Podcast appearances and mentions of Stephen Sondheim

The composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim was an icon. As the creative force behind a string of huge musicals — including West Side Story and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum — he is widely regarded as the 'Shakespeare of the musical'.Sondheim's life and legacy are the subject of a new podcast entitled Loving You: The Untold Sondheim, hosted by two close friends of the composer, Martin Milnes and Peter E. Jones, which is out on March 5, 2026. We're delighted that Martin and Peter joined James Fisher on the Country Life Podcast to talk about their own upcoming show.Loving You: The Untold Sondheim features contributions from many people who knew and worked with Sondheim during his life, from Dame Julie Andrews to Dame Judi Dench, and from Mia Farrow to Lin-Manuel Miranda.Loving You: The Untold Sondheim will be available on all streaming platforms from March 5. A trailer is available on Apple, Spotify and Amazon.Subscribe to the Country Life podcast on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the Country Life podcast on SpotifySubscribe to the Country Life podcast on AudibleEpisode creditsHost: James FisherGuests: Martin Milnes and Peter E. JonesProducer and editor: Toby KeelMusic: JuliusH via Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most clever whodunnits of the 1970's. Author ,Morgan Matson, joins Brandon to take a look at 1973's The Last of Sheila. With a screenplay by Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim, this offbeat film boasts a cast including James Coburn, Raquel Welch, Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon and James Mason. Brandon and Morgan discuss the plot twists and clever machinations that have definitely come to inspire films like Knives Out.

The Last of Sheila Front Row Classics is taking a look at one of the most clever whodunnits of the 1970’s. Author, Morgan Matson, joins Brandon to take a look at 1973’s The Last of Sheila. With a screenplay by Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim, this offbeat film boasts a cast including James Coburn, Raquel … Continue reading Ep. 424- The Last of Sheila →

Theatre Victoria presents Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods" for seven performances in February. Opening night is February 13th at 7:30 pm. Saturday night, Saturday, February 14th at 7:30 pm. Sunday afternoon on February 21st at 2:00 pm. Second week on Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 pm. Friday, February 20th at 7:30 pm. Saturday, February 21st at 7:30 pm and Sunday, February 22nd at 2:00 pm.

Theatre Victoria presents Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods" for seven performances in February. Opening night is February 13th at 7:30 pm. Saturday night, Saturday, February 14th at 7:30 pm. Sunday afternoon on February 21st at 2:00 pm. Second week on Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 pm. Friday, February 20th at 7:30 pm. Saturday, February 21st at 7:30 pm and Sunday, February 22nd at 2:00 pm.

Theatre Victoria presents Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods" on Thursday, February 19th at 7:30 pm. Friday, February 20th at 7:30 pm. Saturday, February 21st at 7:30 pm and Sunday, February 22nd at 2:00 pm.

It's more than a decade since Nadiya Hussain became a household name after winning the Great British Bake Off. Since then, she's fronted her own cookery shows, written more than a dozen cookbooks and a series of children's books. Her latest collection of recipes is called Quick Comforts, and Nadiya joins presenter Clare McDonnell to talk about finding comfort in food, her career so far and lots more.A series of stories in The Guardian this week are spotlighting the role that domestic abuse plays in suicides - they say the number of women's suicides that are being are linked to domestic abuse is being severely underreported in police statistics. Figures from the National Police Chiefs Council's Domestic Homicide Project have shown for the last two years that there were more victims of domestic abuse who took their own lives in England and Wales than were killed by their partner. Research by a suicide prevention programme in Kent led by Tim Woodhouse is suggesting the figures could be much higher. We hear from Tim and Dr Hannana Siddiqui, Director of Policy, Campaigns and Research at Southall Black Sisters.Actor Kate Fleetwood talks about her latest role as the angry, vindictive Witch in Stephen Sondheim's fairy tale musical Into the Woods. She'll be singing live and telling Clare about playing the villain, the challenges of this demanding singing role and why Shakespeare holds an important part of her life.Megan Boxall is running the coastline of Britain, hoping to complete 200 marathons in 200 days. She joins us live from the Scottish Highlands - the latest stage of her challenge - to update us on her progress so far and the people she has met along the way.Presenter: Clare McDonnell Producer: Kirsty Starkey

Nights' resident screen critic, Dan Slevin, reviews Wonder Man, the latest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Merrily We Roll Along, a recording of the 2022 Broadway revival and Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.Nights' resident screen critic, Dan Slevin, reviews Wonder Man, the latest entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as a struggling Los Angeles actor with secret superpowers (Disney+), and Merrily We Roll Along, a recording of the 2022 Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's acclaimed musical starring former Harry Potter, Daniel Radcliffe (AroVision). Dan's free streaming option this week also stars Radcliffe, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story (TVNZ+).Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

This week I speak with Frank Verlizzo, on his first book of the Retro Broadway Mystery Series – Scenery of the Crime.  Before becoming an author, Frank Verlizzo was a legendary graphic designer, the man behind such iconic poster art as the original Broadway productions of Disney's The Lion King; Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd and Sunday in the Park with George, and Ira Levin's Deathtrap.

Today Matt & Todd dive into one of the great under‑sung gems of 1970s cinema: the 1973 ensemble whodunnit mystery‑thriller The Last of Sheila, directed by Herbert Ross.Featuring a stacked cast of Hollywood heavy hitters:Richard BenjaminDyan CannonJames CoburnJoan HackettJames MasonIan McShaneRaquel WelchMovie producer Clinton Greene invites a group of industry friends aboard his luxury yacht, the Sheila, for what's supposed to be a pleasure cruise. When they arrive he reveals that he has also spun up an elaborate parlor game: a mystery scavenger hunt where each guest is assigned a “secret” the others must uncover. As the game unfolds it is clear that there is more to this group that meets the eye.With a screenplay co‑written by Anthony Perkins and Stephen Sondheim, this film is filled with sharp dialogue and Hollywood satire. It is a great twisty murder mystery, a classic of the genre that still feels as clever as the first time we saw it.This episode contains full spoilers, including the ending, so make sure you watch The Last of Sheila before listening. Trust us—you'll want to experience the reveals for yourself.

Stephen Sondheim's vintage musical “Company” presented by Madkap Productions explores the life choices of Bobby (Graham Todd) the only one of his friends still unmarried at a time when marriage by thirty was expected.

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

Merrily we roll along, roll along... Bursting with dreams! This week we're diving back into musical theater and looking at the new filmed version of the Stephen Sondheim musical starring Harry Potter, the king from Hamilton, and a former Elphaba. Come join the fun as we travel in time backwards. Credits: Hosts: Jesse McAnally & Andrew DeWolf & Liz Esten Podcast Edited By: Jesse McAnally Keeper of the Cheese: Juliet Antonio This show is a part of the Broadway Podcast Network Social Media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our WEBSITE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Musicals with Cheese on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Musicals W/ Cheese on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠musicaltheatrelives@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch!!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Jess Socials ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jesse McAnally ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jess McAnally on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Andrew Socials ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrew DeWolf on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrew DeWolf on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Liz Socials ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Liz Esten on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Liz Esten on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use our Affiliate Link⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Todd Logan invites Lindsay Jones to help adapt Todd's play Botanic Garden into a musical and almost immediately Lindsay realizes he has no idea how to write a musical. Lindsay writes the perfect opening song which everyone loves until they all realize that perhaps it's not the perfect opening song. Inspired by Stephen Sondheim's struggle to write “Comedy Tonight”, Lindsay creates “Why Am I Here” which is actually becomes the perfect song to open the show. Lindsay then vows to write an entire musical using only a piano, then immediately breaks this vow by adding in a metronome as musical instrument on “An Honest Lie”. This journey may have more twists than we thought. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.

Writer, composer, and producer T.J. Armand announces the release of Happy Hour Blues – Volume 2 (Demo Sessions), the latest chapter in his three-volume recording project exploring queer life, immigration, and identity through the lens of New York City nightlife.Happy Hour Blues is a multidisciplinary project anchored by a developing musical that follows Adam, a queer immigrant navigating love, exile, and belonging inside a country-themed gay bar in Hell's Kitchen. Conceived during the isolation and cultural upheaval of the pandemic, the project introduces a vivid ensemble of characters shaped by longing, survival, and chosen family — including the bar's sharp-witted female bartender, a role Armand is developing with Tony Award nominee Mary Bridget Davies in mind, known for her electrifying portrayal of Janis Joplin.With the release of Volume 2, Armand expands the sonic and emotional scope of the project, further defining its Blues Rock, Roots, and Americana direction while deepening the world introduced in Volume 1.A QUEER + IMMIGRANT AMERICANA STORY BORN IN ASTORIAThe Happy Hour Blues project was conceived in Astoria, where Armand wrote during the height of the pandemic. What began as private late-night notes and lyrical sketches evolved into a larger narrative shaped by Armand's interest in blending queer life with country-esque storytelling. The material naturally gravitated toward the raw emotional language of Blues Rock, Roots, and Americana.The companion book, Happy Hour Blues: Lyrics, Notes & Reflections, contains more than fifty lyrics, notes, and reflections that outline the world of Adam and the bar's community. Core themes include: queer life and nightlife culture, immigration and self-reinvention, exile and the search for home, chosen family, New York City as both refuge and pressure cookerThe book is complemented by street photography from Astoria and Manhattan, grounding the project in the visual textures of the city that shaped it.⸻THE RECORDINGS: A THREE-VOLUME SOUNDTRACK TO THE STORYThe recording project unfolds as a three-volume series of demo sessions that chart the evolution of Happy Hour Blues:•Volume 1 introduced the project's musical and lyrical foundation, featuring early demos created with the assistance of AI as part of the development process.•Volume 2, released today, builds on that foundation, expanding the emotional palette and further defining the project's Blues Rock / Roots identity.•Volume 3 will follow in Spring 2026, completing the demo-session trilogy.Together, the albums and book form the first complete expression of the Happy Hour Blues universe — a world that will continue to evolve as the musical develops around Adam's journey.⸻ABOUT T.J. ARMANDT.J. Armand is a Turkish-American writer, composer, and producer based in New York City. A Berklee College of Music scholarship recipient and protégé of Arif Mardin, Armand's two-decade career spans songwriting, global beats, concert production, and theatrical storytelling.He has produced concerts for Chaka Khan and The Manhattan Transfer, and produced albums for The Queen's Six and Tony Award nominee Mary Bridget Davies. Along with his partner Carl H. Paiva, Armand was an investing producer on Broadway productions including Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 starring Josh Groban and Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along.His original work frequently explores queer identity, immigration, and the cultural pulse of New York City — themes that anchor Happy Hour Blues.⸻BOOK & MUSIC AVAILABILITYHappy Hour Blues: Lyrics, Notes & ReflectionsPaperback available now on Amazon.Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G5V6SQ7T?ref_=pe_93986420_774957520&dplnkId=370a7816-ff8f-4a69-a5af-b048c2f2a09d&nodl=1Happy Hour Blues — Volumes 1 & 2 (Demo Sessions)Streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major platforms.

Raanan Hershberg returns to the pod to discuss his new special MORBIDLY JEWISH (out now on Youtube), the art of trash talking, why he loves taking baths so much, his anticipation of becoming a first-time father, his favorite Stephen Sondheim musicals, and much more. Raanan and Stav help callers including a man who's wondering if he should tell the girl he's dating that they already went on a first date three years ago even though she completely forgot, and a guy wondering if he should snitch on a drug den next door in exchange for the possibility of forgiveness of his $4,000 in unpaid parking tickets. Watch Raanan Hershberg's new special MORBIDLY JEWISH out now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Kc6151SE1U   See Raanan Hershberg live and follow him:https://www.raananhershberg.com/https://www.instagram.com/raanancomedy/https://www.youtube.com/@RaananHershberghttps://www.tiktok.com/@raanancomedy   

Marcia Milgrom Dodge is an acclaimed director and choreographer. She is a Tony, a Drama Desk and an Astaire Award Nominated Director & Choreographer for her 2009 revival of RAGTIME. She's known for her work in major New York revivals, groundbreaking regional theater, and international spectacles. Her other works include LA CAGE AUX FOLLES; DISNEY'S BEAUTY & THE BEAST; EVITA; and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF. She's worked with stars like Stephen Sondheim, Richard Maltby and William Finn among many others.My featured song is my recent single called “The Rich Ones All Stars”. Spotify link.—-----------------------------------------------------------The Follow Your Dream Podcast:Top 1% of all podcasts with Listeners in 200 countries!Click here for All Episodes Click here for Guest List Click here for Guest Groupings Click here for Guest TestimonialsClick here to Subscribe Click here to receive our Email UpdatesClick here to Rate and Review the podcast—----------------------------------------CONNECT WITH MARCIA:www.marciamilgromdodge.com—----------------------------------------ROBERT'S LATEST RELEASE:“MA PETITE FLEUR STRING QUARTET” is Robert's latest release. It transforms his jazz ballad into a lush classical string quartet piece. Praised by a host of classical music stars.CLICK HERE FOR YOUTUBE LINKCLICK HERE FOR ALL LINKS—---------------------------------------ROBERT'S RECENT SINGLE“MI CACHIMBER” is Robert's recent single. It's Robert's tribute to his father who played the trumpet and loved Latin music.. Featuring world class guest artists Benny Benack III and Dave Smith on flugelhornCLICK HERE FOR YOUTUBE LINKCLICK HERE FOR ALL LINKS—--------------------------------------ROBERT'S LATEST ALBUM:“WHAT'S UP!” is Robert's latest compilation album. Featuring 10 of his recent singles including all the ones listed below. Instrumentals and vocals. Jazz, Rock, Pop and Fusion. “My best work so far. (Robert)”CLICK HERE FOR THE OFFICIAL VIDEOCLICK HERE FOR ALL LINKS—----------------------------------------Audio production:Jimmy RavenscroftKymera Films Connect with the Follow Your Dream Podcast:Website - www.followyourdreampodcast.comEmail Robert - robert@followyourdreampodcast.com Follow Robert's band, Project Grand Slam, and his music:Website - www.projectgrandslam.comYouTubeSpotify MusicApple MusicEmail - pgs@projectgrandslam.com  

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 […]

Song Sung Blue is a musical biopic written and directed by Craig Brewer and based on a documentary of the same name. It tells the true story of a Neil Diamond tribute act, Lightning & Thunder. Hugh Jackman plays Lightning, and Kate Hudson was just nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress for her turn as Thunder. And: Merrily We Roll Along is a filmed version of the 2023 Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s 1981 problem musical. It stars Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez, and the Broadway production won four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical. GUESTS: Jim Chapdelaine: An Emmy-winning musician and a patient advocate for people with rare cancers Jacques Lamarre: A playwright, and chief communications officer at Buzz Engine Carolyn Paine: An actress and comedian; she’s the founder and director of CONNetic Dance and the creative producer and choreographer for The Bushnell’s Digital Institute Bill Yousman: Professor of media studies at Sacred Heart University MUSIC FEATURED (in order): Soolaimón / Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show – Hugh Jackman Cherry Cherry – Hugh Jackman ft. Kate Hudson Merrily We Roll Along – From the Movie (2023 version linked, very similar) Old Friends – From the Movie (2023 version linked, very similar) See You On The Radio – Grayson Hugh Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atrium! Fog! Other stuff! Kate finds a way to work Stephen Sondheim into every conversation. Maysoun wants to make certificates.the music in this episode is by aivi & surasshu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the 267th episode of The Cup which is our a weekly (give or take, TBD, these are unprecedented times) performing arts talk show presented by Cup of Hemlock Theatre. With the theatres on a come back we offer a mix of both reviews of live shows we've seen and continued reviews of prophet productions! For our 267th episode we bring you a Duet Review of the musical Company, written by Stephen Sondheim (music and lyrics) and George Furth (book), presented by Talk Is Free Theatre, directed by Dylan Trowbridge, and starring Aidan deSalaiz in the role of Bobby. Join Ryan Borochovitz and special guest Lori Ossip, as they discuss concept musicals, queer intimacies, and invisible props. Company is playing at the Theatre Centre (1115 Queen St W, Toronto, ON) until February 8th, 2026. Tickets can be purchased from the following link: https://theatrecentre.org/event/company-talk-is-free/ This review contains many SPOILERS for Company. It will begin with a general non-spoiler review until the [36:34] mark, followed by a more in-depth/anything goes/spoiler-rich discussion. If you intend to see the production, we recommend you stop watching after that point, or at least proceed at your own risk. Follow our panelists: Lori Ossip – Blog: https://girllikestheatre.com/ // NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/%22lori+ossip%22 Ryan Borochovitz – NEXT Mag: https://nextmag.ca/search/borochovitz Follow Cup of Hemlock Theatre on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter: @cohtheatreIf you'd like us to review your upcoming show in Toronto, please send press invites/inquiries to coh.theatre.MM@gmail.com

After reported rumours, it has now been confirmed that a major new revival of the musical SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE will open at the Barbican in London in Summer 2027.The musical, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1985, was written by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, and will star Wicked stars Jonathan Bailey and Ariana Grande.In this theatrical news recap, Mickey-Jo is sharing all of the information that has been announced so far as well as his thoughts on this upcoming production, and who deserves the chance to see it...•00:00 | introduction 02:11 | production details09:18 | cast + creatives 17:26 | tickets / final thoughtsAbout 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.

The two "Wicked" stars stopped by the Art Institute of Chicago Tuesday to pose for a photo to promote an upcoming production of Stephen Sondheim's musical “Sunday in the Park with George” in London.

Vanessa Williams is musical theatre royalty. She's worked with Stephen Sondheim on Broadway and is currently commanding the London stage as the fearsome fashion editor Miranda Priestly in the musical The Devil Wears Prada. She's also topped the American pop charts, starred in Hollywood movies with the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger, and played key roles in prize winning TV series including Ugly Betty.And before all that she was crowned Miss America 1984 - the first Black American to take the title – although she was later forced to relinquish it in controversial circumstances.Her choices include music from her homeland by Samuel Barber, Jennifer Higdon, Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein, as well as works by Bach and Delius. Presenter Michael Berkeley Producer Katy Hickman

Bookwaves/Artwaves is produced and hosted by Richard Wolinsky. Links to assorted local theater & book venues   John Varley (1947-2025): Hugo & Nebula Award Winning Science Fiction Author John Varley (1947-2025), Hugo and Nebula Award winning science fiction novelist, who died on December 10, 2025 at the age of 78, in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, recorded in the KPFA studios July 17, 1992 while on tour for the novel “Steel Beach.” John Varley hit the ground running with his first short story, “Picnic on Nearside,” published in 1974 in the Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction. He was already considered the logical heir to Robert Heinlein by the time his novel, The Ophiuchi Hotline was published in 1977 and his short story collection, The Persistence of Vision a year later. He followed those books with a trilogy that included Titan, Wizard and Demon, then went to Hollywood for seven years. This Probabilities interview was recorded on July 17, 1992 when he returned to the field with his novel, Steel Dreams, first of two novels set in the Eight Worlds universe of his earlier work; the sequel, The Golden Globe, was published in 1998.. By the time of this interview, John Varley's history with Hollywood would be over. You can find a PBS version of Overdrawn at the Memory Bank on Pluto TV, and two episodes from the TV show Paradox on You Tube. The film Millennium is not streaming. After The Golden Globe, John Varley wrote seven novels, most in a new series titled Thunder and Lightning. He returned to the Eight Worlds for his final novel, Irontown Blues, published in 2018. There would also be The John Varley Reader in 2004 and another collection in 2013. This interview has not aired in over thirty years.   Alan Furst: Best-selling Spy Novelist, 2002 Alan Furst, historical spy novelist, in conversation with Richard Wolinsky, recorded in the KPFA studios during the book tour for “Blood of Victory, September 26, 2002. This interview has not aired in over two decades. In this interview, he discusses his early career, resistance during World War II, and creating the unique atmosphere and characters in his books.His latest novel, Under Occupation, was published in 2019. Alan Furst's career took off with his novel Kingdom of Shadows in 2000, the sixth book in his series of stand-alone novels about heros and villains in Europe in the years leading up to, and including World War II.  Suffused with atmosphere, his books feel as if you're living with the characters in those haunted times. Of course, there is added resonance as we live through what might be similar times today. This is the second of five Bookwaves interviews with Alan Furst.   James Lapine discusses his collaborations with Stephen Sondheim.     Book Interview/Events and Theatre Links Note: Shows may unexpectedly close early or be postponed due to actors' positive COVID tests. Check the venue for closures, ticket refunds, and mask requirements before arrival. Dates are in-theater performances unless otherwise noted. Some venues operate Tuesday – Sunday; others for shorter periods each week. All times Pacific Time. Closing dates are sometimes extended. Book Stores Bay Area Book Festival  See website for highlights from the 110th Annual Bay Area Book Festival, May 31 – June 1, 2025. Book Passage.  Monthly Calendar. Mix of on-line and in-store events. Books Inc.  Mix of on-line and in-store events. The Booksmith.  Monthly Event Calendar. BookShop West Portal. Monthly Event Calendar. Center for Literary Arts, San Jose. See website for Book Club guests in upcoming months. Green Apple Books. Events calendar. Kepler's Books  On-line Refresh the Page program listings. Live Theater Companies Actors Ensemble of Berkeley.  See website for readings and events. Actor's Reading Collective (ARC).  See website for upcoming productions. African American Art & Culture Complex. See website for calendar. American Conservatory Theatre  Paranormal Activity, Feb. 19 – March 15, Toni Rembe. Awesome Theatre Company. See website for information. Berkeley Playhouse. Once, February 20 – March 22.  Berkeley Rep. How Shakespeare Saved My Life written and performed by Jacob Ming-Trent .January 23 – March 1, Peets Theatre. All My Sons by Arthur Miller, Feb. 20 – March 29, Roda Theatre. Berkeley Shakespeare Company See website for upcoming productions. Brava Theatre Center: See calendar for events listings. BroadwaySF: The Notebook, February 10 – March 1, Orpheum. See website for complete listings for the Orpheum, Golden Gate and Curran Theaters. note: BroadwaySF is now ATG Tickets. Broadway San Jose:  The Book of Mormon, March 6-8. Beetlejuice, March 31 – April 5. Les Miserables, April 29 – May 3. Back to the Future, June 2 – 7. The Sound of Music, July 21-26, Center REP: Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon, March 29 – April 19. Central Stage. See website for upcoming productions, 5221 Central Avenue, Richmond Central Works After Happy by Patricia Milton, Feb. 28 – March 29. Cinnabar Theatre. My Fair Lady, January 23 – February 8, 2026. The Christians by Lucas Hnath, April 10-26, The Secret Garden, June 12 – 28. Club Fugazi. Dear San Francisco, ongoing. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Contra Costa Civic Theatre A Chorus Line, June 6 – 21, 2026. See website for other events and concerts. Golden Thread  See website for upcoming events and productions. Hillbarn Theatre: What the Constitution Means to Me by Heidi Schreck, January 22 – February 8. Songs for a New World, music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown, March 5 -22. Lorraine Hansberry Theatre. Sistah Friend by by Phaedra Tillery-Boughton, directed by Margo Hall. February 7, 2 pm, Museum of the African Diaspora. Los Altos Stage Company. Yoga Play by Dipika Guha. January 22 – February 15.. Lower Bottom Playaz  See website for upcoming productions. Magic Theatre. Macbeth, a new version by Migdalia Cruz. March 18 – April 5. Marin Shakespeare Company: Let The Wind Sweep Through: A Conference of Birds, Feb. 6-15. See website for schedule. Marin Theatre: The Cherry Orchard by Anton Chekhov Jan . 29 – Feb. 22, 2026. Masquers Playhouse, Point Richmond. Improbable Fiction by Alan Aykbourn, Feb. 6 – March 1. Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts Closed. SF Chronicle gift article. New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC)  Pride Cabaret, Feb. 5-7. Gods and Monsters based on the novel by Christopher Bram, written and adapted by Tom Mullen, March 6 – April 5. New Performance Traditions.  See website for upcoming schedule Oakland Theater Project. The Mountaintop by Katori Hall, Thurs-Sun, Feb. 5 – 15. Odd Salon: Upcoming events in San Francisco & New York, and streaming. Palace of Fine Arts Theater.  See website for event listings. Pear Theater. My Fair Lady, Feb 20 – March 8. See website for staged readings and other events. Playful People Productions. The One-Act Play That Goes Wrong, March 6 – 22. Presidio Theatre. See website for complete schedule of events and performances. The Children's Theatre Association of San Francisco (CTA) presents Once Upon a Mattress, January 24 – February 28. Ray of Light: Mean Girls. May 2026. Ross Valley Players: See website for New Works Sunday night readings and other events. San Francisco Playhouse. M. Butterfly by David Henry Hwang. February 6 – March 14.. SFBATCO.  See website for upcoming streaming and in- theater shows. San Jose Stage Company: See website for events and upcoming season Shotgun Players.  Sunday in the Park with George, extended to February 15, 2026. South Bay Musical Theatre:  Little Women, The Broadway Musical, January 24 – February 14, 2026. SPARC: See website for upcoming events. Stagebridge: See website for events and productions. Storytime every 4th Saturday. The Breath Project. Streaming archive. The Marsh: Calendar listings for Berkeley, San Francisco and Marshstream. Theatre Lunatico  See website for upcoming productions.. Theatre Rhino  Left Field, written and directed by John Fisher, February 19 – March 15. Streaming: Essential Services Project, conceived and performed by John Fisher, all weekly performances now available on demand. TheatreWorks Silicon Valley Hershey Felder: The Piano and Me, January 17 – February 8, Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Primary Trust by Eboni Booth, March 4 – 29, Lucie Stern Theatre, Palo Alto. Word for Word.  See website for upcoming productions. Misc. Listings: BAMPFA: On View calendar for Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. Berkeley Symphony: See website for listings. Chamber Music San Francisco: Calendar, 2025 Season. Dance Mission Theatre. On stage events calendar. Fort Mason Center. Events calendar. Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Calendar listings and upcoming shows. San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus. See schedule for upcoming SFGMC performances. San Francisco Opera. Calendar listings. San Francisco Symphony. Calendar listings. Filmed Live Musicals: Searchable database of all filmed live musicals, podcast, blog. If you'd like to add your bookstore or theater venue to this list, please write Richard@kpfa.org   . The post Bookwaves/Artwaves – January 8, 2026: John Varley – Alan Furst appeared first on KPFA.

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!

This is a Broadway Drumming 101 Classic.Originally released in December 2021, this episode features Rich Rosenzweig, recorded on the very day Companyofficially opened on Broadway. The timing alone makes it special. Rich was stepping into an opening night shaped by grief, history, and pressure, following the passing of Stephen Sondheim, while carrying the responsibility of yet another major Broadway chair.But what makes this episode endure is not the moment. It is the honesty.Rich and Clayton dig into the parts of Broadway drumming that rarely get talked about clearly. Reviews. Word of mouth. Why some shows with mediocre press run for years while others with praise disappear. Rich explains how the power of critics has shifted, and why storytelling, audience response, and momentum now matter more than ever.From there, the conversation goes deep into subbing. This is one of the most detailed discussions anywhere about what chair holders actually look for in a sub drummer. Not flash. Not ego. Preparation, consistency, psychological trust, and the ability to make a conductor feel safe. Rich explains why subbing can be more stressful than holding a Broadway chair full time, and why even great drummers struggle if they miss these non-negotiables.They also talk candidly about career reality. Getting fired. Losing gigs. Being passed over. How to assess whether feedback is something to grow from or simply a mismatch. Rich shares stories from Beauty and the Beast, Cats, Rent, Memphis, and more, showing how longevity in this business often comes down to adaptability and self-awareness, not perfection.This episode is essential listening if you are serious about musical theater, Broadway, or touring at a high level.Not motivational quotes. Not shortcuts. Just real talk from someone who has lived it.If you are trying to understand how Broadway actually works, this one belongs in your library.Support Broadway Drumming 101 and unlock exclusive content at BroadwayDrumming101.com.Clayton Craddock is the drummer for the upcoming Broadway musical Cats: The Jellicle Ball, opening at the Broadhurst Theatre on April 7th. He is also the founder of Broadway Drumming 101 and the author of the forthcoming book Broadway Bound and Beyond: A Musician's Guide to Building a Theater Career.His Broadway and Off-Broadway credits include tick, tick…BOOM!, Memphis, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, Ain't Too Proud, and The Hippest Trip: The Soul Train Musical, along with extensive subbing on shows such as Rent, Motown, Evita, Avenue Q, and the Hadestown tour.Clayton has appeared on The View, Good Morning America, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, The Today Show, and the TONY Awards, and has performed with artists ranging from Chuck Berry and Ben E. King to Kristin Chenoweth and Norm Lewis.www.claytoncraddock.com Get full access to Broadway Drumming 101 at broadwaydrumming101.substack.com/subscribe

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my interview with Broadway veteran Annie McGreevey. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her wonderful career, including a memorable note from Bob Fosse during SWEET CHARITY, standing by for Ethel Merman in CALL ME MADAM, the joy of working with John Kenley, singing for Hal Prince at her COMPANY audition, talking to Stephen Sondheim about “Another Hundred People,” making birthday cakes during ANNIE, why THE MAGIC SHOW was a workout, the surprising fate of THE MOONY SHAPIRO SONGBOOK, crying after A CHORUS LINE, recording demos for FOLLIES, headlining at the Fontainebleau, performing with Carol Burnett in FROM THE TOP!, her journey with dyslexia, learning how to wrestle for BELOW THE BELT, performing a solo piece in I STAND BEFORE YOU NAKED, how Joshua Logan kept her job in RIP VAN WINKLE, performing at the first Kennedy Center Honors, making a cameo in JUNO at Encores!, going on in SWEENEY TODD at the last minute, and so much more. Don't miss this in-depth talk with one of Broadway's best.   In-person and livestream tickets to Backstage Babble Live are available here: https://54below.org/events/charles-kirschs-backstage-babble-live-3/

GGACP welcomes Christmas 2025 with this ENCORE of the final (2021) GGACP holiday show featuring actor, singer and fan favorite Mario Cantone. In this episode, Mario discusses a sackful of topics, including the joys of Albert Finney's “Scrooge,” the enduring appeal of the Snow Miser, the genius of Stephen Sondheim and the 100th birthday of Judy Garland. Also, Mel Gibson celebrates Hanukkah (!), Gilbert replaces Kim Cattrall, Bette Davis makes like Maria von Trapp and Emannuel Lewis learns the true meaning of Christmas. PLUS: “Cricket on the Hearth”! The ghost of Charles Nelson Reilly! Iago sings! Santa hangs ten! Mario reenacts “The Birds”! And the boys get a surprise Christmas visit from a showbiz legend! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Scott Bryan and Rhianna Dhillon join Tom Sutcliffe to discuss sports drama Marty Supreme which stars Timothée Chalamet as a table tennis hustler who dreams of becoming a world champion in 1950s New York. They also discuss Stephen Sondheim's fairytale production Into the Woods which is at London's Bridge Theatre. Plus they review Sentimental Value – Joachim Trier's film which stars Stellan Skarsgård as a film director trying to mend his family through the camera. Finally, classicist and writer Natalie Haynes gives her verdict on the growing trend for Immersive Exhibitions about the Ancient World. Presenter: Tom Sutcliffe Producer: Claire Bartleet

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

December is here and so are we at Breakfast All Day. Kind of a random week of smaller stuff to start the last month of 2025, but the big movies are coming very soon. For now, we have: MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG. This is the filmed version of the Tony-winning musical revival. It was a notorious flop for Stephen Sondheim and is now considered a classic. Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe and Lindsay Mendez star. In theaters for a limited run. (Find out here if it's playing near you: https://www.fathomentertainment.com/releases/merrily-we-roll-along/) SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE: The great Dave White returns to help review the "Sisu" sequel after sharing his thoughts on the 2023 original. Jorma Tommila is back as a wordless badass, but now it's post-WWII, so he's killing Russians instead of Nazis. This Finnish thriller is crazy fun. In theaters. MOVIE NEWS LIVE! It's been literally a month since our last movie news livestream, and there was a ton to talk about between Netflix buying Warner Bros. and all the awards season developments. "One Battle After Another" and "Sinners" appear to be your front runners and they're ... both from Warner Bros. Plus: Why is Quentin Tarantino trashing Paul Dano? Always a lot to discuss. Thanks for sharing some of your time with us! Subscribe to Christy's Saturday Matinee newsletter: https://christylemire.beehiiv.com/  

The last year has seen the election of several women to positions of political leadership: Sanae Takaichi as Prime Minister of Japan, Catherine Connolly as President of Ireland, and Jennifer Geerlings-Simons as President of Suriname. But, a recent report has suggested that trust in women leaders is declining globally. The Reykjavik Index For Leadership measures how women and men are perceived in terms of their suitability for leadership, not just in politics but across many sectors of society. So is this part of a trend of declining trust in women in positions of power? Kylie Pentelow is joined by Lois Taylor, Global Marketing Director of Verian Group who published the report, and BBC business journalist and presenter of Moneybox Live Felicity Hannah to discuss.Columnist Sarah Vine started losing her hair as a teenager and was eventually diagnosed with female pattern baldness, a hormonal condition. But now she has decided, after 15 years of wearing wigs, to reveal her own hair on the front cover of a national newspaper. She spoke to Kylie about her decision to bare all. According to a recent poll by US analytics firm Gallup, 40% of American women aged 15 to 44 would move abroad if they had the opportunity, with the desire to migrate among younger American women quadrupling in the past decade. Kylie talks to Josephine Harmon, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Northeastern University in Boston, and Bonnie Beuke – now 45 with two young children - who lives in London having left Seattle one-and-a-half years ago.Four-time Olivier Award-winning actress, singer and director Maria Friedman is still best known to many as the narrator in the film of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. But this Christmas, her hugely acclaimed Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim's musical Merrily We Roll Along, starring Daniel Radcliffe and Jonathan Groff, is coming to cinemas. And Maria also stars in Tinsel Town, which sees Kiefer Sutherland play a washed-up Hollywood actor who ends up in a small town pantomime. Maria joins Kylie to talk about more than three decades on stage and screen, and spreading joy at Christmas. A quirky new romcom novel set against the sapphic dating scene is out. My Ex-Girlfriend's Wedding is about Hope, a folk musician who feels that she has nothing going for her: She's in a job she hates, has had to quit her band after losing the ability to play guitar; her very recent ex-girlfriend is now getting married. And so, she resolves there's nothing for it, but to accept an invitation to the wedding and try to win back the love of her life. Kylie asks Sophie Crawford about relationships with an ex, dating within the queer community and magic- all themes in her book.Presenter: Kylie Pentelow Producer: Corinna Jones

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

Dennis is joined via Zoom by Maria Friedman director of the Broadway musical Merrily We Roll Along as well as the new filmed version of that Tony-winning stage production (which hits theaters on December 5th). Maria talks about her long history with the Stephen Sondheim musical as both actor and director, the themes that were on her mind as she approached this new version and what it was like to bring out the dark side of the ever-sunny Jonathan Groff. She also responds to the way Dennis experienced the show as a tragedy with Franklin Shepherd as its tragic hero. Other topics include: Daniel Radcliffe's Chaplin-esque appeal, the trouble with the uber rich, as depicted in the play and in modern day America, the idea that it's not too late to reach out to the old friends we've lost touch with and what her friend Stephen Sondheim would think of the show's success and new filmed version.

Cheers! We're kicking off the holiday month with an elegant twist on a classic: the White Cosmopolitan! We're shaking up this sophisticated cocktail—featuring citrus vodka, white cranberry juice, and a kiss of elderflower liqueur—to match the sparkling high-stakes of this week's entertainment news.First, we analyze the box office performance of the biggest movie in the world right now: Zootopia 2! Disney's animated sequel didn't just open big; it delivered a staggering $556 million worldwide, setting a new record for the largest global animated film debut ever! We break down the historic numbers, the massive international appeal (especially in China), and what this success means for the final weeks of 2025's box office race.Then, we roll back the clock and examine one of the year's most anticipated special cinema events: the filmed version of the Tony-winning Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's masterpiece, Merrily We Roll Along. With its limited theatrical release just days away, we discuss the genius of the show's reverse chronology, the brilliant performances by Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez, and why this story of friendship and ambition is finally having its time in the spotlight.All that, plus the full Box Office News breakdown!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch Shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drinkthemovies.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Discord⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠*Please Drink Responsibly*

A filmed version of the live Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim's ‘Merrily We Roll Along' will open in theaters on Dec. 5. We listen back to a 2024 interview with revival director Maria Friedman and actor Jonathan Groff.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The American musical is in a state of flux. Today's Broadway offerings are mostly jukebox musicals and blatant I.P. grabs; original ideas are few and far between. Meanwhile, Jon M. Chu's earnest (and lengthy) two-part adaptation of “Wicked”—an origin story for the Wicked Witch of the West that first premièred on the Great White Way over twenty years ago—has struck a chord with today's audiences. On this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Fry, and Alexandra Schwartz discuss “Wicked” before stepping back to trace the evolution of the musical form, from the first shows to marry song and story in the nineteen-twenties to the seventies-era innovations of figures like Stephen Sondheim. Amid the massive commercial, technological, and aesthetic shifts of the last century, how has the form changed, and why has it endured? “People who don't like musicals will often criticize their artificiality,” Schwartz says. “Some things in life are so heightened . . . yet they're part of the real. Why not put them to music and have singing be part of it?”This episode originally aired on December 12, 2024.Read, watch, and listen with the critics:“Wicked” (2024)“The Animals That Made It All Worth It,” by Naomi Fry (The New Yorker)“Ben Shapiro Reviews ‘Wicked' ”“Frozen” (2013)“Hair” (1979)“The Sound of Music” (1965)“Anything Goes” (1934)“Show Boat” (1927)“Oklahoma” (1943)“Mean Girls” (2017)“Hamilton” (2015)“Wicked” (2003)“A Strange Loop” (2019)“Teeth” (2024)“Kimberly Akimbo” (2021)New episodes drop every Thursday. Follow Critics at Large wherever you get your podcasts.Critics at Large is a weekly discussion from The New Yorker which explores the latest trends in books, television, film, and more. Join us every Thursday as we make unexpected connections between classic texts and pop culture.  Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

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

The Troy Savings Bank Music Hall will celebrate its reopening with Lea Salonga's “Stage Screen & Everything in Between” on Tuesday December 2nd at 7:30.Salonga is known for her roles on stage and in film. Her Broadway credits include “Les Misérables,” “Flower Drum Song,” "Allegiance,” the revival of “Once On this Island,” “Here Lies Love,” “Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends,” and, of course, “Miss Saigon” - for which she won a Tony Award in 1991.She performed the singing voice for Princess Jasmine in the Disney film “Aladdin” and the title character in “Mulan.” Her most recent album is a holiday record called “Sounding Joy.”

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

This week, we're looking back at Rob's conversation with Jennifer Grey! They discuss the time Jennifer sang showtunes for Stephen Sondheim at Hal Prince's holiday party, how writing about her own experience has shaped her future, and both actors' odd experiences while shooting the 1990 film "If the Shoe Fits". This episode originally aired in July 2022. Make sure to subscribe to the show on YouTube at YouTube.com/@LiterallyWithRobLowe! Got a question for Rob? Call our voicemail at 323-570-4551. Your question could get featured on the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some college students are using the word loyalty as a synonym for monogamy. Are the meanings of these words now shifting? Plus, a biologist discovers a new species of bat, then names it after a poet he admires. The poet? Nikki Giovanni. Also, warm memories of how a childhood library card becomes a passport to new worlds. And: for a spell vs. cast a spell, thaw vs. unthaw, twice-cooked cabbage, a brain teaser in celebration of the great Stephen Sondheim, Dankie op'n plankie, right as rain, a turd of hurtles, a revolving s.o.b., and tips for writing historical fiction. Hear hundreds of free episodes and learn more on the A Way with Words website: https://waywordradio.org. Be a part of the show: call or text 1 (877) 929-9673 toll-free in the United States and Canada; elsewhere in the world, call or text +1 619 800 4443. Send voice notes or messages via WhatsApp 16198004443. Email words@waywordradio.org. Copyright Wayword, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices