #143 (previously read by Lee Goldberg)

Mickey-Jo has just got back from an epic 2 week visit to New York City and one of the shows he was most excited to see was HERCULES, the musical at Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey. This is the second time the classic Disney film has been produced on stage after an earlier run at the Delacorte Theater in New York. Check out the new review video for his explanation of why the show falls short of expectations... • About Mickey-Jo: As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MickeyJoTheatre⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 60,000 subscribers. Since establishing himself as a theatre critic he has been able to work internationally. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows both in New York, London, Hamburg, and Paris. He has also twice received accreditation from the world renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK and LondonTheatre.co.uk. He has been invited to speak to private tour groups, at the BEAM 2023 new musical theatre conference at Oxford Playhouse, and on a panel of critics at an event for young people considering a career in the arts courtesy of Go Live Theatre Projects. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre

This episode is also available as a blog post: https://thecitylife.org/2023/01/14/the-public-theater-announces-61st-anniversary-season-of-free-shakespeare-in-the-park-at-the-delacorte-theater/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/support

Closing out the 60th anniversary of Free Shakespeare in the Park this summer, The Delacorte Theater is staging Public Works' musical adaptation of Shakespeare's "As You Like It," adapted by Shaina Taub and Laurie Woolery, with original music and lyrics also written by Taub. Woolery, as well as the production's lead Rebecca Naomi Jones (Rosalind), join us to discuss the show. "As You Like It" runs until September 11. This segment is guest-hosted by David Furst.  

This episode is also available as a blog post: https://thecitylife.org/2022/04/27/the-public-theater-announces-annual-gala-gala-on-the-green-at-the-delacorte-theater-tuesday-may-24/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/citylifeorg/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/citylifeorg/support

Lorin Latarro is the choreographer for Broadway's MRS. DOUBTFIRE, ALMOST FAMOUS, The Public's THE VISITOR, and Broadway bound THE OUTSIDERS and LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE.  Lorin choreographed Broadway and London's WAITRESS and LA TRAVIATA at The Met Opera. Lorin is directing Candace Bushnell's one woman show, IS THERE STILL SEX IN THE CITY. Additional Broadway choreography includes Les Liaisons Dangereuse with Janet McTeer and Liev Schreiber, and Waiting for Godot with Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart. Lorin is the Associate Choreographer of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and American Idiot. Rigoletto at The Met Opera (assoc), Huey Lewis's Heart of Rock And Roll (Old Globe), Merrily We Roll Along (Roundabout), Chess (The Kennedy Center), Lin-Manuel Miranda's 21 Chump Street for “This American Life” (Brooklyn Academy of Music), The Public Theater's Twelfth Night and The Odyssey (Delacorte Theater), Queen of the Night which garnered a Drama Desk Award (Diamond Horseshoe), Assassins, Fanny, and God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater (City Center Encores!), Superhero (Second Stage), Beaches (Drury Lane Theatre), and A Christmas Carol (McCarter Theatre Center). Lorin directed #DateMe at The Westside Theatre, A Taste Of Things To Come at Chicago On Broadway and The York. Lorin performed in fourteen Broadway shows including Twyla Tharp's Movin' Out, Fosse, Swing!, Kiss Me Kate, A Chorus Line, and Man Of La Mancha. Lorin danced for Robert Wilson, Martha Graham, and Momix. Lorin has also worked with Pina Bausch, Jiri Kylian, Robert Battle, Frankie Manning, Ryan Francois, Pete Townsend, Green Day, Sara Bareilles, Melissa Etheridge, Cameron Crowe, and Charlize Theron. Ms. Latarro holds a BFA from The Juilliard School where she is also an adjunct professor. She also holds a degree from NYU Tisch Film And Television Directing Fundamentals. She is a Drama Desk, Lortel, and Chita Rivera nominee. Lorin has traveled to India and Africa multiple times to work with The Gates Foundation in family health and planning. Lorin is the founder of ArtAmmmo.org Artists Against Gun Violence as seen in the NY Times, PBS, Rachel Maddow, BBC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Broadway News: Ariana DeBose was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Anita in West Side Story. DeBose's nomination follows Rita Moreno's historic 1961 Oscar win, playing the same role in the earlier film adaptation. Lin-Manuel Miranda received a Best Song nomination for his "Dos Oruguitas" from Encanto, a nod that could achieve EGOT status. Miranda's screen adaptation of Jonathan Larson's biomusical tick, tick...BOOM! was recognized, with Broadway alum Andrew Garfield getting a nomination for Best Actor for his performance as Larson.  Tony nominee Amber Gray will play her final performance as Persephone in Hadestown February 19. Casting for the role of Persephone will be announced shortly. A musical adaptation of “Smash” is setting its sights on Broadway! The musical, based on the NBC television show, will feature a book by Bob Martin and Rick Elice and a score from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who wrote original songs for the television show. Steven Spielberg, Robert Greenblatt and Neil Meron, all of whom worked on the television show, will produce the new musical. Production dates have not yet been announced. The Public Theater recently announced the line-up for the 60th Anniversary Season of Free Shakespeare in the Park at The Delacorte Theater. This summer, Free Shakespeare in the Park will begin with the drama Richard III, directed by Tony nominee Robert O'Hara and featuring Danai Gurira in the title role. The season will continue with the return of the free Public Works musical adaptation of As You Like It after it was originally scheduled for the 2020 season, but delayed due to the pandemic. Adapted by Public Theater Artist-in-Residence Shaina Taub and Director of Public Works Laurie Woolery, with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub. Casting: Color Purple movie musical casting including American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino has been cast as Celie. It's a reprise of a role she held on Broadway in 2009. Tony nominee Danielle Brooks will take on the role of Sofia. She also starred in a different revival of The Color Purple on Broadway. Fantasia and Brooks will join the previously reported Taraji P. Henson as Shug Avery, Corey Hawkins as Harpo, Oscar and Grammy winner H.E.R. as Squeak, Halle Bailey as Young Nettie, and stage and screen star Colman Domingo as Mister. Full casting has been announced for the Broadway revival of Neil Simon's Plaza Suite starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick. Tony winner John Benjamin Hickey directs the production, which will now begin previews February 25 at the Hudson Theatre for a limited engagement through June 26. Opening night is set for March 28. Joining Parker and Broderick in Suite 719 of the Plaza Hotel will be Danny Bolero as The Waiter, Molly Ranson as Jean McCormick/Mimsey Hubley, and Eric Wiegand as The Bellhop/Borden Eisler. Tony winner Michael McGrath and Tony nominee Erin Dilly will standby for Broderick and Parker, respectively, with Laurie Veldheer and Cesar J. Rosado serving as understudies. The upcoming Broadway revival of Funny Girl has unveiled the complete company as they begin their official first day of rehearsals. The production, starring Beanie Feldstein as Fanny Brice and Tony and Olivier nominee Rameen Karimloo as Nick Arnstein, begins March 26 at the August Wilson Theatre ahead of an April 24 opening night. Additional previously announced cast members include Jared Grimes as Eddie Ryan, and Emmy winner Jane Lynch as Mrs. Rosie Brice. They will be joined by Peter Francis James as Florenz Ziegfeld, Ephie Aardema as Emma/Mrs. Nadler, Debra Cardona as Mrs. Meeker, Toni DiBuono as Mrs. Strakosh, Martin Moran as Tom Keeney, and Julie Benko as the standby for Fanny Brice.  Follow @BwayPodNetwork on Twitter. Find co-hosts on Twitter at @AyannaPrescod, @CLewisReviews, and @TheMartinAcuna. Subscribe To BPN's newsletter HERE. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is also available as a blog post: https://thecitylife.org/2022/02/02/the-public-theater-announces-60th-anniversary-season-of-free-shakespeare-in-the-park-at-the-delacorte-theater/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/citylifeorg/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/citylifeorg/support

TODD ALMOND is known for his singular songwriting in addition to his work as an accomplished performer. He recently toured the U.S. in his original musical Kansas City Choir Boy starring alongside rock icon Courtney Love, and starred in three of his original musicals at the famed Delacorte Theater in Central Park (The Tempest, The Winter's Tale, and The Odyssey). His musical Girlfriend – based on the Matthew Sweet album of the same title – is a perennial favorite for theater companies around the country, and he is currently collaborating with producer David Foster on a new, original musical. He has previously collaborated with Sarah Ruhl (Melancholy Play: A Chamber Musical), Jenny Schwartz (Iowa), Laura Benanti (In Constant Search for the Right Kind of Attention), Sherie Rene Scott and Norbert Leo Butz (“Twohander”), Kelli O'Hara (“Live at Carnegie Hall”), and Andrew Rannells (“Live from Lincoln Center”). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Playwright Jocelyn Bioh and actors Susan Kelechi Watson and Pascale Armand join us to discuss the Public Theater's "Merry Wives," the season's free Shakespeare in the Park production, which runs at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park through September 18.

This week's storytellers are Broadway Actor/Singer Kimberly JaJuan, Magician, Ballonist, and Sideshow Performer Zia Quill Kay, Magician and Podcast Host Kayla Drescher, and Celtic Magician Daniel Greenwolf. All the stories in this episode have to do with nightmares unfolding at and during performances. Kimberly talks about missing an entrance cue, Zia tells about a gig that was raided by SWAT, Kayla talks about exiting an illusion too early, and Daniel talks about a fireworks stunt gone wrong.   Kimberly JaJuan The first story is told by Kimberly JaJuan, a singer and actor both on and off Broadway. She's a graduate of The Eastman School and of Julliard School earning both Bachelor's and Masters Degrees. Some of her more notable (and favorite) roles have been Singing with Gloria Estefan and Harry Connick, Jr. at the Papal visit at Madison Square Garden, portraying the role of Sarah in RAGTIME on Broadway, and creating the role of Lisette alongside classmate Audra McDonald in MARIE CHRISTINE. Most recently she could have been seen bringing HERCULES to life with the Public Works at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. She's a long time member and manager of Broadway Inspirational Voices, a diverse, professional choir of broadway artists, united to change lives through the power of music and service. She's also a broadway investor debuting as an Associate Producer on productions like American Son, Ain't Too Proud, and Hadestown to name a few. Here she is talking about the time she missed her entrance cue during a live performance.    Zia Quill Kay The second story is by Zia Quill Kay, a balloon artist, magician, clown, and sideshow performer. It't not like he had a choice though, with parents who are also in the performance industry as well. Here he is telling about his very first close up magic gig that got raided by SWAT.    Kayla Drescher The third story is my magician and podcast host Kayle Drescher, that creates magic that you care about and can really connect with on a human level. Her magic has taken her all over the world for clients like Microsoft, IBM, and Wells Fargo, among others. She also tours the world with the traveling show, Champions of Magic alongside other fellow magi and is planning to hit the road again in October! You may have seen her on TV shows like Access Hollywood, NBC's Today Show, where she was crowned “The Next Great Magician” by David Copperfield, or on Penn & Teller's Fool Us where Teller literally fell in love with her magic. She's also the host of the SHEzam Podcast, a show that hopes to make itself obsolete, as it brings change in the magic community and other neighboring industries. The goal being to inspire these industries to be more inclusive to all...and it's working! Here she talking about the time she left the box early in a grand illusion performance during Champions of Magic. Here's where you can find out more about Kayla:  Kayla's Website: http://magicinheels.com/  Champions of Magic Website: http://championsofmagic.co.uk/  SHEzam Podcast: http://shezampod.com/    Daniel Greenwolf The final story is told by Daniel Greenwolf, an Award-Winning Magician, Writer, Creator, & Slightly Mad Irishman. His show takes Highly Visual Magic, Theatrical Storytelling, Exhilarating Irish Music, Interactive Comedy, & Thrilling Danger and wraps it in a Celtic Theme that has been described as "A Witty, Modern-Day Celtic Viking. Kinda like James Joyce with a Broad Sword." For Five Years In A Row he was voted as one of the Top Five Solo Variety Acts in theUS by the Renaissance Festival Podcast & Renaissance Magazine. He's opened for World-Renowned Musician WENDY RULE, the CAST OF BEATLEMANIA, as well as International Celtic Rock Group ENTER THE HAGGIS You may have also seen him featured in the Film Documentary MAGIC CAMP  and on AMC Network's DISPATCHES FROM ELSEWHERE starring Jason Segel and Sally Field. Here's Daniel telling about how him and a friend became human fireworks. Don't try this one at home. They're professionals? Here's where you can find out more about Daniel: Daniel's Website: https://www.danielgreenwolf.com/  Celtic Magic Show: https://www.celticmagicshow.com/    Share Your Own Stories!  Do you have comments, suggestions, or want to share your own stories? Drop me a line! performerstories@gmail.com   Exclusive Content!  Would you like exclusive content nobody else will hear? Consider supporting the shown on Patreon. You'll get the full interviews with each performer as I record them that includes all their stories all in one place with all the chat in between!   Facebook Group Come hang out in our Facebook Group! Click here to join and jump in the conversation!

This week's storytellers are broadway actor and singer Kimberly JaJuan, broadway actor E Clayton Cornelious, magician Ran'D Shine, and broadway actor Stanley Wayne Mathis. This week, in observance of Juneteenth coming up this Saturday, I'm featuring stories all from Black entertainers. If you're unaware of what Juneteenth is, having only glanced past it as a seemingly obscure holiday on your calender, Juneteenth, observed on June 19th is a day in which we celebrate the day that the slaves in Texas found out that the Emancipation Proclimation was happening. In short, it declared that "all persons held as slaves are, and henceforward shall be free." Although that happened in 1863, 158 years ago, Black people today unfortunately are still facing challenges of equality. It may or may not come as a surprise that these challenges also crop up for those in the entertainment industry as well. It's my goal this episode to shine light on some of these challenges to bring awareness and inspire change because this is something that needs to be addressed, not just by those experiencing it, but by all people.   Kimberly JaJuan The first story is told by Kimberly JaJuan, a singer and actor both on and off Broadway. She's a graduate of The Eastman School and of Julliard School earning both Bachelor's and Masters Degrees. Some of her more notable (and favorite) roles have been Singing with Gloria Estefan and Harry Connick, Jr. at the Papal visit at Madison Square Garden, portraying the role of Sarah in RAGTIME on Broadway, and creating the role of Lisette alongside classmate Audra McDonald in MARIE CHRISTINE. Most recently she could have been seen bringing HERCULES to life with the Public Works at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. She's a long time member and manager of Broadway Inspirational Voices, a diverse, professional choir of broadway artists, united to change lives through the power of music and service. She's also a broadway investor debuting as an Associate Producer on productions like American Son, Ain't Too Proud, and Hadestown to name a few. Here she is talking about a time she had to be judicious with her words in regards to cultural differences having been asked for her thoughts on a scene being rehearsed.   E Clayton Cornelious The second story is by E Clayton Cornelious, a 22 year broadway veteran with credits including The Caterpillar in Wonderland, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Scottsboro Boys, and A Chorus Line. Add to this, a number of National Tour credits that include Kinky Boots, Sister Act, Jersey Boys, and Dirty Dancing. In addition to his countless theater credits, he's a broadway investor and producer as well as a member of the Broadway Inspirational Voices. He's also a recent recipient of the, "Legacy Robe" for his role in the Broadway hit, Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations. Here's E Clayton telling about a time he didn't land a role because he didn't fit the picture of what they were looking for. Here's where you can find out more about E Clayton:  E Clayton's Website:  https://www.eclaycorn.com    Ran'D Shine The third story is my magician Ran'D Shine, the face of the new millennium magician who's magic has taken him around the world from Cape Town South Africa performing his one-man show, "Mysterious Ways," to Presidential Inauguration banquets at the White House. He is one of the most sought after magicians on the college circuit, and has been featured at Hollywood's 'Magic Castle' as well as 'Monday Night Magic', New York's longest running Off-Broadway magic show. Here's Ran'D talking about a time he was mistaken for waitstaff at a networking event and then questioned as if he didn't belong there. Here's where you can find out more about Ran'D:  Ran'D's Website: https://www.randyshine.com     Stanley Wayne Mathis The final story is told by Stanley Wayne Mathis, a broadway veteran who made his debut in 1990 in the revival of Oh, Kay!. His other credits include The Book of Mormon and the original casts of Jelly's Last Jam, The Lion King and Nice Work If You Can Get It, as well as revivals of Wonderful Town, Kiss Me, Kate and You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown. Here's Stanley telling a few stories about things he's had to deal with as a Black man in the entertainmnet industry.     Share Your Own Stories!  Do you have comments, suggestions, or want to share your own stories? Drop me a line! performerstories@gmail.com   Exclusive Content!  Would you like exclusive content nobody else will hear? Consider supporting the shown on Patreon. You'll get the full interviews with each performer as I record them that includes all their stories all in one place with all the chat in between!   Facebook Group Come hang out in our Facebook Group! Click here to join and jump in the conversation!

The one and only Gates McFadden stops by to chat about her new podcast, her passion for teaching, taking risks, working with the Jim Henson Company, and a life-changing performance at the Delacorte Theater. Plus, a little bit of Star Trek. HOST Sue GUEST Gates McFadden - @gates_mcfadden EDITOR Sue Send us your feedback! Email: crew@womenatwarp.com Twitter/Instagram: @womenatwarp Facebook: http://facebook.com/womenatwarp Support the Show on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/womenatwarp Visit our TeePublic Store: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/womenatwarp For more Roddenberry Podcasts, visit http://podcasts.roddenberry.com And don't forget to subscribe to the Roddenberry Podcasts Master Feed, wherever you get your podcasts.

The one and only Gates McFadden stops by to chat about her new podcast, her passion for teaching, taking risks, working with the Jim Henson Company, and a life-changing performance at the Delacorte Theater. Plus, a little bit of Star Trek. HOST Sue GUEST Gates McFadden - @gates_mcfadden EDITOR Sue Send us your feedback! Email: crew@womenatwarp.com Twitter/Instagram: @womenatwarp Facebook: http://facebook.com/womenatwarp Support the Show on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/womenatwarp Visit our TeePublic Store: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/womenatwarp For more Roddenberry Podcasts, visit http://podcasts.roddenberry.com And don’t forget to subscribe to the Roddenberry Podcasts Master Feed, wherever you get your podcasts.

This week's storytellers are one-woman stunt show Martika, drag performer Edie, Broadway actor & singer Kimberly JaJuan, and magician Rudy Coby. In this episode all the stories are tied together with a theme of "Origin Stories."   Martika: How She Went From Working in Veterinary Science to Performing Full Time The first story is told by Martika, an international variety entertainer based in Kansas City, MO. and is the C.E.O. of KC Entertainment Services, LLC. Having left a career as a veterinary technician more than ten years ago, she's toured the world solo, performing fire art stunts, escapes, and other sideshow danger acts. In fact, she's Kansas City's only woman sword swallower, and the only one woman show of this kind in the Midwest! She also teaches a variety of workshops in these disciplines establishing her even further as an expert. In her story, Martika tells about how she left a career in veterinary sciences to pursue a career in the entertainment world. Here's where you can find out more about Martika:  Martika's Website:  https://themartikashow.com/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/themartikashow/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/martikamd   Edie: How the Character of Edie Was Created The second story is told by Edie, is a stage performer, dancer, actor, and drag performer most notably known for portraying the Emcee of Cirq du Soliel's Zumanity. In this story, we hear about how the character of Edie was created almost as if by accident! Here's where you can find out more info about Edie: Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/tobiandpearl Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/edie_entertainer/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/edie.entertainer/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/edieentertainer   Kimberly JaJuan: Creating the Character Lisette in Marie Christine The third story is told by Kimberly JaJuan, a singer and actor both on and off Broadway. She's a graduate of The Eastman School and of Julliard School earning both Bachelor's and Masters Degrees. Some of her more notable (and favorite) roles have been Singing with Gloria Estefan and Harry Connick, Jr. at the Papal visit at Madison Square Garden, portraying the role of Sarah in Ragtime on Broadway, and creating the role of Lisette alongside classmate Audra McDonald in Marie Christine. Most recently she could have been seen bringing Hercules to life with the Public Works at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. She's a long time member and manager of Broadway Inspirational Voices, a diverse, professional choir of broadway artists, united to change lives through the power of music and service. She's also a broadway investor debuting as an Associate Producer on productions like American Son, Ain’t Too Proud, and Hadestown to name a few. In her story, Kimberly talks about creating the character Lisette in the show Marie Christine.   Rudy Coby: Fond & Funny Memories Performing in the Original Cast of The Lion King on Broadway The final story comes from Rudy Coby, AKA Lab Man. You may have seen his ultra unique act on TV with him walking around on stage with four legs, or if you've been to a Marilyn Manson show, you've seen his work there as well, as Rudy designed all the special effects. In his story, Rudy shares the origin story of how Labman came about! Here's where you can find out more info about Rudy Coby: Watch his TV Specials:  http://www.rudycoby.com/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/rudycoby Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rudycoby   Share Your Own Stories!  Do you have comments, suggestions, or want to share your own stories? Drop me a line! performerstories@gmail.com   Exclusive Content!  Would you like exclusive content nobody else will hear? Consider supporting the shown on Patreon. You'll get the full interviews with each performer as I record them that includes all their stories all in one place with all the chat in between!   Facebook Group Come hang out in our Facebook Group! Click here to join and jump in the conversation!

After a smash-hit run at Central Park‘s Delacorte Theater in summer of 2008, HAIR returned to Broadway for the first time in over 30 years in March 2009. The story of a group of young Americans searching for love and peace during the Vietnam era, HAIR is a timeless portrait of a movement that changed the world. This episode originally streamed March 25th, 2020: https://youtu.be/JbezC-gk3aI Produced by Alan Seales and Elizabeth Wheless. A proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is all about NYTF's annual concert tradition: Soul to Soul. The electrifying and emotionally captivating theatrical concert that explores the parallels of African American and Jewish history takes to our virtual stage this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We interview NYTF Artistic Director Zalmen Mlotek and singer Elmore James. We discuss how the two artists first met, their relationship to Yiddish and African Music, and learn about how the first Soul to Soul concert came to fruition. Then, we talk to Soul to Soul director/producer Tatiana Wechsler about the process of making Soul to Soul virtually, growing up in an African and Jewish household, her performing influences, and her time performing with NYTF in The Golden Bride. About our GuestsZalmen Mlotek is an internationally recognized authority on Yiddish folk and theater music as well as a leading figure in the Jewish theatre and concert worlds. For the past 20 years, he has been the Artistic Director and conductor at National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. He brought Yiddish-Klezmer music to Broadway and Off-Broadway stages with the Tony-nominated Those Were the Days and Drama Desk Nominated Amerike – The Golden Land. He serves as Music Director for most NYTF productions, including the Drama Desk Nominated musical, THE GOLDEN BRIDE. His music can be heard in over two-dozen recordings and films, has taught and performed all over the world and worked with countless singers including Jan Peerce, Theodore Bikel and Mandy Patinkin. He is currently the musical director and conductor of critically acclaimed, award-winning Fidler Afn Dakh (Fiddler on the Roof – In Yiddish), directed by Joel Grey. He received his musical training at the Juilliard School of Music and studied under Leonard Bernstein.Elmore James Elmore James has spent a lifetime in the theater as an actor, Broadway musical performer, international opera singer, and director. He has performed at all the major musical venues in New York City, including the Metropolitan Opera House and Carnegie Hall, as well as in the opera houses of Europe.​Tatiana Wechsler – NYTF: The Golden Bride, The Sorceress. Off-Broadway: X: Or, Betty Shabazz…, Julius Caesar (The Acting Company). NYC: Othello. First woman to play Curly in Oklahoma! (Oregon Shakespeare Festival). Regional: Love in Hate Nation (Two River Theatre), Benny & Joon (Paper Mill Playhouse), The Legend of Georgia McBride (Marin Theatre Company), Love’s Labor’s Lost (OSF). Film: Netuser. Appearances at The O’Neill Theater Center, Joe’s Pub, Feinstein’s/54 Below, Yankee Stadium, Birdland, The Beacon Theatre, Madison Square Garden, Town Hall, The Minskoff Theatre, Lincoln Center, The Delacorte Theater, and Radio City Music Hall. Singer-songwriter. NYU New Studio graduate.

With all eyes on US politics, we visit one of their most enduring democratic institutions: New York's Public Theater. Besides developing hit shows like Hair, A Chorus Line and Hamilton, The Public makes work by, for and about the citizens of New York.Also, the operatic adaptation of Summer of the Seventeenth Doll is revived by State Opera South Australia and we check in with two Victorian dance schools who have held on through the lockdown but fear that more challenges lie ahead.

With all eyes on US politics, we visit one of their most enduring democratic institutions: New York's Public Theater. Besides developing hit shows like Hair, A Chorus Line and Hamilton, The Public makes work by, for and about the citizens of New York. Also, the operatic adaptation of Summer of the Seventeenth Doll is revived by State Opera South Australia and we check in with two Victorian dance schools who have held on through the lockdown but fear that more challenges lie ahead.

With all eyes on US politics, we visit one of their most enduring democratic institutions: New York's Public Theater. Besides developing hit shows like Hair, A Chorus Line and Hamilton, The Public makes work by, for and about the citizens of New York. Also, the operatic adaptation of Summer of the Seventeenth Doll is revived by State Opera South Australia and we check in with two Victorian dance schools who have held on through the lockdown but fear that more challenges lie ahead.

Today I am honored to be joined by Tony-award nominated actor Stephen Mo Hanan. He has appeared in Cats, Oliver, and Peter Pan on Broadway, and many times at the Delacorte Theater and Musicals in Mufti. He is also the co-author and star of Jolson & Co.This interview is a bit long, but it's worth it to hear the expertise of this legendary theater veteran.  

The Sol Project’s Associate Artistic Director, David Mendizábal, and Producing Assistant, Joey Reyes, interview Maria Goyanes, Artistic Director of Woolly Mammoth Theatre in Washington D.C., and Stephanie Ybarra, Artistic Director of Baltimore Center Stage in Baltimore Maryland. They discuss leadership turnover, institutional values, and the changing landscape of the American Theater.  Maria Goyanes joined Woolly Mammoth Theater as the new Artistic Director in September 2018. Previously, she served as the Director of Producing and Artistic Planning at The Public Theater in New York City where she oversaw the day-to-day execution of the plays and musicals at the theatre’s five performance spaces, including the Delacorte Theater for the company’s Shakespeare in the Park programming. She also lead the season planning process as well as the theatre’s artistic programs, including Public Works, the Under the Radar Festival, and the offerings at Joe’s Pub. She is a faculty member at the Juilliard School, where she co-teaches a course on producing. She also creates the curriculum for Playwrights Downtown, the Playwrights Horizons Theater School at New York University. She serves as a board member of the National Alliance for Musical Theatre. She served as executive producer of the 13P playwrights collective and as the co-chair of the Soho Rep Writer/Director Lab. She was also the associate producer of Trinity Repertory Company. The League of Professional Theatre Women honored her with the Josephine Abady Award. She earned a B.A. at Brown University, where she was awarded the Susan Steinfeld Award. Stephanie Ybarra joined Baltimore Center Stage as the new Artistic Director full-time in December 2018. Previously, she served as the Director of Special Artistic Projects at The Public Theater, where she lead the Mobile Unit and Public Forum programs. She made her artistic producing debut with the original production of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s The Brothers Size, for which she received the inaugural Producer’s Chair Award from the Foundry Theater. She went on to serve as the first Producing Director for Playwrights Realm and Producing Artistic Director for the Cherry Lane Theater’s Mentor Project, collaborating with artists such as Jen Silverman, Snehal Desai, Greg Moss and Awoye Timpo. In 2015, she was the recipient of TCG’s Continuing Education Grant, which took her to Peru to explore socio-political theater, and in 2016 she received the Congressional Award for Achievement in Excellence from Zara Aina, an international nonprofit dedicated to community engaged artmaking. Stephanie holds an MFA in Theater Management from Yale School of Drama. David (daveed) Mendizábal is an NYC based director, designer, one of the Producing Artistic Leaders of The Movement Theatre Company, and Associate Artistic Director of The Sol Project. Learn more about David and his work at www.davidmendizabal.com.  Joey Reyes serves as the Producing Assistant of The Sol Project and Executive Assistant at Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, CT. Originally from Southern California, they have worked as a producer, administrator, and facilitator on the east coast since late 2017. IG & Twitter: @joeykangarooooo. Follow us on Facebook at The Sol Project and Instagram and Twitter at @solprojectnyc!

In this episode, Adam and Patrick share listener feedback and read listener Emma's review of Public Theater's Public Works production of 'Hercules' at the Delacorte Theater in New York's Central Park. The guys cover the latest Disney news and, for their feature segment, answer listener emails and voice memos in Questions & Peter Panswers. As always, the guys close out the show with some Quick D. Thanks for listening! To ensure that you don't miss an episode, please subscribe in Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Pandora, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you prefer to listen and, while you're there, consider leaving a review. Reviews are the best way for you to help us spread the word about our podcast. To become a patron of the podcast, please visit our website at gaysdothed.com/donate. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @gdtdpodcast and on our website at gaysdothed.com. Join the conversation by submitting your questions or show ideas to info@gaysdothed.com.  

The hot, nasty, sweaty production that was 2012's Into the Woods in Central Park made way for this special Josh Swallows Broadway reunion episode as Josh hosts his former cast mates Jessie Mueller, Chip Zien, Sarah Stiles, and Gideon Glick. Into the Woods, Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's Tony Award-winning musical that intertwines classic fairytales, gets a playful new dramatic context from British directors Timothy Sheader and Liam Steel in Central Park. The Shakespeare in the Park production officially opened Aug 9, 2012 at the Delacorte Theater. The cast was led by original 1987 Broadway Into the Woods cast member Chip Zien as the Mysterious Man, with Tony Award winner Donna Murphy (Passion, Wonderful Town) as the Witch, Tony Award winner Denis O'Hare (Take Me Out, Assassins) as the Baker, Academy Award nominee Amy Adams ("Enchanted," "The Fighter") as the Baker's Wife, Tony nominee Jessie Mueller (On a Clear Day...) as Cinderella and Tony Award winner Glenn Close (Sunset Boulevard, Death and the Maiden, "Damages," "Fatal Attraction") as the voice of the Giant. Completing the company were Jack Broderick (Narrator), Gideon Glick (Jack), Cooper Grodin (Rapunzel's Prince), Ivan Hernandez (Cinderella's Prince/Wolf), Tina Johnson (Granny), Josh Lamon (Steward), Laura Shoop (Cinderella's Mother), Tess Soltau (Rapunzel), Sarah Stiles (Vanities) as Little Red Ridinghood, Kristine Zbornik (A Catered Affair) as Jack's Mother, Ellen Harvey (How to Succeed...) as Cinderella’s Stepmother, and Bethany Moore (Spider-Man) and Jennifer Rias (Rock of Ages) as the Stepsisters. twitter: @JoshLamon Instagram: @Josh.Lamon Produced by Alan Seales and Dori Berinstein. A proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.

In this episode of The Plot, I'm joined by playwright and journalist Winter Miller. Miller is a widely produced playwright and has also written extensively for The New York Times. In the mid-2000's she traveled with Nicholas Kristof to the Sudan border, for research on what eventually became her best-known play In Darfur. In Darfur premiered at The Public Theater, followed by a standing room only performance at their 1800-seat Delacorte Theater in Central Park, a first for a play by a woman. She was a founding member of the Obie Award-winning playwriting collective 13P and has taught widely at universities, venues like New York Theatre Workshop and the Sundance Institute, as well as refugee camps in Northern Uganda and Palestine. In 2016, her play Spare Rib was read at an event, presented by Gloria Steinem, Samantha Bee, and others, honoring Christian OBGYN and abortion provider Dr. Willie Porter, and raised $20,000 in one night for southern abortion clinics.Miller's newest play No One is Forgotten is about two women imprisoned under unknown circumstances. It was inspired by the many recent stories of journalists captured abroad and runs Off-Broadway at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater from July 8 to July 27. In this talk, she discusses the current geopolitical climate, what we can do to keep journalists safe, and how she ran a particularly successful Kickstarter campaign to make the play possible. (One tip: it helps to have a very cooperative cat!)If you would you like to help promote a safer world for journalists, consider supporting Amnesty International, Reporters Without Borders, or The Committee to Protect Journalists. You can also become a paying subscriber to your favorite news outlets.  

