Podcasts about Sondheim

Lawrence Zarian hosts an episode of “You Are Beautiful” with guest Melissa Errico, beginning with a candid, humorous setup about lighting, auditions, and aesthetics before moving into Lawrence's background as a longtime TV makeover expert and QVC clothing designer behind “Beautiful by Lawrence Zarian.” They talk about how fashion is less about how you look and more about how you feel, share favorite pieces from Lawrence's line (including blues, an off-the-shoulder rosette top, and a scalloped V-neck stripe), and discuss what Melissa wears to feel confident—V-necks, black-and-white Breton stripes, vintage biker boots, and eclectic, artsy combinations. Lawrence and Melissa also answer a mirror question about what they like seeing in themselves that day, including Melissa's healing from an eye stye, feeling rested, and fresh red hair, and Lawrence's enjoyment of wearing blue, having a good hair day after hair loss post-COVID, and embracing turning 60. The conversation expands into Melissa's artistry and origins: her father playing Michel Legrand at home during the Vietnam era, how that music later led to Melissa's close collaboration with Legrand on Broadway and on a symphonic record (“Legrand Affair” with the Brussels Philharmonic), and her formative experience seeing “On Your Toes” on Broadway that made her sob and sparked her desire to perform. They discuss Sondheim's “Beautiful” from “Sunday in the Park with George,” which Melissa reads aloud to frame beauty as something that changes, and Lawrence's intent to focus his podcast on the essence of people rather than projects. Melissa then describes her evolving relationship with Barbra Streisand—how Malcolm Gets pushed her to truly listen, how Streisand's artistry feels like a force of nature, and how Melissa's “The Streisand Effect” concert is an homage exploring what Streisand made possible rather than a tribute imitation. They share personal connections to Broadway (including Lawrence's first love story with Hugh Panaro after seeing “Les Misérables,” and plans to coordinate seeing him perform again), and Melissa recounts meeting Streisand briefly backstage at Madison Square Garden. Melissa also describes creating a new song concept, “Daughter of Fire,” inspired by Streisand's memoir and a moment with her own daughter, and she closes by sharing her current release: an album titled “I Can Dream, Can't I?” rolled out as weekly singles via a “waterfall release,” featuring classic American songs and ending with Joni Mitchell's “Both Sides Now.” The episode ends with Lawrence's signature prompt—Melissa answering “I am beautiful because…”—and she responds that she is beautiful because she feels music deeply as something precious that passes through her.Timestamp Menu: 00:51 Broadway Beginnings and My Fair Lady01:49 Meet Lawrence and the Beauty Theme02:46 Fashion Crushes and QVC Picks04:24 How a Designer Is Made08:31 Podcast Origin and Mirror Question09:32 Melissa on Exhaustion and Healing12:38 Three Things You Like Today15:14 Aging and Self Acceptance at 6017:24 Sondheim Beautiful Reading21:58 Melissa Musical Spark and Legrand26:56 Broadway Awakening and Les Mis30:48 Broadway Crush Memories31:30 Broadway Boyfriends Bond32:14 Streisand Effect Origins37:05 Meeting Barbra Briefly39:40 Daughter of Fire Song42:26 Style That Feels Fire48:21 Wardrobe Tips After 4053:37 New Album Dreaming56:32 Beautiful Because Music58:35 Blue Love Farewell

Yes, Sondheim was alive and kicking in 2025, at least so far as his works and legacy were concerned because in London alone, you could have seen Road Show, Here We Are, The Frogs and Into the Woods - and MusicalTalk did!  So, Colm and Thos having put in the leg work, sat down for a run through of each of these varied and, in some cases, seldom produced Sondheim shows, and try to work out why they were the ones to be revived (or premiered, in one case).  It's not always a "Shaw" thing.

In Episode 96, Brennan is once again joined by actor and now casting assistant, Sarah Hogewood, as they talk about TYA, the fear of cringe, the idea of "play", and the ways being on the casting side of the process has influenced how she approaches the acting side now! Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In this week's mini-sode we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's Sister Act the Musical! From screen to stage, this show is a delightful mix of habits and shenanigans that has made it the classic it is today!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Send a textListen to the music of the night! Al & Siena are making meat pies and unmasking musicians for this monstrous musical pairing on SWEENEY TODD (2007) x THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (2004)! Learn about the bizarre materials—and colors—that went into making Benjamin Barker's blood, uncover the real backstory behind the divisive Gerard Butler casting, and spot how Sondheim uses medieval music to foreshadow each throat-slitting on this song-filled slasher edition of Splice & Splatter. You can scream new episodes every other Monday with full video episodes on Youtube!Hosts: Al LaFleur and Siena Sofia BergtTheme Song: Theodore SchaferSplice & Splatter is a New Mexico x Michigan podcast productionFollow us on social media at linktr.ee/spliceandsplatterpodSupport the show

In Episode 95, Brennan is joined by actor/ fellow audition monitor, Kevin Herrera, as they talk about audition season and all of the common questions/ situations they experience! The audition process can be very daunting and scary, but above all else, they want you to know that they are there to help!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Happy Presidents' Day! Jon brought Matt Koplik back to the pod to discuss this very dark and very funny Sondheim musical. They break down the show using the 2017 New York Off Center Encores production as a basis of this episode (don't worry how they watched it), but really talked about the show as a whole.Matt's Instagram: @mattkoplikPodcast Socials -Email: butasongpod@gmail.comFacebook: @butasongpodInstagram: @butasongpodThreads: @butasongpodNext episode: Company (2006 Broadway Revival)!

In this week's mini-sode, we're shining the spotlight on one of the most iconic Broadway musicals, "The Phantom of the Opera"! Obviously everyone has heard of this show, and there is good reason as to why it's the longest running production in Broadway history!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 94, Brennan is joined by former Broadway actor turned Financial Advisor, Kevin Worley, as they talk about all the tricks and tools actors can use to set themselves up for the most financial stability possible! While we are all aware of the age old trope of the struggling artist, they may not need to be struggling as much was they think!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

My guest this week is Barry Joseph, the author of the recent book, Matching Minds with Sondheim. Since his death,  there have been so many books about Stephen Sondheim and various aspects of his life and his career, including an amazing number of really terrific books, and I have had the honor of having many of the authors of those books as guests on this podcast. And Barry Joseph's book is right up there with the best of them, but it is also a completely unique and original way of looking at Sondheim. As Barry describes it, Matching Minds with Sondheim is “an exploration into the barely understood, hardly known, side-aspect of who Steven Sondheim was when he was not writing lyrics and composing music. Puzzles and games were a side hobby of his that he had a passion for throughout his life — from when he was very young until he passed away. And throughout those many decades, through parlor games, board games, treasure hunts, word puzzles, mechanical puzzles and video games, his passion, interest and creativity was expressed in a whole other way than we get to see when it's on the stage.” The book also serves as a sort of “alternate biography” of Sondheim and explores how his life, Broadway career, and gaming hobby were intricately intertwined. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 93, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Robb Sapp as they talk about what it's like for the little theatre nerd to make it all the way to Broadway! Not only is Robb incredibly talented with a resumé to boot, but he also the kindest, most humble guy who still lets that little inner theatre kid out to experience the wonders of Broadway!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

We're having a REAL WINTER.  Hunkered down watching movies and reading the newspaper.  Lots to think about:  Kpop Demon Hunters bringing Korean culture to the world.  A World in the Making: The Shakers (exhibition) and The Testament of Ann Lee (movie).  A big book about Bennett Cerf by Gayle Feldman.  Wilbur Wood.  John Brody.  How Green Was My Valley. Songs by Sondheim. Credits: Talent:  Tamsen Granger and Dan Abuhoff Engineer: Elizabeth Easton Aziz Art:  Zeke Abuhoff

In this episode of No Script, we dive into the fascinating world of "Merrily We Roll Along" — Stephen Sondheim and George Furth's bold musical that turns the traditional Broadway story backward. Based on the 1934 play by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, the show traces the lives of three friends over two decades, but with a twist: it starts at the end and moves in reverse. We explore this reverse chronological structure, the repeated and transformed refrains, and how these three friends' relationship evolves (and devolves) over time. Whether you love Sondheim, innovative storytelling, or musical theatre's ability to explore life's big questions, this episode offers insight into a bold, big musical that asks: What happens when we look back at our choices — and the friends we were once closest to? ------------------------------ Please consider supporting us on Patreon. For as low as $1/month, you can help to ensure the No Script Podcast can continue.  https://www.patreon.com/noscriptpodcast  ----------------------------- We want to keep the conversation going! Have you read this play? Have you seen it? Comment and tell us your favorite themes, characters, plot points, etc. Did we get something wrong? Let us know. We'd love to hear from you. Find us on social media at:  Email: noscriptpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/No-Script-The-Podcast-1675491925872541/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noscriptpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/noscriptpodcast/ ------------------------------ Thanks so much for listening! We'll see you next week.

