Podcast appearances and mentions of Jerry Zaks

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway favorite Michael Park, who is currently starring in REDWOOD on Broadway through May 18. Tune in to hear some of the stories of his legendary career, including how he almost quit the business before REDWOOD, the joys of performing with Idina Menzel, memorable stage door experiences at DEAR EVAN HANSEN, his extended audition process for HELLO, AGAIN, what he learned from Jerry Zaks on SMOKEY JOE'S CAFE, balancing his role on AS THE WORLD TURNS with Broadway, teaching young actors during the pandemic, how he almost inspired a new Neil Simon play during LITTLE ME, working with stars on HOW TO SUCCEED and CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF, turning down JAGGED LITTLE PILL and HEAD OVER HEELS, how Rob Ashford was pivotal in his career, why he writes backstories for every role he plays, directing TUCK EVERLASTING at Shenandoah University, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth conversation with a theater veteran.

Tony Award-winning Director Jerry Zaks gives us a rarified peek behind the curtain revealing how Guys and Dolls went from a struggling show in previews to a triumphant success by opening night. Zaks shares stories with host Michael Riedel, including the fact that the original actress hired to play Sarah Brown had to be replaced just as the show was getting underway. This episode features never-before-heard excerpts from the interviews Michael Riedel recorded while writing his 2020 best-selling book Singular Sensation: The Triumph of Broadway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Carol Ziske is an accomplished theatre director, choreographer, and actor with over five decades of professional experience in the industry. They have numerous acting credits on Broadway, Off-Broadway, regional theatre and national tours. She has starred alongside the likes of John Lithgow, Jerry Zaks, Bob Gunton, Beth Fowler, Robert Morse, Rudy Valee, Rita Rudner, Chip Zien, Ron Holgate, and F. Murray Abraham. Additionally, I have worked with notable directors including Jerome Robbins, Joseph Hardy, Patricia Birch, and John Bowab. Carol is a recipient of the Colgate Palmolive Achievement Award and the New Jersey Drama Critics Award. They are directing a production of One Touch of Ava this summer at Ivoryton Playhouse as well as a series of workshops for the musical, Hurricane Jimmy later in 2023. William Linster is a Connecticut native and New York-based pianist, composer, music director, and arranger. Having been playing since the age of two and performing professionally since the age of seven, William has an extensive background in classical training, as well as in jazz and other contemporary styles. A graduate of the world-renowned New School For Jazz And Contemporary Music, William has studied and worked with some of the greatest musicians in the world, including Grammy® nominees Bobby Sanabria, Dave Douglas, Charles Tolliver, Cecil Bridgewater, and Andy Mckee, as well as Grammy® winners Bill Kirchner, Robert Sadin, and Hank Schocklee (Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee, Public Enemy). As an accompanist and session musician, he has worked with artists such as Katie Stevens (American Idol, The Bold Type), Coyle Girelli (Your Vegas, The Chevin), Ron McClure (Blood, Sweat & Tears), R&B hitmaker James "D-Train" Williams, and numerous other Broadway stars and opera singers. Upon first working with William, the late acclaimed librettist Roger O. Hirson (Tony Award®-nominee, Pippin) simply said, "He's a genius." He made his Carnegie Hall debut at age 16, and was featured on NBC Nightly News at 17 while at the Havana International Jazz Festival in Cuba. William is also a trained vocalist, in addition to having received training on violin, trumpet, clarinet, mallet percussion, concert percussion, drums and handbells. He recently served as the Music Director for the Off-Broadway production of Fringe Deaths (2019). William is currently in the process of developing four full-length musicals he wrote with late Hollywood screenwriter, Lawrence Alexander (Charlie's Angels, CHiPs, Barnaby Jones). He was recently named a 2022 Jonathan Larson Grant Finalist by American Theatre Wing. The musical centers around Quentin Roosevelt, the youngest son of Theodore Roosevelt, who embarks on a forbidden romance with Flora Payne Whitney, a wealthy heiress from a different social sphere. The Roosevelts, renowned for their political activism and their role in trust-busting (which significantly impacted the Whitney family's wealth), stand in stark contrast to the reserved Whitneys, who are determined to avoid scandal of any kind. The story follows Quentin as he navigates the pressures of familial expectations, personal ambition, and the looming shadow of war. Through a mix of historical events and artistic interpretation, the musical delves into themes of heroism, love, and the impact of war on individuals and their families. Quentin weaves together dramatic scenes, emotional soliloquies, and powerful musical numbers to create a moving portrait of a young man caught between personal desire and duty, love and loss, and the enduring question of how to make one's mark in the shadow of a powerful legacy.

The actor, singer, and podcaster, Patrick Oliver Jones has been in the performing arts, both onstage and onscreen, for more than 30 years. Originally from Birmingham Alabama, he brought his Southern charm to New York City in 2008 with dreams of Broadway.  And he's gotten close with roles in off-Broadway world premieres, touring nationally with The Addams Family and Evita, and the pre-Broadway cast of First Wives Club that never quite made it. Having collaborated with Tony-winning directors such as Jerry Zaks, Randy Skinner, and a favorite StoryBeat guest, Richard Maltby Jr., he's gotten to perform alongside Broadway talents like Joey Fatone, Alfonso Ribeiro, Faith Prince, and Andrea McArdle. And he has found regional theater acclaim with Henry and SALT Award nominations for standout performances in Fun Home and Crazy for You. On camera, there have been numerous national commercials, award-winning short films, and co-starring roles on TV shows like Blue Bloods, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and Imposters. In 2022 he received the Communicator Award of Distinction from the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts for his work in podcasting. He currently produces and hosts three performing arts podcasts: Why I'll Never Make It, which is in its eighth season, Closing Night, which focuses on Broadway history, and The Spotlight Series in which he talks with those making a difference in the arts and beyond. For the record, I've been a guest on Why I'll Never Make It discussing my career in show business and how I created Jekyll & Hyde, the Musical with Frank Wildhorn.  I've got to tell you, it was a lot of fun for me to do the show with Patrick, and I highly urge you to give it a listen.

Amazing Mazie. Practicing kindness. Leadership.  Bobby was a little late to the party when discovering TOMMY, but now we can see him star on Broadway as Cousin Kevin in the Tony Nominated revival of TOMMY. This is his third Broadway show, and not only does Bobby discuss his approach to Cousin Kevin, but also talks very openly about what it's like to lead a show where most of the cast are Chicago transplants making their Broadway debut.  Bobby is currently reprising his performance in TOMMY from the Goodman Theatre's 30th anniversary production. Broadway: Company (dir. Marianne Elliott); A Bronx Tale (dirs. Robert De Niro & Jerry Zaks). Select theatre: 50th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's Mass at the Kennedy Center; My Fair Lady (dir. Michael Arden); A Funny Thing… Forum (dir. Jessica Stone); Starting Here, Starting Now (dir. Richard Maltby, Jr.); world premiere of Ken Ludwig's A Comedy of Tenors; three seasons at The Muny. Film/TV: If Beale Street Could Talk; Intervenors; “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”; “Madam Secretary”; “The Code.” Solo album: Along the Way. Training: University of Michigan; RADA. @bobby_conte In 1969, The Who created a rock opera that changed the course of music history. Today, it's back on Broadway in a dazzling all-new production, Tony Award®️ nominated for Best Musical Revival, that feels more relevant than ever. “Everything about this exhilarating production shakes you awake and leaves you buzzed: Knockout singing, superbly inventive stagecraft and a star-making performance from 24-year-old Ali Louis Bourzgui as the Pinball Wizard that's the most exciting New York stage debut in years.” (NY Post) “Broadway has nothing else like this wizardry going on, not this season and nothing I know of for next season. Visually and sonically overwhelming, it's a prescient masterpiece of a rock opera.” Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Sara Gettelfinger, who is currently returning to Broadway after a 10-year hiatus to star as Barbara in Water for Elephants. Tune in today to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how her persistence got her into CCM, why Michele Pawk was an early hero of hers, rehearsing with Gwen Verdon, a special audition for Jack O'Brien, working with Jerry Zaks on The Addams Family, the shows she'd like to see done at Encores!, the importance of Rick Elice's work in her return to acting, the thrills and challenges of working with George C. Wolfe, how she created the character of Little Edie Beale, the process of being let go from Grey Gardens, and so much more. She also shares the moving and inspiring details of her hard-won journey back to Broadway. You won't want to miss this intimate conversation with one of Broadway's best.

