POPULARITY
Categories
My guest on this episode is Ben Francis, author of the very compelling book titled Careful the Spell You Cast — How Stephen Sondheim Extended the Range of the American Musical. Sondheim is without a doubt one of the most studied, examined, and analyzed Broadway creators of all time. In fact, we have done quite a bit of that right here on Broadway Nation. However, as you will hear, Ben Francis contends that in spite of all of that investigation, Sondheim continues to be very misunderstood. He is often labeled as being cynical and pessimistic, but Francis instead argues that Sondheim firmly belongs to the “Broadway aspirational tradition” — a tradition that celebrates dreams of a better life — and he suggests that Sondheim's shows are to a great extent are a continuation of the work of his mentor Oscar Hammerstein II. Ben Francis' other works include contributions to the Oxford Handbook Of Sondheim Studies, the Oxford Handbook of British Musicals, and the Oxford Handbook of Shakespeare and Music, as well as Christopher Hampton: Dramatic Ironist Become A PATRON of Broadway Nation! This episode is made possible in part by the generous support of our newest Patrons: Andy Wigginton and Mark Stanton. If you would like to help support the work of Broadway Nation I will information at the end of the podcast about how you too can become a Patron. If you are a fan ofBroadway Nation, I invite you too to become a PATRON! For a just $7.00 a month you will receive exclusive access to never-before-heard, unedited versions of many of the discussion that I have with my guests — in fact I often record nearly twice as much conversation as ends up in the edited versions. And you will also have access to additional in-depth conversations with my frequent co-host Albert Evans that have not been featured on the podcast. And all patrons receive special “on-air” shout-outs and acknowledgement of your vital support of this podcast. And If you are very enthusiastic about Broadway Nation there are additional PATRON levels that come with even more benefits. If you would like to support the work of Broadway Nation and receive these exclusive member benefits, please just click on this link: https://broadwaynationpodcast.supercast.tech/ Thank you in advance for your support! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Next week, step into the Fatalistic Carnival as we bring our prolonged sixth season to an explosive close! Scott and Mackenzie are taking on one of Stephen Sondheim's most provocative and timely musicals, Assassins—and making the celebration even bigger is the long-awaited return of former cohost and now amazing guest, the Canadian Bea Arthur, Autumn Smith. Together, the trio wrestles with the show's central moral question: does Assassins ask us to sympathize with history's most infamous figures, or simply understand the forces that drove them to commit unthinkable acts? They also explore the ingenious ways Sondheim's score transforms familiar American musical styles into something deeply unsettling.All this and "there's another national anthem, for those who never win; for the suckers, for the pikers, for the ones who might have been" on next Friday's all-new episode!Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages.FacebookInstagram
From growing up obsessed with Golden Age movie musicals to making her Broadway debut as Cosette in Les Misérables, Alex Finke shares the journey that led her to the stage. We talk all about playing the Baker's Wife in Into the Woods at Cape Playhouse, why Stephen Sondheim's writing continues to resonate with audiences, and what makes this cast and creative team so special. Alex also reflects on performing in Come From Away, Anything Goes, and Joan, the unforgettable phone call that changed her career, dream roles still on her bucket list, and why supporting regional theatre matters now more than ever.
N'Kenge is a spectacular powerhouse crossover singer in pop, opera and jazz. Just Wait till you hear what this lady has accomplished. She is a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy nominated performer with a 5 octave vocal range. She's headlined with major orchestras including the Cleveland Orchestra, and the Houston, Edmonton, and Jacksonville Symphonies, and she's performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and Madison Square Garden. On Broadway she's been in “Sondheim on Sondheim”, “Motown: The Musical”, and “Caroline, or Change”. In 2026, she leads the world premiere of “That's Love! The Dorothy Dandridge Musical”. Her new album is called “Centerstage: Live From the Ella Fitzgerald Festival”. She has a new TV project called “Black Butterfly”. She has a nonprofit foundation. And she sings in 11 languages including Zulu. My featured song is “The Buzz”, my latest single. Spotify link. —------------------------------------ The Follow Your Dream Podcast:Top 1% of all podcasts with Listeners in 200 countries! Click here for Start Here Click here for All Episodes Click here for Guest List Click here for Guest Testimonials Click here for Pillars Click here for Robert's Project Grand Slam Click here to Subscribe Click here to receive our Email Updates Click here to Rate and Review the podcast —---------------------------------------- CONNECT WITH N'KENGE:www.nkengemusic.com —------------------------------------ ROBERT'S NEWEST RELEASE:“THE BUZZ” - Ft. Darius de Haas (vocals) and Dave Eggar (Celo). Short, Sweet and Totally Different CLICK HERE FOR OFFICIAL VIDEO CLICK HERE FOR ALL LINKS —-------------------------------------- Audio production: Jimmy RavenscroftKymera FilmsConnect with the Follow Your Dream Podcast:Website - www.followyourdreampodcast.comFollow Robert's band, Project Grand Slam, and his music:Website - www.projectgrandslam.com