Saturday Nights turns into Sunday Afternoons. Christine Chen joins Kyle to continue the discussion about Sondheim first show that was shelved for five decades. Christine's Blog: https://acrossthearch.wordpress.comChristine's Twitter: https://twitter.com/AcrossTheArchChristine's podcast, Bottomless Broadway: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bottomless-broadway/id1457465060Its Twitter: https://twitter.com/bottomlessbwayAnd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bottomlessbway/Send feedback to puttingittogetherpodcast@gmail.comKeep up to date with Putting It Together by following its social media channels.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/puttingittogetherpodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/sondheimpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sondheimpodcast ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Stop 2 on our 100 year trip through the history of the American musical: 1935 and Porgy & Bess.  With music by George Gershwin and lyrics by his brother Ira and original Porgy novelist Debose Heyward, Porgy & Bess was immediately hailed as a masterpiece when it debuted in 1935, though it has been troubled from the start by the question of whether it's too much of an opera to be a musical, and vice versa. As time has passed, the question of whether the piece is inherently racist has also risen and gotten more urgent. But the score remains as one of the great acheivements of the American theater, regardless of genre. In this episode, we discuss the iconic "Summertime" and Porgy & Bess. All clips are from a 1935 recording of Abbie Mitchell, who originally sang "Summertime" in the first prodcution, and are protected by the Fair Use guidelines of Section 107 of the Copyright Act for criticism and commentary. All rights reserved to the copyright owners.   Watch a modern operatic performance of "Summertime."   George Gershwin introducing and conducting pieces from Porgy & Bess, including "Summertime."   Listen to the SMSTS playlist on Spotify Follow SMSTS on Instagram: @somuchstufftosing Email the show: somuchstufftosing@gmail.com Recommended Reading/Viewing: George Gershwin in the New York Times about calling Porgy & Bess a "folk opera" Sondheim's 2011 letter responding to an article about the most recent Broadway revival Ethan Mordden, Anything Goes: A History of American Musical Theater (Mordden's other volumes are also excellent resources for more in-depth discussion) Broadway: The American Musical

What would have happened had Saturday Night come out in the mid-1950s? Eric Henwood-Greer joins Kyle to discuss that and other matter related to a young man's first work. Send feedback to puttingittogetherpodcast@gmail.comKeep up to date with Putting It Together by following its social media channels.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/puttingittogetherpodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/sondheimpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sondheimpodcast ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the Broadway musical "[title of show]"! This delightful little one act musical is a hidden gem full of friendship, silliness, and some cozy, good vibes!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

There's little doubt that Stephen Sondheim has created some of the best musical theater ever written. And now, Madkap Productions presents Stephen Sondheim's classic “Company “ at the Skokie Theatre from February 6 to March 1st. The original Broadway production was nominated for 14 Tony awards and won 6 and its no wonder why as it […]

In Episode 92, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Shelby Acosta as they talk about theatre boarding school, getting into the grind, and making sure you're always bringing yourself to every space you enter!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Paul Chahidi is an actor whose versatility shines through in prize-winning performances from Shakespeare to satire. He delighted West End and Broadway audiences as Maria in Twelfth Night and won acclaim from filmgoers as the hapless Nikolai Bulganin in The Death of Stalin. On TV, he's played a well-meaning vicar in the BAFTA-winning This Country, an archangel in Good Omens, and he's currently a spook in the BBC thriller The Night Manager. Such shape-shifting came early: Paul was born Ghiv Khatib-Chahidi in Iran before moving as a child to the Oxford countryside. He studied Arabic and Persian at university with an eye to becoming a foreign correspondent, before the lure of Shakespeare and Sondheim won him over.His choices include music from Iran, as well as Vaughan Williams, Chopin, Beethoven and Palestrina. Presenter Michael Berkeley Producer Katy Hickman

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the 2012 Pasek and Paul musical: Dogfight! This one is quite a doozy of a plot with some absolute bops thrown in there, but boy did it leave us with a lot to talk about!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 91, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Tiernan Tunnicliffe as they talk about the shifts that have to happen after you achieve your dreams, and giving yourself permission to make new ones! It's often in those moments of uncertainty that you discover new passions and goals you hadn't let yourself entertain before!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Michael Berkeley's guest is actor and TV presenter Peter Purves. Purves has been involved in two of TV's longest-running and best-loved institutions - he was one of the earliest companions to travel in the TARDIS with Doctor Who (1965-66), and for ten and a half years from 1967 to 1978, alongside John Noakes, Valerie Singleton and Leslie Judd, he presented Blue Peter – entertaining the nation's children with demonstrations in everything from competitive swimming to scaling the Fourth Road Bridge. A dog lover, he has also presented TV coverage of dog show Crufts for many years. Purves's musical passions include Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Elgar and Sondheim, alongside tracks by Louis Armstrong and Count Basie - both of whom he remembers seeing perform live in concert.Presenter: Michael BerkeleyProducer: Graham Rogers

Conversem amb l'actor i director Mario Gas, amb motiu del seu espectacle "Sondheim x Sondheim".

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's favorite corn musical, "Shucked"! Well... it's a musical about corn, and if that's not incentive enough to listen to this episode, I don't know what is!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Your Daily Lowdown from HELLO! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the very beloved Broadway musical "Ragtime"! With its current Broadway production extending nearly 6 months, this star-studded revival is the talk of the town!Speculative Fiction Writing Made Simple: Write, Edit, and Publish Your Debut NovelMost writing podcasts just inspire. This one teaches the craft skills that hook readers.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 90, it is time for the annual solo episode as Brennan goes back and talks about everything we've chatted about during Year 2! It was a really great year for the pod, and we are so excited for what 2026 has in store!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

The Queen Is MadTom James McGrath (book, music & lyricsAmy Clare Tasker (book & lyrics)Joanna is fiery and dares to speak her mind. When she unexpectedly becomes Queen, her father and husband are determined to silence her. She went down in history as Joanna the Mad; what if she wasn't insane, but furious? SIX meets Sondheim in this dark saga inspired by Catherine of Aragon's older sister. 

Ring in the New Year with trivia on Go Fact Yourself!Paul Feig is a director of comedies like Bridesmaides and thrillers like the newly released thriller The Housemaid. He'll tell us why he gets a similar thrill from working in both genres. And we'll learn more about where his acute sense of fashion comes from. Anjali Bhimani is an actor, especially known for her voice work in videogames. She'll tell us why portraying the character Symmetra for the Overwatch games has been especially meaningful for both her and gamers. Plus: why puppies are the perfect addition to a Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Areas of Expertise:Paul: The 2025 Dodgers starting lineup, the TV show “The Brady Bunch,” and martinis.Anjali: Late 70s to early 90s musicals (especially Sondheim), the greater human skeletomuscular system, and lines from Monty Python and the Holy Grail.What's the Difference: Whip itWhat's the difference between beating and whipping (when it comes to cooking)?What's the difference between a whip and a lash?With Guest Experts:Jon Weidman: Emmy-winning and Tony-nominated writer, whose decades of work include three collaborations with Stephen Sondheim.Maureen McCormick: Actor, singer and best-selling author who played Marcia Brady on “The Brady Bunch.”Hosts: J. Keith van StraatenHelen HongCredits:Theme Song by Jonathan Green.Maximum Fun's Senior Producer is Laura Swisher.Co-Producer and Editor is Julian Burrell.Additional editing by Valerie Moffat.Seeing our next live-audience shows by YOU!

Kind is the announcer and host sidekick on the Netflix show ‘Everybody's Live with John Mulaney.' "I don't know what the hell I'm doing. You must understand — it's anarchy," he says of the show. He spoke with Terry Gross about having ego but no confidence, working with Sondheim, and working in his father's jewelry store as a teen.Jazz historian Kevin Whitehead has as remembrance of musicians we lost this year. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Kind is the announcer and host sidekick on the Netflix show ‘Everybody's Live with John Mulaney.' "I don't know what the hell I'm doing. You must understand — it's anarchy," he says of the show. He spoke with Terry Gross about having ego but no confidence, working with Sondheim, and working in his father's jewelry store as a teen.Jazz historian Kevin Whitehead has as remembrance of musicians we lost this year. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the holiday classic "Meet Me In St. Louis"! From screen to stage, this charming little show has cemented itself as a must-watch for so many every holiday season!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

A special podcast episode exploring the new anthology Every Day a Little Death, released on what would have been Stephen Sondheim's 95th birthday. Edited by Josh Pachter, this collection brings together twenty short crime stories—each inspired by a song from one of Sondheim's twenty musicals, from Saturday Night to Here We Are. Listeners will hear from Josh and a number of contributing authors as they discuss how Sondheim's lyrics and characters inspired their tales of mystery, suspense, and dark humor. With writers from both the crime fiction world and the theater community, the anthology blends two traditions into something witty, chilling, and full of Sondheimian Easter eggs for fans to uncover. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 89, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Russell Daniels as they talk about his journey from a degree in Music Education to being Josh Gad's standby in Gutenberg on Broadway! From sketch comedy, to hit parody shows, to Broadway itself, Russell has made a name for himself as one of the best comedic actors in the biz, and has a lot of wisdom to share of how he did it!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In this episode, we dive into a little-known side of Stephen Sondheim—the master composer's lifelong love of puzzles, games, and brain-twisting challenges. Based on Barry Joseph's fascinating new book Matching Minds with Sondheim, this conversation uncovers how Sondheim's “puzzler's mind” shaped not only his legendary musicals but also the treasure hunts, crossword puzzles, parlor games, and elaborate game designs he crafted for friends and collaborators. Joseph shares insights from rare, never-before-seen Sondheim puzzles, dozens of interviews with those who played his games, and deep archival research that reveals a new dimension of Sondheim's genius. Listeners will learn how these playful creations offered joy, clarity, and connection—and even try their hand at Sondheim-inspired puzzles themselves. It's a delightful, surprising journey into the mind of a maestro unlike any other. Learn more at MatchingMindsWithSondheim.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, Gabfest old friends Steve, Julia, and June Thomas convene on two showbiz works of midlife retrospection and regret: the new film Jay Kelly and Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along. The former, directed by Noah Baumbach, stars George Clooney as the titular movie star looking back on his life while on a European train picaresque. The latter was a legendary flop for Sondheim, had a triumphant Broadway revival starring Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez, and now has arrived at movie theaters. In our third segment, the panel turns to another showbiz saga full of bitter regret: the fight to acquire Warner Brothers Discovery. Joined by writer and Hollywood watcher Mark Harris, they untangle the fight between Netflix and Paramount to outbid each other for the legacy film studio—and what it all has to do with Trump and the future of movie-going itself.  In an exclusive bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, it's back to join the Joined in our recap discussion of Pluribus episode 7 “The Gap.”  Act now, there's still time to leave us a voicemail with your burning cultural queries for our annual call-in show by calling us at 347-201-2397. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, Gabfest old friends Steve, Julia, and June Thomas convene on two showbiz works of midlife retrospection and regret: the new film Jay Kelly and Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along. The former, directed by Noah Baumbach, stars George Clooney as the titular movie star looking back on his life while on a European train picaresque. The latter was a legendary flop for Sondheim, had a triumphant Broadway revival starring Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez, and now has arrived at movie theaters. In our third segment, the panel turns to another showbiz saga full of bitter regret: the fight to acquire Warner Brothers Discovery. Joined by writer and Hollywood watcher Mark Harris, they untangle the fight between Netflix and Paramount to outbid each other for the legacy film studio—and what it all has to do with Trump and the future of movie-going itself.  In an exclusive bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, it's back to join the Joined in our recap discussion of Pluribus episode 7 “The Gap.”  Act now, there's still time to leave us a voicemail with your burning cultural queries for our annual call-in show by calling us at 347-201-2397. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode, Gabfest old friends Steve, Julia, and June Thomas convene on two showbiz works of midlife retrospection and regret: the new film Jay Kelly and Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along. The former, directed by Noah Baumbach, stars George Clooney as the titular movie star looking back on his life while on a European train picaresque. The latter was a legendary flop for Sondheim, had a triumphant Broadway revival starring Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez, and now has arrived at movie theaters. In our third segment, the panel turns to another showbiz saga full of bitter regret: the fight to acquire Warner Brothers Discovery. Joined by writer and Hollywood watcher Mark Harris, they untangle the fight between Netflix and Paramount to outbid each other for the legacy film studio—and what it all has to do with Trump and the future of movie-going itself.  In an exclusive bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, it's back to join the Joined in our recap discussion of Pluribus episode 7 “The Gap.”  Act now, there's still time to leave us a voicemail with your burning cultural queries for our annual call-in show by calling us at 347-201-2397. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's mini-sode, we're shining the spotlight on Broadway's TYA musical "The Lightning Thief: the Percy Jackson Musical"! It's not often you see TYA (theatre for young audiences) on Broadway, but despite the negative Broadway reviews, the show has garnered a huge following across the country! It's creativity, ingenuity, and accessibility prove that there is a place for TYA on Broadway!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Merrily We Roll Along's Broadway and film director Maria Friedman joins The Art of Kindness for a chat on translating her Tony-winning take on the hit Stephen Sondheim production to a SONY film, starring Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe and Lindsay Mendez. The kind musical theatre titan and host Robert Peterpaul discuss: How kindness is at the core of Merrily. How to lead with kindness on Broadway and beyond. Her close relationship with Stephen Sondheim and more. MARIA FRIEDMAN is a 4-time Olivier Award-winning star and Tony-nominated director, celebrated as one of the definitive interpreters of Stephen Sondheim's work. She most recently directed the 4-time Tony Award-winning Broadway Revival of MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG. Her acclaimed production of Merrily We Roll Along originated in London and conquered Broadway with sold-out houses, securing the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. As an actress, Maria is best known for starring in classic Sondheim roles, including Dot in Sunday in the Park with George and the Olivier Award-winning Fosca in Passion. Her illustrious career is a masterclass in musical theatre excellence across the West End and international stages. And let's not forget her starring turn as the Narrator in the Joseph And the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat feature film! Follow Maria: @mariafriedman Follow us: ⁠@artofkindnesspod⁠ / ⁠@robpeterpaul⁠ ⁠youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast⁠ ⁠Support the show⁠! (⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok⁠) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is World AIDS Day, if anyone needed to be reminded. Though I considered doing a compendium episode of broad scope commemorating a handful of the thousands upon thousands of musicians that succumbed to AIDS, I decided instead to focus on one, Broadway icon Larry Kert, who created the role of Tony in West Side Story and was subsequently an early Robert in Sondheim's Company, for which he was nominated for a Tony Award. On December 5, we observe his 95th birthday. In between these career highs, he was involved in a number of notorious Broadway flops (Breakfast at Tiffany's, La Strada, and Rags) from each of which we hear rare recordings. And yet during his life, superstardom eluded him. It's quite likely that some of this had to do with him having lived his life openly and unapologetically as a gay man in a time when most comparable figures were deeply in the closet. But Larry was also a familiar figure on television of that era, appearing as a guest star on popular series, on game shows, on commercials, and as a particular favorite of Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show, in which he made 29 guest appearances. He also was often seen as a replacement in and on tours of popular musicals such as Cabaret, Two Gentlemen of Verona, I Can Get It for You Wholesale, and, finally, La Cage aux Folles, to name just a few. In that last show, his frail health meant that he had to miss significant numbers of performances, though he continued to make important appearances on stage and on recordings until just shortly before his death on June 5, 1991 at the age of 60. On the episode, we hear him with such legendary co-stars as Teresa Stratas, Liza Minnelli, Chita Rivera, Madeline Kahn, Maureen McGovern, Mimi Hines, and Harvey Evans, as well as his WSS co-star Carol Lawrence. We also trace the support and influence he received over the course of his career from his trusted friend Martin Charnin, who played a sometimes surprising role in Kert's career. Though Larry Kert felt that he never received the recognition he deserved, this episode demonstrates how he stood at the forefront of all Broadway tenors of his generation, as well as past and future ones. Countermelody is a podcast devoted to the glory and the power of the human voice raised in song. Singer and vocal aficionado Daniel Gundlach explores great singers of the past and present focusing in particular on those who are less well-remembered today than they should be. Daniel's lifetime in music as a professional countertenor, pianist, vocal coach, voice teacher, and author yields an exciting array of anecdotes, impressions, and “inside stories.” At Countermelody's core is the celebration of great singers of all stripes, their instruments, and the connection they make to the words they sing. By clicking on the following link (https://linktr.ee/CountermelodyPodcast) you can find the dedicated Countermelody website which contains additional content including artist photos and episode setlists. The link will also take you to Countermelody's Patreon page, where you can pledge your monthly or yearly support at whatever level you can afford.

This week, we are heading into the world of fractured fairy tales with SF Playhouse's production of Into the Woods. We break down the performances, design choices, standout moments, and how this production brings Sondheim's classic to life in a fresh way.

In Episode 88, Brennan is joined by Broadway Casting Director, Kevin Metzger-Timson, as they talk about his transition from performing into casting, and all the things one may not know about what goes on behind the casting table! Between his experience as a performer, and his time casting with the TRC Company, Kevin is the perfect person to help us debunk all the myths of the casting process!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This month a quick discussion on two recent film. First, the mega blockbuster Wicked: For Good. Second, the small character piece Blue Moon.Send feedback to puttingittogetherpodcast@gmail.comKeep up to date with Putting It Together by following its social media channels.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/puttingittogetherpodcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/sondheimpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sondheimpodcast ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

As I sat yesterday pondering all my friends, family, and compatriots celebrating Thanksgiving, my thoughts turned to the turkey, the traditional sacrificial creature for this event. And whatever the avian counterpart of a rabbit hole is, that's where my thoughts turned as I realized that a tribute to our feathered friends in general would make a nice, lightweight, potpourri episode as we once again hurtle into the final preparations for the holiday season. As my list of possible repertoire exploded, I decided to limit myself only to stage works in which a bird is somehow involved: as a character, as a symbol, as a metaphor, perhaps even as all three simultaneously. So, with composers ranging from Rameau to Sondheim, including such forgotten figures as Walter Braunfels, Victor Massé, and Félicien David, I have put together a wonderful program that focuses particularly but not exclusively on the florid French repertoire, performed by such favorites as Reri Grist, James King, Ileana Cotrubas, Fritz Wunderlich, Sylvia Sass, and Mattiwilda Dobbs, bolstered by such relative newcomers to Countermelody as Léïla Ben Sédira, Ninon Vallin, Janine Micheau, Harolyn Blackwell, Emma Calvé, Endrik Wottrich, Liz Callaway, and Flore Wend. In addition, I am particularly thrilled to present a sublime singer whom I'd not yet encountered before yesterday: the British-Swedish songbird Jacqueline Delman, singing Granados! Countermelody is a podcast devoted to the glory and the power of the human voice raised in song. Singer and vocal aficionado Daniel Gundlach explores great singers of the past and present focusing in particular on those who are less well-remembered today than they should be. Daniel's lifetime in music as a professional countertenor, pianist, vocal coach, voice teacher, and author yields an exciting array of anecdotes, impressions, and “inside stories.” At Countermelody's core is the celebration of great singers of all stripes, their instruments, and the connection they make to the words they sing. By clicking on the following link (https://linktr.ee/CountermelodyPodcast) you can find the dedicated Countermelody website which contains additional content including artist photos and episode setlists. The link will also take you to Countermelody's Patreon page, where you can pledge your monthly or yearly support at whatever level you can afford.