Justin Levine is a NYC-based composer, writer, performer, music director, and arranger. His wide range of credits include serving as the music director for and performing in the Broadway musical Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson and Love's Labour's Lost at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. Listen in as Justin discusses growing up in a musical family on Long Island, his freshman year piano man gig, and some of the lessons he's learned in working closely with David Byrne. www.justinlevineonline.com

The Public Theater’s second free Shakespeare in the Park presentation this summer is the late romance “Cymbeline,” a twisty tale of duplicity and betrayal directed by Daniel Sullivan. The cast features Shakespeare in the Park regulars Lily Rabe and Hamish Linklater as young newlyweds separated by the titular king and his conniving queen. The convoluted "Cymbeline" plot involves, among other things, a headless corpse, a beautiful heroine who fools everyone into thinking she’s a boy simply by putting on a boy’s clothes and Jupiter flying in and out of the action on an eagle’s back. The play has been in and out of fashion over the years, with many detractors over the last century or so. New York Times theater critic Charles Isherwood has seen several productions, so he has a sense of perspective to offer as he evaluates Shakespeare in the Park’s "Cymbeline" at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

Steve Cooper talks with actor Wade Williams. Wade is best known for his starring role as Brian Bellick on Fox's Prison Break. He began his acting career at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park and then continued with performances on and off Broadway and toured nationally in productions such as Ragtime, Guys and Dolls and Kiss of the Spiderwoman and many others. His films credits include Jarhead, Flicka, Ali, Collateral, Erin Brokovich, The Dark Knight Rises, Draft Day and Gangster Squad. On TV he had a recurring role on The Bernie Mac Show and has guest starred on Monk, 24, NYPD Blue, Charmed, Over There, Six Feet Under, CSI, The Bridge, Revenge, Crisis, NCIS, Burn Notice, The Mentalist, Bones and many others. He also does voice-overs for many projects and is a musician.

The second offering from The Public Theater’s free Shakespeare in the Park this summer is a musical adaptation of Love’s Labour’s Lost, the Bard's early comedy about four young men who swear off romance to devote themselves to study, only to promptly fall in love. The play has been adapted and directed by Alex Timbers, the director of Peter and the Starcatcher, among many other shows, and the songs are by Michael Friedman, the house composer of the downtown theater troupe the Civilians. Shakespeare scholars and purists will find little of the original text in this version which is set at a college reunion. New York Times theater critic Charles Isherwood tells us about other changes to the plot and characters and whether we'll be pleasantly surprised or scandalized by this new production at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park.

You know summertime in New York has arrived when the Delacorte Theater unwraps itself for Shakespeare in the Park. The Public Theater presents two free Shakespeare works this season: The Comedy of Errors and later in the season, Love’s Labors Lost. The Comedy of Errors has been updated to the 1940s, with some musical touches, too (though not as extensive as those expected for Labors, which is billed as "a new musical"). Starring in the Comedy are actors Hamish Linklater and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, which Shakespeare fans will recognize from previous outings at the Delacorte (fans of the ABC sitcom "Modern Family" will also know Ferguson). And Shakespeare in the Park regulars may also recognize the handiwork of director Daniel Sullivan, who has become a reliable mainstay of the program in recent years with his productions of Twelfth Night, The Merchant of Venice and last summer’s As You Like It. The play turns on the confusion that results when Antipholus and his servant Dromio, visitors from Syracuse, arrive in Ephesus, where unbeknownst to them their identical twins also live. In this production each set of twins is played by a single actor. The production runs through June 30. New York Times theater critic Charles Isherwood sizes up the comedy and the errors.

Production Manager Ruth Sternberg is the primary facilitator in executing a stage production within its given financial parameters. She discusses with the director and designers what they want to achieve and provides staffing and resources for each play. After 10 years at Trinity Rep with Oskar Eustis, they both moved to the Public Theater where they work on 6 stages, "Shakespeare in the Park" at the Delacorte Theater, and off-site productions such as "Passing Strange", "Hair", "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson", and "The Merchant of Venice" on Broadway. Sternberg loves that her job always brings a new challenge, such as the one seen here for "Kicking a Dead Horse".

Production Manager Ruth Sternberg is the primary facilitator in executing a stage production within its given financial parameters. She discusses with the director and designers what they want to achieve and provides staffing and resources for each play. After 10 years at Trinity Rep with Oskar Eustis, they both moved to the Public Theater where they work on 6 stages, "Shakespeare in the Park" at the Delacorte Theater, and off-site productions such as "Passing Strange", "Hair", "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson", and "The Merchant of Venice" on Broadway. Sternberg loves that her job always brings a new challenge, such as the one seen here for "Kicking a Dead Horse".

John Schultz