In Episode 108, Brennan is once again joined by newly NYC-based actor, Zak Reynolds, as they talk about the transition back to NYC theatre, what it means to establish a practice, and the importance of remembering it's not about you! Worried about people's perceptions of you? Well they probably aren't even thinking about you at all! So stop wasting your energy and brain space, and focus on yourself and the ways you can actually thrive!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
On the Overthinking It Podcast, three old friends tackle the recent Broadway production of Sondheim’s “Merrily,” streaming on Netflix. Episode 940: It’s Like Tenet, But It Works originally appeared on Overthinking It, the site subjecting the popular culture to a level of scrutiny it probably doesn't deserve. [Latest Posts | Podcast (iTunes Link)]
In this Encore Episode from 2021, author Rick Pender takes us inside the creation of The Stephen Sondheim Encyclopedia. Rick Pender is a longtime member and former chair of the American Theater Critics Association. He first began reviewing theater in 1985 for a public radio station he managed at Northern Kentucky University. He later became the theater critic for CityBeat – Cincinnati's alternative weekly newspaper -- and eventually became its arts and culture editor. He also often contributed articles to The Sondheim Review, a quarterly magazine that I know many of you remember fondly, and for 12 years, from 2004 to 2016, he served as its managing editor. His latest venture, The Stephen Sondheim Encyclopedia, is a 638 page overview of anything and everything related to Sondheim's work, life and career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the 1984 Tony Award-winning Best Musical, La Cage aux Folles! This Broadway musical created in the 80's by 3 openly gay men is a love letter to the queer community and is continuing to live on in the current City Center Encore's performance! It serves as a reminder to always be loud and proud!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Stephen Sondheim was the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and lyricist who wrote Into the Woods, West Side Story, Sunday in the Park with George, Company, Assassins, and more. This hour, a look at the life and music of Sondheim. And, on the occasion of the new Hartford Stage/TheaterWorks Hartford co-production, we dig into the story and music of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. GUESTS: Daniel Okrent: Author of Stephen Sondheim: Art Isn’t Easy Wiley DeWeese: Music director, arranger, orchestrator, and conductor. He is currently Music Director for The Hartford Stage and TheaterWorks Hartford’s co-production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street Music featured (in order): Prologue: Into the Woods – 2022 OBC and Disney Theatrical Instrumental Anyone Can Whistle – Bernadette Peters Our Time – 2023 Merrily We Roll Along New OBC I Know Things Now – Danielle Ferland, Into the Woods OBC Someone in a Tree – Pacific Overtures OBC CUT FOR TIME Attend the Tale of Sweeney Todd – Sweeney Todd OBC Pretty Women – Sweeney Todd OBC Prelude: Attend the Tale of Sweeney Todd – Sweeney Todd OBC Concerto Macabro (Excerpt) – Bernard Herrmann Johanna (Mea Culpa) – Sweeney Todd OBC Corn Puddin’ – Schmigadoon! The Worst Pies in London – Sweeney Todd OBC A Little Priest – Sweeney Todd OBC Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From dancer to director, Michael Bennett reinvented what a Broadway musical could be. Shoshana talks with Natalie Guevara, creator of Mirror Man: A Portrait of Michael Bennett and unlike many of our guests, she is someone who didn't consider herself a theater person until Michael Bennett changed that. Natalie got interested because even though Bennett gave us A Chorus Line and Dreamgirls, his name barely comes up in the same breath as Sondheim or Jonathan Larson. Natalie noticed that gap and made it her mission to fill it! They trace Bennett's journey from dancer to one of Broadway's most visionary director-choreographers, hitting Promises, Promises, Company, Follies, A Chorus Line (born from taped personal testimonies), Dreamgirls, and the unrealized projects cut short when he died of AIDS-related illness at just 44. Music featured: "Turkey Lurkey Time" from Promises, Promises "Who's That Woman" from Follies "Better" from A Class Act You can write to scenetosong@gmail.com with a comment or question or to be a guest. Follow on Instagram @ScenetoSong and on Facebook at "Scene to Song with Shoshana Greenberg Podcast." Sign up for the monthly e-newsletter at scenetosong.substack.com and consider supporting on Patreon. Theme music by Julia Meinwald.
Mickey-Jo recently had the enormous privilege of sitting down with Ramin Karimloo, Meow Meow, and David Bedella from Birmingham Rep's upcoming revival of SWEENEY TODD.Check out what the stage stars had to say about this exciting new production, tackling Sondheim, and even their favourite kind of pie.You can still get tickets to see the production at Birmingham Rep between 4 July and 15 August.check out Mickey-Jo's free substack newsletter:www.mickeyjotheatre.substack.comAbout 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 95,000 subscribers. 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 in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. 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, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's mini-sode, we welcome you to the renaissance as we shine the spotlight on the Broadway musical "Something Rotten"! This musical comedy has a big cast of characters, some good rep material, and is chock-full of fun references to all your favorite musicals! It is truly an ode to Broadway!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
It's time to head ‘Into The Woods' as we discuss the 2014 film version of the Sondheim musical. An all star cast including Meryl Streep, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine and Emily Blunt play out the story inspired by the Grimms Brother's fairytales. The film is centred on a Baker and his wife who setto end a curse placed on them by Witch looking for revenge. Tune in and watch out for the Giantess!
Dean Drieberg is an acclaimed creative with almost three decades' experience in theatre, advertising and events. He recently directed Nine for NIDA and Dial M For Murder for Smoke&Mirrors Productions. Dean is Resident Director for Disney's The Lion King and was Resident Director of Hamilton for the Australian, New Zealand and International tours from 2021 to 2025. He directed Promises, Promises at Hayes Theatre, the Australian Premiere of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 (nominated for Best Musical in the TimeOut Sydney Arts & Culture Awards and 3 Sydney Theatre Awards) for Darlinghurst Theatre Company, the Australian Premiere of Passing Strange (nominated for 5 Green Room Awards including Production of the Year) for Antipodes Theatre Company, co-directed Colour And Light: The Art of Sondheim (winning 2 Green Room Awards) and Sunday In The Park George (Green Room Award nominee for Best Direction and Best Multimedia Design) for Watch This - Australia's Sondheim repertory company for whom he is Co-Artistic Director, directed and designed bare the Musical and the Australian Premiere of Memphis the musical for StageArt. Dean has worked on over 20 national tours and has produced advertising campaigns and major events across Australia, New Zealand, in Tokyo and New York. Dean is an advocate for theatre that is inclusive of Indigenous, Bla(c)k and people of colour, artists with a disability and LGBTQIA+ artists.
We enter the 1970s: the era of Sondheim and Prince, of a modern Broadway for modern audiences, and of something new and vital that comes to take the place of a Broadway musical formula that had ceased to please. Everything kicks off with Sondheim's 1970 masterpiece Company: directed by Prince, with a book by George Furth and choreogeraphy by Michael Bennet, the show would usher in a new type of Broadway musical, whether audiences and critics were ready or not. Here, we talk about "Barcelona" as capturing much of what defines this new era on Broadway. All clips are from the 1970 cast album of Company featuring Susan Browning and Dean Jones 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. Listen to the SMSTS playlist on Spotify! Follow SMSTS on Instagram: @somuchstufftosing Email the show: somuchstufftosing@gmail.com Recommended Reading/Viewing: 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
In this episode, Scott welcomes an old friend to the podcast - Sarah Uriarte Berry. Scott and Sarah did a production of "Grease" together and they had a great time reminiscing about the show and talking about her incredible career on Broadway, on tour, and what it was like being the very first Belle at The Disneyland Resort. Sarah Uriarte Berry made her Broadway debut as Eponine in "Les Miserables" and later reprised her role for the 10th Anniversary Production. She also starred as Belle in "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" twice on Broadway: First at the Palace Theater, and 11 years later, paired with Donny Osmond at the Lunt-Fontanne. Also on Broadway, Sarah won critical acclaim as Franca in "The Light in the Piazza" at Lincoln Center Theater, where she received Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress.On tour, she played the role of Betty Schaefer in "Sunset Boulevard" with Petula Clark and the role of Julie Jordan in "Carousel" with Patrick Wilson. For "Carousel," she won an Ovation Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She also recently toured with "Disney Princess - The Concert."Other notable theatre credits include starring as Cinderella in "Rogers & Hammerstein's Cinderella" for the New York City Opera alongside Eartha Kitt, Nicola in "Taboo" opposite Boy George, "Next To Normal," "End Of The Rainbow," "A Little Night Music" at the Kennedy Center, soloist in Bernstein's Mass at Carnegie Hall, and "Sondheim on Sondheim" at the Hollywood Bowl alongside Vanessa Williams, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Jonathan Groff.Sarah's film appearances include roles in the feature film "Frontera" starring Ed Harris, Eva Longoria and Michael Peña, and "Pretty Bird" starring Billy Crudup. On television, Sarah's appeared on "Law and Order - Criminal Intent," "Six Degrees," The Tony Awards, and can be seen as Saint Jellorica in the infamous Cats episode of "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt."Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.comSupport: www.patreon.com/themouseandmeFB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io
In Episode 107, Brennan is joined by San Francisco-based writer/ director/ standup comedian/ etc., Nova Bradford, as they discuss the Bay Area art scene, fringe theatre, and the creation of "Luigi: The Musical"! Taking risks is the name of the game in this business, but it's also the best way to create some real, gritty, meaningful art that can actually make a difference in the world!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 this year's 79th Annual Tony Awards! In our annual post-Tony's episode we are giving you the breakdown of all performances, awards, and general goings on at this year's awards ceremony!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 106, Brennan is joined by LA actor James Tolbert, as they discuss the discovery of MT BFA culture, the decision to transition from NYC to LA, and the desire and benefits of being a true multi-hyphenate! In a world of shiny, commercialized art-media, you gotta stay true to yourself and chase those ventures that truly make your heart happy!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In Episode 105, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Ben Jackson Walker, as they talk about the dangers of perfectionism, and how your own harshest critic is often yourself! While having standards for yourself is important, the need for perfection is often actually just the fear of failure!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
KPFA Theatre Critic Richard Wolinsky reviews “The Lunchbox” at Berkeley Rep‘s Roda Theatre through July 5, 2026. TEXT OF REVIEW The golden age of the Broadway musical died over a half century ago. The post-golden age of Sondheim and the rock opera faded before the new century. Since then, we've had corporate movie adaptations, jukebox junk and an increasing number of parody meta-musicals. But good and great shows do slip through the cracks. Hamilton, certainly, but also Fun Home, Next to Normal, Suffs and others. It's quite possible that another gem eventually to hit New York, is currently at Berkeley Rep's Roda Theatre through July 5th, and that's The Lunchbox, created by the team of Ritesh Batra and The Lazours. Based on a 2013 film of the same name, The Lunchbox is about one of those one in a million chance meetings that change people and the direction of their lives. Mumbai, or Bombay as it was known, has a complex system in which business people's hot lunches are delivered from home to workplace in the middle of the day via a phalanx of what are known as dabbawallahs. Despite millions of people and a gigantic metropolis, this system is incredibly accurate with spectacular on-time deliveries. But there are screwups. One day, a young wife, Ila, sends her lunch canister to her husband's office — the canisters have multiple smaller bowls — which never arrives. Somehow, it winds up on the desk of Sajaan, an older widower on the verge of retirement.He sends back a note. She responds. He's decades older, she's married with a daughter; romance may not be in the cards, but connection is. What makes The Lunch Box work so well is both its familiarity with musical theater tropes and its differences. You can hear a bit of Sondheim in the way music and lyrics meld to further the story, but there's also the very distinctive sound of South Asian melody, harmony, instruments and rhythm, punctuated by Bollywood style ensemble dances. The result is organic, it feels right. The Lunchbox unites the two art forms into one, with the spectacle never overwhelming the delicacy of the story, songs, or performances, all of which, by the way, are very, very good, as is the gorgeous set design. The show is kind of a miracle, code-switching in a way that feels wholly original, while maintaining the sensibility and sensitivity of its source material. A note of caution: The Lunch Box is a soufflé. Any attempt to fix it, to make it more big ticket-friendly, could kill it. The show is perfect as it is. The Lunchbox plays at Berkeley Rep's Roda Theatre through July 5th. For more information you can to go berkeleyrep.org. I'm Richard Wolinsky on Bay Area theatre for KPFA. The post Review: “The Lunchbox” at Berkeley Rep Roda Theatre appeared first on KPFA.
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on a beloved Broadway musical: The Rocky Horror Show. THE cult-classic of cult-classics, this show has become a ritualistic experience around the world and has accrued a diverse fandom of all ages, genders, sexualities, etc. There are many ways to experience The Rocky Horror Show these days, but it all started on the stage!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Daniel Okrent is the author of seven books, most recently, “Stephen Sondheim Art Isn't Easy,” of which The Guardian said: “The entire book is sheer delight and Okrent, formerly an editor at The New York Times and a baseball fanatic who effectively invented the modern fantasy baseball league, does a terrific job of telling Sondheim's life story alongside shrewd analysis of his body of work.”Other reviews have been just as positive, and why not? It's the most comprehensive story yet of Stephen Sondheim the man and Stephen Sondheim the composer. It's a real pleasure to have him with me on this episode.
Content Advisory: The following episode contains conversations surrounding topics that may be triggering, such as eating disorders and suicide.In Episode 104, Brennan is joined by NYC-based performer and founder of the Broadway Mental Health Foundation, Emerson Valentina, as they discuss the hazards of some "traditional" musical theatre/ dance education, and the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces across the industry. For too long now, performers have been encouraged and demanded to put unsafe levels of stress on their body and mind, and told it was the only way to succeed, and it's important that we don't continue to spread those falsehoods to the generations to come!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Melissa Errico is a Tony-nominated actress, singer, recording artist, and writer. She is known for her iconic Broadway musical roles such as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady and the title role in One Touch of Venus. She is also recognized from her roles on TV series such as Billions, The Jim Gaffigan Show, Blue Bloods, The Good Wife, Law & Order, A Gifted Man, Ed, and Miss Match opposite Alicia Silverstone. In addition to her work on stage and screen, Errico is highly regarded for her recordings of musical theater classics, including albums of songs by Stephen Sondheim and Michel Legrand. Her 2018 album “Sondheim Sublime” was described by the Wall Street Journal as “the best all-Sondheim album ever recorded”. In a review for her 2024 album “Sondheim in the City”, the New York Times described Errio as “one of Sondheim's deepest-hearted yet lightest-touch interpreters.” Errico’s interpretation of Legrand’s music is equally highly praised, so much so that she was asked to write his eulogy for the Times and was the only American singer invited to perform at Legrand’s memorial at Le Grand Rex in Paris. In recent years, Errico has become a contributing writer to The New York Times and served on the National Endowment for the Arts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on a lesser known, sci-fi Broadway musical, Starmites. This niche, superhero/ space adventure/ boyband musical is camp to the max, and a whole lot of fun! So, let's show it some love!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
What do crossword puzzles have to do with "Send in the Clowns"? More than you'd think. This episode, Shoshana is joined by Barry Joseph, author of Matching Minds with Sondheim, to explore Stephen Sondheim's lifelong obsession with puzzles and games, and how that obsession quietly shaped everything from his lyrics to his show structures to his closest relationships. In the "Why Is This So Good?" segment, Shoshana and Barry dig into "Good Enough to Eat" from Schmigadoon! Season 2. Music featured: "Ten Years Old (The Fabulous Fifties, 1960)" from Sondheim Sings Vol. II (1946–1960) "Hesitation (Reprise)" from Here We Are "A Little Priest" from Sweeney Todd "Good Enough to Eat" from Schmigadoon! Season 2 You can write to scenetosong@gmail.com with a comment or question about an episode or about musical theater, or if you'd like to be a podcast guest. Follow on Instagram at @ScenetoSong and on Facebook at "Scene to Song with Shoshana Greenberg Podcast." Be sure to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter at http://scenetosong.substack.com , and consider supporting the show on Patreon. The theme music is by Julia Meinwald.
It is not hyperbole to say that Stephen Sondheim was among the most important creative voices in 20th Century American musical theater. From the 1950s through to the 2020s, he wrote the lyrics, music, or both for some of the most critically and commercially successful shows of our lifetimes. Sondheim's shows are beloved not only for their incredibly catchy songs, but also for their insightful stories exploring the nature of art, history, and most importantly, the fragile and fault-riddled human condition. Though we lost Mr. Sondheim in 2021, the Great Pop Culture Debate wants to look back on his works as we attempt to name the Best Stephen Sondheim Musical of all time.Musicals discussed: Sweeney Todd, Saturday Night, West Side Story, Merrily We Roll Along, Passion, Sunday in the Park with George, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Assassins, Pacific Overtures, A Little Night Music, Into the Woods, Anyone Can Whistle, Gypsy, FolliesJoin host Eric Rezsnyak and panelists Kevin Dillon, Michael Schwarz, and Trey Radu-Blackburn as they discuss and debate 16 of Sondheim's most enduring works.For the warm-up to this episode, in which we discuss our personal experiences with Sondheim shows, and the Sondheim shows that didn't make the bracket, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast today. Looking for more reasons to become a Patreon supporter? Check out our Top 10 Patreon Perks.EPISODE CREDITSHost: Eric RezsnyakPanelists: Kevin Dillon, Michael Schwarz, Trey Radu-BlackburnProducer: Bob ErlenbackEditor: Jim Czadzeck#sondheim #stephensondheim #musical #broadway #broadwaymusicals #sweeneytodd #company #intothewoods #westsidestory #merrilywerollalong #sundayintheparkwithgeorge #gypsy #follies #assassins #bernadettepetersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
durée : 01:00:54 - par : Laurent Valière - En direct et en public du Studio 105 de la Maison de la Radio et de la Musique. - réalisation : Céline Parfenoff, Martine Mony Vous aimez ce podcast ? Pour écouter tous les épisodes sans limite, rendez-vous sur Radio France
Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller played a key role in the production of RENT, Hamilton, In the Heights, Avenue Q, and the revival of Sondheim's Sweeney Todd that starred Josh Groban. His memoir traced his path from ‘Theater Kid' to producer of Broadway mega-hits. Also, film critic Justin Chang reviews ‘Silent Friend.' See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller played a key role in the production of RENT, Hamilton, In the Heights, Avenue Q, and the revival of Sondheim's Sweeney Todd that starred Josh Groban. His memoir traced his path from ‘Theater Kid' to producer of Broadway mega-hits. Also, film critic Justin Chang reviews ‘Silent Friend.' See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
In Episode 103, Brennan is joined by NYC actor, Cambria Klein, as they mourn the soon to be death of the EMC program and try to figure out what the heck they're gonna do now! The decision is a very complex one to make and there are 1 million factors to take into consideration. However at the end of the day, it's a decision only you can make for yourself, so you gotta trust your heart!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
This week on Sidetracks, we take a look at the controversial premier of EUPHORIA Season 3, dive deep into some classic movies, react to the latest seasons of GEN V and THE BOYS, and talk about the latest pro-shot of the Sondheim musical MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG.Next week for our anniversary episode we'll be watching the controversial THE DEVILS (1971)Thanks for listening and stay spoopy ya'll!Timestamps:00:00:27 Intro and Hellos00:02:13 RESIDENT EVIL Games (REQUIEM and RE2)00:14:22 SINGING IN THE RAIN (HBO Max)00:20:19 Brit's Classic Movie List (Thoughts on BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY's)00:29:24 Bravo Breakdown (SUMMER HOUSE S10 and RHORI S1)00:34:26 GOT Movie Announcement00:35:37 A KNIGHT OF THE SEVEN KINGDOMS (HBO Max)00:40:31 EUPHORIA Season 3 Premier (HBO Max) (Light SPOILERS)00:51:04 GEN V Season 2 (Prime Video) (SPOILERS)00:56:37 THE BOYS Season 5 Ep 1-2 (PRIME VIDEO) (SPOILERS)01:1025 MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG Pro-shot (Netflix) and Theatre Talk Sidetrack01:34:57 FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S 2 (PEACOCK)01:42:40 Wrap Up01:43:16 Next Time (THE DEVILS on AMC+/Shudder) and GoodbyesThe Grindhouse Girls Podcast is created by Katie Dale and Brit Ray. This week's episode is edited by Katie Dale.Part of the Redacted Entertainment Network.Royalty free music used: Ready Set Go and Outro White SmokeCopyright 2020 Grindhouse Girls PodcastThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the hit JRB musical, The Last 5 Years! With the current concert production flooding everyone's feed, tons of people are being exposed to this 2 person show, and it sure is a good one to know!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
As the 1950s came to a close, Broadway continued to push and expand what could be done in a musical and what was expected of a night at the theater. Stars were becoming less powerful and less of a draw, though some stars found ways to maintain their status by proving that they had a place in the new style of show tha cared more about the truth of a character than simply star power. Once such star was Ethel Merman, and her final original stage role was also her greatest: playing Rose in 1959's Gypsy. Composer Jule Styne joined most of the West Side Story Team -- Robbins, Bernstein, and Sondheim -- to tell this story of the ultimate stage mother. It was Robbins and Sondheim, however, who created the show's 11 o'clock number, and one of the greatest star turns in Broadway history: "Rose's Turn." It has challenged Broadway divas ever since. All clips are from the cast album of the 2024 revival of Gyspy featuring Audra McDonald 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. Listen to the SMSTS playlist on Spotify! Follow SMSTS on Instagram: @somuchstufftosing Email the show: somuchstufftosing@gmail.com Recommended Reading/Viewing: https://unhummable.wordpress.com/2010/05/31/breaking-down-a-song-roses-turn/ 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
In Episode 102, Brennan is joined by NY actor and podcaster, Erica Ito, as they talk about lowering the stakes of school, embracing cringe, and her journey of joining the tour of Wicked! They also touch on developing the skill (and yes it is a skill) of not caring so much about certain things in order to keep your eyes on the true goal!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim | Book by James Lapine Works Consulted & Reference : Sunday in the Park Withe George (Original Libretto) by James Lapine & Stephen Sondheim Look, I Made A Hat by Stephen Sondheim Putting It Together by James Lapine Music 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 "Chromolume #7 / Putting It Together" from Sunday in the Park with George (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim | Performed by Mandy Patinkin, Bernadette Peters, Judith Moore, Cris Groenendaal, Charles Kimbrough, William Parry, Nancy Opel, Robert Westenberg, Dana Ivey, Kurt Knudson, Barbara Bryne "What's Inside" from Waitress (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Sara Bareilles | Performed by Jessie Mueller & Ensemble "Finishing the Hat" from Sunday in the Park With George (Original Broadway Cast Recording) | Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim | Performed by Mandy Patinkin "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
Claybourne Elder joins the podcast to discuss his latest album If the Stars Were Mine. Plus, he reveals where he feels the spirit of Sondheim to this day. Center Stage Records is behind the release of If the Stars Were Mine, the debut album from Claybourne Elder who is best known for starring in HBO's The Gilded Age and Broadway's Company. Bryan Perri and Rodney Bush serve as music directors, and also provide arrangements and orchestrations. If the Stars Were Mine is produced by Claybourne Elder and Andrew House, and co-produced by Bryan Perri. Purchase or download the album by clicking here.Send feedback to puttingittogetherpodcast@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/puttingittogetherpodcast ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
We talk with John Lithgow, veteran of hundreds of performances on stage, screen and television. He's currently starring in the play ‘Giant' on Broadway. He plays renowned children's book author Roald Dahl, caught in a public controversy after he wrote an article laced with antisemitic statements. Also, we'll talk about Stephen Sondheim's life and music with Daniel Okrent, author of a new book ‘Stephen Sondheim: Art Isn't Easy.' To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
In this episode, we celebrate To Steve With Love: Liz Callaway Celebrates Sondheim, a heartfelt tribute to one of musical theatre's greatest legends, Stephen Sondheim. Emmy winner and Tony and Grammy nominee Liz Callaway is joined by special guest Jim Walton for an evening of stories, music, and reflection on a career deeply intertwined with Sondheim's work. Recorded live at 54 Below, the Grammy-nominated album offers a personal and nostalgic look at Sondheim's legacy and the profound impact his work has had on performers and audiences alike. Liz shares behind-the-scenes memories, celebrates the music that shaped her career, and honors the enduring brilliance of a composer who forever changed the landscape of musical theatre. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In Episode 101, Brennan is once again joined by Broadway's Michael Ivan Carrier, as they talk about all the amazing things Michael has been up to since the last time they were on our show! From their first co-star on tv, to stepping into a principal role full time on Broadway, it's been a busy couple years! 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 the Broadway musical Xanadu! This movie to stage musical is a fun cult classic filled with roller skates, fake Australian accents, Greek mythology, and more! If that doesn't check all the boxes, then I don't know what does!!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
Let's put on a show! It's season 8 for Paul and Corey Cross the Streams, and this season we're watching musicals. It's a singular art form with a dynamic history, and we get to listen to a lot of cast recordings... Attend the podcast on Sweeney Todd! Yes, this week Corey chose the Tim Burton/Johnny Depp joint Sweeney Todd (2007). This adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's brilliant musical from 1979, was...bad. Which is too bad because the musical is one that Corey and Paul both love very much. In the episode, they discuss Stephen Sondheim's body of work and his singular style; the history of the archetypical characters of Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett; Tim Burton's career (and artistic limitations); whether the musical is, as original director, Hal Prince, claimed and Sondheim disagreed, a satire of "the Industrial Revolution;" and most importantly why and in what ways this adaptation struggles with its source material. (A factory whistle blows)
In our very special 100th episode, Brennan is joined by Tony Award winner and Broadway legend, Beth Leavel as they discuss the relationship of discipline and passion for the craft, as well as the balance one must have between work and life in order to truly find success! Beth is well known for being not only an incredible talent, but also just an incredible person, and after listening to this episode, there's no doubt that it's the truth!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway
In honour of Sondheim's birthday this is a conversation with Laurent Ziliani about his new album Anyone Can Whistle: A Sondheim Journey which is a deeply personal album reimagining the music of Stephen Sondheim through jazz, big band, and intimate vocal arrangements.Available now on all platforms!Send feedback to puttingittogetherpodcast@gmail.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/puttingittogetherpodcast ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Daniel Okrent's new biography, ‘Stephen Sondheim: Art Isn't Easy,' offers new insights into the renowned Broadway composer and lyricist. Okrent talks with Terry Gross about Sondheim's often toxic relationship to his mother, his drinking and substance use, and finding himself through his art. “There are two major arcs to [Stephen Sondheim's] life. One is from absolute alienation to finally, near the end of his life, connection,” he says. “The other is from an ambivalence that could be crippling at times, to resolution, to knowing who he was and what he was capable of doing.”Also, book critic Maureen Corrigan reviews the novel ‘Now I Surrender.'To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Disney, Trivia Contests, Escape Rooms, Stephen Sondheim, Crosswords, and Puzzles Eagerly awaiting the next season of Reality Escape Pod? Great news! Season 11 is just around the corner. While you wait, enjoy a special compilation from Season 10. Our editor Steve Ewing, has chosen a memorable clip from every episode. It's the ideal way for new listeners to get acquainted with the podcast, and the perfect trip down memory lane for our devoted fans. This season featured a variety of talented creators, escape room owners, designers, game makers, and even a live audio escape room that first debuted at RECON Remote in 2025. One of our dream guests launched the season: Puzzlemaster Will Shortz. This episode was filled with fascinating stories about his time working at Games Magazine and his early years editing the puzzle section for the New York Times. Other veteran creatives this season included Jim “The Oz” Olivia, who helps run the World's Largest Trivia Contest, and Doris Hardoon whose years as an Imagineer at Disney yielded many insights for us into what it took to create “the happiest place on earth” at EPCOT and later at Shanghai Disney Resort. We uncovered the parlor game and puzzle obsessions of Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim with author Barry Joseph, who has published an in-depth look at a little-examined facet of Sondheim's genius. Adam Bellow detailed the process of developing escape room-inspired educational kits for classrooms all over the world through the work of his company, Breakout EDU. Of course, we had many standout escape room owners share their trials, tribulations, and moments of triumph. Will & Kim Rutherford, owners of Escape Artist Greenville, Stephen & Stevie Kristof of 60 to Escape in the Chicago area, and Jonathan Driscoll & Sacha St. Dennis of Escaparium in Montreal, where RECON will be held in August of 2026. Zach Sherwin will be at RECON Montreal, running his hilarious act The Crossword Show. He joined David & Peih-Gee to chat about its development, and what it's like to be a comedy rap star on YouTube! And we caught up with Rita Orlov & Lauren Bello of PostCurious to learn about their latest collaboration in the world of boxed puzzle games. As always, we featured a couple episodes that were pure fun. Yannick Trapman-O'Brien & Lyra Levin played Mark Larson's audio escape room: BLOT. On our Holiday Special, REA team members Theresa Piazza and Andrew Reynolds tested their mettle against Peih-Gee's Playhouse word puzzles. Finally, we received the yearly industry report from RoomEscapeArtist.com Editor-In-Chief Lisa Spira. She walked us through her data analysis concerning escape rooms in 2025, including trends in booking times, revenue, and the growth of challenge arcades. Episode Sponsors Thank you to our sponsors: Buzzshot and Patreon supporters like you. Buzzshot Buzzshot is Escape Room Software, Powering Business Growth, Player Marketing, and improving the Customer Experience. They offer an assortment of pre and post game features including robust waiver management, branded team photos, and streamlined review management for Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Morty. Buzzshot now has integration with the other REPOD sponsors: Morty and COGS. Special Offer for REPOD Listeners: REPOD listeners get an extended 21-day free trial plus 20% off your first 3 months, with no set-up fees or hidden charges. Visit buzzshot.com/repod to learn more about this exclusive offer. Become a Patron Today! Supporitng us on Patreon helps to fund our work, pay our team, and it grants you access to an incredible library of bonus content including: The REPOD Bonus Show The Spoilers Club The Travelogue Series Thank you to all of our ongoing supporters
Episode 193 — Revisiting Sondheim: Merrily We Roll AlongWelcome back to The Conner & Smith Show!This week we return to our ongoing Stephen Sondheim deep dive series with a long-overdue update — inspired by the extraordinary filmed stage version of Merrily We Roll Along.For years, Merrily has been known as the fascinating “problem child” of the Sondheim canon — a brilliant score paired with a notoriously difficult structure. But the recent filmed Broadway production, directed by Maria Friedman, offers a revelatory take on the show that made both of us fall in love with it all over again.In this episode we talk about:Why Merrily We Roll Along has had such a complicated historyHow smart direction can solve the storytelling challenges of the show's reverse timelineWhy this particular production finally makes the emotional arc landThe power of Sondheim's score when the story is clearly staged and groundedAnd why this filmed version might be the definitive way many people experience the showWe also revisit our earlier thoughts about the piece from our original Sondheim series and discuss how seeing this production shifted our perspective.If you love Stephen Sondheim, musical theatre history, and the rare revival that truly cracks the code of a difficult show — this episode is for you.
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
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