Today, I am so happy to announce my interview with star of stage and screen Michael Urie. Tune in for a funny, fascinating conversation about his varied career, including the type of work he wanted to do coming out of college, being on stage when Patti LuPone took an audience member's cellphone, the genius of Jane Alexander and Mercedes Ruehl, how he won, lost, and won the role of Bud Frump, reading a gay Company for Stephen Sondheim, auditioning for Harvey Fierstein, coming back from Covid with Chicken and Biscuits, smart advice from Tony Kushner and Jerry Zaks, being out in Hollywood, how he almost did Avenue Q, and so much more. You won't want to miss this interview.

Jerry Zaks currently directs his 26th Broadway show, The Music Man. He has received four Tony Awards and been nominated eight times. He's also received four Drama Desks, two Outer Critics Circle Awards, and an Obie. His credits include Mrs. Doubtfire, Hello, Dolly!, A Bronx Tale: the musical, Steve Martin's Meteor Shower, Nantucket Sleigh Ride, Shows For Days, Sister Act, The Addams Family, Guys and Dolls, Six Degrees of Separation, Lend Me a Tenor, House of Blue Leaves, The Front Page, A Funny Thing...Forum, Smokey Joe's Café, Anything Goes, La Cage aux Folles, Little Shop of Horrors, The Man Who Came to Dinner, The Foreigner, A Bronx Tale, Laughter on the 23rd Floor, and the original production of Assassins. He began his career directing the extraordinary plays of Christopher Durang including Sister Mary Ignatius..., Beyond Therapy, Baby with the Bath Water, and The Marriage of Bette and Boo. He directed the award-winning film Marvin's Room, starring Meryl Streep and Diane Keaton; and Who Do You Love, which was featured in the Toronto Film Festival. Mr. Zaks is a founding member, and serves on the board, of the Ensemble Studio Theater. He received the SDC's George Abbott Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre. Philanthropic/Activist Causes: Ensemble Studio Theatre

Analizamos el musical “GUYS AND DOLLS” conocido en España por la adaptación al cine que se estrenó en cine como “Ellos y ellas” protagonizado por Marlon Brando, Frank Sinatra, Jean Simmons y Vivian Blaine. Un musical que se representa con bastante asiduidad tanto en el West End como en Broadway ya que es un clásico al que el público se rindió desde su estreno en Broadway en 1950. El libreto de Jo Swerling y Abe Burrows está basado en los relatos “El idilio de Miss Sarah Brown” y “Presión arterial” de Damon Runyon y las canciones son de Frank Loesser, compositor al que ya conocemos por su musical “Cómo triunfar sin dar golpe” (How to succeed in bussiness without really trying” que vimos en un podcast anterior. Para esta ocasión nos hemos servido principalmente de la versión del musical estrenada en Broadway en 1992 dirigida por Jerry Zaks que protagonizaron Nathan Lane (Nathan Detroit), Peter Gallagher (Sky Masterson), Faith Prince (Adelaide) y Josie de Guzman (Sarah Brown). 00h 00’00” Luck be a lady tonight 00h 02’51” Presentación 00h 04’26” Cabecera 00h 05’35” Inicio 00h 06’07” Overture – Runyon Land 00h 14’02” Fugue for tinhorns 00h 15’47” Follow the fold 00h 17’32” The oldest established 00h 21’47” I’ll know 00h 27’10” A bushel and a peck 00h 31’09” Adelaide’s lament 00h 35’08” Guys and dolls 00h 39’10” Havana 00h 43’56” Adelaide 00h 48’06” If I were a bell 00h 51’08” My time of day 00h 53’42” I’ve never been in love before 00h 56’04” Entr’acte – Take back your mink 01h 01’39” Adelaide’s lament (Reprise) 01h 03’31” More I cannot wish you 01h 06’08” Crapshooters dance 01h 10’32” Luck be a lady 01h 14’06” Sue me 01h 17’51” Sit down, you’re rockin’ the boat 01h 21’40” Marry the man today 01h 24’41” The happy ending 01h 26’47” Curiosidades y anécdotas 01h 29’14” Pet me, poppa 01h 34’10” A woman in love 01h 38’39” Sort vens amb mi aquesta nit

Patrick Fabian is an award-winning actor who you may recognise from his iconic role as Howard Hamlin in Better Call Saul.  He's guest starred on almost everything: Friends, NCIS, Will and Grace, Hot in Cleveland, Star Trek:Voyager, Lucifer, Code Black, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Grimm, Scorpion, The Newsroom, Longmire, Castle, Scandal", CSI/CSI:Miami/CSI:NY, The Mentalist, Desperate Housewives, Xena the Warrior Princess, Criminal Minds, Bones, Ugly Betty, Reba, Pushing Daises, According to Jim, Drop Dead Diva, Private Practice, Burn Notice, Princess. Recurring roles include "Big Love, Veronica Mars, Joan of Arcadia, Providence, 24, Time of your Life, General Hospital, Working Class, Dharma and Greg, Valentine and The Education of Max Bickford. Patrick is fondly remembered as 'Professor Lasky' from Saved By The Bell:The College Years. Patrick was also the male lead in "The Last Exorcism" which was a small, 1.3 million dollar horror film that went on to gross over $70 Million worldwide. Fans loved his portrayal of the flawed Rev Cotton Marcus and he was awarded Best Actor at the prestigious Stiges Catalonian International Film Festival in 2010. Other films include Jimmy, Must Love Dogs, Tales of Everyday Magic, Bad Ass, Atlas Shrugged Part 2, Pig, My Greatest Teacher, The Good Mother, Underdogs, Bad Asses and My Eleventh. On the Disney and ABC Family Channels, Patrick has been a go-to Bad Guy, playing the Evil 'Thantos' in Disney Channels' Twitches and Twitches, Too and the only man hunting reindeer in the Christmas movies Snow and Snow 2: Brain Freeze and Cloud 9. On stage, Patrick has worked with some of the best playwrights and directors around: having toured America with John Guare's Six Degrees of Separation directed by Jerry Zaks, Eric Bogosian's Humpty Dumpty directed by Jo Bonney at The McCarter Center in Princeton and Nicky Silver's The Food Chain directed by Robert Falls at the Westside Theatre in NYC. He also voices Harvey Dent in Batman: The Doom That Came to Gotham which is coming out soon. We chat about why he loves Cameo, the highs and lows of a 30+ year career, disappointments, no's and rejections, his gratitude mindset, expectations, Better Call Saul and enjoyment plus more! The video footage of this entire chat is now out as well (one day after release)! So check them out on YouTube under Michael Kahan Check Patrick out on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrpatrickfabian/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/PatrickFabian   Cameo: https://www.cameo.com/mrpatrickfabian Website: https://www.patrickfabian.com/ ------------------------------------------- Follow @Funny in Failure on Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/funnyinfailure/ https://www.facebook.com/funnyinfailure/ and @Michael_Kahan on Insta & Twitter to keep up to date with the latest info. https://www.instagram.com/michael_kahan/ https://twitter.com/Michael_Kahan  

[REBROADCAST FROM September 23, 2022] If you love theater, you've likely seen a set designed by Tony Award-winner Beowulf Boritt, from "Come From Away" to "Flying Over Sunset" to "Merry Wives" to "POTUS." Now he's drawn back the curtain on his process, and the importance of set design, in his new book, Transforming Space Over Time: Set Design and Visual Storytelling with Broadway's Legendary Directors. Boritt joins to reflect on his career, and his collaboration with directors like James Lapine, Kenny Leon, Hal Prince, Susan Stroman, Jerry Zaks, and Stephen Sondheim. You can currently see Boritt's work onstage in "The Piano Lesson" (through January 29), "Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man & The Pool" (through January 15), and "Ohio State Murders" (through late February).   Mecca: A Conversation with Stephen Sondheim Setting: Stephen Sondheim's Turtle Bay town house: the holiest of holies for several generations of theater artists. We're in a ground-floor living room, sprawling and cluttered, spreading from a small front entrance foyer through the main chamber to a back conservatory that opens into a community garden. The room's salient visual feature is Steve's collection of antique puzzles, displayed in frames and vitrines and arrayed on tables. Beowulf Boritt: I'm sure you hear this from a lot of people, but your shows, more than any others, are what convinced me to pursue theater. I grew up thinking musicals were frilly and silly, but when I started being exposed to your shows—first Sunday, then Into the Woods and Sweeney Todd—I thought, This is what I want to do. Stephen Sondheim: So you're blaming me? BB: Just placing blame where it's due, Steve! I asked various directors, “What productions made a strong impression on you when you were young?” Both James [Lapine] and Susan Stroman credited Sweeney Todd and its design as the show that made them think, This is what theater can be. Of course, Hal directed it, and the set was famously a real, and enormous, Victorian factory reassembled onstage by Eugene Lee. But that set isn't inherent in the writing; in fact, the action is never literally in a factory. When you were developing the show with Hugh Wheeler, it wasn't with a factory setting in mind, was it? SS: No, no. That came afterward. That was Hal's idea. I don't know how he came to it. For me, Sweeney Todd is not really a story of how the Industrial Revolution manufactured vengeful Sweeney Todds. That had nothing to do with what I wrote at all—though I did ultimately put one line in the lyrics about machines, to make Hal happy. I wanted to do it as a small, scary show. I told Hal that if we were going to do it at a big theater, I'd like to drape the entire place in black, have gaslit lampposts all around, and have the cast all around,too: on top of you, beside you, in the aisles, and so on. I wanted the whole theater to look like the inside of a coffin. I wanted an organ and an organist onstage for that opening prelude—a loud organsound to start the show. BB: You said you have no part in designing the show, but that's a very clear visual image you just described—your initial thoughts about it. SS: I have no visual imagination to say, “The costumes should be red.” But of course I have some ideas about staging the numbers. The director can throw them out, but I do go on record with what I am thinking. BB: I'm going to rewind to early in your career, to one of my favorite musicals and one I have not yet hada chance to design. Did you have any visuals in mind as you wrote West Side Story with Arthur Laurents and Leonard Bernstein? SS: Where is Puerto Rico? No, I don't think I had anything in mind, but I'll tell you an anecdote, one of those things that one never forgets. Oliver Smith, who designed it, wanted to show us the model of the setso we went out to his house in Brooklyn. He showed it to us and there was concern over the scene with the highway bridge, for the rumble at the end of the first act. Jerry Robbins—or maybe it was Lenny or Arthur—turned to me and said, “What do you think?” I was twenty-five years old! “I agree,” I said. “It just doesn't seem quite right.” Oliver turned on me and said, “Who cares what you think? You don't know anything about the theater!” He was really ugly. He was upset that they didn't like it, but he couldn't lash out at Jerry, Lenny, or Arthur, so— BB: And you were the new guy. SS: Yes. You know , I understand why he did it. BB: Did you ever work with him again? SS: No. BB: When you're the new kid, and an old hand lashes out at you, it's amazing how much it stings. You remember it forever. On my first Broadway show, Spelling Bee, that happened to me. Someone involved in the show, not James, really went after me because I was the new kid. To be honest, I had probably donesomething stupid—but it was unpleasant, and I will never forget it. BB: Last question, and it isn't really a question. I'm going to shorten the quote, but you've said, “Lyric writing has to exist in time. You have to lay the sentences out so there's enough air for the ear to take them in. There's music, there's costumes, there's lighting. There's a lot of things to listen to and look at. And therefore, the lyric must be in that sense simple.” SS: The experience of a musical is so rich that it's like you're getting two kinds of dessert. You're getting the pecan cake and the caramel ice cream, so you don't want to overdo it with either one. SS: All art is about economy of means. It's about finding the part that is necessary and getting rid of the unnecessary. That's the hard part, but once you know it, if you're ruthless, you'll get rid of the extra and keep the great. In general, in art, less is more. Although you must remember, there is also Tolstoy!

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( http://www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss Meryl Streep's 1996 comedy/ drama "Marvin's Room"."Marvin's Room" co-stars Diane Keaton, Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Hume Croyn, Gwen Verdon, Hal Scardino, Dan Hedaya, Margo Martindale & Cynthia Nixon. It is directed by Jerry Zaks and has a screenplay by Scott McPherson.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and remember to rate, review and subscribe to the podcast if you enjoy!Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. sophie's choice2. silkwood3. postcards from the edge4. the post5. iron lady6. big little lies season 27. julie and julia8. the hours9. devil wears prada10. a cry in the dark11. don't look up12. adaptation13. the bridges of madison county14. kramer vs kramer15. the french lieutenant's woman16. manchurian candidate17. into the woods18. let them all talk19. the laundromat20. the river wild21. doubt22. music of the heart23. it's complicated24. ricki and the flash25. mamma mia 226. florence foster jenkins27. out of africa28. death becomes her29. the prom30. prime31. a prairie home companion32. ironweed33. deer hunter34. mamma mia 35. falling in love36. plenty37. dancing at lughnasa38. little women39. defending your life40. heartburn41. first do no harm42. still of the night43. before and after44. she-devil45. suffragette46. mary poppins returns47. evening48. house of the spirits49. the homesman50. manhattan51. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. don't look up5. little women6. kramer vs kramer7. adaptation8. sophie's choice9. out of africa10. the deer hunter11. doubt 12. big little lies season 213. into the woods14. the bridges of madison county15. a cry in the dark16. let them all talk17. the laundromat18. postcards from the edge19. the french lieutenant's woman20. iron lady21. julie and julia22. the devil wears prada23. it's complicated24. mary poppins returns25. the prom26. the river wild27. manchurian candidate28. music of the heart29. death becomes her30. suffragette31. a prairie home companion32. prime33. falling in love34. ironweed35. ricki and the flash36. florence foster jenkins37. defending your life38. dancing at lughnasa39. plenty40. manhattan41. mamma mia42. evening43. heartburn44. still of the night45. mamma mia 246. first do no harm47. she-devil48. julia49. the homesman50. house of the spirits51. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. sophie's choice2. the post3. julie and julia4. a cry in the dark5. devil wears prada6. bridges of madison county7. the iron lady8. postcards from the edge9. adaptation10. big little lies season 211. out of africa12. kramer vs kramer13. the hours14. doubt15. french lieutenant's woman16. manchurian candidate17. river wild18. mamma mia 219. plenty20. florence foster jenkins21. mamma mia22. silkwood23. let them all talk24. prime25. music of the heart26. into the woods27. it's complicated28. little women29. heartburn30. deer hunter31. death becomes her32. falling in love33. a prairie home companion34. ricki & the flash35. dancing at lughnasa36. suffragette37. first do no harm38. she-devil39. evening 40. the prom41. the laundromat42. ironweed43. house of the spirits44. mary poppins returns45. defending your life46. manhattan47. before and after48. still of the night49. julia50. don't look up51. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. sophie's choice4. bridges of madison county5. postcards from the edge6. kramer vs kramer7. the post8. adaptation9. a cry in the dark10. florence foster jenkins11. doubt12. silkwood13. out of africa14. the deer hunter15. big little lies season 216. devil wears prada17. mamma mia 18. french lieutenant's woman19. the iron lady20. mary poppins returns21. into the woods22. julie & julia23. mamma mia 224. river wild25. prime26. evening 27. falling in love28. manchurian candidate29. it's complicated30. death becomes her31. music of the heart32. defending your life33. ironweed34. let them all talk35. dancing at lughanasa36. suffragette37. the laundromat38. house of the spirits39. heartburn40. first do no harm41. ricki & the flash42. prairie home companion43. julia44. she-devil45. the prom46. plenty47. don't look up48. still of the night49. before and after50. the homesman51. manhattan

If you love theater, you've likely seen a set designed by Tony Award-winner Beowulf Boritt, from "Come From Away" to "Flying Over Sunset" to "Merry Wives" to "POTUS." Now he's drawn back the curtain on his process, and the importance of set design, in his new book, Transforming Space Over Time: Set Design and Visual Storytelling with Broadway's Legendary Directors. Boritt joins to reflect on his career, and his collaboration with directors like James Lapine, Kenny Leon, Hal Prince, Susan Stroman, Jerry Zaks, and Stephen Sondheim. Mecca: A Conversation with Stephen Sondheim Setting: Stephen Sondheim's Turtle Bay town house: the holiest of holies for several generations of theater artists. We're in a ground-floor living room, sprawling and cluttered, spreading from a small front entrance foyer through the main chamber to a back conservatory that opens into a community garden. The room's salient visual feature is Steve's collection of antique puzzles, displayed in frames and vitrines and arrayed on tables. Beowulf Boritt: I'm sure you hear this from a lot of people, but your shows, more than any others, are what convinced me to pursue theater. I grew up thinking musicals were frilly and silly, but when I started being exposed to your shows—first Sunday, then Into the Woods and Sweeney Todd—I thought, This is what I want to do. Stephen Sondheim: So you're blaming me? BB: Just placing blame where it's due, Steve! I asked various directors, “What productions made a strong impression on you when you were young?” Both James [Lapine] and Susan Stroman credited Sweeney Todd and its design as the show that made them think, This is what theater can be. Of course, Hal directed it, and the set was famously a real, and enormous, Victorian factory reassembled onstage by Eugene Lee. But that set isn't inherent in the writing; in fact, the action is never literally in a factory. When you were developing the show with Hugh Wheeler, it wasn't with a factory setting in mind, was it? SS: No, no. That came afterward. That was Hal's idea. I don't know how he came to it. For me, Sweeney Todd is not really a story of how the Industrial Revolution manufactured vengeful Sweeney Todds. That had nothing to do with what I wrote at all—though I did ultimately put one line in the lyrics about machines, to make Hal happy. I wanted to do it as a small, scary show. I told Hal that if we were going to do it at a big theater, I'd like to drape the entire place in black, have gaslit lampposts all around, and have the cast all around,too: on top of you, beside you, in the aisles, and so on. I wanted the whole theater to look like the inside of a coffin. I wanted an organ and an organist onstage for that opening prelude—a loud organsound to start the show. BB: You said you have no part in designing the show, but that's a very clear visual image you just described—your initial thoughts about it. SS: I have no visual imagination to say, “The costumes should be red.” But of course I have some ideas about staging the numbers. The director can throw them out, but I do go on record with what I am thinking. BB: I'm going to rewind to early in your career, to one of my favorite musicals and one I have not yet hada chance to design. Did you have any visuals in mind as you wrote West Side Story with Arthur Laurents and Leonard Bernstein? SS: Where is Puerto Rico? No, I don't think I had anything in mind, but I'll tell you an anecdote, one of those things that one never forgets. Oliver Smith, who designed it, wanted to show us the model of the setso we went out to his house in Brooklyn. He showed it to us and there was concern over the scene with the highway bridge, for the rumble at the end of the first act. Jerry Robbins—or maybe it was Lenny or Arthur—turned to me and said, “What do you think?” I was twenty-five years old! “I agree,” I said. “It just doesn't seem quite right.” Oliver turned on me and said, “Who cares what you think? You don't know anything about the theater!” He was really ugly. He was upset that they didn't like it, but he couldn't lash out at Jerry, Lenny, or Arthur, so— BB: And you were the new guy. SS: Yes. You know , I understand why he did it. BB: Did you ever work with him again? SS: No. BB: When you're the new kid, and an old hand lashes out at you, it's amazing how much it stings. You remember it forever. On my first Broadway show, Spelling Bee, that happened to me. Someone involved in the show, not James, really went after me because I was the new kid. To be honest, I had probably donesomething stupid—but it was unpleasant, and I will never forget it. BB: Last question, and it isn't really a question. I'm going to shorten the quote, but you've said, “Lyric writing has to exist in time. You have to lay the sentences out so there's enough air for the ear to take them in. There's music, there's costumes, there's lighting. There's a lot of things to listen to and look at. And therefore, the lyric must be in that sense simple.” SS: The experience of a musical is so rich that it's like you're getting two kinds of dessert. You're getting the pecan cake and the caramel ice cream, so you don't want to overdo it with either one. SS: All art is about economy of means. It's about finding the part that is necessary and getting rid of the unnecessary. That's the hard part, but once you know it, if you're ruthless, you'll get rid of the extra and keep the great. In general, in art, less is more. Although you must remember, there is also Tolstoy!

STAR WARS: EPISODE V THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK - The Original 1983 Radio Drama.The Empire Strikes Back is a 10-part, (originally 5 hour) expanded radio adaptation of the original The Empire Strikes Back, radio adaptation based on the original film. Produced by HighBridge Audio in 1983 and broadcast on National Public Radio in the US.Episodes:Episode 1 - "Freedom's Winter"Episode 2 - "The Coming Storm"Episode 3 - "A Question Of Survival"Episode 4 - "Fire And Ice"Episode 5 - "The Millennium Falcon Pursuit"Episode 6 - "Way Of The Jedi"Episode 7 - "New Allies, New Enemy"Episode 8 - "Dark Lord's Fury"Episode 9 - "Gambler's Choice"Episode 10 - "The Clash Of Lightsabres"Cast:Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker)Ann Sachs (Princess Leia)Perry King (Han Solo)Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian)Bernard "Bunny" Behrens (Obi-Wan Kenobi)Brock Peters (Lord Darth Vader)John Lithgow (Yoda)Anthony Daniels (C-3PO)James Eckhouse (Beta)Peter Friedman (Dak)Ron Frazier (Deck Officer)Merwin Goldsmith (General Rieekan)Peter Michael Goetz (Ozzel)Gordon Gould (Veers)Paul Hecht (The Emperor)Russell Horton (2-1B)James Hurdle (Controller)Nicholas Kepros (Needa)David Rasche (Piett)Alan Rosenberg (Boba Fett)Jay Sanders (Imperial Pilot)Don Scarino (Wedge)Ken Hiller (Narrator)Support cast includes David Alan Grier and also included Sam McMurray, Steven Markle, Stephen D. Newman, John Pielmeier, Geoffrey Pierson, Gary Tacon, and Jerry Zaks.

My guests on this episode are the original producer and director of the Broadway musical GREASE -- Ken Waissman and Tom Moore. This is the second half of our recent conversation. If you missed part one you may want to catch up on that first before listening to this one. This week marks the 50th Anniversary of Grease's move from the Eden Theater on the Lower East Side to The Broadhurst -- the first of the three Broadway theaters Grease would play during its record breaking eight year run.  And it fact, on June 5th, just a few days after I spoke with them, Ken and Tom hosted an anniversary party at Sardi's, where they and Grease's original cast had celebrated the show's opening back in 1972.  Grease alumni attending the event included co-writer Jim Jacobs, choreographer Patricia Birch, and performers Marilu Henner, Judy Kaye, Jerry Zaks, Carole Demas, Ray DeMattis, Ilene Graff, Barry Bostwick (via Zoom) and many more. All of them also contributed their memories to the new book: Grease – Tell Me More, Tell Me More – Stories From The Broadway Phenomenon That Started It All. I've been collecting photos and video of that event as well as the two recent Grease reunion shows at 54 Below and posting them in my Broadway Nation Facebook Group where I invite you to join me and more than 2000 other fans of this podcast -- who probably much like you are hooked on Broadway musicals.  Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/375627810176381 In this episode Tom and Ken share some fascinating stories about the development of the show including how they worked with the show's authors to trim the original "phone book" size script down to a manageable size, how they inspired them to add some now classic hit songs to the score, and how they all survived a disastrous first preview and then reworked and revamped the show in just three weeks. Even though Ken was at that time the youngest producer on Broadway, your will hear how he masterminded some brilliant old school style producing tricks that helped turn a near flop into one of most successful musicals of all time!   My favorite part of this episode is in the second half when Ken relates how he had to wheel and deal with the Shuberts and Nederlanders, and go head to head with the “Abominable Showman” himself –- legendary producer David Merrick. It's "The Modern Era of Broadway" vs "The Golden Age"! It's quite a story! Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recorded on Wednesday, May 3, 2022 In this episode of TA(L)KING DIRECTION, Artistic Director Gabriel Stelian-Shanks and Associate Artistic Director Nilan speak with four time Tony Award winning director Jerry Zaks about his first loves, his current productions, and his legendary career.    Editing Services: Catalin Media, @catalinmedia

It may be hard for some of us to believe, but this past Valentine's Day – Feb 14, 2022 – marked the 50th Anniversary of the New York opening of the musical GREASE, at the Eden Theater on 2nd Avenue. And next week, June 7, will mark the 50th Anniversary of its official move to Broadway.  My guests this week are that Grease's original producer, Ken Waissman, and original director, Tom Moore, who along with Adrienne Barbeau (the original “Rizzo”) are the editors of the new book : Grease – Tell Me More, Tell Me More – Stories From The Broadway Phenomenon That Started It All. Ken Waisman is a Tony Award winning producer who made his Broadway debut with the play And Miss Reardon Drinks A Little. In addition to Grease he went on to produce Over Here! starring the Andrews Sisters, and the long running plays Agnes Of God, and Torch Song Trilogy. Tom Moore is a leading theater, film and television director whose work on Broadway includes his debut with Grease, Over Here!, Moon Over Buffalo starring Carol Burnett, and Night Mother. Their new book is made up of a the personal, behind-the-scenes memories of the show's creative and production teams, as well as scores of cast members from Grease's original cast, five national tours, and record breaking eight-year run on Broadway. In this episode you will hear about how Ken discovered the show in a ramshackle community theater production in Chicago; why Ken chose Tom to direct the show instead of Michael Bennett; how Tom almost turned the show down; and how together they discovered and cast more future stars than probably any other musical in history! Grease alumni include Adrianne Barbeau, Barry Bostwick, Jeff Conaway, Carole Demas, Greg Evigan, Peter Gallagher, Richard Gere, Marilu Henner, Judy Kaye, Rex Smith, Patrick Swayze, John Travolta, Treat Williams, and Adrian Zmed. As well as the future Broadway directors Walter Bobbie, Scott Ellis, and Jerry Zaks. Has any other show produced that many stars?  Even if Grease is not your favorite show, I feel certain that you will be fascinated by their stories of how the show came together, as well as the casting stories of John Travolta, Patrick Swayze and Richard Gere. Broadway Nation is written and produced by me, David Armstrong. Special thanks to Pauls Macs for his help with editing this episode, to KVSH 101.9 The Voice of Beautiful Vashon Island WA, and to the entire team at the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I am so happy to announce Part 2 of my episode with Broadway actress Beth Fowler, star of Sweeney Todd, Beauty and the Beast, The Boy From Oz, and more. Tune in today to hear more of the amazing stories of her career, including what it was like working with Whoopi Goldberg, her New York Times review for Inherit the Wind, the mistake with the revival of Bells are Ringing, her collaboration with Bob Gunton, why Take Me Along shouldn't have come to Broadway, plus anecdotes about Hugh Jackman, Jerry Zaks, Faith Prince, and more. 

Move over, Pickleball! Oven-roasted Corned Beef and Cabbage! DamnDelicious! Thank you, Chungah Rhee. More about the Peacocks.  Remembering George Wagner. Harry Zirlin muses on difference between Shakers and Peepers. Jerry Zaks introduces his folks to Zero Mostel. Credits: Talent:  Tamsen Granger and Dan Abuhoff Engineer:  Ellie Suttmeier Art:  Zeke Abuhoff

Join me live on the red carpet for the opening night of The Music Man! In this episode we hear from Hugh Jackman, Sutton Foster, Jerry Zaks, Warren Carlyle, Jayne Howdyshell, Jefferson Mays, Daniel Patrick Russell, Drew Minard, Eloise Kropp, Kammie Crum, Marie Mullen, Jordan Beall, Maria Briggs, Phillip Boykin, Ronnie S Bowman, Sherisse Springer, Garrett Long, and Lance Roberts. There are even special cameos from Seth Meyers and Randy Rainbow. #justsayin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Brad Oscar has earned two Tony Award nominations for his performances in The Producers and Something Rotten!, and has additional Broadway credits which include The Addams Family, Nice Work If You Can Get It, Spamalot, Jekyll & Hyde, and Big Fish. Off-Broadway and Regional credits include Damn Yankees, Forbidden Broadway, Sweeney Todd, and both the Phantom of the Opera and Young Frankenstein national tours. You've seen him on TV in The Good Wife, Submissions Only, Madam Secretary, and Smash. Brad can currently be seen as Frank Hillard in the Broadway musical Mrs. Doubtfire.  Brad takes us on his journey with Mrs. Doubtfire, from the first table read of a very different iteration in 2015, to auditioning for the project in 2019, and the joy of working with the production's creative team and cast. He opens up about his love and reverence for Stephen Sondheim, the man and his work, and about overcoming his fear of breaking the fourth wall in order to be a part of Barrow Street Theatre's immersive production of Sweeney Todd. Brad also chats about the roller coaster of being part of a Broadway show in the time of COVID, and looking forward to the light at the end of the tunnel. In this episode, we talk about:  Growing up in DC around theatre  Working with Jerry Zaks, and Rob McClure Memories of Stephen Sondheim at Barrow Street  Which musicals he calls his “touchstones”  Performing professionally in his hometown for the first time Get your tix for Mrs. Doubtfire's return: https://mrsdoubtfirebroadway.com/ Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast TheTheatrePodcast.com Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think. Thank you to our friends Jukebox The Ghost for our intro and outro music. You can find them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @jukeboxtheghost or via the web via jukeboxtheghost.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Personally Speaking, Msgr. Jim Lisante is joined by actor and singer Bobby Conte. Bobby is currently playing the role of P.J. in the Broadway revival of “Company” and he made his Broadway debut originating the role of Calogero in “A Bronx Tale”, directed by Robert De Niro and Jerry Zaks. Bobby talks about being back on Broadway in his Stephen Sondheim dream role, family, and the values that sustain him.Support the show (http://closeencountertv.com/cetvdonate.asp)

Andrew Lippa Award-winning composer of The Addams Family, Big Fish, The Wild Party, and many other musicals joins me for the podcast. In addition to his incredible talent and many accomplishments, he was also the Oberon to my Titania, the Brack Weaver to my Jennie Parsons, and the Ralph Rackstraw to my Josephine. My high school leading man joins me to talk about arts education, creativity, and the work of the arts. Here's more about Andrew. And really, go listen to the episode. It's incredible! About Andrew Andrew Lippa's “Unbreakable” had its world premiere with The San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus on June 22nd and 23rd, 2018 with 300 artists onstage, including Mr. Lippa. It is now available for purchase and streaming. He conducted the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in a new production of his “A Little Princess” in concert in London at the Royal Festival Hall in May, 2018 to a sold-out crowd of nearly 3,000 people. His hit song “Evil Like Me” appears in Disney's “Descendants”. Written for Kristin Chenoweth, that soundtrack hit #1 on the “Billboard 200” album chart, #1 on the iTunes and Billboard soundtrack charts. “Evil Like Me” was certified gold in 2017. His epic oratorio for men's chorus, orchestra and soloists, I Am Harvey Milk has seen over 30 productions including Disney Hall and Lincoln Center.  Andrew's new musical, The Man in the Ceiling, released a world premiere studio album in May of 2019.   Broadway credits include: Music and lyrics for Big Fish directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman; the Tony-nominated music and lyrics for the Broadway musical The Addams Family (directed by Jerry Zaks) as well as the music for Aaron Sorkin's Broadway play The Farnsworth Invention (directed by Des McAnuff). Other musicals include the Drama Desk award winning musical The Wild Party (book/music/lyrics); A Little Princess (music); john & jen (music/book); Asphalt Beach (music and lyrics); Life of the Party (a compendium of Mr. Lippa's works); and You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown (additional music/lyrics and arrangements).  Awards include Tony and Grammy nominations; shared Emmy for Nickelodeon's “The Wonder Pets”; SFGMC Vanguard Award; The Drama Desk Award; The Outer Critics Circle Award. A graduate of the University of Michigan, Mr. Lippa serves as president of the board of The Dramatists Guild Foundation (dgf.org).andrewlippa.com 

Katrina Retallick is one of Australia's foremost leading ladies with an ever-growing list of theatre, film and television credits to her name. She grew up in Wagga Wagga and trained at The Central School of Speech and Drama in London.Her phenomenal credits include Big Fish, Titanic and New Rocky Horror Show. She was also in Sydney Theatre Company's Wharf Revue, alongside comedy legends Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Scott.Other performances include Ruthless! The Musical, with Katrina winning rave reviews for her lead role in the hilarious showbiz satire. Prior to that, Katrina's dramatic talents were on vivid display in her role as ‘Trina' in the musical Falsettos and her riotous turn as brash Oklahoma heiress ‘Jolene Oaks' in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels earned her a Sydney Theatre Award.As the high voltage ‘Alice Beineke' in the New Theatricals' production of The Addams Family under renowned director Jerry Zaks, Katrina received outstanding critical acclaim and a Helpmann Award Nomination for Best Female Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical.Earlier roles include A Little Night Music as ‘Charlotte Malcolm', Wind in the Willows, Jekyll & Hyde, Las Vegas The Musical as ‘Francesca Carlucci', Company as ‘Sarah' and South Pacific as ‘Nellie Forebush'.Katrina Retallick wrote and performed in her one-woman show called Impossible Blonde, which featured songs and stories of iconic blonde performers such as Marlene Dietrich, Marilyn Monroe, Julie Andrews and Doris Day among many others.In film, Katrina appeared in the magic realism feature Accidents Happen with the legendary Geena Davis. She also performed in an operatic feature film co-produced by Channel 4 UK and ABC Australia called The Eternity Man.She is currently gracing stages as ‘Diane' in the brilliant Come From Away - a show that proves the perfect tonic with its joyous celebration of humanity, community, and kindness. Welcome to STAGES … Katrina Retallick.The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au

For Video Edition, Please Click and Subscribe Here: https://youtu.be/4u1Fk93JKM4 Hailed as “a star performer,” Bart Shatto has made his mark on Broadway, TV, Concert, and beyond. A member of the original Broadway casts of Tony-nominated "Hands on a Hardbody” and "The Civil War,” he has also been seen on Broadway in “War Paint,” the iconic role of Jean Valjean in "Les Miserables” and as originating the role of Quincey Morris in “Dracula.” Helen-Hayes nominated for the Ford's Theatre production of "The Civil War," he has worked with award-winning directors Michael Greif, Andy Blankenbuehler, Des McAnuff, Jerry Zaks, Jason Moore, Neil Pepe, Jeff Calhoun, Richard Maltby Jr. and Gabriel Barre. Regionally, he has performed at renowned regional theaters including Papermill Playhouse, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Alley Theatre, Ford's Theatre and the Barter Theatre, and more. As a voiceover artist, Bart can be heard as the voice of "Gaspard's Papa" in the animated series for Disney Jr. "Gaspard and Lisa". As a singer, he is a veteran member of the Gold/Platinum-selling symphonic progressive rock band Trans-Siberian Orchestra, who have sold over 10 million concert tickets, and 10 million concert albums, and play to 1 million fans each season. Billboard Magazine ranked TSO the top 25 touring artists of the decade. Cast albums include Stephen Schwartz's "Children of Eden" and "Tara Tremendous" (also released by Broadway Records in 2017). Bart's solo show “Back to Broadway: Heroes, Villains and Dreamers” will be produced at Feinsteins/54 Below later this year.  He resides in New Jersey with his wife, Dr. Amy Bladen PhD, and their German Shepard, Maverick. https://www.bartshatto.com

Mrs Doubtfire star, Jake Ryan Flynn recounts his nearly 5 years on the Broadway roller coaster in this week's LITTLE ME! Broadway teen Jake Ryan Flynn sits down with Broadway Workshop Director, Marc Tumminelli and talks about his journey with Mrs. Doubtfire from readings to Seattle to Broadway, performing in three previews before Broadway shut down in March of 2020, staying connected to the cast during the pandemic, and the incredible teaching moments he has experienced working alongside Rob McClure and Jerry Zaks. Jake also talks about making his Broadway debut in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, what it was like working on John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch and performing “Grandma's Got a Boyfriend,” and his adventure in writing his own musical. Make sure to watch Jake in the film Cape Cod Christmas this December! Produced by Marc Tumminelli and The Broadway Podcast Network https://mrsdoubtfirebroadway.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Please welcome the Tony-Award nominated set designer who put Jersey all over the map…Klara Zieglerova! A Prague native, Klara studied design at David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University and was later hired as an associate set designer of the 1998 Roundabout Theatre Co. Broadway revival of 1776 and 1999 Broadway revival of ANNIE GET YOUR GUN along with stage manager Richard Hester. Credits as lead designer include the Broadway production of THE SEARCH FOR SIGNS OF INTELLIGENT LIFE IN THE UNIVERSE, the 2012 national tour of FLASHDANCE THE MUSICAL directed and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo as well as the Broadway, West End, and touring productions of SISTER ACT directed by Jerry Zaks and THE FARNSWORTH INVENTION written by Aaron Sorkin and directed by Des McAnuff. In this episode, you'll learn about: -How she nailed her Jersey Boys interview with Des McAnuff -Original sketches of the set -What drew her to the story…”The iron curtain.” -The production she coined the “Rolls Royce of Jersey Boys sets” -Why the Jersey Boys UK tour set has two spiral staircases -How to design for a national tour -Her time working with late lighting designer Howell Binkley -How design teams are created and opportunity to newcomers in this niche role in theater -Her set design nomination for Jersey Boys ♥️ Key quotes: -“Des wanted to keep the show as downstage as possible” -“My only job is to not let the scenery get in the way.” Don't forget…Everywhere you see an official Dodgers production of Jersey Boys, you're immersed in Klara's gorgeous set design. ♥️

The final letter in my A to Z of Musicals - all things beginning with the Letter Z including Florenz Ziegfeld, David Zippel, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Zorba, Jerry Zaks, Karen Ziemba, Chip Zien, Zorro, Craig Zadan, Renee Zellweger and more.

The World According To Yoni starts its second year with a BANG, as Yoni has the pleasure of interviewing the Number One "GET" on his list of most-desired guests, two-time Tony Award nominee, Lewis J. Stadlen. In part one, of this two-part interview, Yoni — who considers Lewis his acting hero — and Mr. Stadlen cover everything from what it's like growing up in a theatrical family, to the teachers they've loved and...not loved so much. From there it's on to the start of Lewis's career, in the first National Touring Company of Fiddler On the Roof, to his Broadway debut as Groucho Marx in the musical, Minnie's Boys, and on to the original Broadway casts of Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys, and his brilliant, Tony-nominated performance as Best Actor In A Musical, for Hal Prince's 1974 revival of Leonard Bernstein's Candide. They also discuss Lewis's friendship, and close working relationship with Nathan Lane and director Jerry Zaks. There's even a surprise clip later in the show — demonstrating Lewis's comedic brilliance. This is one show you definitely do not want to miss.

Hop off the subway to Runyonland and go all in on the crap game with Dan and Joshua, as they discuss the National Tour of Jerry Zaks' Guys and Dolls! While poring over a piece of Mindy's cheesecake our hosts chat about high school theatre, the birth of the old-man-wisdom song, and The Gumm-Garland-Minnelli-Luft Entertainment Dynasty. Tune in to next week's episode when we discuss Marnie; specifically, the Metropolitan Opera's performance on November 10th, 2018 (as captured by the Met Live in HD series!) Contact us: unccpodcast@gmail.com Twitter: @unccpodcast Instagram: @unccpodcast

And we are BACK after a short hiatus with Marvin's Room (1996), directed by Jerry Zaks! Join us as we explore this slice-of-life film starring the fabulous Meryl Streep, Diane Keaton and of course the one and only Leonardo DiCaprio.

Broadway Director: when will Broadway come back, st james performance, and more

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Originally from Queensland, Michaeljon Slinger moved to the United States in 2004 after winning the Australian Dancer of the Year Award and receiving full scholarship to attend American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School. He went on to attend the B.F.A Dance program at the prestigious Julliard School in New York City, making him the first Australian to be accepted into either one of these programs.In 2009, Michaeljon made his Broadway debut as an original cast member and Dance Captain of the revival of West Side Story, directed by Arthur Laurents. He continued his career on Broadway as both a performer and Dance Captain, appearing in the Broadway companies of Billy Elliot the Musical, How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Evita, Side Show, and Matilda. His performing career culminated in the role of Dance Captain for the 2017 revival of Broadway’s Hello Dolly! Starring Bette Midler.Michaeljon’s career shifted in 2018, when he made his West End debut as Associate Director and Choreographer of the brand new musical, Mythic. He continues to thrive as a Choreographer, most lately working alongside Lorin Latarro, first as Associate Choreographer on Michael Mayer’s World Premiere of La Traviata at the Metropolitan Opera, and following in quick succession as Assistant Choreographer and Dance Captain of the Roundabout Theatre and Fiasco Theatre production of Merrily We Roll Along in New York. The pair are currently collaborating on two Broadway-bound shows with Michaeljon serving as Associate Choreographer for both Almost Famous and Mrs Doubtfire.When not performing, Michaeljon promotes the importance of Arts Education and hopes to continue to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of young performers.Check out: www.michaeljonslinger.com

(3/16/21) Mike and cohost, actress Abby Donnelly chat with actress Catia Ojeda. Catia is known for her role as Terri Quinn on Amazon Studio’s Emmy-nominated show Just Add Magic and also has a recurring guest star role on Netflix’s Malibu Rescue. Catia has appeared on Law & Order, 30 Rock, Fringe, Damages, American Housewife, Grey's Anatomy, Hawaii Five-0 and Criminal Minds and will guest star on the upcoming highly anticipated Selena: The Series for Netflix. Catia recently starred in the feature film Closure, winning Best-Actress awards from Austin Indie Fest and Marbella International Film Festival in Spain. Her stage credits are impressive having performed in New York City and around the country, most notably starring in the Broadway National Tour of the 101 Dalmatians Musical, directed by multiple TONY Award-winner Jerry Zaks. She continues to appear on stage and was nominated for a L.A. Ovation Award for ‘Best Supporting Actress in a Play’ for her performance in Theatre Banshee’s play Brendan – a stage play by Irish-American playwright Ronan Noone. Enjoy the Podcast!

SHOWS: The Producers, Love! Valour! Compassion, Angels in America There is no greater representation of modern Broadway than three-time Tony Award winner Nathan Lane. His ability to transition from theatre to film, comedy to drama, tear-inducing laughter to heart-stopping pathos, all in one performance, is comparable to none. Nathan Lane has shared his gifts with audiences in such shows as the revivals of Guys and Dolls, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, The Man Who Came to Dinner, The Odd Couple, Angels in America, and the original productions of Laughter on the 23rd Floor, Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Producers, The Addams Family, November, Gary, and so many more! Nathan pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how Eddie Bracken taught him comedy, what it was like collaborating with Terrence McNally, and why Joe Mantello jilted him for Laurie Metcalf! Also, Nathan shines the spotlight on Neil Simon, George C. Scott, and Jerry Zaks! Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advanced knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TONY AWARD WINNING DIRECTOR: timeline for Broadway to come back

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Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss 1982's "Sophie's Choice", which co-stars Kevin Kline and Peter MacNicol. This film was directed and screenplay by Alan J. Pakula, based on the novel by William Styron.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. sophie's choice2. silkwood3. a cry in the dark4. postcards from the edge5. the post6. big little lies season 27. julie and julia8. the hours9. devil wears prada10. adaptation11. kramer vs kramer12. manchurian candidate13. into the woods14. the laundromat15. the river wild16. doubt17. music of the heart18. it's complicated19. ricki and the flash20. mamma mia 221. florence foster jenkins22. out of africa23. death becomes her24. the french lieutenant's woman25. ironweed26. deer hunter27. mamma mia 28. falling in love29. plenty30. little women31. defending your life32. heartburn33. first do no harm34. still of the night35. before and after36. she-devil37. mary poppins returns38. house of the spirits39. the homesman40. manhattan41. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. a cry in the dark6. kramer vs kramer7. adaptation8. sophie's choice9. out of africa10. the deer hunter11. doubt 12. big little lies season 213. into the woods14. the laundromat15. postcards from the edge16. julie and julia17. the devil wears prada18. it's complicated19. mary poppins returns20. the river wild21. manchurian candidate22. music of the heart23. death becomes her24. the french lieutenant's woman25. falling in love26. ironweed27. ricki and the flash28. florence foster jenkins29. defending your life30. plenty31. manhattan32. mamma mia33. heartburn34. still of the night35. mamma mia 236. first do no harm37. she-devil38. julia39. the homesman40. house of the spirits41. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally are joined by repeat guest Erin Carlson, author of the fantastic "Queen Meryl" book ( https://www.amazon.com/Queen-Meryl-Iconic-Heroic-Legendary/dp/0316485276/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=queen+meryl&qid=1606082367&sr=8-2 ) for a discussion on 1985's "Plenty", which co-stars Sam Neill, Charles Dance, John Gielgud, Tracey Ullman, Sting, Ian McKellen and even Hugh Laurie. This film was directed by Fred Schepisi and written by David Hare, based on his own play.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. silkwood2. postcards from the edge3. the post4. big little lies season 25. julie and julia6. the hours7. devil wears prada8. adaptation9. a cry in the dark10. kramer vs kramer11. manchurian candidate12. into the woods13. the laundromat14. the river wild15. doubt16. music of the heart17. it's complicated18. ricki and the flash19. mamma mia 220. florence foster jenkins21. out of africa22. death becomes her23. ironweed24. deer hunter25. mamma mia 26. falling in love27. plenty28. little women29. defending your life30. heartburn31. first do no harm32. still of the night33. before and after34. she-devil35. mary poppins returns36. house of the spirits37. the homesman38. manhattan39. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. kramer vs kramer6. adaptation7. out of africa8. the deer hunter9. doubt 10. big little lies season 211. into the woods12. a cry in the dark13. the laundromat14. postcards from the edge15. julie and julia16. the devil wears prada17. it's complicated18. mary poppins returns19. the river wild20. manchurian candidate21. music of the heart22. death becomes her23. falling in love24. ironweed25. ricki and the flash26. florence foster jenkins27. defending your life28. plenty29. manhattan30. mamma mia31. heartburn32. still of the night33. mamma mia 234. first do no harm35. she-devil36. julia37. the homesman38. house of the spirits39. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss 1984's "Falling In Love", which co-stars Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, Jane Kaczmarek, Dianne Wiest, David Clennon, George Martin and Frances Conroy. This film was directed by Ulu Grosbard and written by Michael Cristofer.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. silkwood2. postcards from the edge3. the post4. big little lies season 25. julie and julia6. the hours7. devil wears prada8. adaptation9. a cry in the dark10. kramer vs kramer11. manchurian candidate12. into the woods13. the laundromat14. the river wild15. doubt16. music of the heart17. it's complicated18. ricki and the flash19. mamma mia 220. florence foster jenkins21. out of africa22. death becomes her23. ironweed24. deer hunter25. mamma mia 26. falling in love27. plenty28. little women29. defending your life30. heartburn31. first do no harm32. still of the night33. before and after34. she-devil35. mary poppins returns36. house of the spirits37. the homesman38. manhattan39. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. kramer vs kramer6. adaptation7. out of africa8. the deer hunter9. doubt 10. big little lies season 211. into the woods12. a cry in the dark13. the laundromat14. postcards from the edge15. julie and julia16. the devil wears prada17. it's complicated18. mary poppins returns19. the river wild20. manchurian candidate21. music of the heart22. death becomes her23. falling in love24. ironweed25. ricki and the flash26. florence foster jenkins27. defending your life28. plenty29. manhattan30. mamma mia31. heartburn32. still of the night33. mamma mia 234. first do no harm35. she-devil36. julia37. the homesman38. house of the spirits39. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss 1981's "The French Lieutenant's Woman", which co-stars Jeremy Irons. This film was directed by Karel Reisz and written by Harold Pinter, based on the novel by John Fowles.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. silkwood2. postcards from the edge3. the post4. big little lies season 25. julie and julia6. the hours7. devil wears prada8. adaptation9. a cry in the dark10. kramer vs kramer11. manchurian candidate12. into the woods13. the laundromat14. the river wild15. doubt16. music of the heart17. it's complicated18. ricki and the flash19. mamma mia 220. florence foster jenkins21. out of africa22. death becomes her23. ironweed24. deer hunter25. mamma mia 26. falling in love27. plenty28. little women29. defending your life30. heartburn31. first do no harm32. still of the night33. before and after34. she-devil35. mary poppins returns36. house of the spirits37. the homesman38. manhattan39. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. kramer vs kramer6. adaptation7. out of africa8. the deer hunter9. doubt 10. big little lies season 211. into the woods12. a cry in the dark13. the laundromat14. postcards from the edge15. julie and julia16. the devil wears prada17. it's complicated18. mary poppins returns19. the river wild20. manchurian candidate21. music of the heart22. death becomes her23. falling in love24. ironweed25. ricki and the flash26. florence foster jenkins27. defending your life28. plenty29. manhattan30. mamma mia31. heartburn32. still of the night33. mamma mia 234. first do no harm35. she-devil36. julia37. the homesman38. house of the spirits39. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss 1988's "A Cry In The Dark", which co-stars Sam Neill. This film was directed by Fred Schepisi and written by Fred Schepisi and Robert Caswell, based on the novel "Evil Angels" by John Bryson.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performancesZach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. silkwood2. postcards from the edge3. the post4. big little lies season 25. julie and julia6. the hours7. devil wears prada8. adaptation9. a cry in the dark10. kramer vs kramer11. manchurian candidate12. into the woods13. the laundromat14. the river wild15. doubt16. music of the heart17. it's complicated18. ricki and the flash19. mamma mia 220. florence foster jenkins21. out of africa22. death becomes her23. ironweed24. deer hunter25. mamma mia 26. falling in love27. plenty28. little women29. defending your life30. heartburn31. first do no harm32. still of the night33. before and after34. she-devil35. mary poppins returns36. house of the spirits37. the homesman38. manhattan39. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. kramer vs kramer6. adaptation7. out of africa8. the deer hunter9. doubt 10. big little lies season 211. into the woods12. a cry in the dark13. the laundromat14. postcards from the edge15. julie and julia16. the devil wears prada17. it's complicated18. mary poppins returns19. the river wild20. manchurian candidate21. music of the heart22. death becomes her23. falling in love24. ironweed25. ricki and the flash26. florence foster jenkins27. defending your life28. plenty29. manhattan30. mamma mia31. heartburn32. still of the night33. mamma mia 234. first do no harm35. she-devil36. julia37. the homesman38. house of the spirits39. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan

Longtime friends and Meryl Streep fans Zachary Scot Johnson ( www.youtube.com/user/thesongadayproject/about ) and Maryl McNally discuss 1987's "Ironweed", which co-stars Jack Nicholson, Tom Waits, Carroll Baker, Michael O'Keefe, Diane Venora, Fred Gwynne and Nathan Lane. This film was directed by Hector Babenco and written by William Kennedy, based on his own Pulitzer Prize winning novel.Email the hosts at MerylStreepPodcast@gmail.com and please remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast.Zach's ranking of Meryl's performances1. silkwood2. postcards from the edge3. the post4. big little lies season 25. julie and julia6. the hours7. devil wears prada8. adaptation9. kramer vs kramer10. manchurian candidate11. into the woods12. the laundromat13. the river wild14. doubt15. music of the heart16. it's complicated17. ricki and the flash18. mamma mia 219. florence foster jenkins20. out of africa21. death becomes her22. deer hunter23. mamma mia 24. little women25. defending your life26. heartburn27. first do no harm28. still of the night29. before and after30. she-devil31. mary poppins returns32. house of the spirits33. the homesman34. manhattan35. juliaZach's ranking of Meryl's films1. the post2. the hours3. silkwood4. little women5. kramer vs kramer6. adaptation7. out of africa8. the deer hunter9. doubt 10. big little lies season 211. into the woods12. the laundromat13. postcards from the edge14. julie and julia15. the devil wears prada16. it's complicated17. mary poppins returns18. the river wild19. manchurian candidate20. music of the heart21. death becomes her22. ricki and the flash23. florence foster jenkins24. defending your life25. manhattan26. mamma mia27. heartburn28. still of the night29. mamma mia 230. first do no harm31. she-devil32. julia33. the homesman34. house of the spirits35. before and afterMaryl's ranking of Meryl's performances1. the post2. julie and julia3. devil wears prada4. postcards from the edge5. adaptation6. big little lies season 27. out of africa8. kramer vs kramer9. the hours10. manchurian candidate11. river wild12. mamma mia 213. florence foster jenkins14. mamma mia15. silkwood16. music of the heart17. into the woods18. it's complicated19. little women20. heartburn21. deer hunter22. death becomes her23. ricki & the flash24. doubt25. first do no harm26. she-devil27. the laundromat28. house of the spirits29. mary poppins returns30. defending your life31. manhattan32. before and after33. still of the night34. julia35. the homesmanMaryl's ranking of Meryl's films1. the hours2. little women3. postcards from the edge4. kramer vs kramer5. the post6. adaptation7. florence foster jenkins8. doubt9. silkwood10. out of africa11. the deer hunter12. big little lies season 213. devil wears prada14. mamma mia 15. mary poppins returns16. into the woods17. julie & julia18. mamma mia 219. river wild20. manchurian candidate21. it's complicated22. death becomes her23 music of the heart24. defending your25. the laundromat26. house of the spirits27. heartburn28. first do no harm29. ricki & the flash30. julia31. she-devil32. still of the night33. before and after34. the homesman35. manhattan