Podcast appearances and mentions of Michael Greif

Cherry, baby! We are here with two-time Tony-winner and three-time Emmy-winner Cherry Jones. You Might Know Her From The Handmaid's Tale, 24, Transparent, Succession, The West Wing, The Village, The Eyes of Tammy Faye, and her numerous theatre credits including The Heiress, Doubt, Mrs. Warren's Profession, and The Glass Menagerie. Cherry talked to us about playing the real life Eileen Myles on Transparent, grounding the violence on 24, whether or not she'll appear in the final season of The Handmaid's Tale, and she shares with us an actor's secret: her “moment before” from the Broadway production of Doubt. Plus, we got the scoop on going toe to toe with Brian Cox on Succession, whether or not she'd ever play Madame/Mama Rose in Gypsy, and trailblazing as a queer person in entertainment when she won her Tonys. This one was just a total treat!  Patreon: www.patreon.com/youmightknowherfrom Follow us on social media: @youmightknowherfrom || @damianbellino || @rodemanne Discussed this episode: Was Sarah Schulman's novel People in Trouble ripped off for Rent? Michael Greif directed Jonathan Larson's original production of Rent Gypsy Rose Lee's autobiography, Gypsy: A Memoir:  June Havoc's 2 memoirs: Early Havoc and More Havoc Arthur Laurents' memoir: Original Story By: Gypsy movie with Rosalind Russell (1962) + Bette Midler tv Gypsy (1993) Our Sunset Boulevard review on Patreon Book about original production of Sunset Boulevard We are digging into the source material for our: YEAR OF Rent | Gypsy | Sunset Boulevard | Chicago The play is called Chicago Bette's Emmy performance of “Rose's Turn” in stirrup pants Spongebob creator Hillenburg sold rights to Nickelodeon and when he died they made a musical and lots of spin-offs Tick Tick Boom introduced Anne to Raul Esparza “Boho Days” 5 Days at Memorial (Apple TV) Nan Pierce on Succession was the bus and truck Katherine Graham After doing Doubt on Broadway, she went on national tour with the show Dennis Haysbert was first President on 24 and then it was Cherry as Allison Taylor Had been doing rep at ART for 10 years when she opened as Catherine in the 1995 revival of The Heiress directed by Gerry Guitierrez Cherry saw Tyne Daly and Angela Lansbury's Gypsy Angela was a tall woman Jane Greenwood was costume designer for The Heiress and the Colleen Dewhurst's A Moon for the Misbegotten Has Colleen's student id card from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts hanging on her wall Played Ma Joad at the National Theatre in London last summer (will not transfer) Jessica Chastain A Doll's House got the phone stuff out of the way at pre-show Testament of Mary with Fiona Shaw Jessica Hecht was so good in Summer of 1976 and Eureka Day Cherry loves J. Smith Cameron in anything M Night Shyamalan's Signs and The Village Former guest of the show Celia Weston told us M Night's camp was fun but didn't inform the work Starred opposite Mel Gibson in the Jodie Foster's film, The Beaver Twelfth Night with Diane Lane (directed by Andrei Serban) Lifetime lesbian movie with Brooke Shields, What Makes a Family (2001) We interviewed Veronica Cartwright who was in The Children's Hour Played Eleanor Roosevelt opposite Hilary Swank's Amelia Eearhart in Amelia  Tina Howe and Jack O'Brien's Pride's Crossing is the thing Cherry wants us to see Played Matt Damon's mom in Ocean's 12 even though she is 14 years younger than him MOVIES CHERRY IS NOT IN: Cold Mountain and A League of Their Own (aka Avita Vayonne)  Does the audiobooks for Little House on the Prairie books Claire Danes reads audiobook of The Handmaid's Tale Essentially played Eileen Myles in Transparent Was NOT in the O'Malley with Mickey Rooney  Was never ASKED to be on The L Word We talked to Barrie Kreinik about Eva La Gallienne and Laurette Taylor but said it was RUMORED, no receipts Character in Noel Coward's Hay Fever based on  Laurette Taylor  Timothee Chalamet's speech at the 2025 SAG Awards “They Like Me” is actually “YOU LIKE ME” “It Came True”

In this episode, Hayley and Amy talk with Broadway director Schele Williams about authentic representation onstage and off, storytellers' responsibility to choose values over biases, the diverse manifestations of women's power, becoming friends with failure, and more. Click here for a transcript of the episode! Episode Notes Hosts: Hayley Goldenberg and Amy AndrewsGuest: Schele WilliamsMusic: Chloe Geller Episode Resources: The Notebook The Wiz Aida “We Fall Down” Your Legacy: A Bold Reclaiming of Our Enslaved History Your Legacy Begins: First Words to Empower Black Theatre United Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Women & Theatre: Hannah Coffman interview Guest Bio: Schele Williams (she/her) is a director committed to cultivating new musicals and devised work with authentic representation on stage and off. Profiled in Variety's Top 10 Broadway to Watch, she is currently directing the upcoming Broadway revivals of Aida (Disney Theatrical Group) and The Wiz, as well as the premieres of Mandela the Musical and Indigo. She made her Broadway directorial debut this season with The Notebook (co-directed with Michael Greif). She will also be helming Hidden Figures, currently in development (Disney Theatrical Group). Schele has directed at regional theatres and festivals across the country and has a long history of work on Broadway in Rent, Aida, and Motown: The Musical. Passionate about pairing social justice with the arts, Schele is a founding member of Black Theatre United, an organization committed to dismantling systemic racism on our streets and stages. She has been a member of Broadway Inspirational Voices for over two decades and serves as Chairperson of the Board, and also serves on the board of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Schele is the author of the children's book Your Legacy: A Bold Reclaiming of Our Enslaved History and recipient of a 2022 Boston Globe-Horn Book honor. Find Schele Online: Visit Schele's website Follow Schele on Instagram Thanks for listening! Who do you want to hear from next on the Women & Theatre Podcast? Nominate someone here. The Women & Theatre Podcast is created and produced by Hayley Goldenberg and Amy Andrews. Please like, comment, subscribe, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and consider making a donation to support our work. Thank you for listening!

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with one of musical theater's fastest-rising stars, Anna Zavelson, who is currently starring in Broadway's THE NOTEBOOK. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her fantastic career, including collaborating with her fellow Allies Maryann Plunkett and Aisha Jackson, working with Michael Greif and Schele Williams to find her unique take on the role, her audition process for THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA at Encores!, the challenges and rewards of staying in school while performing in New York, putting together her solo show, her two thwarted attempts at starring in SPELLING BEE, her lasting friendship with Andrea Burns, the ins and outs of performing in the Jimmy Awards, her dream jukebox musicals, the secret weapon she uses for an eight-show week, and so much more. You won't want to miss this chat with one of Broadway's best! 

In this episode, Hayley and Amy talk with Broadway performer Happy McPartlin about always being prepared to go on as a standby/cover, the importance of storytelling for human connection, holding onto your values and identity as a theatre person through career ups and downs, and more. Click here for a transcript of the episode! Episode Notes Hosts: Hayley Goldenberg and Amy AndrewsGuest: Happy McPartlinMusic: Chloe Geller Episode Resources: The Notebook Come From Away Guest Bio: Happy McPartlin (she/her) is currently understudying Older Allie and Mother/Nurse Lori on Broadway in the new musical The Notebook, written by Ingrid Michaelson and Bekah Brunstetter, directed by Michael Greif and Schele Williams. Prior to that, she completed a 5-year run as a standby with Come From Away on Broadway, performing in the show well over 400 times in 5 different roles. Prior to that, she spent time working in some of the preeminent theaters in Washington, DC, performing in the ensembles of 110 In The Shade at Ford's Theatre, The Secret Garden for The Shakespeare Theatre, Gun & Powder (workshop ) at Signature Theatre, as well as standing by for the Pre-Broadway run of Come From Away. Happy was honored to be chosen to play the role of Beulah in Come From Away for the 20th Anniversary Memorial Concert for 9/11 in Washington, DC at the Lincoln Memorial, which was attended by roughly 10,000 people. She has also appeared on the Come From Away national tour and performed the role of Hannah for the Come From Away Tiny Desk Concert for NPR. Other favorite credits include - Broadway: Hands on a Hardbody. National tours: Memphis 1st National Tour, Hairspray (Velma), The Full Monty (Georgie). Regional: Stages Repertory: Diana in Next to Normal; Paper Mill & TUTS: Curtains; Geva: …Spelling Bee; Ogunquit Playhouse: Les Misérables, Sunset Boulevard, and The Full Monty; Bucks County Playhouse: Pennywise in Urinetown, the Witch in Into The Woods, and Sugar Babies; The Chaperone in The Drowsy Chaperone at Theatre By the Sea. Happy's biggest joy is her family - an 8-year-old son and husband - and she loves spending time with dear friends doing just about anything, baking, and watching way too much television! Find Happy Online: Instagram Thanks for listening! Who do you want to hear from next on the Women & Theatre Podcast? Nominate someone here. The Women & Theatre Podcast is created and produced by Hayley Goldenberg and Amy Andrews. Please like, comment, subscribe, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and consider making a donation to support our work. Thank you for listening!

Jess is joined by the pop/rock trio BETTY (perhaps best known for THE L WORD theme song) as they release their 11th album “EAT.” Topics: how an indie bon vivant band (composed of sisters Elizabeth Ziff & Amy Ziff, best friend Alyson Palmer) lasts for 40 years, living together in the late 80s East Village, their performance at Sondheim: A Celebration at Carnegie Hall, HBO's ENCYCLOPEDIA, Aly's college daughter watching THE L WORD, starring in their own Off-Broadway show “BETTY Rules” directed by RENT's Michael Greif & more!  BETTY live in NYC @ The Cutting Room - Sept 22 hellobetty.com for tour dates IG: @jessxnyc | @bettyrules

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with the brilliant director Michael Greif, who completed a rare trifecta this season, directing the Broadway productions of Hell's Kitchen, Days of Wine and Roses, and The Notebook. Tune in today to hear him share insights from his storied career, including the personal significance of directing at the Shubert Theater, how a production of MACHINAL jumpstarted his career, the challenges and rewards of reviving ANGELS IN AMERICA, what drove him to accept a position as the artistic director of the La Jolla Playhouse, developing and refocusing NEXT TO NORMAL with Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, why he uses music in many of his plays, why NEVER GONNA DANCE couldn't ultimately succeed, the joy of collaborating with Patti LuPone, his long tenure with The Public Theater, how he addresses the cast of every production of RENT, the special qualities he saw in Idina Menzel and Maleah Joi Moon at the beginning of their careers, why he decided to bring Schele Williams on as his co-director for THE NOTEBOOK, the play of his that almost moved to Broadway, the musical rule that he discovered while working on GIANT, WAR PAINT, and IF/THEN, and so much more. 

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

[REBROADCAST FROM NOV. 16, 2023] In the 1980s and '90s, Alicia Keys was a girl living with her mother in a small apartment off Times Square, with a dream of being a professional musician. Of course, we know how her life turned out. Keys is one of the creators of a new musical inspired by her early life in Manhattan, featuring original music and lyrics. "Hell's Kitchen" tells the story of Ali (Maleah Joi Moon), a 17-year-old who wants to make it big. To discuss the show, we're joined by director Michael Greif, book writer Kristoffer Diaz, and music supervisor Adam Blackstone.

New evidence presented in effort to overturn Scott Peterson's conviction; Michael Greif talks ‘Hell's Kitchen' Tony Award nomination Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New evidence presented in effort to overturn Scott Peterson's conviction; Michael Greif talks ‘Hell's Kitchen' Tony Award nomination Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Long live Bohemia, because we're over the moon to be joined by the incredible Aussie icon, Fiona Choi! (Say what?! *faints*)This week, the infectious RENT alum joins AW and Spencer to Steal This Album from System of a Down, before setting off on an Australian Epic with the original Aussie Musical TV series soundtrack!Plus we chat the Power of RENT, Living in NYC, Scaffolding on Stage, Michael Greif, Population 11, What we'd wear to the Met Gala, Aussies in Bali, and heeaaps more... Tonight, on a very special Blossom! --SOCIALS--Fiona: https://www.instagram.com/fiona.choi/Fiona's Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/fionachoiSpencer: https://twitter.com/SpencerSher_ 54below Sings Volfpeck: https://54below.org/events/54-sings-vulfpeck/ *****Juxtaposing Metal with Musicals - joined by iconic guests from the worlds of Music, Broadway, Hollywood, and more! https://www.thetonastontales.com/listen -- https://www.patreon.com/bloomingtheatricals - https://twitter.com/thrashntreasurehttps://linktr.ee/thrashntreasure*****Help support Thrash 'n Treasure and keep us on-air, PLUS go on a fantastical adventure at the same time!Grab your copy of The Tonaston Tales by AW, and use the code TNT20 when you check out for 20% off eBooks and Paperbacks!https://www.thetonastontales.com/bookstore - TNT20 ***** ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Based on the best-selling novel by Nicholas Sparks, the new Broadway musical adaptation of “The Notebook” features music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, a book by playwright Bekah Brunstetter and is directed by Michael Greif and Schele Williams with choreography by Katie Spelman. Tony Award winner Maryann Plunkett plays Older Allie and Dorian Harewood is Older Noah. Both actors have been nominated for Tony Awards this season.

Jayne Atkinson believes she has this kind of magic superpower of getting what she wants if she puts her attention to it, and she's got a long list of credits to prove just that. She looks back on her childhood and having an English sensibility (and sense of humor) even though she grew up in America. She credits her high school drama teacher as the one who gave her the foundation of her work, and thinks fellow classmate Michael Greif is her “theatre angel”. Jayne talks about her latest play, "Still," which she stars in alongside her old friend Tim Daly. She shares the story of what made her say yes to the play after receiving the script from Will Rucker, and the show's themes of love, connection, and the importance of listening to each other. Jayne gets real as she reflects on the impact of technology on human connection, why she thinks “the SAG strike didn't hit some of the issues it needed to hit”, and the significance of live theater, especially today. With a successful acting career and so many credits under her name, she shares her personal motivations, advising aspirants to prioritize self-care and enjoyment in auditions. Jayne Atkinson is a British American actress who's graced everything from Broadway's grand stages to popular television shows. You might recognize her from her Emmy-nominated role as Karen Hayes on “24” or her powerful performances in “House of Cards” and “Criminal Minds”. Her accolades extend far beyond the screen, including Tony Award nominations for her captivating theater work in the 2000 production of “The Rainmaker” and the 2003 production of “Enchanted April”. Her other TV and film credits include “Parenthood”, “A Year in the Life”, “Gossip Girl”, “Madam Secretary”, and “Death and Other Details”. Jayne is also a three-time Drama Desk Award nominee. She was last seen on stage starring alongside Angela Lansbury in “Blithe Spirit”, and can now be seen in the off-Broadway production of “Still” at the DR2 Theater. Connect with Jayne: Instagram: @jayneatkinsonofficial Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast TheTheatrePodcast.com My personal Instagram: @alanseales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As part of Mickey-Jo's trip to New York, he got to catch THE NOTEBOOK at the Schoenfeld Theatre, a new musical adaptation of the Nicholas Sparks novel. Check out his ★★★★ review for his thoughts on this emotive musical and where it lets the rain in a little... The three-time Tony Award-nominated musical The Notebook, one of the most cherished contemporary love stories, is on Broadway starring 2024 Tony nominees Dorian Harewood and Maryann Plunkett. The Notebook started as a 1995 bestselling novel by Nicholas Sparks, which was then adapted into a 2004 fan-favorite movie starring Academy Award nominees Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling. Now, Ingrid Michaelson sets the timeless story to music: the indie singer-songwriter contributes original music and lyrics that breathe new life into the story of lovers Noah and Allie. A Broadway alum, Michaelson appeared as Sonya in Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812; now she returns as a first-time Broadway creative. In The Notebook on Broadway, an elderly man reads a romantic story to a female patient in a nursing home. The chapters that follow unlock a breathtaking love story, whisking the patient and the man back to their youth and providing the details that, as they age, will tragically connect them. Decades earlier, Allie and Noah were star-crossed lovers: Military drafts, family ties, and opposing classes all threatened to separate their love, but they have a once-in-a-lifetime relationship that endures for decades. Two Broadway powerhouses direct this new production, which premiered at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. Michael Greif, a four-time Tony Award nominee for electric productions like Rent and Next to Normal, co-directs The Notebook musical alongside Schele Williams, who is directing the 2024 The Wiz revival. Also on the team is librettist Bekah Brunstetter, who earned three Emmy nominations writing for This Is Us. The cast includes Tony Award-winner Maryann Plunkett as Older Allie, Dorian Harewood as Older Noah, Joy Woods as Middle Allie, Ryan Vasquez as Middle Noah, Jordan Tyson as Younger Allie, John Cardoza as Younger Noah, Andréa Burns as Mother/Nurse Lori, and Carson Stewart as Johnny/Fin. Playing various roles are Yassmin Alers, Alex Benoit, Chase Del Rey, Hillary Fisher, Jerome Harmann-Hardeman, Dorcas Leung, Happy McPartlin, Juliette Ojeda, Kim Onah, Charles E. Wallace, and Charlie Webb. • 00:00 | introduction 02:20 | overview / synopsis 08:31 | the material 16:29 | casting approach 21:52 | performances • 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

[REBROADCAST FROM November 16, 2023] In the 1980s and '90s, Alicia Keys was a girl living with her mother in a small apartment off Times Square, with a dream of being a professional musician. Of course, we know how her life turned out. Keys is one of the creators of a new Broadway musical inspired by her early life in Manhattan, featuring original music and lyrics. "Hell's Kitchen" tells the story of Ali (Maleah Joi Moon), a 17-year-old who wants to make it big. To discuss the show, we're joined by director Michael Greif, book writer Kristoffer Diaz, and music supervisor Adam Blackstone. "Hell's Kitchen" is running at Shubert Theatre. "Hell's Kitchen" is nominated for a Lucille Lortel Award for outstanding musical this year.

Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys and Pulitzer Prize-finalist playwright Kristoffer Diaz, along with Tony nominated director Michael Greif and Tony nominated choreographer Camille A. Brown bring their collective talents to the exhilarating new coming-of-age Broadway musical: "Hell's Kitchen." It's currently in previews at The Schubert Theatre, opening on April 20, after a sold-out and extended-run at The Public Theatre off-Broadway last fall into early this year. Kristoffer Diaz is a playwright, librettist, screenwriter, and educator.

The beloved film "The Notebook" has now gotten a Broadway musical makeover, with new original music from singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, a new adapted book, and innovative direction from Michael Greif and Schele Williams. Michaelson, Grief, and Williams join us to discuss the show, which is running now at the Schoenfeld Theatre.This segment is guest-hosted by Kousha Navidar.

Schele Williams has never been afraid to immerse herself in the thing that she loves in order to achieve what she wants. She reflects on her journey, the motivations and support from her family, and the significance of storytelling in her life, which has led her to where she is today. She shares how she chooses which projects to work on, given her busy schedule, her creative process, and making sure to foster a sense of involvement and connection with her children in whatever she does. She also emphasizes the importance of building relationships throughout her career and creating a supportive network. While she's accomplished so many things already, Schele opens up about dealing with imposter syndrome, particularly when transitioning to new roles, and how she overcame it. Currently co-directing “The Notebook”, Schele explains the conscious choice to diversify the casting in the show, which aims to make the story more inclusive and relatable to a broader audience. We also dive into her excitement about directing “The Wiz”, its impactful storytelling, how it celebrates blackness, friendship, and courage, and the joy of seeing children in the audience. Schele Williams is a Broadway director who was originally pursuing her dreams of playing with the London Philharmonic Orchestra as a teenager. She eventually became an actor with credits, including both “RENT” and “Aida” on Broadway, leading her to become dance captain for “RENT” on Broadway and an associate choreographer for the tour. She uncovered her true calling to being a director. She associate-directed “Motown the Musical” on Broadway, and is currently working on a stage adaptation of “Hidden Figures”. She is also co-directing “The Notebook” alongside Michael Greif, which just opened on Broadway, and is also solo directing the incoming extremely highly-anticipated production of “The Wiz”, scheduled to open on April 17th at the Marquis Theater–the first black woman to direct a Broadway musical in over 50 years. Connect with Schele: Website: schelewilliams.com Instagram: @schelewilliams Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast TheTheatrePodcast.com My personal Instagram: @alanseales Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Vasquez/@itsryanvasquez is currently starring as NOAH in the new Broadway musical, The Notebook! He has been featured in Broadway productions of WICKED, WAITRESS (original Broadway cast) and HAMILTON, where he became the only actor to play all the roles of Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson, and Hercules Mulligan/James Madison on Broadway, after premiering the show in San Francisco and Los Angeles. He also originated the role of Man in Black in THE WRONG MAN at MCC Theater (directed by HAMILTON's Thomas Kail with choreography by Emmy Award-winner Travis Wall), for which he received a Drama Desk Award nomination, as well as originating leading roles in the world premiere productions of THE NOTEBOOK (Chicago Shakespeare Theater, directed by RENT and DEAR EVAN HANSEN's Michael Greif and Schele Williams, with music by Ingrid Michaelson), THE OUTSIDERS (La Jolla Playhouse, directed by Danya Taymor with a book by Pulitzer Prize-finalist Adam Rapp), and WATER FOR ELEPHANTS (Alliance Theater, directed by KIMBERLY AKIMBO's Jessica Stone), all opening on Broadway in 2024. Ryan returned to MCC this fall in the world premiere of WALK ON THROUGH: CONFESSIONS OF A MUSEUM NOVICE (music by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Gavin Creel). He has also appeared in film and on television, including roles in the THE GOOD FIGHT (CBS), CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM (HBO), THE CODE (CBS), and the film adaptation of TICK...TICK...BOOM! (Netflix), directed by Lin Manuel-Miranda, starring Andrew Garfield. His voice has also been featured in several films, including VIVO! and IN THE HEIGHTS. He has performed around the country in theaters and symphony spaces, at the St. Louis Muny, Music Theater Wichita, Sacramento Music Circus, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and others. As an organizer, Ryan founded the voter outreach organization Swing From Home, which made contact with hundreds of thousands of voters in the 2020 election cycle, bringing Broadway talent to the homes of people across the world during the pandemic, and raising nearly one million dollars for down-ballot races across America. He was also a founding organizer of Generation We, a community support organization for LGBTQIA+ candidates running for local office. The son of an educator, Ryan has also worked as a teacher at the elementary, pre-college, and university level. Proud Michigan Graduate. Try your own Broadway Fitness Program at no cost/no catch! www.builtforthestage.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Vasquez/@itsryanvasquez is currently starring as NOAH in the new Broadway musical, The Notebook! He has been featured in Broadway productions of WICKED, WAITRESS (original Broadway cast) and HAMILTON, where he became the only actor to play all the roles of Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson, and Hercules Mulligan/James Madison on Broadway, after premiering the show in San Francisco and Los Angeles. He also originated the role of Man in Black in THE WRONG MAN at MCC Theater (directed by HAMILTON's Thomas Kail with choreography by Emmy Award-winner Travis Wall), for which he received a Drama Desk Award nomination, as well as originating leading roles in the world premiere productions of THE NOTEBOOK (Chicago Shakespeare Theater, directed by RENT and DEAR EVAN HANSEN's Michael Greif and Schele Williams, with music by Ingrid Michaelson), THE OUTSIDERS (La Jolla Playhouse, directed by Danya Taymor with a book by Pulitzer Prize-finalist Adam Rapp), and WATER FOR ELEPHANTS (Alliance Theater, directed by KIMBERLY AKIMBO's Jessica Stone), all opening on Broadway in 2024. Ryan returned to MCC this fall in the world premiere of WALK ON THROUGH: CONFESSIONS OF A MUSEUM NOVICE (music by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Gavin Creel). He has also appeared in film and on television, including roles in the THE GOOD FIGHT (CBS), CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM (HBO), THE CODE (CBS), and the film adaptation of TICK...TICK...BOOM! (Netflix), directed by Lin Manuel-Miranda, starring Andrew Garfield. His voice has also been featured in several films, including VIVO! and IN THE HEIGHTS. He has performed around the country in theaters and symphony spaces, at the St. Louis Muny, Music Theater Wichita, Sacramento Music Circus, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and others. As an organizer, Ryan founded the voter outreach organization Swing From Home, which made contact with hundreds of thousands of voters in the 2020 election cycle, bringing Broadway talent to the homes of people across the world during the pandemic, and raising nearly one million dollars for down-ballot races across America. He was also a founding organizer of Generation We, a community support organization for LGBTQIA+ candidates running for local office. The son of an educator, Ryan has also worked as a teacher at the elementary, pre-college, and university level. Proud Michigan Graduate. Try your own Broadway Fitness Program at no cost/no catch! www.builtforthestage.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Days of Wine and Roses runs on Broadway at Studio 54 through March 31st. Find out more at www.daysofwineandrosesbroadway.com. Follow The Present Stage on Instagram at @thepresentstageThe Present Stage: Conversations with Theater Writers is hosted by Dan Rubins, a theater critic for Slant Magazine. You can also find Dan's reviews on Cast Album Reviews and in The New Yorker's Briefly Noted column.The Present Stage supports the national nonprofit Hear Your Song. If you'd like to learn more about Hear Your Song and how to support empowering youth with serious illnesses to make their voices heard though songwriting, please visit www.hearyoursong.org

In this week's episode, Joel Crump is at the OPENING NIGHT of The Notebook! He shares Broadway buzz, Broadway history, and Box Office Beat! He interviews author Nicholas Sparks, cast members John Cardoza, Jordan Tyson, and Dorian Harewood, directors Michael Greif and Schele Williams, and VIP guests Eva Noblezada, Courtney Reed, Wesley Taylor, Okieriete Onaodowan! Joel also discusses what's happening this week on Broadway (Mar. 12-16)! Indulge in Broadway buzz like never before with "The Weekly Dose of Joel: Everything Broadway and More." This podcast, brought to you by the Broadway Podcast Network and Broadway Time, delivers the latest news, theater history, and exclusive interviews with Broadway stars, all in one podcast! Don't miss out on your front-row seat to the magic of Broadway! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dylan and Connor are joined by John Cardoza (The Notebook, Moulin Rouge). Vibes are immaculate as they sat down during The Notebook's opening week with the star playing “Younger Noah.” The twins and John discuss Sunday's Academy Awards telecast, including favorite wins, moments, and the iconic “I'm Just Ken” performance. We catch up with him on The Notebook experience so far, the gorgeous score by Ingrid Michaelson, and creating a seamless character arc with Ryan Vasquez and Dorian Harewood as Noah. John also previews his opening night lewk. Then, he takes us back to his Boston boyhood, the musical influences his mom bestowed upon him, and a figure skating past life. John connects the dots from Next to Normal to Michael Greif in forming his musical theatre passion, coming full circle as the prolific director is co-helming The Notebook with Schele Williams. Some Cleveland (and Baldwin Wallace) love is shared among the boys, as John reminisces on his time on tour with Moulin Rouge. Listen in for his favorite songs to sing as Christian, and the lessons gleaned from his time with Jagged Little Pill (“You Learn” vibes). But wait… there's more! Dune Part 2 raves, a Drag Race season 16 mid-point check-in, and more top off this amazing chat. We adore John!Follow John on InstagramFollow DRAMA. on Twitter & Instagram & TiktokFollow Connor MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramFollow Dylan MacDowell on Twitter & InstagramEdited by DylanSupport the podcast by subscribing to DRAMA+, which also includes bonus episodes, Instagram Close Friends content, and more!

In this episode When Lightning Strikes! goes on location to the theater at Studio 54. Jeryl Brunner talks to Brian d'Arcy James who currently stars in Days of Wine and Roses with Kelli O'Hara. Adapted from the 1962 film and original 1958 teleplay by J.P. Miller, this new musical features a book by Craig Lucas, Adam Guettel's music and lyrics and direction by Michael Greif. In this extensive conversation Brian talks about the epic journey to bring Days of Wine and Roses to the stage and why the show is so important to him.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode Alert! Your favorite podcast hosts Jason A. Coombs and Samantha Tuozzolo are live on the red carpet of "Days of Wine and Roses" from Sunday, January 28! Featuring interviews with the stars and production team of the show including Kelli O'Hara, Brian d'Arcy James, Sharon Catherine Brown, Olivia Hernandez, David Jennings, and David Manis among others! Plus we chat with other attendees including Bernadette Peters, Vanessa Williams, LaChanze, Victoria Clark, Schele Williams, George Takei, Montego Glover, and more! Kelli O'Hara and Brian d'Arcy James star in a searing new musical about a couple falling in love in 1950s New York and struggling against themselves to build their family. The New York Times calls Days of Wine and Roses “a jazzy, aching new musical with wells of compassion!” (Critic's Pick) and The Washington Post raves, “Kelli O'Hara and Brian d'Arcy James soar! One of the best new musicals this year.” Adapted from JP Miller's 1962 film and original 1958 teleplay, composer & lyricist Adam Guettel (Floyd Collins) and playwright Craig Lucas (An American in Paris) reunite in their first collaboration since their acclaimed The Light in the Piazza. Directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen). Days of Wine and Roses features direction by Michael Greif, choreography by Sergio Trujillo and Karla Puno Garcia, scenic design by Lizzie Clachan, costume design by Dede Ayite, lighting design by Ben Stanton, sound design by Kai Harada, music direction by Kimberly Grigsby, orchestrations by Adam Guettel and Jamie Lawrence, hair and wigs by David Brian Brown, and casting by The Telsey Office; Craig Burns, CSA. Judith Schoenfeld serves as production stage manager. Days of Wine and Roses stars Kelli O'Hara and Brian d'Arcy James, with Byron Jennings, Tabitha Lawing, Sharon Catherine Brown, Tony Carlin, Bill English,  Olivia Hernandez, David Jennings, David Manis, Steven Booth, Nicole Ferguson, Addie Manthey and Kelcey Watson. The episode opens with a MIC CHECK where Jason and Samantha share that season 3 of Survival Jobs officially drops the week of March 3, 2024!!! You can support the podcast and the hosts at www.buymeacoffee.com/SurvivalJobsPod and on Instagram at @surivaljobspod | @SammyTutz | @JasonACoombs.  Info on Your Hosts:  Broadway World Article on our Season 2 Launch Party Follow Samantha: Instagram.   |  Samantha's Official Website here Follow Jason on Instagram  | Twitter. Check out Jason's Official Website here Check out and support The Bridgeport Film Fest Important Links: Support the citizens of Gaza Native Land Map US Interior Indian Affairs NPR: "How To Help Puerto Rico" Article How to Help the People of Florida Article Abortion Funds Website Plan C Pills Website National Write Your Congressman Link How to help Uvalde families NPR Article Where to Donate to Support Access to Abortions Right Now Support Us... Please!  If you're feeling generous, Buy Us A Coffee HERE! Please don't become complacent: Support the Black Mamas Matter Alliance Support Families Detained and Separated at the Border.  Support the AAPI Civic Engagement Fund. Support Black Trans Folx here Donate to the Community League of the Heights (CLOTH) Support the People of Palestine How to be an Ally to the AAPI Community 168 Ways to Donate in Support of Black Lives and Communities of Color The New York Times: On Mexico's Border With U.S., Desperation as Migrant Traffic Piles Up PBS: How to help India during its COVID surge — 12 places you can donate Covid quarantine didn't stop antisemitic attacks from rising to near-historic highs Opening and Closing Theme Music: "One Love" by Beats by Danny | Game Music: "Wake Up" by MBB.  If you enjoy Survival Jobs: A Podcast be sure to subscribe and follow us on your preferred podcast listening app! Also, feel free to follow us on Instagram and Twitter! Thank you!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

[REBROADCAST FROM May 26, 2023] A new musical adapts JP Miller's 1962 film, "Days of Wine and Roses," for the Broadway stage. Set in 1950s New York, the musical tells the story of Joe Clay (Brian d'Arcy James) and Kristen Arnesen (Kelli O'Hara), a couple who fall in love, but also both struggle with alcoholism. d'Arcy James, O'Hara, and director Michael Greif join to discuss their adaptation. "Days of Wine and Roses" is running at Studio 54 through April 28.  

Romeo is one of literature's most famous characters and now he is being embodied by Ben Jackson Walker who is making his Broadway debut in the new hit musical & Juliet.After seeing the show a few weeks ago, I was so excited to have the opportunity to speak with him.In this interview Ben is Baring It All with Call Me Adam about:Making his Broadway debut in & JulietThe challenges of performing on BroadwayStage MishapsSecond ChancesHow someone takes time off in a Broadway showSo much moreAbout & Juliet:Created by the Emmy-winning writer of Schitt's Creek, this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn't end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way.Juliet's new story bursts to life through a playlist of pop anthems as iconic as her name, including "Since U Been Gone‚" "Roar," "Baby One More Time," "Larger Than Life‚" "That's The Way It Is,“ and "Can't Stop the Feeling!"—all from the genius songwriter/producer behind more #1 hits than any other artist this century. Break free of the balcony scene and get into this romantic comedy that proves there's life after Romeo. The only thing tragic would be missing it.& Juliet plays at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre in NYC (124 West 43rd Street)More on Ben Jackson Walker:Ben Jackson Walker is making his Broadway debut alongside this unbelievable cast and crew. TV/Film: Honor Society (Paramount+), Orange is the New Black, Evil. Theater: Connecticut Repertory Theater, Pittsburgh CLO, and workshops directed by Liesl Tommy and Michael Greif. He is a graduate of the musical theater program at the University of Michigan.Special Thanks:Molly Barnett, Chelsea Nachman, Amanda Marie Miller, Grapevine PRTheme Song by Bobby CroninPodcast Logo by Liam O'DonnellEdited by Adam RothenbergConnect with Me:Website: www.callmeadam.comFacebook: @CallMeAdamNYCInstagram: @CallMeAdamNYCMentioned in this episode:GME (Good Morning Entrepreneurs) CommericalI want to tell you a personal behind the curtain story that I may not have fully shared here. For the past two years, I have been part of an amazing community built for and by entrepreneurs called My Sexy Business. We have a wonderful weekly live streaming show called GME (Good Morning Entrepreneurs). As an Associate Producer and Roving Reporter, I can easily say this show is for you, the entrepreneur who is in search of community and getting your questions answered. Our Co-Hosts and Roving Reporters share life experiences that will hopefully make you feel less alone on your entrepreneurial journey. We'd love for you to join us every Friday at 8 a. m. Eastern Standard Time at https://www.mysexybusiness.com/gme

In the 1980s and '90s, Alicia Keys was a girl living with her mother in a small apartment off Times Square, with a dream of being a professional musician. Of course, we know how her life turned out. Keys is one of the creators of a new musical at The Public Theater inspired by her early life in Manhattan, featuring original music and lyrics. "Hell's Kitchen" tells the story of Ali (Maleah Joi Moon), a 17-year-old who wants to make it big. To discuss the show, we're joined by director Michael Greif, book writer Kristoffer Diaz, and music supervisor Adam Blackstone. "Hell's Kitchen" opens on Monday and runs through January 14. 

Jose Llana returns to Broadway in the highly anticipated production of David Byrne & Fat Boy Slim's Here Lies Love, for which he earned a Lucille Lortel Award nomination for creating the role of “Marcos” at the Public Theatre. He most recently starred as The King Of Siam in Lincoln Center Theater's Tony Award Winning revival of The King & I on Broadway, the US National Tour and the UK Tour. Previous Broadway credits include Chip Tolentino in William Finn's The 25th Annual Putnam Country Spelling Bee (Drama Desk Award, dir. James Lapine), El Gato in Wonderland, Wang Ta in David Henry Hwang's adaptation of Rodgers & Hammerstein's Flower Drum Song, Angel in RENT (dir. Michael Greif), Jessie-Lee in Streetcorner Symphony and his debut as Lun Tha in the 1996 Revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein's The King & I opposite Donna Murphy and Lou Diamond Phillips. Off-Broadway appearances include Adam in Falling For Eve (York), Gabey in On the Town (dir. George C. Wolfe, Delacorte) and Adam Guettel's Saturn Returns (dir. Tina Landau, Public Theater). Regional appearances include Bill Sikes in Oliver! (Papermill), Guillaume in Cameron Mackintosh's Martin Guerre (Guthrie Theater), Tin Man in Ballad of Little Jo (Steppenwolf Theater, dir. Tina Landau, Jefferson Nomination - Best Supporting Actor) and Candide in Candide (Prince Theater, Barrymore Nomination - Best Actor). TV/Film appearances include HBO's Sex and the City opposite Margaret Cho and Hitch with Will Smith. Appearing on numerous cast albums Jose is also a best-selling recording artist on the VIVA Philippines label. He has made two appearances with American Songbook in 2019 and 2015 which led to the release of his second solo CD, Altitude in the spring of 2016. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chukwudi Iwuji is an award winning actor as well as a writer. An extraordinary actor both on screen and on stage, Chukwudi continues to captivate audiences with his versatility and establish himself as one to watch.   He recently made his debut in the Marvel universe in James Gunn's GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL 3, the final instalment in the blockbuster franchise. Starring as the main villain ‘High Evolutionary', Chukwudi has received rave reviews for his performance as an all-time Marvel Villain.  In 2022, he made his debut in the DC Universe starring as ‘Clemson Mern' in the DC Comics and HBOMax series PEACEMAKER, also from the mind of James Gunn. Additional television credits include the BBC drama THE SPLIT, Michael Morrissey's THE GIRL WHO GOT AWAY, as well as the Emmy nominated Amazon limited series THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD for director Barry Jenkins. Other television appearances include WHEN THEY SEE US, DESIGNATED SURVIVOR, QUANTICO, THE BLINDSPOT, MADAM SECRETARY, and DOCTOR WHO.   His additional film credits include the Netflix feature SHINE YOUR EYES, the thriller DANIEL ISN'T REAL opposite Sasha Lane and Patrick, Netflix's BARRY, Chad Stahelski's JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2 opposite Keanu Reeves, A WOMAN A PART, NOW: IN THE WINGS OF A WORLD STAGE, the multi-award winning EXAM, and FALL TO RISE.  As an accomplished theater veteran, Chukwudi starred in OTHELLO for The Public Theatre's Shakespeare in the Park as well as in ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA, KING LEAR, and HAMLET. His performance in THE LOW ROAD, directed by Michael Greif, earned him an Obie Award, as well as 2018 Lucille Lortel and Drama League nominations. An Associate Artist of the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company for his numerous Shakespearean performances, he has also received two Olivier awards for his titular role as HENRY VI in the RSC's 2009 productions of parts I, II, and III.    Other stage credits include the titular role in the Public Theatre's HAMLET directed by Patricia McGregor; Ivo van Hove's OBSESSION opposite Jude Law, and HEDDA GABLER opposite Ruth Wilson, both for The National Theatre; The Public Theatre's productions of KING LEAR and ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA; Theatre for a New Audience's TAMBURLAINE directed by Michael Boyd; and the Old Vic's RICHARD III directed by Sam Mendes.  He is also a founding member of Chudor House Productions, his family's production and management company. We chat about the cycle of highs and lows, having his own stamp, the benefits of meditation, Guardians of the Galaxy 3, working hard at our emotions, fear, pay offs, signs and guardian angels. 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 Chukwudi out on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chukwudi_iwuji/ ------------------------------------------- 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

A new musical adapts JP Miller's 1962 film, "Days of Wine and Roses," for the off-Broadway stage. Set in 1950s New York, the musical tells the story of Joe Clay (Brian d'Arcy James) and Kristen Arnesen (Kelli O'Hara), a couple who fall in love, but also both struggle with alcoholism. d'Arcy James, O'Hara, and director Michael Greif ("Dear Evan Hansen") join to discuss their adaptation. "Days of Wine and Roses" is running at Linda Gross Theater through July 9.  

Career Conversations Q&A with Olivier Award winner Chukwudi Iwuji who is currently starring in Othello, moderated by Broadway World's Richard Ridge of "Backstage with Richard Ridge!" Chukwudi Iwuji can currently be seen starring as the title character in Othello for The Public Theatre's Shakespeare in the Park. He most recently starred as John Blanke in Michael Greif's The Low Road at The Public Theater. For his performance, Chukwudi won a 2018 Obie Award and earned nominations for a 2018 Drama League Award in the category of Distinguished Performance and a 2018 Lucille Lortel Award in the category of Outstanding Lead Actor in a play. The show was also nominated for an Outer Critics Circle Award. Chukwudi is an Associate Artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company, for his numerous Shakespearean performances. He received two Olivier awards for his titular role as Henry VI in the RSC's 2009 productions of parts I, II, and III Additional theatre credits include The National Theatre's Hedda Gabler, The Public Theatre's Hamlet, King Lear, Antony and Cleopatra, Theatre for a New Audience's Tamburlaine, and Old Vic's Richard III. On television Chukwudi will next be seen in the upcoming SundanceTV & BBC series The Split. His past television credits include NBC's The Blindspot and Crossing Lines, CBS's Madam Secretary, Doctor Who, Wizard Vs. Aliens, Casualty, and The Slave Trade for BBC, Sky's The Three Kings, Tiger Aspect's The Garden, and RTE's Proof. He can also be seen in multiple films including Netflix's Barry, Chad Stahelski's John Wick: Chapter 2 opposite Keanu Reeves, A Woman A Part, Now: In the Wings of A World Stage, Exam, and Fall to Rise.

NEXT TO NORMAL COMPOSER: Tom Kitt LYRICIST: Brian Yorkey BOOK: Brian Yorkey DIRECTOR: Michael Greif CHOREOGRAPHER: Sergio Trujillo PRINCIPLE CAST: Alice Ripley (Diana), J. Robert Spencer (Dan), Aaron Tveit (Gabe) OPENING DATE: Apr 15, 2009 CLOSING DATE: Jan 16, 2011 PERFORMANCES: 733 SYNOPSIS: Diana, a suburban wife and mother, is so devoted to her teenage son Gabe that she has neglected her other family members. What makes matters even more complicated is that Gabe died when he was two years old. As Diana slips further and further away from reality her family must try to save her. Lyricist and book writer Brian Yorkey discusses his collaboration with composer Tom Kitt and director Michael Greif and the challenges in musicalizing a mental health crises in Next to Normal. Yorkey reflects on the delicate balancing act between presenting heavy subject matter and introducing levity to a narrative through humor without belittling mental illness. The development process of the musical helped the creative team realize the themes they were most invested in exploring. Controversial subject matter studied through a rock musical earned the surprise attention from the Pulitzer Prize committee and expanded the potential thematic focus of future Broadway musicals. Brian Yorkey received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, as well as the 2009 Tony Award for Best Score, for Next to Normal. He was also nominated for the Tony Award for Best Musical and Best Book of a Musical for Next to Normal, and his work on the show earned him the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Score. He's a graduate of Columbia University, an alum of the BMI/Lehman Engel Musical Theatre Workshop and a proud member of the Dramatists Guild and the WGA. SOURCE Next to Normal, Original Cast Recording, Ghostlight Records (2009) Next to Normal by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, published by Theatre Communications Group (2010) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RENT COMPOSER: Jonathan Larson LYRICIST: Jonathan Larson BOOK: Jonathan Larson SOURCE: La Boheme by Giacomo Puccini (1896) DIRECTOR: Michael Greif CHOREOGRAPHER: Marlies Yearby PRINCIPLE CAST: Adam Pascal (Roger), Anthony Rapp (Mark), Daphne Rubin-Vega (Mimi) OPENING DATE: Apr 29, 1996 CLOSING DATE: Sep 07, 2008 PERFORMANCES: 5,123 SYNOPSIS: Mark and Roger are two bohemian artists living in New York's lower East Side at the height of the AIDS epidemic. Mark is a documentary filmmaker and Roger is an HIV positive songwriter. When Roger meets Mimi, a drug addict, he falls madly in love but is unsure if he should tell her of his impending mortality.   Composer Jonathon Larson set out to bring musical theatre to a new generation with Rent, a rock opera based on Puccini's La Boheme and set in Lower Manhattan's East Village. The musical helped break taboos and stigma around queerness, trans liberation, and AIDs. Jordan Dragutsky chronicles Larson's quest for giving his generation a voice that sounded like the popular music of the time with the sophistication of musical theatre composition, the advocacy of Rent by New York Theatre Works, the unique casting and design process that was helmed by director Michael Greif, and how the unexpected death of Larson catapulted Rent, and its stars, to global popularity.  Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jordan Dragutsky grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry and relocated to New York in 2010 after graduating from UCIrvine (BA Drama/Minor Queer Studies). Jordan has assisted in press offices and production/merchandising for over 30 Broadway, Off-Broadway, dance, and touring productions including: Harry Potter & The Cursed Child, Hair, Wicked, and Book of Mormon. He joined the administrative staff at the New York Film Academy in 2012, and from 2015-2020 he served as Senior Dept. Coordinator for the Musical Theatre department. Jordan is a proud member of SAG/AFTRA with experience working on over 100 TV/Film sets. Featured credits include The Cobbler (Goth Guy), Only Murders In The Building (Hulu), and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Ocarina Player).  SOURCES Rent, Original Cast Recording, Dreamworks Records (1996) Rent by Jonathan Larson, published by It Books (1997) Rent starring Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, directed by Chris Columbus, Columbia Pictures (2005) Rent Filmed Live on Broadway starring Will Chase and Adam Kantor, directed by Michael John Warren, Radical Media (2008) Rent Live starring Jordan Fisher and Brennin Hunt directed by Michael Grief, 20th Century Fox Television (2019) Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss, And The Musical Rent by Anthony Rapp, Simon & Schuster (2006) Rent FAQs: All That's Left To Know About Broadway's Blaze of Glory by Tom Rowan, published by Applause (2007) On Broadway: From Rent to Revolution by Drew Hodges, published by Rizzoli (2016) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Señor Jr. was born and raised in Miami, Florida. In the summer of 2021 he made his film directorial debut with the HBO Original Documentary Revolution Rent, Executive produced by Neil Patrick Harris . He was the Associate Director of Gloria and Emilio Estefan's musical On Your Feet! on Broadway, Netherlands, and UK West End Productions as well as Roundabout Theatre Company's Broadway production of Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn. He served as Associate Director on the new musical FLY at Dallas Theatre Center w Jeffrey Seller. Andy made his professional debut in the Tony Award winning musical RENT as "Angel," playing the role on Broadway, London's West End, and US National and International Tours. Later he became the Assistant Director to Michael Greif on the RENT revival Off Broadway, and went on to re-stage the production in Tokyo, Japan and the historic production in Havana, Cuba. Most recently he directed two new Nilo Cruz plays, Tsunami and Farhad and the Secret of Being. He holds a BFA in Theatre from Florida International University who honored him with a Torch Award, noting him as a distinguished alumni, and further trained at The Public Theatre's Shakespeare LAB where he appeared in All's Well That Ends Well at the PUBLIC Theatre.

Strategizing Sunday Your Call Source: https://denise.blog/2020/05/03/your-call/ Author: David Alpert is an award-winning New York City based director (SDC), whose work has been applauded by both the New York Times and The New Yorker. As a director of both plays and musicals, his work has taken him across the country, and has brought him into rehearsal rooms with some of the leading players in the Broadway community. On Broadway he served as the Associate Director on If/Then (written by the Pulitzer Prize winning team of Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, directed by Michael Greif), the Tony-Award winning production of The Trip to Bountiful starring Cicely Tyson & Vanessa Williams (also at the Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles), and assisted on The Best Man starring James Earl Jones, Angela Lansbury, Candice Bergen, John Larroquette, Eric McCormack, and John Stamos, as well as the revival of Guys & Dolls. Denise Caston-Clark is director of Tap Dance Detroit and the annual Motor City Tap Fest. She was a Radio City Rockette for 10 years and toured nationally with the Tony Award winning musical, Crazy For You. Denise has also had the honor of performing the choreography of Savion Glover at a showcase in New York City. She performed on tour in Australia, dancing all over the continent in Elvis to the Max. Her choreography has been seen in many productions in which she performed, including shows at Caesars Windsor in Ontario, Canada. Are you practicing your tip for the day? Share with us on social media and tag @dancetipsdaily to be shared on our platform! Don't forget to follow us on IG and Facebook @dancetipsdaily! Stay up to date with DTD & Subscribe to the once a month newsletter at www.dancetipsdaily.com Like what you heard? Give us a 5 star rating or share with a friend to help us keep bringing well rounded & grounded dance content to you! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/dance-tips-daily/support

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

Andy Señor Jr. was born and raised in Miami, Florida. In the summer of 2021 he made his film directorial debut with the HBO Original Documentary Revolution Rent, Executive produced by Neil Patrick Harris . He was the Associate Director of Gloria and Emilio Estefan's musical On Your Feet! on Broadway, Netherlands, and UK West End Productions as well as Roundabout Theatre Company's Broadway production of Irving Berlin's Holiday Inn. He served as Associate Director on the new musical FLY at Dallas Theatre Center w Jeffrey Seller. Andy made his professional debut in the Tony Award winning musical RENT as "Angel," playing the role on Broadway, London's West End, and US National and International Tours. Later he became the Assistant Director to Michael Greif on the RENT revival Off Broadway, and went on to re-stage the production in Tokyo, Japan and the historic production in Havana, Cuba. Most recently he directed two new Nilo Cruz plays, Tsunami and Farhad and the Secret of Being. He holds a BFA in Theatre from Florida International University who honored him with a Torch Award, noting him as a distinguished alumni, and further trained at The Public Theatre's Shakespeare LAB where he appeared in All's Well That Ends Well at the PUBLIC Theatre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your Morning Triathlon - Michael Greif

TONY Nominee, Jennifer Damiano talks about being a teenage Broadway star in episode 40 of LITTLE ME: Growing Up Broadway. Jenn sits down with Broadway Workshop director, Marc Tumminelli and tells listeners about her wonderful experience performing in shows with Random Farms Kids Theater, playing Josefina and Samantha in The American Girls Revue at American Girl Place, traveling to Los Angeles for a Sex and the City promo, and making her Broadway debut in the original company of Spring Awakening at 15 years old. Jenn shares what it was like being in the hottest show in New York in tenth grade, her magical first experience attending and performing at the Tony Awards, booking the role of Natalie in Next to Normal and why the show changed her life, working with the talented Michael Greif, being a part of the evolving nature of the show between the Off-Broadway and Broadway productions, and receiving her first Tony Award nomination at only 17 years old for her brilliant portrayal of Natalie. Jenn talks about the excitement and fear surrounding Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, the transition from the intimate feel of Next to Normal to the big Broadway production of Spider-Man, working again with Duncan Sheik on American Psycho and Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice, and tells listeners to look forward to Black No More, a new musical at The Signature Theatre with The New Group when theater returns to New York. Produced by The Broadway Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RYAN SCOTT OLIVER (ryanscottoliver.com) (IG:@ryanscottoliver)(TW:@ryanscottoliver) was called “the future of Broadway… a major new voice in musical theatre” (Entertainment Weekly) and is “shaking up musical theater with his dark, twisted and genius work … [Oliver] could very well be musical theater’s answer to an auteur filmmaker or a gothic novelist” (Huffington Post).He wrote the book, music and lyrics for Jasper in Deadland (book by Tony Award-nominee Hunter Foster) which was first Off-Broadway in a spring 2014 run, and then presented at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre in May 2015;as well as Darling; Havana! (with director Warren Carlyle); Otherbody, a brief musical allegory; and Mrs. Sharp (read at Playwrights Horizons July 2009 starring Jane Krakowski, dir. by Michael Greif); and more. Both Jasper in Deadland and 35mm: A Musical Exhibition are licensed worldwide by Samuel French, and have cast recordings on the Ghostlight/Sh-k-boom label. Oliver is a Jonathan Larson Grant Recipient, Richard Rodgers Award Winner, Lortel Award Nominee, numerous ASCAP awards, a Dramatists Guild Fellow, a guest lecturer at Harvard University, and the recipient of residencies at 5th Avenue Theatre, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, Weston Playhouse, Cap 21, the York Theatre, Running Deer Ranch, Pace University, Harvard University, San Diego State University, Playwrights Horizons and more. Off-Broadway and elsewhere: Disney Theatricals commission, TheatreWorksUSA’s We the People, Rosie O’Donnell’s Theater Kids, and cabarets worldwide. Additionally, he is the Director of New Musicals at Pace University in downtown Manhattan and the Artistic Director of the Pasadena Musical Theatre Program. His songbook, Music+Lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver: Vol. 1, was published by Hal Leonard in 2011.  M.F.A. Musical Theatre Writing NYU; B.A. Music Composition, UCLA. Songbooks and sheet music available at ryanscottoliver.com. Oliver is also currently at work on a new project for Universal Theatrical Group with Kirsten Guenther and a trilogy of new musicals about American desperation in war-time: the first, a southern Gothic thriller set in small-town Missouri, 1945 entitled We Foxes (commissioned by Broadway Across America);the second, a Civil War drama called Rope (commissioned by Grove Entertainment, 2015);and the final part, a contemporary “marriage play” called Three Points of Contact.His morbidly optimistic musings may be followed on all platforms.

RYAN SCOTT OLIVER (ryanscottoliver.com) (IG:@ryanscottoliver)(TW:@ryanscottoliver) was called “the future of Broadway… a major new voice in musical theatre” (Entertainment Weekly) and is “shaking up musical theater with his dark, twisted and genius work … [Oliver] could very well be musical theater’s answer to an auteur filmmaker or a gothic novelist” (Huffington Post).He wrote the book, music and lyrics for Jasper in Deadland (book by Tony Award-nominee Hunter Foster) which was first Off-Broadway in a spring 2014 run, and then presented at Seattle’s 5th Avenue Theatre in May 2015;as well as Darling; Havana! (with director Warren Carlyle); Otherbody, a brief musical allegory; and Mrs. Sharp (read at Playwrights Horizons July 2009 starring Jane Krakowski, dir. by Michael Greif); and more. Both Jasper in Deadland and 35mm: A Musical Exhibition are licensed worldwide by Samuel French, and have cast recordings on the Ghostlight/Sh-k-boom label. Oliver is a Jonathan Larson Grant Recipient, Richard Rodgers Award Winner, Lortel Award Nominee, numerous ASCAP awards, a Dramatists Guild Fellow, a guest lecturer at Harvard University, and the recipient of residencies at 5th Avenue Theatre, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, Weston Playhouse, Cap 21, the York Theatre, Running Deer Ranch, Pace University, Harvard University, San Diego State University, Playwrights Horizons and more. Off-Broadway and elsewhere: Disney Theatricals commission, TheatreWorksUSA’s We the People, Rosie O’Donnell’s Theater Kids, and cabarets worldwide. Additionally, he is the Director of New Musicals at Pace University in downtown Manhattan and the Artistic Director of the Pasadena Musical Theatre Program. His songbook, Music+Lyrics by Ryan Scott Oliver: Vol. 1, was published by Hal Leonard in 2011.  M.F.A. Musical Theatre Writing NYU; B.A. Music Composition, UCLA. Songbooks and sheet music available at ryanscottoliver.com. Oliver is also currently at work on a new project for Universal Theatrical Group with Kirsten Guenther and a trilogy of new musicals about American desperation in war-time: the first, a southern Gothic thriller set in small-town Missouri, 1945 entitled We Foxes (commissioned by Broadway Across America);the second, a Civil War drama called Rope (commissioned by Grove Entertainment, 2015);and the final part, a contemporary “marriage play” called Three Points of Contact.His morbidly optimistic musings may be followed on all platforms.  

Rodney Hicks is a New York actor/playwright, originally from Philly, who makes his home in Denver, CO with his husband and two dogs. He is currently working on a new project with some really special people. Hicks is an Award-winning Black Gay Male Artist. His play FLAME BROILED. or the ugly play had its World Premiere at Local Theater Company in Boulder, CO in the Fall of 2019. The play was awarded the 2019 Eulipions Fund on behalf of The Denver Foundation. His other plays, JUST PRESS SAVE and MS. PEARL'S CABARET was a 2018 and 2019 Semi-Finalist for the Eugene O’Neill Theater Conference. JUST PRESS SAVE had a successful workshop presentation via Zoom in a private industry reading as part of the PRIDE Plays Festival of New Plays on June 20, 2020. It was directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT). The cast included: Tony Award Nominee Hailey Kilgore as Jocelyn Baxter, Taylor Trensch as Curtis Miller, Kenny Tran as Bolin Hsu, Wyatt Gray as Damon Webster, Rafael Molina as Carter Alvarez, and Rocky Vega as Monica Alvarez. What an AWESOME time we all had. Rodney has co-starred on Broadway as part of the Original Cast of the now International Hit Musical, COME FROM AWAY, by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. Rodney Originated the role of Bob & Others. Directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley with Musical Staging by Olivier Award winner Kelly Devine. (Rodney was nominated for a Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical -Ford’s Theater & a Gypsy Rose Lee nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Musical -Seattle Rep); Rodney Originated the role of Clarence Norris in John Kander & Fred Ebb's The Scottsboro Boys. Directed and Choreographed by Tony Award winner Susan Stroman; Rodney Revived the role of Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar (2000 Revival). Directed by Gayle Edwards with Choreography by Anthony Van Laast; Rodney Originated the role of Paul, a Cop and Others in the multiple Tony Award/Pulitzer Prize honored Landmark Musical RENT. Directed by Tony Award nominee Michael Greif with Choreography by Tony Award nominee Marlies Yearby. Rodney had a once in a lifetime opportunity to come full circle with RENT, coming back to the show in its final year on Broadway as Benjamin Coffin III. He plays Benny on the RENT: Live on Broadway DVD/ also available on streaming services. Some of his Off-Broadway credits include Originating the role of Philly in Lee Summers, Ty Stephens, and Herbert Rawlings, Jr’s R&B Musical, FROM MY HOMETOWN. Directed by Kevin Ramsey with Choreography by Leslie Dockery. (Audelco Award Outstanding Leading Actor in a Musical nomination); He Originated the role of Rodney in the 2006 revival of Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris. Directed by Gordon Greenberg with choreography by Mark Dendy. Rodney has a host of National/International tours and Prominent Regional theatre credits to his name. Rodney has the distinction of being the first African-American to portray the role of Curly in the first professional all-Black production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! at Portland Center Stage. Directed by his now-husband, Chris Coleman. Choreographed by Joel Ferrell. Rodney was awarded the Barrymore Award for Outstanding Leading Actor in a Musical for his turn as Haywood Patterson in the first post- Broadway Regional Premiere of The Scottsboro Boys at The Philadelphia Theatre Company. Susan Stroman’s Tony-nominated Direction and Choreography were reproduced by Jeff Whiting, Associate Director of the Broadway company. The Choreography was reproduced by Eric Santagata, Associate Choreographer of the Broadway company. Rodney and Chris are now based in Denver, CO where Chris is the Artistic Director of The Denver Center for the Performing Arts. They have two dogs, Trevor and Logan. Rodney enjoys traveling with work when not spending quality time at home with his husband, keeping himself busy writing, hiking, and meditating. Original Cast Recordings: COME FROM AWAY, The Scottsboro Boys, Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris, The New Picasso (concept recording), and RENT. Directing credits include Flame Broiled. or the ugly play (World Premiere); Runaways: In concert (reworked book by Rodney Hicks) at Joe's Pub/Public Theatre 2007 to benefit Joey Dipaolo AIDS Foundation. Jamie McGonnigal, producer -featuring Tony Award nominee Alex Brightman, Ezra Miller, Max Jenkins, Karla Mosley, Idara Victor, Eric Anthony, Shaun Taylor Corbett, Karen DiConcetto, Garrett Zercher, among others; Guess Who's Coming for Chitlins' at The Triad in NYC 1997. Book, Music & Lyrics by Jerry Dixon. The cast included Kevin R. Free, Kathy Deitch, J. Cameron Barnett, Welly Yang, JoLyn Burks, and Danielle Lee Greaves. Nancy Gilsenan’s Ordinary People at St. Thomas Aquinas Players.  

CHUKWUDI IWUJI can currently be seen in Ava DuVernay’s limited award winning Netflix series WHEN THEY SEE US, and also plays a pivotal recurring role in Netflix series DESIGNATED SURVIVOR. He has recently finished filming the second season of the SundanceTV & BBC series THE SPLIT. He will next be seen in the highly anticipated Amazon limited series THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD, directed by Barry Jenkins, and in upcoming feature MOTHER, directed by Michael Morrissey. An accomplished theater veteran, Chuk recently starred in OTHELLO for The Public Theatre’s Shakespeare in the Park. Chuk’s performance in THE LOW ROAD, directed by Michael Greif, earned him an Obie Award, as well as 2018 Lucille Lortel and Drama League nominations. An Associate Artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company for his numerous Shakespearean performances, he has also received two Olivier awards for his titular role as HENRY VI in the RSC’s 2009 productions of parts I, II, and III. Other stage credits include: the titular role in the Public Theatre’s HAMLET directed by Patricia McGregor; Ivo van Hove’s OBSESSION opposite Jude Law, and HEDDA GABLER opposite Ruth Wilson, both for The National Theatre; The Public Theatre’s productions of KING LEAR and ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA; Theatre for a New Audience’s TAMBURLAINE directed by Michael Boyd; and the Old Vic’s RICHARD III directed by Sam Mendes. In addition to his extensive stage work, Chuk has made numerous television appearances including: QUANTICO, DYNASTY, BLINDSPOT, MADAM SECRETARY, and DOCTOR WHO. Chuk’s film credits include: Netflix’s BARRY, Chad Stahelski’s JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2 opposite Keanu Reeves, DANIEL ISN’T REAL, A WOMAN A PART, NOW: IN THE WINGS OF A WORLD STAGE, the multi-award winning EXAM, and FALL TO RISE.

RENT Book, Music & Lyrics by Jonathan LarsonEpisode Segments:1:51 - Speed Test 4:11 - Why God Why6:17 - Back to Before24:28 - What's Inside 48:04 - How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria?1:11:58 - Our Favorite Things1:17:27 - Corner of the Sky 1:22:21 – What Comes Next?Works Consulted:Rent (Original Libretto) by Jonathan LarsonRent by Jonathan Larson | Interviews and Text by Evelyn McDonnell with Katherine SilbergerThe Happiest Corpse I've Ever Seen: The Last 25 Years of the Broadway Muscal by Ethan MorddenWithout You by Anthony RappMusic Credits:"Overture" from Dear World (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music by Jerry Herman | Performed by Dear World Orchestra & Donald Pippin"The Speed Test" from Thoroughly Modern Millie  (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music by Jeanine Tesori, Lyrics by Dick Scanlan | Performed by Marc Kudisch, Sutton Foster, Anne L. Nathan & Ensemble"Why God Why" from Miss Saigon: The Definitive Live Recording  (Original Cast Recording  / Deluxe)  | Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, Lyrics by Alain Boublil & Richard Maltby Jr.  | Performed by Alistair Brammer "Back to Before" from Ragtime: The Musical (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music by Stephen Flaherty, Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens | Performed by Marin Mazzie"What's Inside" from Waitress (Original Broadway Cast Recording)  | Music & Lyrics by Sara Bareilles | Performed by Jessie Mueller & Ensemble"One Song Glory” from Rent (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Jonathan Larson | Performed by Adam Pascal "Maria" from The Sound of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording)  | Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II | Performed by Evadne Baker, Anna Lee, Portia Nelson, Marni Nixon"My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music (Original Soundtrack Recording) | Music by Richard Rodgers, Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II | Performed by Julie Andrews"Corner of the Sky" from Pippin (New Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz | Performed by Matthew James Thomas“What Comes Next?” from Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda | Performed by Jonathan Groff

Be sure to subscribe for more - Creation Grounds Podcast For a list of NYC, LA and Southeast casting directors, the shows they cast as of 5/11/20 & their assistants, associates and a way to track your auditions and workshops with them check out The Audition/Workshop Tracker! ________ Isaiah Johnson Imdb Isaiah Johnson is an American actor and singer who portrayed George Washington in 2013 The Hamilton Mixtape as well as in the National Tour. Johnson has appeared on and off Broadway, working with Al Pacino and Daniel Sullivan in The Merchant of Venice, Kevin Spacey and Sam Mendes in Richard III, Kelli O'Hara and Michael Greif in Far From Heaven, Roger Rees and Alex Timbers in Peter and the Starcatcher, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Thomas Kail in Hamilton (Vassar Workshop Cast 2013), and on various projects with Norm Lewis, Bill Condon and Randy Newman. He has also been a guest star on CBS' "Person of Interest" and the Cinemax series "The Knick." Isaiah received a BFA from Howard University and an MFA from NYU's Tisch Grad Acting. He played Mister in the Oprah produced Broadway production of The Color Purple. Kendra has been a great friend of mine for many years and we met at an audition in NYC. We've been close ever since! I know you all are going to enjoy this one. Join me on Episode 8 to learn and hear from Isaiah about Unity & Encouragement. ________ Some Questions I Ask: Where he calls home? (:50) His experience at Howard University? (1:13) NYU? (2:08) On craft and it's importance? (3:10) What does artistry mean to you? (4:08) Favorite 3 books on craft? (4:27) Advice for actors who want to be on Broadway? (7:55) How to find Unity within cast from meet & greet & beyond (9:30) On The Color Purple on Broadway (10:36) On 8x a week performances for Broadway and self care? (12:05) On process of creating Mister in the Color Purple. (15:40) Interests and Hobbies (17:48) What does Unity mean to you & how do you stay encouraged? (23:10) How do people contact you? (26:00) ____________ You can follow Arron at: Website: ArronLloyd.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arronlloyd/ Facebook: Arron Lloyd Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArronLloyd Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/arronsl316 TikTok:Arronslloyd Youtube: Arron Lloyd This is NYC merch -

“It always starts with humble beginnings [...] You’re not as far away as you think.” –Josh GrisettiBroadway actor and director Josh Grisetti joins the show from Los Angeles after a recent move from New York City. After starring in the hit musical Something Rotten, Josh is now at the helm of productions, directing musicals (including Something Rotten) and diving into new divisions of theater. Hear from Josh about:· How a Broadway actor got started in a small town· What his dad thought of theater and how it affected him· His research at LMU (Loyola Marymount University)· What the statistics are for having a livable wage as an actor as part of the union· How he got training in high school· Why a summer in Italy studying opera led him closer to musical theater· What area he targeted so that he could be competitive in the industry· How to distinguish a true triple threat (singer, dancer, actor)· What Josh’s strengths are (and you’ll find yours)· What it’s like auditioning for Obie-winning Michael Greif and Pulitzer Prize winner Tony Kushner for Angels in America· Emotional availability and how it plays into casting· How he got Mark in Rent · What it was like to do an emotionally draining role for 9 months· How anchoring in New York City led him to booking a TV pilot· How he wiped out student loan debt while working as an actor· What the road was like getting to a Broadway show· Insights into prime time pilot season· What Marci Phillips, Executive Director of Casting in NYC for ABC, says about the career· How to keep your performances fresh and active over a long run· How he lives to his best potentialKeep up with Josh at his terrific website full of great photos and videos: www.joshgrisetti.comWant a copy of his book, God In My Head: The true story of an ex-Christian who accidentally met God?Share this episode of “I Love Theatre Now What” podcast on Instagram or Facebook and tag #Ilovetheatrenowwhat (theatre with a –RE) by the end of 2019. One lucky winner will be chosen on January 1 and contacted for their mailing address. Your host Steph Newman is a theatre pro who helps people. Contact her! You can share your questions, dreams, failures and successes to get tips, tricks and ideas by writing to steph@stephnewman.com I Love Theatre Now What is a creation by Steph Newman and Travis Newman. This podcast is on a mission to share the real stories that lead to real jobs (in the arts and beyond). So if you're curious to know where that love of drama can lead, listen up!This is a labor of love. Your contributions lead to better equipment and interviews. Contribute at www.stephnewman.com/podcastSupport the show (http://www.stephnewman.com/podcast)

Recorded on January 12, 2019. A Career retrospective with Adam Driver. Moderated by Jenelle Riley. Adam Driver was most recently seen starring in Rian Johnson’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Steven Soderbergh’s Logan Lucky, alongside Channing Tatum and Daniel Craig. Driver is currently shooting Noah Baumbach’s next feature opposite Scarlett Johansson. Driver won the Volpi Cup Award for Best Actor for Hungry Hearts, which premiered at the 2014 Venice International Film Festival. Other recent credits include Martin Scorsese’s Silence, Jim Jarmusch’s Paterson, Jeff Nichols’ Midnight Special, and J.J. Abrams’ Star Wars: The Force Awakens. His other film credits include While We’re Young, This Is Where I Leave You, Tracks, Inside Llewyn Davis, Lincoln, Frances Ha, and J. Edgar. Driver also starred on HBO’s critically acclaimed series “Girls.” His performance in “Girls” garnered him three Emmy® nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In 2019, he will be seen in the first Broadway revival of “Burn This,” directed by Michael Mayer. His other Broadway credits include “Man and Boy” (dir. Maria Aitken), opposite Frank Langella, as well as “Mrs. Warren’s Profession” (dir. Doug Hughes) opposite Cherry Jones. Off-Broadway, he starred in John Osborne’s “Look Back in Anger” (dir. Sam Gold), which earned him the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Featured Actor. Prior to that, he took the stage as Louis Ironson in The Signature’s revival of Tony Kushner’s “Angels in America” (dir. Michael Greif). Driver is a Juilliard graduate and is a former Marine who was with 1/1 Weapons Company at Camp Pendleton, CA.

This week we are sitting down with Emmy Nominated Scenic Designer Jason Sherwood! Jason is nominated for the production design of 'RENT Live' and he gives us the full deep dive into his set for this groundbreaking production. From it's development along side Michael Greif, to figuring out audience locations and camera blocking, to how to transition the story from place to place, Jason is giving us the inside scoop on all of it. He and Cory also touch on a whole host of topics including social media use, the keys to staying positive, Jason's live music work with Sam Smith, Sara Bareilles and the Spice Girls, how he's achieved so much before his 30th birthday, and much much more. Prepare for an eye opening, candid chat with a designer who clearly sleeps very little and works very hard. AND, true stories from a 6'-6" guy trying to squeeze into a Broadway theatre seat. Jason is easily one of the most in demand theatrical designers working today and he's spending over two hours giving us a window into his world. Enjoy!

Multiple Lortel Award nominee and four-time Tony Award nominee, MICHAEL GREIF, whose next production will be Make Believe for Second Stage Theatre.

ISAIAH JOHNSON has appeared on and off Broadway, working with Al Pacino and Daniel Sullivan in The Merchant of Venice, Kevin Spacey and Sam Mendes in Richard III, Kelli O'Hara and Michael Greif in Far From Heaven, Roger Rees and Alex Timbers in Peter and the Starcatcher, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Thomas Kail in Hamilton (lab production), and on various projects with Norm Lewis, Bill Condon and Randy Newman. He has also been a guest star on CBS' "Person of Interest" and the Cinemax series "The Knick." Isaiah received a BFA from Howard University and an MFA from NYU's Tisch Grad Acting. Legomyankles.com https://www.theatrebayarea.org/page/sparkhttps://www.theatrebayarea.org/page/sparkThe Instagram and Facebook: isaiahslamentTwitter as @ZaiahJohnson

It's Tuesday. Sam talks to 'Hamilton' star Brandon Victor Dixon and Broadway director Michael Greif about bringing the groundbreaking 1996 Broadway musical 'Rent' to live television — January 27 at 8 PM EST on FOX. They discuss the difference between stage and television performance, what made 'Rent' such an influential musical, and that time Brandon Victor Dixon spoke to Vice President-elect Mike Pence after a performance of 'Hamilton.' Email the show at samsanders@npr.org or tweet @NPRItsBeenAMin with your feedback.

Michael Greif is a American stage director. He has won three Obie Awards and received four Tony Award nominations, for Rent, Grey Gardens, Next to Normal, and Dear Evan Hansen. He was an Artistic Associate at the New York Theatre Workshop where he directed, among others, the original production of Rent, for which he received the Obie Award for direction of a musical and later directed on Broadway. Greif has directed six original Broadway musicals and been nominated for the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical four times. In addition to Rent, his Broadway credits include If/Then, Next to Normal, Grey Gardens, Dear Evan Hansen, and War Paint. Other credits include Our Lady of Kibeho, Landscape of the Body, Beauty of the Father, and Mrs. Sharp. Michael found a way to buck the Broadway trend and deliver smash after smash.  Listen to how he does it, as well as . . . How he started his career by self-producing his own show. What made him decide he wasn’t ready for New York, and why he went to graduate school instead. What changed about Dear Evan Hansen since the first reading, and why (spoiler alert: there was an ensemble) Why a “small” musical can be more powerful than a “big” one. They can’t all be Rent.  What he does when a show doesn’t live up to what he initially hoped.   Keep up with me: @KenDavenportBway www.theproducersperspective.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christine Ebersole and Patti LuPone, and director Michael Greif talk about their new Broadway musical "War Paint" that chronicles the amazing careers of cosmetic-industry-pioneers and moguls, Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubinstein.

Back by popular demand! Ben Platt, the award winning star of Dear Evan Hansen, returns to the podcast to chat with Ilana about life as the star of this moving musical that is taking the theater world by storm and quickly turning into the run away hit of the Broadway season. Dear Evan Hansen is written by the Oscar winning team from La La Land and directed by the Tony Award winning director, Michael Greif.

The genius Orchestrator / Arranger / Musical Director tells all about his experiences working on Dear Evan Hansen, Hamilton, In the Heights, and more! We go deep and get great stories of working alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda, Phillipa Soo, Tommy Kail, Michael Greif, Ben Platt, and more!

Dorothy Allison grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, the first child of a fifteen-year-old unwed mother who worked as a waitress. Now living in Northern California with her partner Alix and her teenage son, Wolf Michael, she describes herself as a feminist, a working class story teller, a Southern expatriate, a sometime poet and a happily born-again Californian. The first member of her family to graduate from high school, Allison attended Florida Presbyterian college on a National Merit Scholarship and studied anthropology at the New School for Social Research. An award winning editor for Quest, Conditions, and Outlook—early feminist and Lesbian & Gay journals, Allison's chapbook of poetry, The Women Who Hate Me, was published with Long Haul Press in 1983. Her short story collection, Trash (1988) was published by Firebrand Books. Trash won two Lambda Literary Awards and the American Library Association Prize for Lesbian and Gay Writing. Allison says that the early Feminist movement changed her life. "It was like opening your eyes under water. It hurt, but suddenly everything that had been dark and mysterious became visible and open to change." However, she admits, she would never have begun to publish her stories if she hadn't gotten over her prejudices, and started talking to her mother and sisters again. Allison received mainstream recognition with her novel Bastard Out of Carolina, (1992) a finalist for the 1992 National Book Award. The novel won the Ferro Grumley prize, an ALA Award for Lesbian and Gay Writing, became a best seller, and an award-winning movie. It has been translated into more than a dozen languages. Cavedweller (1998) became a national bestseller, NY Times Notable book of the year, finalist for the Lillian Smith prize, and an ALA prize winner. Adapted for the stage by Kate Moira Ryan, the play was directed by Michael Greif, and featured music by Hedwig composer, Stephen Trask. In 2003, Lisa Cholendenko directed a movie version featuring Krya Sedwick. I spoke with Dorothy recently as part of my college's "Mouths of Others" creative arts speakers series. She is full of fire and story and looks right through you in that simple, razor sharp way that only Southerns can. I think you will dig this conversation. I know her writing will undo you. Transformation in a lightning bolt, presented for your enjoyment.

About our Interview with This week we chat with Adam Kantor who is currently in previews of Fiddler On The Roof, playing the role of Motel. Adam talks about the challenges of finding his way in creating a role for an original Broadway revival. He also discusses traveling to Eastern Europe as both a personal journey as well as preparation for bringing more honesty to his portrayal of Motel. We also discuss reminding yourself that “You are enough,” even at times when you don’t feel that way. Adam offers a great example of this during his disastrous put-in rehearsal for his Broadway debut in Rent, when Michael Greif pulled him aside at intermission with some words of encouragement. Adam also discusses the role of mentors on his life, not being above an open call, and how it is good to be, “Always learning, always growing, always getting outside of yourself.” Links to learn more Fiddler On The Roof Broadway.com

Incredibly gifted, actor, singer, writer Antonique Smith first garnered attention in her buzzworthy leading role in "RENT" on Broadway as Mimi Marquez, where director Michael Greif is quoted as saying Antonique "made the whole show better". Antonique is now most famous for her starring role of Faith Evans in "Notorious" where she received rave reviews and was praised by critics, including Jeffery Lyons who called her "one to watch".

At its 2003 Directing Sympsium, SDCF hosted a panel moderated by Rubén Polendo and featuring producer Jordan Roth ("The Rocky Horror Show", "The Donkey Show"), Artistic Director Jim Nicola (New York Theatre Workshop), and former artistic director and current director Michael Greif ("Rent"). The discussion centers on the role of the producer in modern American theater. Topics covered include how to determine what projects are the right fit for the different producing models (commercial, not-for-profit, and regional), the involvement of the producer as a collaborator in the artistic process, trends in the theater, and what audiences are looking for when they buy tickets to a show. This conversation helps to demystify the role of the producer for any aspiring theater professional or audience member and provides some terrific insight into how works are chosen to be produced.

The discussion panel -- director Leonard Foglia (Master Class), director Michael Greif (Rent), playwright Betsy Howie (Cowgirls), lyricist Tom Jones (The Fantasticks), composer/lyricist Mary Murfitt (Cowgirls), and director George C. Wolfe (Tony Award winner for Best Direction for 1993’s Angels in America and 1996’s Bring in ‘da Noise/Bring in ‘da Funk) -- talk about how their pieces evolved from concept to production, the role of a dramaturg, casting performers with a range of experience, and bringing actors into the creative process.

The discussion panel - director Leonard Foglia ("Master Class"), director Michael Greif ("Rent"), playwright Betsy Howie ("Cowgirls"), lyricist Tom Jones ("The Fantasticks"), composer/lyricist Mary Murfitt ("Cowgirls"), and director George C. Wolfe ("Bring In 'Da Noise, Bring In 'Da Funk") - talk about how their pieces evolved from concept to production, the role of a dramaturg, casting performers with a range of experience, and bringing actors into the creative process.

The "Grey Garden"'s creative team, Scott Frankel (composer), Michael Korie (lyricist) and Doug Wright (book writer) discuss the genesis of this new, highly acclaimed Broadway musical - why they chose this "cult" documentary to be the basis for a musical; how they all came together as collaborators; and what it took to make these characters "sing". Later in the show the stars Erin Davie, Christine Ebersole and Mary Louise Wilson join director Michael Greif to talk about how they worked together to inhabit the "Edies", as well as their personal connections with the characters in the piece.