Podcasts about Tony Award

Composer Marc Shaiman, a Tony Award-winner for "Hairspray," and a seven-time Oscar nominee, talks with Tracy Smith about his career; his new memoir, "Never Mind the Happy: Showbiz Stories From a Sore Winner"; and his collaboration and friendship with Rob Reiner. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tony-winning Broadway star Stephanie J. Block (The Cher Show, 9 to 5) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss making the rehearsal room a kinder place, cracking up onstage in Into the Woods, what she learned from Dolly Parton, and so much more. Plus, there's some STAR-STUDDED surprises from her The Cher Show co-star Teal Wicks and her husband Sebastian Arcelus. (Originally recorded in 2023) With a career spanning over two decades, Stephanie J. Block-Arcelus is one of Broadway's most versatile talents. You may have been lucky enough to see her starring opposite Hugh Jackman in The Boy from Oz or perhaps she is your Elphaba! Stephanie actually originated Elphaba in the early workshops of Wicked and later went on to play her both in the first national tour and on Broadway. She has earned acclaim for starring turns in shows like Little Miss Sunshine, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Falsettos and Dolly Parton's 9 to 5 The Musical. In 2019, Stephanie won the Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award and Tony Award for playing the title role in The Cher Show.  In addition to her stage and screen work, Stephanie has also taken her incredible voice to symphony orchestras across the US. Her solo concerts have earned her critical acclaim in both New York City and London, and her recording work includes several original cast albums, as well as her own album, This Place I Know. She also lends her voice to her own beautiful podcast Stages. Onscreen you've seen in her shows like Orange is the New Black, Homeland, Madame Secretary and the new film iModercai.   Got kindness tips or stories? Please email us: ⁠artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com⁠ Follow Stephanie ⁠@stephaniejblock⁠ Follow us ⁠@artofkindnesspod⁠ / ⁠@robpeterpaul⁠ ⁠Support the show⁠! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. We are supported by the Broadway Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laurence Luckinbill is an acclaimed Emmy Award winning and Tony Award nominee, actor, playwright and director. He's worked in film, television and theatre, in the latter as a writer, director and actor. He has starred in several celebrated one-man shows including as Teddy Roosevelt, Clarence Darrow and Lyndon Johnson. And he became a cult hero portraying Spock's half-brother Sybok in the film “Star Treck V: The Final Frontier”. He's been in a whole bunch of TV shows including Law and Order and the Mary Tyler Moore Show. On Broadway he made his debut in A Man For All Seasons and starred in The Shadow Box, for which he received a Tony nomination.  My featured song is “Studio One” from the album Play by my band Project Grand Slam. 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 Testimonials Click here to Subscribe  Click here to receive our Email Updates Click here to Rate and Review the podcast —---------------------------------------- CONNECT WITH LAURENCE:www.laurenceluckinbill.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 LINK CLICK 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 flugelhorn CLICK HERE FOR YOUTUBE LINK CLICK 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 VIDEO CLICK 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    

Interview Date: February 1st, 2026Episode Summary:Broadway veteran Curt Hansen shares his journey from a quiet kid in small-town Wisconsin to starring on Broadway in Hairspray and spending eight years in Wicked as Fiyero. Along the way, he opens up about booking early, being recast from Nickelodeon's Big Time Rush, working alongside Ariana Grande before her pop superstardom, and learning how to handle the mental side of auditioning.Now the founder of 567 Sing, Curt helps dancers become confident, audition-ready triple threats. In this episode, he breaks down practical strategies for choosing audition songs, building vocal strength, managing nerves, and balancing singing with intense dance schedules. It's an honest, motivating conversation about preparation, resilience, and why singing “isn't that deep”—if you do the work.Shownotes:0:00 – Welcome + how Curt and Menina connected through Instagram 9:15 – Small-town beginnings: choir sparks his performing path11:29 – Open call breakthrough → booking Hairspray on Broadway 16:07 – Big Time Rush: cast, recast, and resilience20:06 – Ariana Grande story + booking Wicked as Fiyero22:23 – Eight years with Wicked: tours, Broadway, meeting his wife27:18 – Why dancers must learn to sing (and how to start)37:24 – Choosing an audition song + preparation strategy1:00:00 – Balancing intense dance training with vocal goals1:09:17 – Final advice: treat auditions like performances, not pressureBiography: Curt Hansen is a Broadway performer with a 15-year professional career across theatre, television, and music. He's appeared in Broadway shows including Hairspray as Link Larkin, Kinky Boots as Charlie Price, and Next to Normal opposite Tony Award winner Alice Ripley, and was also part of Nickelodeon's Big Time Rush. His biggest claim to fame, however, was starring as the Winkie Prince, Fiyero Tigelaar, in Wicked on Broadway.After building his career as a true triple threat, Curt now helps dancers develop confident, reliable singing voices through his training platform, 567Sing — teaching singing the way dancers learn best: through structure, repetition, and performance-ready skills.Connect on Social:https://www.instagram.com/curt_hansen/

Holiday at Goodman Theatre is a new adaptation of Philip Barry's 1928 romantic comedy, reimagined by Tony Award–winning playwright Richard Greenberg and directed by Goodman's legendary director, Robert Falls. The play presents the wealthy Seton family on New York's Upper East Side, and introduces a young charismatic newcomer to the family whose romance with one […]

Brian Moreland recently made waves on Broadway as a producer of the groundbreaking revival of Othello, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal, and directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon. The production shattered box office records, becoming the highest-grossing play revival in global history. His impressive repertoire includes the Broadway revival of The Wiz, starring Wayne Brady and Deborah Cox; August Wilson's The Piano Lesson, directed by LaTanya Richardson Jackson and starring Samuel L. Jackson, Danielle Brooks, and John David Washington — which became the highest-grossing revival of the season; The Lifespan of a Fact, featuring Cherry Jones, Daniel Radcliffe, and Bobby Cannavale; Sea Wall / A Life, a moving dual narrative with Jake Gyllenhaal and Tom Sturridge; and The Sound Inside, a compelling drama headlined by Mary-Louise Parker. Hailing from California, Brian now calls New York City home, where he continues to shape the cultural landscape through his visionary storytelling and unwavering passion for the performing arts. His dedication to accessibility and equity in theatre is reflected in his active role with the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), an organization committed to expanding access to live performance. A respected leader within the industry, Brian serves on the Board of Governors of The Broadway League, where he also co-chairs the Multicultural Task Force, advocating for greater diversity and inclusion across the theatre community. He also holds leadership roles as a Board Director for NYC Tourism and Conventions, a Trustee of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and a Trustee of The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he helps support and guide the next generation of performing artists. In recognition of his impactful contributions, Brian has been honored with the Board of Directors Distinguished Service Award by the Audelco Awards and acknowledged by the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) for his continued service to the field. Through his compelling productions and steadfast leadership, Moreland has established himself as a transformative force in contemporary theatre. His work not only entertains but also uplifts and challenges audiences, enriching the cultural narrative with stories that reflect the depth, diversity, and complexity of the human experience.Joe Turner's Come and Gone is lead produced by Brian Anthony Moreland with casting by ARC Casting. 101 Productions, Ltd. is serving as general managers.For additional information, please sign up at www.JoeTurnerBway.comConnect with Brian Anthony Moreland:Website: https://www.bmorenowproductions.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealbrianmoreland/?hl=en TurnKey Podcast Productions Important Links:Guest to Gold Video Series: www.TurnkeyPodcast.com/gold The Ultimate Podcast Launch Formula- www.TurnkeyPodcast.com/UPLFplusFREE workshop on how to "Be A Great Guest."Free E-Book 5 Ways to Make Money Podcasting at www.Turnkeypodcast.com/gift Ready to earn 6-figures with your podcast? See if you've got what it takes at TurnkeyPodcast.com/quizSales Training for Podcasters: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sales-training-for-podcasters/id1540644376Nice Guys on Business: http://www.niceguysonbusiness.com/subscribe/The Turnkey Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turnkey-podcast/id1485077152

Tony Award-winning designer and producer Clint Ramos joins host Robert Peterpaul on The Art of Kindness for a textured chat on joy and kindness as an act of revolution. From Costume Designing hit shows like MAYBE HAPPY ENDING, to being a Producing Creative Director for Encores! at New York City Center, Clint shares experiences from the many hats he dons. - How his upbringing in the Philippines and the People Power Revolution inspired his journey into theater, using art as a powerful tool for social change. - How his historic Tony win changed things. - Tangible advice to bring kindness to the forefront of a busy life. Follow Clint: @clintramos Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest today on Broadway Nation is the Tony Award-winning composer, lyricist, arranger, and music producer, MARC SHAIMAN, who has found spectacular success in nearly every aspect of the entertainment industry, including film, television, and theater, but is probably best known to fans of this podcast as the composer and co-lyricist of the Broadway smash hit musical HAIRSPRAY. Marc joins us today to tell us about his star-studded new book, NEVER MIND THE HAPPY, which recently became a New York Times bestseller. In this candid, hilarious, and at times quite moving memoir, Shaiman looks back over five decades of his amazing career. I found this to be a delightful conversation filled with behind-the-scenes stories and impromptu musical punctuations that I suspect you will not soon forget! Become A PATRON of Broadway Nation! This episode is made possible in part by the generous support of our Patron Club Members, including our newest patron, Arnold Hirshon. If you are a fan of Broadway Nation, I invite you to become a PATRON! For as little as $7.00 a month, you can receive exclusive access to never-before-heard, unedited versions of many of the discussions that I have with my guests — in fact, I often record nearly twice as much conversation as ends up in the edited versions. 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 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

Great theater starts by creating trusted conditions for talent and creativity to thrive. Cody Renard Richard is a Tony Award-winning producer and stage manager whose career spans Broadway, television, opera, and even Cirque du Soleil. Along the way, his backstage leadership has shaped acclaimed productions like the 2025 revival of Ragtime and this spring's CATS: The Jellicle Ball. In this episode, Cody talks about what it really means to lead from behind the scenes, and why stage management is such a powerful training ground for leadership. He reflects on his path through the industry, how he's navigated power and visibility in a field that doesn't always make room for everyone, and what it looks like to advocate for artists and audiences without burning out or losing yourself in the process. ----- LINKS: Cody Renard Richard: https://www.codyrenard.com/ Ragtime at Lincoln Center: https://www.lct.org/shows/ragtime/ CATS: The Jellicle Ball: https://catsthejellicleball.com/  RISE Theatre Directory: https://risetheatre.org/

EVEN MORE about this episode!What happens when divine guidance moves through music, creativity, and the courage to trust your calling?Join Julie Ryan and Broadway star Pamela Bob as they explore spiritual channeling, divine timing, singing as sacred expression, and how play and creativity reveal why we incarnate. In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Pamela opens up about the sacred vulnerability of singing, why performing for an intimate room can feel more terrifying than a packed theater, and how music aligns with our unique energetic vibration. From the emotional force of shows like Ragtime to a childhood moment of divine recognition—“I think this is God”—this conversation dives deep into artistry as a spiritual calling.Listeners will be captivated by Pamela's jaw-dropping story of channeling June Carter Cash during a nightly, unscripted improvisation—an experience so powerful that Julie reveals June herself chose Pamela in the audition and guided her through every performance. Pamela also shares the brutal truth behind elite performing arts training, where she was repeatedly told she couldn't sing, yet trusted her inner knowing enough to persevere when others were cut. That same guidance later led her from a lucid dream to creating the award-winning Livin' On a Prairie, as the right people and opportunities appeared at exactly the right time.This episode is ultimately a love letter to play, joy, and remembering who you were before the world told you who to be. Pamela reflects on the transformative power of creativity through stories like Encore, where adults rediscover themselves through performance, and offers a simple yet profound invitation for anyone feeling stuck: return to what you loved as a child. The conversation closes with a tear-filled reflection on why we incarnate at all—sparked by a dying woman's final words: “It was so much fun.”Guest Biography:Pamela Bob is a multifaceted actor, singer, and award-winning screenwriter whose career spans Broadway, Off-Broadway, film, television, and podcasting. On Broadway, she appeared in the Tony-nominated Hand to God and the Tony Award–winning A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, where she famously covered all six female roles and regularly stepped into leading performances. Off-Broadway, she starred as Clarice Starling in the cult hit Silence! The Musical—named one of Time Magazine's ten must-see NYC shows—and earned a BroadwayWorld nomination for Best Actor for her role in Cracked Open. Pamela is also the creator and star of the acclaimed series Livin' On a Prairie, an award-winning, festival-selected exploration of pop culture obsession inspired by Little House on the Prairie, which won Best TV Series and Best Actress at the LA International Film Fest. She currently co-hosts the Little House on the Prairie 50th Anniversary Podcast, which has surpassed one million downloads and recently sold out its first live NYC event. Pamela is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati–Conservatory of Music.Episode Chapters:(0:02:00) - When Talent Becomes Sacred(0:05:00) - The Power of Music and Vibration(0:08:00) - Pamela Sings "My Favorite Things"(0:10:00) - Channeling Spirit on Stage(0:12:00) - The June Carter Cash Story(0:17:00) - Actor Who Sings vs. Musical Theater Actor(0:19:00) - Surviving the Cincinnati Conservatory(0:24:00) - Intuition in Landing Roles(0:28:00) - Stage vs. Camera Performance(0:32:00) - Creating "Living on a Prairie"(0:38:00) - Divine Guidance and Trusting the Process(0:40:00) - Advice for Those Feeling Stuck(0:42:00) - The Transformative Power of Play(0:45:00) - Rapid Fire Questions(0:50:00) - Angel Signs and Feathers(0:52:00) - Why We Incarnate➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!

Welcome, Guests, to the Season 5 premiere of The Mouse and Me! Over the past several years, Scott has spoken with so many incredible current and former Cast Members from all walks of Disney life - entertainment managers, vocalists, actors, dancers, directors, producers, comedians, technicians, an Imagineer, and people who were part of the Disney College Program and Disney Cruise Line performers. He's also interviewed Disney on Broadway stars, a Tony Award-winner for Best Choreography for Newsies, and musical geniuses who arrange, conduct, and play for the Disney musicals on tour, on Broadway, and around the world. Every single Guest that's been on the show has shared incredible stories about their journey and careers with the Walt Disney company and this season will be no different and it starts with Laurlyn Smith.At Walt Disney World, Laurlyn performed mouse height characters - about 35 of them - specializing in Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. She worked daily atmosphere operations, character dining locations, the Welcome Show at Magic Kingdom, and special events like dance parties, pop-ups, weddings, groups, private meet and greets, and concerts. If you're someone who likes going behind the scenes and knowing how things work, then you're absolutely going to love this episode. If you're someone who doesn't like having the magic of Disney ruined, then you're absolutely not going to love this episode. ;) Laurlyn really pulls back the curtain and shares how all of the magic happens and what it was like working as an animated character for Disney. Laurlyn is a super lovely person and we're excited for you to hear her stories!Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.comSupport: www.patreon.com/themouseandmeFB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io

Prairie High School in Brush Prairie will present Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical, the Tony Award-winning stage adaptation, with performances from Feb. 27 through March 7 and tickets currently on sale. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/people/entertainment/prairie-high-school-presents-roald-dahls-matilda-the-musical/ #BrushPrairie #PrairieHighSchool #MatildaTheMusical #BattleGroundSchoolDistrict #HighSchoolTheater #YouthArts

Two-time Tony Award-winning director Michael Arden takes on his next big story by bringing the iconic vampire film, THE LOST BOYS, to the Broadway stage this Spring. He was recently awarded for his work on MAYBE HAPPY ENDING and PARADE, as well as recognized for ONCE ON THIS ISLAND, Deaf West's SPRING AWAKENING, and many more. In this episode, Michael discusses how he juggles working on multiple directing projects while visualizing each story, the importance of building a team of trusted collaborators, and if he'll ever go back to acting.  Schmigadoon tickets The Lost Boys Tickets Plant wave

Join us on the latest Whisper in the Wings from Stage Whisper, as we welcome on the Tony Award winning actor Jak Malone. He sat down to talk to us about a benefit for the Circle in the Square Theatre that he is participating in, Twelve Hours With Tracy Letts. This is such a great event that, just like this conversation, should not be missed. So be sure you tune in and come out to support this wonderful event!Twelve Hours With Tracy LettsA Benefit for the Circle in the Square Theatre SchoolFebruary 23rd, 11am-11pm@ Circle in the Square TheatreTickets and more information are available at animustheatre.org And be sure to follow Jak to stay up to date on all his upcoming projects and productions: @jakmalone_animustheatre.org@aniumstheatre

In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford welcomes director Morgan Green to discuss the Philadelphia Theatre Company's adaptation of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. They explore the shared leadership model in Philadelphia theatre, the unique interpretations of the cast, and the relevance of the play in today's society. The conversation delves into character analysis, choreography, and the audience's engagement with the production, highlighting the emotional and political themes that resonate with contemporary issues.A Bold and Modern New AdaptationCaesarAdapted by Tyler Dobrowsky From Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Directed by Morgan GreenWhat would you do to protect your home?Shakespeare's classic political tragedy is reborn as a gripping contemporary thriller in this bold new adaptation by Tyler Dobrowsky. Caesar stays true to Shakespeare's original language but trims the story to its leanest, most urgent core—cutting to the heart of ambition, authoritarianism, and the cost of protecting democracy.Brutus, a principled Roman senator, joins a conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar, fearing the rise of tyranny. But once the deed is done, the fragile dream of liberty spirals into violence, unrest, and civil war. As alliances shift and Rome descends into chaos, the play asks: Who gets to hold power? And at what price?Running just 95 minutes, Caesar is fast-paced and fiercely relevant, inviting audiences to draw parallels between ancient Rome and the political tensions of our world today.In a season about what it means to be home, Caesar asks: who gets to shape the future of a nation? And what are we willing to risk to defend the place—and people—we love?ABOUT MORGAN CLAIRE GREENPTC: Debut. Off-Broadway: Five Models in Ruins, 1981, LCT3; Staff Meal, Playwrights Horizons; School Pictures, Playwrights Horizons. Regional: Hilma (Opera), Eternal Life Part 1, School Pictures, Fat Ham (digital; Pulitzer Prize for Drama), Wilma Theater. Additional premieres include Five Models in Ruins and The Karamazovs (film). Awards: Obie Award. Leadership: Co-Artistic Director of Philadelphia's Tony Award–winning Wilma Theater, where she has directed numerous world premieres and new theatrical collaborations.FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/caesar/

The Munsons are joined by Jim from the FilmRage podcast for a deep dive into one of the most fascinating humans we've ever covered: Charles Durning. We kick things off by half-seriously contemplating a future Munsons episode sponsored by the Feral comic series before quickly realizing Durning's real life was already more unbelievable than fiction. This is a man who literally stormed the beaches of Normandy in World War II and killed Nazis—an absolute legend—then somehow went on to become a professional ballroom dancer with a bullet still lodged in his hip. We make the case that Hollywood should immediately greenlight a biopic of his life, especially when you consider his theatrical dominance: over 200 plays, a Tony Award, and induction into the Theater Hall of Fame, placing him among an elite group of just four Munsons to earn that honor. Even more incredible, he didn't land his first major film role until age 50, thanks to a standout theater performance. From there, we explore his long-standing working relationship with Burt Reynolds, marvel at how effortlessly genuine every performance felt, and celebrate his astonishing range across decades of characters. By the end, it's clear we weren't just talking about a great actor—we were talking about a true character-actor titan, whose career and life story feel almost impossible by today's standards. How does he rank on the Munson Meter? Listen to find out.

Erica Dasher joins My Fame, Explained for a candid conversation about career evolution, creative ownership, and starring in Peacock's highly anticipated new series The Burbs.Best known as the breakout lead in Freeform's cult favorite Jane by Design, Erica has built a dynamic, multidisciplinary career spanning television, film, Broadway, writing, and directing.She stars in a pivotal role in Peacock's upcoming series The Burbs (premiering February 8), opposite Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall, produced by Brian Grazer and Seth MacFarlane. Set in the iconic cul-de-sac from the original film, the series unfolds as a whodunit — with Erica's character driving the central mystery of season one.In this episode, we discuss:Stepping into an iconic franchise with The BurbsThe lasting legacy of Jane by DesignPerforming on Broadway in the Tony Award–winning LeopoldstadtHer upcoming film Tuesday, New YorkProducing the Netflix-acquired documentary Figures of SpeechWriting and directing her short film OuroborosBuilding a career both in front of and behind the cameraWe also talk about the importance of artistic community and the theater and creative think tanks discussed in the episode:The Fuse Theater Company: https://thefuseny.com/Public Assembly: https://publicassembly.us/Erica's journey is a powerful example of what it looks like to grow beyond a breakout role and take creative control across mediums.

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with actors Brandon Tyler and Max Lynch about their upcoming production of 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise' by Ken Ludwig. The conversation delves into the characters, the historical context of World War II, and the emotional depth of the story, which is based on real letters exchanged between the two main characters. They discuss the rehearsal process, the significance of letter writing in building connections, and the parallels between past and present relationships. The episode concludes with reflections on what audiences can take away from the production.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests02:19 Exploring 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise'05:09 Character Insights and Rehearsal Process09:59 Thematic Connections to Modern Relationships16:05 Audience Expectations and Emotional Moments22:59 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysKen Ludwig's Dear Jack, Dear LouiseDirected By Peter Reynolds
February 11 - March 1, 2026Regional Premiere. 
A love story begins when two strangers meet by letter during World War II. U.S. Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday, if the war allows. Tony Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig tells the joyous, heart-warming story of his parents' courtship during World War II, and the results are anything but expected.Max Lynch as Louise
Brandon Tyler as JackFOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://hedgerowtheatre.org

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Our Love Stories series continues with Grand Slam champion and former U.S. Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe and Tony Award–nominated Broadway star Melissa Errico, a couple whose bond began in childhood and grew into a lifelong partnership. The two first met as kids on Long Island, reconnected years later while pursuing demanding careers in Broadway and professional tennis and married quickly between tournament seasons. Now more than 26 years in, Melissa and Patrick open up about balancing ambition, family, and time apart, the importance of shared values and communication, and why learning when to pause and move on has been key to their lasting love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Love Stories series continues with Grand Slam champion and former U.S. Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe and Tony Award–nominated Broadway star Melissa Errico, a couple whose bond began in childhood and grew into a lifelong partnership. The two first met as kids on Long Island, reconnected years later while pursuing demanding careers in Broadway and professional tennis and married quickly between tournament seasons. Now more than 26 years in, Melissa and Patrick open up about balancing ambition, family, and time apart, the importance of shared values and communication, and why learning when to pause and move on has been key to their lasting love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our Love Stories series continues with Grand Slam champion and former U.S. Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe and Tony Award–nominated Broadway star Melissa Errico, a couple whose bond began in childhood and grew into a lifelong partnership. The two first met as kids on Long Island, reconnected years later while pursuing demanding careers in Broadway and professional tennis and married quickly between tournament seasons. Now more than 26 years in, Melissa and Patrick open up about balancing ambition, family, and time apart, the importance of shared values and communication, and why learning when to pause and move on has been key to their lasting love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whitney White is a theatrical powerhouse. A director, writer, actor, and musician, White's work has been seen on Broadway, Off Broadway, and at major institutions including The Public Theater, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, and, most recently, the Royal Shakespeare Company. Her projects include Jaja's African Hair Braiding, The Last Five Years, Macbeth in Stride, and By The Queen, which was featured in the Folger's 2025 Reading Room Festival. In this episode, White discusses All Is But Fantasy, her four-play musical cycle created for the RSC, where it's now receiving its world premiere. The high-energy, gig-theater show investigates Shakespeare's women and ambition, focusing on Lady Macbeth, Emilia, Juliet, and Richard III. Each piece combines performance with original music, using sound and rhythm as a way into the text and as a tool for rethinking these characters whose inner lives are often cut short or overlooked. White reflects on why Shakespeare's women so often meet tragic ends, how those stories continue to feel familiar, and what it means to keep staging them now. She considers the ways that music, performance, and adaptation can help us better understand Shakespeare today. From the Shakespeare Unlimited podcast. Published February 10, 2026. © Folger Shakespeare Library. All rights reserved. This episode was produced by Matt Frassica, with Garland Scott serving as executive producer. It was edited by Gail Kern Paster. Technical support was provided by Melvin Rickarby in Stratford, England, and Voice Trax West in Studio City, California. Web production was handled by Paola García Acuña. Transcripts are edited by Leonor Fernandez. Final mixing services were provided by Clean Cuts at Three Seas, Inc. Whitney White is an Obie and Lily Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated director, actor, and musician, celebrated for her bold, innovative storytelling across both Broadway and off-Broadway. She recently received the Drama League's 2025 Founders Award for Excellence in Directing and an Obie Award for Sustained Achievement in Directing. All Is But Fantasy, White's four-part musical exploration of Shakespeare's women and ambition, commissioned by the Royal Shakespeare Company, marks her RSC debut as a writer, director, and actor. The two-part high-energy gig theater show is receiving its world premiere at The Other Place in Stratford-upon-Avon in January and February 2026. White's other directing credits on Broadway include The Last Five Years and Jaja's African Hair Braiding, off-Broadway credits include Liberation, Walden, Jordan's, Soft, On Sugarland, What to Send Up When It Goes Down, Our Dear Drug Lord, and For All the Women Who Thought They Were Mad. She recently opened Saturday Church, a new musical featuring songs by Sia and Honey Dijon at New York Theatre Workshop. She also created Macbeth In Stride at Brooklyn Academy of Music, writing the book, music and lyrics. Additional directing work includes The Secret Life of Bees, By The Queen, The Spectacularly Lamentable Trial of Miz Martha Washington, A Human Being of a Sort, An Iliad, The Amen Corner, Othello, Canyon, and Jump. On screen, White has appeared in Ocean's Eight, Single Drunk Female, Louie, and The Playboy Club, and she contributed as a writer to Boots Riley's acclaimed series I'm A Virgo for Prime Video.

Our Love Stories series continues with Grand Slam champion and former U.S. Davis Cup captain Patrick McEnroe and Tony Award–nominated Broadway star Melissa Errico, a couple whose bond began in childhood and grew into a lifelong partnership. The two first met as kids on Long Island, reconnected years later while pursuing demanding careers in Broadway and professional tennis and married quickly between tournament seasons. Now more than 26 years in, Melissa and Patrick open up about balancing ambition, family, and time apart, the importance of shared values and communication, and why learning when to pause and move on has been key to their lasting love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jasmine Amy Rogers (Boop! and Spelling Bee) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul in this re-release episode from March 2024! The Tony-nominee discusses bringing icon Betty Boop to life onstage in Boop! The Musical, battling imposter syndrome, amplifying historically underrepresented voices and more this women's history month. Jasmine Amy Rogers earned a Tony Award® nomination for her Broadway debut as the titular role in BOOP! THE MUSICAL, and garnered “a star is born” reviews. She received Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and Theatre World Awards for her portrayal, as well as Drama League and Chita Rivera nominations. Rogers played Anita in the Pasadena Playhouse production of JELLY'S LAST JAM, Gretchen Wieners in the National Tour of MEAN GIRLS, Melody Green in Paper Mill Playhouse's production of THE WANDERER and in the world premiere of BECOMING NANCY at the Alliance Theatre. TV includes “EVIL”. She was a Jimmy Awards' finalist and studied musical theatre at the Manhattan School of Music. To learn more about Maestra Music, please visit: maestramusic.org/amplify/ Follow Jasmine: @jasmine_amy_r Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Phil Wong is our next guest on The Yay – The rare triple threat of actor, singer and comedian, I last saw him in SF Playhouse's Into The Woods. He's worked with TheatreWorks, CalShakes, A Contemporary Theatre and the Berkeley Rep, among others. He was a guest artist in the Tony Award winning Freestyle Love Supreme. He's also an amazing cook! Jake and I talk about Phil's upbringing, his amazing multiple set of skills and where the future will take him. You can reach Phil directly via Instagram: @phillywongsteak In 2020, I was a part of the Brecht Project – a group of writers, actors and directors assembled by Susan E. Evans (Episode 23) and Scott Munson (Episodes 13, 53 and 284) – where we would reinterpret the one act plays of Bretold Brecht and adapt them in the age of Trump. You'd think we would be beyond that age after 2021 – well 2024 happened and Trump is back. And so we're back. In April 2026, the Brecht Project will present 10 new plays that will be performed online (including my piece, Judicial Process), and you can be a part of our production. The GoFundMe page (https://www.gofundme.com/f/fear-and-misery-of-the-fourth-reich) will greatly help us pay for actors and writers – and you'll help shed even more light to our most darkest time in American history. On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she's opening up her business to the online community. She's offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you. SHOWS: Sunday In the Park With George (Shotgun Players) Extended until Feb 15th Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show https://shotgunplayers.org/ The Mountaintop (Oakland Theatre Project) Feb 5 – 15 James Mercer II (Episode 326) is a co-director of the show https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/mountaintop Julius Caesar (SF Shakes) Feb 26 – April 29 (check website for details) Brandon DiPaola (Episode 306), Evan Held (Episode 226) and Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) are in the show https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/tour/ What The Constitution Means To Me (Hillbarn Theatre) Jan 22 – Feb 8 Kim Donovan (Episodes 80 & 223) is in the show https://www.hillbarntheatre.org M Butterfly (SF Playhouse) Feb 5 – March 14 Dean Linnard (Episode 336) is in the show https://www.sfplayhouse.org/sfph/2025-2026-season/m-butterfly/ Playground SF Solo Performance Festival Good Grief! Tales from a Persistent Blockhead Jan 26, 31, Feb 1 and 8 Carolyn Doyle (Episode 56) wrote and is performing this show When You Are Called Feb 5, 7 & 8 Diana Brown (Episode 242) wrote and is performing this show After Happy (Central Works) Feb 28 – March 29 Patricia Milton (Episodes 270 & 303) wrote the play https://centralworks.org/after-happy/#showtab=details Girls – Chance – Music (ACT/Vineyard Theatre) March 12 – April 19 Pam MacKinnon (Episode 350) is directing the show Sharon Shao (Episode 176) is an understudy in the show https://www.act-sf.org/whats-on/2025-26-season/girls-chance-music Dial M For Murder (City Lights Theatre) March 12 – April 12 Nick Mandracchia (Episode 43) is in the show Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show https://cltc.org/event/dial-m/ Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

Award-winning actor Sir Jonathan Pryce talks to John Wilson about his cultural influences and career. He made his name with the 1975 Trevor Griffiths play Comedians, his role as a stand-up comic winning him a Tony Award after it moved to Broadway. He won an Olivier Award for a landmark production of Hamlet in 1980, and another Tony for his role as The Engineer in Miss Saigon. His huge and diverse list of film credits include Terry Gilliam's 1985 dystopian drama Brazil, the musical Evita alongside Madonna and, an Oscar nominated performance as Pope Francis in The Two Popes. And he's been increasingly prolific in the age of television streaming with acclaim for his roles in Game Of Thrones, The Crown, Taboo, Slow Horses and Wolf Hall. He was knighted for services to drama in 2021.Producer: Edwina PitmanArchive used: Listen With Mother, BBC Home Service, 7 February, 1950 Is Your Honeymoon Really Necessary?, Whitehall Theatre, BBC1, 1940s Protests on Broadway, 6 April 1991 Comedians by Trevor Griffiths, 2nd House, BBC2, 15 March 1975 Jonathan Pryce in Hamlet, The Southbank Show, ITV, 1988 Brazil, Terry Gilliam, 1985

Sapphics (and friends) rejoice, Taylor Iman Jones and Lauren Patten are doing a cabaret show together- Valentine's Day Feb 14th at 7pm at The Laurie Beechman Theatre! Taylor and Lauren join Sarah for the relaunch of GOOD SHOW!, to chat about their upcoming cabaret, being theatre kids, what they love about each other and so much more!  Get tickets to see Taylor Iman Jones and Lauren Patten HERE www.thebeechman.com Taylor Iman Jones has been seen on Broadway in SIX, Head over Heels, and Groundhog Day. Off-Broadway: The Jonathon Larson Project, The Lonely Few, and the national tours of Hamilton and  American Idiot. When not on stage, Taylor is a teaching artist offering individual coaching and master classes. Find more info at www.TaylorImanJones.com or @taylorimanjones on instagram. Lauren Patten (she/her) was the breakout star of the musical Jagged Little Pill, for which she won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, as well as the Grammy and Drama Desk Awards. Other stage credits include Fun Home on Broadway, and the off-Broadway productions of The Counterfeit Opera (Little Island), The Lonely Few (MCC), The Wolves (Playwrights' Realm; Drama Desk and Obie Awards), and Days of Rage (Second Stage). On television, Lauren starred in the Hulu original series Death and Other Details, and is known for her work on Blue Bloods (CBS), The Good Fight (Paramount+), and Succession (HBO). She is featured in the upcoming Amazon series Off Campus. @pattenlauren  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can curiosity and empathy be taught? How can we expand our sense of solidarity through stories? In this episode, we explore the internal dialogues of artists, actors and writers to ask what it means to step into someone else's shoes.(0:00) Novelist Jim Shepard discusses Literature as a Tool for Emotional Education and Exploring History(2:05) Tony Award-winning Actor Neil Patrick Harris on Being Moved by Theater and its Ability to Bridge Worlds(3:55) Novelist Katie Kitamura on How a Book is Made in Collaboration with the Reader(5:00) Screenwriter, Playwright Laura Eason on Inhabiting the Hearts of Characters Different from Ourselves(6:03) Academy Award-winning Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on the Art of Visual Storytelling(6:37) Cinematographer, Director Benoit Delhomme on the Freedom of Handheld Cinematography(7:19) Author Etgar Keret on Looking for Humanity through Shared Intention(8:18) Viet Thanh Nguyen – Opposing Power through Expansive Solidarity(9:27) Adam Moss – Author, Fmr. Editor New York magazine on “The Work of Art”(10:29) John Patrick Shanley – Tony & Academy Award-winning Writer, Director on Finding Value in Ordinary Experiences and the Creative Power of Daydreaming(11:56) Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist Nicholas Kristof on Why Individual Stories are Necessary to Generate ConnectionTo hear more from each guest, listen to their full interviews.Episode Websitewww.creativeprocess.info/podInstagram:@creativeprocesspodcast

pWotD Episode 3198: 68th Annual Grammy Awards Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 844,030 views on Monday, 2 February 2026 our article of the day is 68th Annual Grammy Awards.The 68th Annual Grammy Awards honored the best recordings, compositions, and artists from August 31, 2024, to August 30, 2025, as chosen by the members of the Recording Academy, on February 1, 2026. In its 23rd year at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and for the very last time, the ceremony was broadcast on CBS and available to stream on Paramount+. South African comedian Trevor Noah hosted the ceremony for the sixth consecutive and final time.Kendrick Lamar was the night's biggest winner for the second consecutive year with five wins, including a second consecutive Record of the Year win with "Luther" and a sweep in the Rap categories, winning Best Rap Album for GNX. His fourth five-win Grammy night in his career, Lamar surpassed Jay-Z to become the most-awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy Awards history. Bad Bunny followed him with three wins, including Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos, becoming the first Spanish-language album to receive the honor. Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas won Song of the Year for "Wildflower", becoming the most-awarded artists in the category in Grammy Awards history with three wins each. Eilish's win also tied her with Adele for the most wins in the General Field by a female artist, with seven each. Olivia Dean won Best New Artist, the ninth woman in a row to win the award and the first British winner since Dua Lipa in 2019, while Tyler, The Creator's Chromakopia and Zach Top's Ain't in It for My Health took home the inaugural Best Album Cover and Best Traditional Country Album awards. "Golden" from KPop Demon Hunters won Best Song Written For Visual Media, becoming the first K-pop song to win a Grammy award in any category.Steven Spielberg won Best Music Film for his role in producing Music by John Williams. Though industry sources claim this win made him the 22nd person to achieve EGOT status, this claim is disputed; he is not credited in Tony Award records as a winning producer of the musical A Strange Loop (which previously made Jennifer Hudson the 17th EGOT winner, and also counted towards the non-competitive EGOT of Amblin Entertainment co-founder Frank Marshall) at the 75th Tony Awards, but one source claims he nonetheless received a Tony statuette in that capacity, and he is listed as a producer of A Strange Loop in the Internet Broadway Database. Lamar led the Grammy Awards with nine nominations, while Jack Antonoff, Cirkut and Lady Gaga followed with seven nominations each.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 02:23 UTC on Tuesday, 3 February 2026.For the full current version of the article, see 68th Annual Grammy Awards on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm generative Matthew.

Broadway's Helen J. Shen (Tony-winning Maybe Happy Ending) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to discuss her whirlwind rise to theatre stardom during a thoughtful conversation about artistry, ambition, and staying human even when you're playing a robot. This kind-hearted episode covers: How classical piano training shaped her work ethic The intersection of kindness, diligence, and authenticity Navigating imposter syndrome with childlike joy Tips for handling tech frustrations during rehearsals The importance of community and supporting co-stars Lessons from working with legendary leaders like Michael Arden and Meryl Streep Insights into recording a Broadway cast album and its lasting impact Broadway theatre ghost encounters and more! HELEN J SHEN (she/they) is an actor, musician, and writer who has quickly established herself as a force within the entertainment industry. Helen currently stars in the critically-acclaimed Broadway musical Maybe Happy Ending, which won the 2025 Tony Award for Best Musical. For her performance, she received rave reviews and was recognized with the Clive Barnes Award for Theatre, the Theatre World Award, and nominations for a Grammy Award, Drama Desk Award, and Drama League Award. She recently wrapped filming the highly anticipated sequel The Devil Wears Prada 2, set to be released this upcoming May. They previously starred in the musical The Lonely Few at MCC Theater and the Geffen Playhouse. For her performance as JJ, Helen received a 2025 Lucille Lortel Award Nomination for Outstanding Featured Performer in a Musical. Helen also captivated audiences in the musical Teeth at Playwrights Horizons. Their regional credits include starring in Man of God at the Williamstown Theatre Festival and as Betty Schaefer in Sunset Boulevard at ACT of Connecticut. Helen earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from the University of Michigan. She has been recognized in TIME100 Next, Variety's 2024 Power of Young Hollywood Impact Report, and the 2025 Gold House A100 List. Follow Helen: @helenjshen 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

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.

Canadian theatre legend Louise Pitre is back on stage in Canada in the Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo. It tells the story of a teenage girl who has a rare genetic condition that ages her four times as fast as her classmates. Recognized as Canada's first lady of musical theatre, Louise has led productions of Les Misérables, Piaf, Sweeney Todd, and she originated the part of Donna in Mamma Mia! on Broadway, but she says Kimberly might be the most perfect part for her right now. She sits down with guest host Talia Schlanger to tell us why as she reflects on her acclaimed stage career.

Bess Wohl joins the podcast to discuss the journey of bringing her latest play, Liberation, to Broadway after a decade of development. She shares the "woo woo" details of her creative process, describing a vision of her characters waiting in a metaphorical doctor's office for her to finally tell their stories. Bess reflects on how the play, which travels between the 1970s Women's Liberation Movement and the present day, became unexpectedly urgent in the current political climate. The conversation dives into Bess's transition from an acting student at Yale Drama to an acclaimed playwright, a shift she describes as almost destined. She explains her rebellious approach to writing, from the "masterclass in silence" found in Small Mouth Sounds to the vulnerable, full-ensemble nudity in Liberation. Through stories of her mother's time at Ms. Magazine and her own experiences in the rehearsal room, Bess highlights how storytelling serves as a visceral exercise in empathy for audiences and actors alike. Bess Wohl is a Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Award winning playwright and filmmaker. Her body of work includes the Tony Award nominated Grand Horizons, as well as Small Mouth Sounds, Make Believe, American Hero, Continuity, Camp Siegfried, and the feature film Baby Ruby. A graduate of Harvard University and the Yale School of Drama, her plays have been produced on Broadway and at major theaters including Ars Nova and Second Stage. Connect with Bess: Instagram: @besswohl Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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 this episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented Gene Gabriel, an actor whose career spans stage, film, and television with a level of versatility that always inspires me. Our conversation dives into his journey as a performer, the craft of acting, and the experiences that shaped his career—without touching on magic at all. It's a thoughtful, funny, and deeply engaging look at what it means to build a life in the arts.Gene Gabriel is a Cuban‑American actor best known for originating the role of Rodriguez in the Tony Award–winning Broadway play Take Me Out. His performance earned widespread acclaim and helped launch a career that has included memorable roles in television shows like The Sopranos, Law & Order, Blue Bloods, and Madam Secretary, as well as films such as The Informer and The Sun Is Also a Star.Beyond his on‑camera work, Gene is also a seasoned improviser and stage performer with decades of experience in New York and Miami. His range, authenticity, and sharp comedic instincts have made him a standout presence across multiple mediums, and his dedication to storytelling continues to influence actors and audiences alike.Learn more about Gene Gabriel by visiting genegabriel.com.Be sure to visit ldmadera.com, and don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

In this episode, I sit down with Greg Kotis, the Tony Award–winning writer behind Urinetown the Musical, to unpack the power of satire, musical theatre as social commentary, and why the strangest ideas are often the most truthful. We talk about the creation and legacy of Urinetown, how Mr Kotis approaches storytelling that challenges audiences without alienating them, and what he's been working on since.We also dive into creative chemistr, how to find your creative soulmate, why collaboration matters more than perfection, and what it means to keep making bold, original work in an industry that often rewards what's familiar.This conversation is for writers, theatre kids, creatives, and anyone obsessed with stories that take risks and refuse to play it safe.

How do art heists actually work — and why do so many stolen masterpieces disappear forever? On Really? No, Really?, Jason Alexander and Peter Tilden talk with art-theft investigator Anthony Amore about the real mechanics of modern art crime. Amore cuts through the Hollywood myths, explaining why museums are more vulnerable than people think, how routine and insider knowledge get exploited, and why stolen art is often hidden for decades instead of sold. The conversation ranges from legendary unsolved heists and forgery scandals to the underground realities of fencing stolen art — plus some unexpected laughs, including Jason's own “missing” Tony Award moment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Larson's Rent premiered at the New York Theatre Workshop on January 26, 1996. The modern rock-opera take on Puccini's La Boheme instantly captivated critics and audiences alike, bringing much-needed attention to the devastating AIDS crisis, inner-city class warfare, drug addition, and featuring bold and unabashed queer characters and storylines. While Larson tragically died the night before the show debuted, his masterpiece would go on to run on Broadway for 12 years, win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the Tony Award for Best Musical, gross hundreds of millions of dollars, and create a whole new crop of Broadway stars out of much of its original cast. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the ground-breaking show, so join the Great Pop Culture Debate as we attempt to name the Best Song from Rent. Songs discussed: “La Vie Boheme,” “Will I?” “Today 4 U,” “Out Tonight,” “Rent,” “One Song Glory,” “Goodbye Love” “What You Own,” “Take Me Or Leave Me,” “Santa Fe,” “Without You,” “Tango: Maureen,” “Seasons of Love,” “Another Day,” “Light My Candle,” “I'll Cover You”Join host Eric Rezsnyak and GPCD panelists Bob Erlenback, Curtis Creekmore, and Joelle Boedecker as they discuss and debate 16 of the most powerful songs from this modern Broadway classic.For the warm-up, in which the panel discusses every song from Rent that did NOT make the bracket, become a Patreon supporter of the podcast.To see a video version of the debate, subscribe to our page on YouTube.EPISODE CREDITS:Host: Eric RezsnyakPanelists: Bob Erlenback, Curtis Creekmore, Joelle BoedeckerEdtor: Bob ErlenbackIntro/Outro Music: "Dance to My Tune" by Marc Torch#rent #rentbroadway #rentmusical #musicals #broadway #broadwaymusicals #seasonsoflove #outtonight #lavieboheme #laboheme #idinamenzel #anthonyrapp #tayediggs #jesselmartin #adampascal #jonathanlarson #tonyaward #pulitzerprize #dramadeskSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the Long Island Tea Podcast, Sharon and Stacy recap the week and dive into the State of the Region — covering historic milestones tied to America's 250th anniversary, major community developments, Broadway buzz, local theater highlights, winter fun across the Island, and plenty of feel-good Long Island stories. They also sip, mix, and create their own perfect red wine blend thanks to our friends at RGNY, proving that great Long Island moments can be enjoyed both out and right at home.#ShowUsYourLongIslanderThis week's spotlight is on Bayles Boat Shop, a historic Long Island landmark taking part in the United States Semiquincentennial.As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Long Island is marking the moment with the Long Island 250th Passport Book, encouraging residents and visitors to explore historic sites and collect commemorative stamps. Bayles Boat Shop was honored as one of the first stops, with John Lanicek presenting the inaugural stamp. We also spoke with Len Carolen, who shared what this milestone means for the shop.Bayles is also building a never-before-used armed whale boat inspired by the Culper Spy Ring, debuting in Port Jefferson Village on May 2nd, highlighting its ongoing role in preserving Long Island history.Show us YOUR Long Islander by sending a DM or emailing spillthetea@discoverlongisland.com.#LongIslandLifeSouthampton Expands Beach Access-Southampton plans to spend $25.8 million to buy and demolish an oceanfront mansion, creating a new public beach and protecting a rare maritime dune habitat.Long Island Shows Up for BroadwayBroadway attendance from Long Island is up nearly 11%, with more than 586,000 residents heading into the city this past season.Broadway Close to HomeJohn W. Engeman Theater (Northport): Ring of Fire (Now–March 1)CM Performing Arts Center (Oakdale): Legally Blonde (Now–February 1)The Gateway (Bellport): The Rat Pack Is Back (Jan 23–Feb 15)Did You Know?Tony Award winner Idina Menzel is from Syosset, Long Island.Theater with ImpactCM Performing Arts Center is launching SPARKLE, a new program using theater to help young children with autism build communication skills.Farmingdale Community TheaterFarmingdale Village plans a $5 million, 8,000-square-foot community theater to energize downtown.Sopranos actor Joseph Gannascoli hosted a book signing in Wading River.A Patchogue woman claimed a $1 million New York Lottery prize.Igloo experiences are back at spots across the Island, from North Shore vineyards to Montauk favorites.Sip & CreateThanks to RGNY, the Scielo Blending Kit lets you create your own red wine blend at home.Pick up your very own kit here: https://shop.rgnywine.com/products/scielo-ny-red-wine-blending-kit#thisweekendonlongisland Sponsored by East End GetawayFriday, January 23America 250 Red, White & Blue Ball – Sea Star BallroomThe Warped Tour Band – The SuffolkSaturday, January 24Light the Night Winter Trail Walk – Quogue Wildlife RefugeFireside Session with Randi Fishenfeld – Bay Street TheaterSunday, January 25Westhampton Winter Market (Saturdays through April 25)North Fork Polar Bear Plunge – Veterans Beach, MattituckFor more, visit eastendgetaway.com.#CelebriTEALong Island had a strong Golden Globes showing with Billy Crudup and Judd Apatow, plus Madison Beer is heading to MSG this summer after a recent album signing in West Babylon.#ConnectWithUsInstagram: @longislandteapodcastYouTube: @DiscoverLongIslandNYTikTok: @longislandteapodcastX: @liteapodcastFacebook: Long Island Tea PodcastEmail: spillthetea@discoverlongisland.comShop: shop.discoverlongisland.comLove the show? Leave us a review and tell us How YOU Doin' at 877-386-6654 x400. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor BD Wong rose to fame with the Tony Award-winning performance of Song Liling in the 1988 Broadway musical “M. Butterfly.” He went on to pick up more roles on stage and on screen, including a 14-year run portraying Dr. George Huang in the TV series “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” Through all his successes and achievements, he's faced personal obstacles, as well as having to face the challenge of being a gay Asian actor in an industry where most of his peers didn't have his same background. In this episode of “Life In Seven Songs,” Wong details his journey as a boy growing up in the Sunset District nurturing his love of musical theater, to New York City as a young man where he lived in an apartment that was owned by the mafia. He talks about how the tragic loss of his baby made him a more confident public speaker, and how now, as an industry veteran, he's championing Asian representation in the entertainment industry. Here's his playlist: The Supremes, “Stop In The Name of Love” Charlie Rich, “Behind Closed Doors” Pacific Overtures OBC/Stephen Sondheim, “There Is No Other Way” Al Jarreau, “Boogie Down” Elton John, “The Greatest Discovery” Beyonce, “Love On Top” Dr. John, “Accentuate the Positive”

Welcome to Season 14! This week Andrew talks with Tony-nominated Broadway star Lorna Courtney. Lorna starred as Juliet in the hit Broadway musical & Juliet where she earned a Tony Award nomination. Now, Lorna is preparing to star in the world premier stage adaptation of The Greatest Showman. In this conversation, Lorna pulls back the curtain on many of the mindsets, ideas, & decisions that have shaped a journey that's taken her from days as a shy, young kid all the way to belting out hit songs on the Broadway stage. You'll hear powerful ideas on stepping out of your comfort zone, making the most of opportunities, adapting to new situations, & so much more. ** Follow Andrew **Instagram: @AndrewMoses123X: @andrewhmosesSign up for e-mails to keep up with the podcast at everybodypullsthetarp.com/newsletterDISCLAIMER: This podcast is solely for educational & entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional.

In Forest Park sits the nation's largest and oldest outdoor theater venue, The Muny. In its 107 seasons, the theater has produced numerous classics – some of which have received a fresh coat of paint to bring them into the modern era. The updated works include “The Wiz”, “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and “Meet Me in St. Louis”. Mike Isaacson, The Muny's executive producer and artistic director, discusses the importance of updating these great American musicals and why the Tony Award-winning theater is the perfect place to play with new concepts for outdated shows.

In this special holiday week episode, Mike sits down with comedian Alex Edelman, fresh off a Tony Award for his show Just For Us and a spot on the Time 100 list. They discuss the "liquid dynamics" of a Comedy Cellar audience, the art of bombing while testing new material, and why jokes about the Israel-Gaza conflict are the hardest tightrope in comedy right now. Edelman explains why comedy thrives in doubt rather than certainty, how he uses "invisible pillars" to structure a narrative, and why he believes a joke should be "conversant with the moment, not beholden to it." Plus, Mike offers a critique of the mockumentary format glut in modern sitcoms. Produced by Corey Wara Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠thegist@mikepesca.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ To advertise on the show, contact ⁠⁠⁠⁠ad-sales@libsyn.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ or visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://advertising.libsyn.com/TheGist⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Gist: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Gist Youtube Page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4_bh0wHgk2YfpKf4rg40_g⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to The Gist Instagram Page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠GIST INSTAGRAM⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow The Gist List at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pesca⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Profundities | Mike Pesca | Substack⁠⁠⁠⁠

Billy Crudup (The Morning Show, Jay Kelly, Almost Famous) is an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor. Billy joins the Armchair Expert to discuss his interpretation of his findings on Finding Your Roots, how he both appreciated and struggled with having a dreamer for a dad, and the story of his parents getting twice married and divorced. Billy and Dax talk about his sentimentality sometimes sneaking up on him, wanting to create for his son the stability and consistency that he didn't have growing up, and rebelling against his father by getting a master's degree in acting. Billy explains the galvanizing moment when he realized he wanted to pursue acting as a craft, feeling useful when he can tell a good story, and why doing television scared him when he was just starting out.Follow Armchair Expert on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch new content on YouTube or listen to Armchair Expert early and ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.