Something Wicked this way comes as Dana, Steve, and guest host Dan Kois gather round their proverbial cauldrons for an all-movie edition of the Gabfest. First up, of course, is Wicked: For Good the green/pink-hued conclusion to the alternative history of Oz. This sequel, which reunites Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as witch besties/mortal enemies, goes to surprisingly dark places. Next, they discuss Train Dreams, the contemplative and grandeur-filled adaptation of Denis Johnson's novella directed by Clint Bentley. Finally, they sit down for a long, rich conversation between friends in Peter Hujar's Day, a chamber piece by Ira Sachs about art, friendship, and how much can happen in a single day. In our bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, Julia hops on the call to continue our recap series of Pluribus. The hosts get into all the details of Pluribus episode 5 “Got Milk.” We're still taking submissions for our call-in show. If you've got a burning cultural question or topic you'd like our hosts to tackle, call and leave us a message at:  347-201-2397 Endorsements: Dan: Matching Minds with Sondheim by Barry Joseph, a whole book about Stephen Sondheim's love of puzzles. Steve: The jazz album Mal/4 by Mal Waldron Trio and Tim (Let it Bleed Edition) by the Replacements. Dana: The Broadway production of Waiting for Godot that reunites none other than Bill and Ted with stars Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter. Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com.  Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something Wicked this way comes as Dana, Steve, and guest host Dan Kois gather round their proverbial cauldrons for an all-movie edition of the Gabfest. First up, of course, is Wicked: For Good the green/pink-hued conclusion to the alternative history of Oz. This sequel, which reunites Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as witch besties/mortal enemies, goes to surprisingly dark places. Next, they discuss Train Dreams, the contemplative and grandeur-filled adaptation of Denis Johnson's novella directed by Clint Bentley. Finally, they sit down for a long, rich conversation between friends in Peter Hujar's Day, a chamber piece by Ira Sachs about art, friendship, and how much can happen in a single day. In our bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, Julia hops on the call to continue our recap series of Pluribus. The hosts get into all the details of Pluribus episode 5 “Got Milk.” We're still taking submissions for our call-in show. If you've got a burning cultural question or topic you'd like our hosts to tackle, call and leave us a message at:  347-201-2397 Endorsements: Dan: Matching Minds with Sondheim by Barry Joseph, a whole book about Stephen Sondheim's love of puzzles. Steve: The jazz album Mal/4 by Mal Waldron Trio and Tim (Let it Bleed Edition) by the Replacements. Dana: The Broadway production of Waiting for Godot that reunites none other than Bill and Ted with stars Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter. Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com.  Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode was recorded in 2021 just five days after it was announced that Stephen Sondheim had died and as it happened my friend, colleague and frequent co-host and contributor to Broadway Nation, Albert Evans, was spending the Thanksgiving weekend with me, and so we were together when this news began to break and during the incredible reaction and response this loss over the days that followed. The coverage of Sondheim's life and legacy in both traditional and social media had been phenomenal including four full pages in the NY Times, extended tributes on TV, radio and other newspapers, trending on Twitter and a near total domination of all theater related social media — all richly deserved of course — but still somewhat unexpected for someone who was primarily a theater artist.  I think this reflects the hidden importance and impact of the Broadway musical on American and world culture. Most of the time the media simply ignores Broadway but once in a while it breaks through and reveals how ingrained it is in the fabric of our lives.  For this episode, rather than talk about Sondheim's one of a kind place in the history of the Broadway musical and his impact on the form — as we have done on so many other episodes — Albert and I took our inspiration from the many personal memories that people have been posting and sharing about their own interactions with Sondheim, and especially how his shows and songs have impacted and affected their lives. So, before the weekend was over Albert and I decided to switch on the microphone and look back to the very first times that the work of Stephen Sondheim entered our lives. We would love to hear about your first time experiencing of the artistry of Stephen Sondheim and feature those memories on an upcoming episode. And we have made it extremely easy for you to share them. Just go the Broadway nation website at ⁠www.Broadway-nation.com⁠ and on the bottom right corner of the home page you will find a microphone icon. Simply click on that and share with us you're first Sondheim experiences! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 My guest this week is DAN ELISH, author of a new novel called KING OF BROADWAY. As you will hear, the plot of this novel was inspired by a real life interaction that Dan had with the legendary Broadway songwriter Stephen Sondheim. While the majority of authors I interview on Broadway Nation are historians or scholars who have created non-fiction works about the history of the Broadway musical, every once in a while it is my great pleasure to feature a fiction writer who has taken what I call a "novel approach" to Broadway. These have included, on episode 90: Laura Frankos and her time travel novel Broadway Revival, on episode 1 32: Stephen Cole and his time travel novel,  MARY and ETHEL and Mikey Who?,  on episode 1 37: Jack Viertel's novel Broadway Melody, and most recently on episode 1 55: Chad Beguelin's Showmance, which like the novel we discuss today, is set in the world of contemporary Broadway. Dan Elish co-wrote the book to the Broadway musical 13 (music & lyrics by Jason Robert Brown) which has been performed all over the world and is now a movie on Netflix. Dan is also the bookwriter and co-lyricist of the off-Broadway musical, The Evolution of Man. Additionally, he's the author of twelve novels for readers of all ages including the real-life children's novel, The Worldwide Dessert Contest which in King of Broadway becomes the basis for a fictional Broadway musical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices