Podcasts about theatre education

In Episode 78, Brennan is joined by NYC-based performer Gian Raffaele DiCostanzo as they talk about his beginnings in the world of theatre, being a part of the Jersey Boys circuit, and the balance between being a good and friendly collaborator without being a pushover! Also, it turns out the two of them are literally related! Wow!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 Stephen Sondheim's "A Little Night Music". This Broadway classic is a fun, charming time with some good audition book material, so make sure to give this one a listen!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

How can we bring joy into education? Johanna Smith, professor of theater education and entrepreneurship at California State University, San Bernardino, finds a way to incorporate it. Johanna Smith is a Professor of Theatre Education and Entrepreneurship at California State University, San Bernardino. She has served as an artist and educator for professional theatres, museums, […]

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown"! This darling little show is a staple in the TYA (Theatre for Young Audiences) lexicon, and in its Broadway run it featured some VERY recognizable faces!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 77, Brennan is of course joined by fan favorite, Brandon Walters, as they pull back the curtains on gaps between gigs, and keeping the passion for theatre alive! They probably also talk about a lot of other things that aren't nearly as educational, but hopefully you're laughing as much as they are!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Broadway and the West End's smash hit "Operation Mincemeat"! It's no secret that we are BIG fans of this brilliant show, and boy were we excited to talk about it!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Today's guest is Kenneth Jay, a seasoned Canadian actor with decades of experience across theatre, film, and television. Known for his dedication to craft and his deep respect for storytelling, Kenneth has built a career that bridges continents and philosophies. In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, hosts Todd Kramer and Jay Reum chat with Kenneth about the unique discipline of being an understudy, the art of preparation without certainty, and why truth is always at the center of performance. Kenneth shares his journey from Ottawa to Ryerson Theatre School, his surprising connection to Stanislavski's lineage, and how collaboration, language, and identity shape the actor's path. This conversation is both thoughtful and funny — weaving in the joys, struggles, and revelations of a life lived for the stage. Actors will find wisdom, humor, and a reminder of why we do what we do. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Opening 04:20 – Strapless workouts and silliness 07:00 – PunchTrack: a DAW for narrators 11:00 – Introducing Kenneth Jay 13:00 – Kenneth's showreel and career highlights 16:40 – Growing up in Ottawa, moving to Toronto 18:20 – Ryerson Theatre School and Stanislavski connection 23:30 – Why Kenneth chose theatre over academics 27:00 – The first spark: Robin Hood in grade school 30:00 – Falling in love with Shakespeare 35:10 – The joy and craft of understudying 41:00 – Personal truth inside every performance 47:20 – Collaboration, colleagues, and connection 52:00 – Longevity in the acting industry 57:00 – The gift of language and expression 01:01:30 – Identity and performance 01:05:00 – Laughs, stories, and lessons learned 01:10:00 – Advice for young actors 01:15:00 – Closing thoughts with Kenneth

In Episode 76, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Jonalyn Saxer, as they discuss getting thrown head first into the world of Broadway and learning how to speak up for yourself appropriately and respectfully! We're all human beings and we're all in this together, so we gotta encourage each other to do what we have to in order to continue to feel good and find joy in this world!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 75, Brennan is joined by NYC-based, multi hyphenate artist and founder of AfterThought Production, Aidan Wells, as they talk about the journey from artist to mentor, and ways to keep everyone protected and valued in theatrical spaces. Now, more than ever, it is important that we respect our fellow artists time and work, and give the next generations the tools they to be well-rounded collaborators!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 rock-opera "Jesus Christ Superstar"! It's on everyone's minds following the recent concert production at the Hollywood Bowl, and it is, perhaps, one of Andrew Lloyd Webber's greatest works to date!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 74, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Hannah Solow as they talk about her journey from a performing arts high high school in southern California, to understudying the titular role in this year's Tony Award winning Best Play "Oh Mary". Along the way, they platform the use comedy and foolishness to free yourself from the worry of how others think of you!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In this episode of LIGHT TALK, The Lumen Brothers and Sister talk with stage designer and Professor of Scenic Design at San Francisco State University, Michael Schweikardt. Join Michael, Ellen, Dennis, Steve, and David as they discuss the Passing of Legendary Theatre Artist Robert Wilson; and The ever-changing landscape of budget, enrollment, workload, and expectations that are affecting the future of university theatre programs.  Nothing is Taboo, Nothing is Sacred, and Very Little Makes Sense.

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the classic Disney stage musical "Mary Poppins"! We are also joined by a former Mary, Pauline Parkhurst, as we delve into this delightful show that combines both the iconic books and movie!The Not What I Thought PodcastA behind-the-scenes podcast where creatives talk candidly about how they actually...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

Alex Serino didn't take the “traditional” path to Broadway, but his journey is one fueled by community, heart, and hustle. A proud Boston native, Alex grew up surrounded by music, theater, and an extended family that felt more like a village. From band kid to puppeteering Audrey II, to a standout performance in The SpongeBob Musical and hosting Emerson's EVVY Awards, his love of performance kept evolving until it landed him on one of Broadway's biggest stages. We talk about the defining moments—from playing Uno with a Boston accent to discovering his passion for acting (with a little help from his cousins)—that led him to the role of Albus Potter in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This episode dives into what it means to find your place in a new city, how to hold onto your authentic self in high-stakes environments, and why Alex never hesitates to ask for help. He opens up about the vulnerability of auditioning, the surreal experience of being cast in a Broadway show before even having an agent, and the ongoing journey of carving your own identity—both on and offstage. Oh, and yes, we go full nerd on spells, Polyjuice Potion, and the Hogwarts Legacy game. Alex Serino is an actor and musician making his Broadway debut as Albus Potter in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. A graduate of Emerson College, he studied Theatre Education and Performance before transitioning to a BFA in Acting. While at Emerson, he co-hosted the nationally recognized EVVY Awards and performed in numerous productions, including The SpongeBob Musical. Originally from Peabody, Massachusetts, Alex's creative foundation was shaped by a musically rich family and years of regional youth theater. This episode is brought to you by WelcomeToTimesSquare.com, the billboard that let's you be a star for a day. Connect with Alex: Instagram: @alexfserino TikTok: @alex.f.serino Twitch: @hypeape Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter & Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@theatre_podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TheTheatrePodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Alan's personal Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@alanseales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 73, Brennan is joined by Broadway actor and writer, Nick Blaemire, as they talk about work/ life balance, and the best places to find fulfillment in your artistic career! "Winning" is temporary high, but the real joy comes from the memories and friends you encounter on the journey!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 72,  Brennan is joined by music director/ pianist/ vocal coach and founder of the Broadway Ensemble Project, Jacob Carll, as they discuss his path from opera student to founding is own musical theatre business! The Broadway Ensemble Project is a really cool, innovative new resource for performers to be able to practice something you can't otherwise do outside of a direct show context, and Jacob has created a really wonderful new way to form community through it! 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 hit Broadway musical "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat", and we needed some extra help to do it! Yes, we are indeed joined by fan favorite guest, Brandon Walters to make this mini-sode a little less mini, and a little more chaotic! So tune in for a colorful coat and a colorful episode!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 71, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Julia Knitel, as they jump back to beginning of her days in New Jersey community theatre, and talk about the journey that led to her receiving a 2025 Tony nomination for "Best Featured Actress in a Musical"!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 70, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Jessi Kirtley as they discuss her wild timeline from Jimmy Awards finalist, to original Broadway cast member of Operation Mincemeat! Jessi shared a lot about what she's learned throughout her journey, but above all the most important thing is to embrace your unique kind of soup!!... We promise it makes more sense in context!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In this week's extra long mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on the 78th Annual Tony Awards! We're breaking down all the awards and performances, and giving you the hottest takes we got! Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

 Listen to the Show Right Click to Save GuestsPenfold Theatre Anton Chekhov is a Tasty SnackCity Theatre Tartuffe What We Talked About   

In this week's mini-sode, we are shining the spotlight on Broadway's new musical "Death Becomes Her"! Based on the 1992 cult-classic, this new musical instantly became a smash-hit thanks to the incredible performances of two of Broadway's most beloved divas: Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard! Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

In Episode 65, Brennan is joined by Broadway's Emma Pittman as they talk about her trajectory coming from a small town with little theatrical exposure, to winning "The Search for Roxie" and taking the Broadway world by storm! Emma has carved her name into several Broadway shows by now and was more than ready to talk about all the avenues of her theatre education!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 hit semi-autobiographical musical "tick, tick.. BOOM!" by Jonathan Larson! Jonathan paved the way for so many new, dynamic pieces of theatre in this industry, and it's awesome that we have such a realistic depiction of that kind of inspiring journey!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy's mentor, Matt Webster, takes over and talks with Jimmy and Adam Carter about their new book, Trauma-Informed Practices in 9-12 Theatre Education! Order the book here!

This week JImmy talks with Massachusetts teacher Sarah Palmer. She talks about the joy and community that theatre brings, product vs. process, and casting.

This week Jimmy talks with Florida theatre teacher Gail Chase. She talks about theatre changing her life, the need for play, and her Shakespeare experience that revolutionized her teaching.

This week Jimmy talks with Australian based teaching artist Cody Riker. He shares about the importance of passion in your work, the challenging climate of education in the US, and being willing to pivot when you need to choose to keep loving what you do.

Arts educators and practitioners witness daily how the arts elevate students' self-confidence, emotional intelligence, and creativity. Yet, empirical evidence from scientific research has traditionally lagged behind these observations.In this insightful episode, Dr. Thalia shares findings from a nationally representative qualitative study highlighting the cognitive, social, and emotional benefits children gain from engaging in theatre classes. Drawing on developmental psychology and empirical research, she explains how theatre and playful artistic activities nurture emotional regulation, creativity, and overall well-being.Understanding these benefits is crucial for adults too. By fostering these skills early, we equip future leaders with essential tools to effectively navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of work and society. Join us to learn how to incorporate these strategies in your own life!Dr. Thalia Goldstein is an associate professor and director of the applied developmental psychology program at George Mason University, where she directs the Play, Learning, Arts, and Youth Lab, and co-directs the Mason Arts Research Center (a National Endowment for the Arts Lab). Her research focuses on children's and adolescent's social and emotional development through engagement with pretend play and the arts. Her most recent book is “Why Theatre Education Matters: Understanding its Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Benefits”.Learn more about Dr Thalia:www.thaliagoldstein.comListen to more episodes on Mission Matters:https://missionmatters.com/author/genein-letford/

This week Jimmy talks with Illinois theatre teacher Madison Gillis. She talks about the varied teaching load she has, settling into your career in the early years, and taking care of yourself and your kiddos.

This week Jimmy talks with the creator of The Drama Notebook, Janea Dahl. She talks about how theatre teachers impacted her life, seeing a need and filling it, and of course, The Drama Notebook and all its valuable resources!www.dramanotebook.com

In Episode 57, Brennan is joined by NYC-actress Jaime Lyn Beatty as they talk about her experience of theatre-education on multiple levels and ways to live life more creatively! Above all, when having a career in theatre, you have to make sure you're always following the happiness!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy talks with New York theatre teacher Frank Barranca. He talks about his journey that led him to teaching, innovative ways to keep kids excited, and the importance of fun!

In Episode 56, Brennan is joined by actress Mariah Rose Faith Casillas as they talk about letting your guard down and letting some whimsy into your art! You fell in love with theatre for a reason, so don't let yourself lose sight of what that is!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 yet another Sondheim Broadway musical: Merrily We Roll Along! Although in recent years it has became a huge staple in musical theatre, it has a history fraught with stumbles and failure. So make sure you tune in to learn how exactly they turned everything around for this lovely show!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy talks with Illinois dance teacher/teaching artist/educator Diane Rawlinson. She talks about her wonderful career in performing arts education, utilizing your global community, and dreaming again.

In Episode 55, Brennan is once again joined by fan-favorite: Brandon Walters as they break down the procedures of attending an EPA or ECC. Securing an audition slot can be hard enough, but you also need to know what times the different venues open, when you can sign up on certain lists, etc. So tune in to ensure your best chance of having a successful audition day!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy talks with New York administrator Andrew Frey-Gould. He talks about starting a thespian parent association, technology in the theatre classroom, and school administration and the arts.

Happy Year 2! In Episode 54, Brennan is joined by David Dines (a.k.a. Hanukah Lewinsky) as they talk about David's journey as a New York City drag queen! Drag has always been such a beautiful, multi-faceted art form, and a staple in the queer community, and it walks hand in hand with theatre performance as a viable career!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy talks with Hungarian teaching artist Ildikó Vojtek. She talks about language and literature, challenges with theatre companies, and motherhood.

This week Jimmy talks with Southern Oregon theatre teacher Julia Cuppy. She talks about creating community, new play development, and culturally responsive theatre education. 

In Episode 53, Brennan is once again joined by Cara Rose DiPietro, as they discuss "Audition Season" during their live podcast recording at BroadwayCon 2025! As we are in the midst of audition season right now, they're giving you the first hand perspective, so make sure you tune in to hear what's going on!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're shining the spotlight on Broadway's classic: Oklahoma! With Oklahoma being among the first book-musicals, it helped pave the way for what we know as modern musical theatre today!Support the showHost/ Production/ Editing: Brennan StefanikMusic: Dylan KaufmanGraphic Design: Jordan Vongsithi@batobroadway on Instagram, Threads, and TikTokPatreon.com/batobroadway

This week Jimmy talks with Connecticut based teaching artist Jamie Monahan. She talks about the value of consent based practices, working with intimacy professionals, and the low level intimacy challenges in our students post-COVID.

This week Jimmy talks with Dr. Lusie Cuskey! She talks about finding community in theatre, intimacy direction, and mental health coordination.

This week Jimmy talks with Jason Goldstein of BookTix! He talks about the teacher that field his entrepreneurial spirit, theatre teachers as producers, and how BookTix can help your program grow!www.BookTix.com

This week Jimmy talks with Texas theatre teacher Javon Rougely. He talks about filling a predecessor's giant shoes, DEIA work in theatre, and approaching lessons from a director's perspective.

This week Jimmy talks with Portland, OR teaching artist Evan Tait. They talk about the role musical theatre played in their life, the down side of pigeon holing students, and holding on to our humanity. 

This week Jimmy talks with Texas teaching artist Pamela Vogel. She talks about her InterACTive classroom she has that goes in depth with performance, immersive theatre, and discussions about heightened texts through the play WIT.  http://www.pamelavogelhomepage.com

This week Jimmy talks with Illinois theatre teacher Danny Yuska. He talks about the community that theatre creates for students, finding balance, and the Illinois All State Production of The Prom.