Breaking the Curtain: Recent Episodes
Breaking the Curtain
Breaking the Curtain features everything from in-depth Musical Theatre Show History episodes, Interviews with your favourite Broadway and West End performers and creatives, the latest theatre news from around the globe and of course, stagey ramblings!
We're beyond thrilled to be joined by the incredible Caitlin Houlahan, who is currently starring as Rita in Prelude to a Kiss!
We chat with Caitlin all about this exciting new production currently playing at Milwaukee Repertory Theater! We also discuss the 'Freaky Friday' element to the musical, her long friendship with 'Prelude' co-star Chris McCarrell, her time in Waitress as Dawn and so much more!
"Damn the man, save the Empire!"
We're thrilled to be joined by Analise Scarpaci to chat all about starring as Debra in Empire Records: The Musical!
Empire Records is currently playing at McCarter Theater through October 6th and you absolutely do not want to miss this exciting new musical!
Don't forget to check out Analise's new song "Flashbacks" available on September 27th!
Welcome to the rock! We're beyond excited for Come From Away to make its return to Toronto on September 22nd!
We're joined by company members: Saccha Dennis, Jawon Mapp and Kristen Peace to discuss this beautiful musical making its way back to Toronto, the importance of Come From Away, kissing the cod and so much more!
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It's another updates episode!
Can you believe it's already September? Get cozy with a pumpkin spice latte and listen as your ‘Broadway Besties’ recap their summer adventures, discuss putting together the Outsiders Interview Series, an exclusive announcement, the upcoming fall Broadway season (‘tis the season of Audra!), the Wicked movie and more!
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We're thrilled to be joined by the incredible Kevin William Paul, who is currently starring as Bob Sheldon in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!
We chat with Kevin about his journey from growing up in Florida to starring in The Outsiders on Broadway, the craziest story to ever grace the podcast, taking on the role of Bob Sheldon, a little T-Swift serenade moment and more!
We're thrilled to be joined by the incredible Trevor Wayne, who is currently a Booth Singer and Ponyboy Curtis understudy in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!
We chat with Trevor about his journey to Broadway, the beautiful support from the Outsiders fans, the possibility of bringing his own version of Ham4Ham to the stage door and so much more!
We're thrilled to be joined by the incredible Brent Comer, who is currently starring as Darrel in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!
We chat with Brent about beginning his Outsiders journey as Paul in the La Jolla run to then taking on the role of Darrel for Broadway, meeting the incredible S.E. Hinton, what's really in the 'hamburger mystery surprise' and more!
In a world where cell phones and social media have become all the rage, the rise of platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have dramatically transformed the way we experience theatre. From the early days of message boards to the rise of theatre influencers, 'parasocial relationships', and TikTok trends, we explore the evolution of the digital impact on Broadway and beyond.
So, grab your virtual front-row seat and join us as we uncover how the digital age is rewriting the script for theatre.
Hey Queendom! We're honoured to be joined by our Canadian queen, Maggie Lacasse!
Maggie recently wrapped up playing Jane Seymour in the Toronto production of Six the Musical! Maggie chats with us about the transition period following closing a production, the support of the Queendom, her insane audition story (you NEED to hear this!), a special announcement and more!
Welcome to the whirlwind of a week that is Crissy's Big Broadway Adventure! Join Crissy and Jocelyn as they discuss The Notebook, The Outsiders, MJ, Moulin Rouge, cancelled flights and Stage Door etiquette.
We're beyond thrilled to be joined by Cara Ricketts on Breaking the Curtain! Cara is currently playing Hermione in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway!
We chat with Cara all about playing this iconic role, our own personal experiences growing up with Harry Potter, the magical aspect of the show and so much more!
We’re beyond thrilled to chat with SarahGrace Mariani, who is currently playing Marcia in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!
Join us as we chat with SarahGrace about this exciting new musical, our favourite boys: Sergei and Melvin, the incredible support from fans, on-stage mishaps and more!
We're back with another updates episode! Did you miss our theatre ramblings? We sure missed you!
On this episode, we discuss the big Tony win for The Outsiders, crying over Jonathan Groff, Aaron Tveit and Jojo (not Siwa) returning to the Moulin Rouge, being a 2000s theatre fangirl, The Last Five Years going to Broadway and more!
Mean Girls is returning to Toronto this month and we had the joy of chatting with Alexys Morera who plays the iconic role of Janis in the musical!
Mean Girls runs at the Royal Alexandra Theatre from July 30th to August 25th! You don't want to miss this show, it is so fetch!
We’re beyond thrilled to chat with Caden Brauch. Caden is currently touring around North America as everybody’s favourite Future Boy, Marty McFly, in Back to the Future: The Musical!
We chat with Caden about playing this iconic role, performing alongside Don Stephenson, life on the road and more!
Take a journey with us through the history of the Tony Awards! We start with Antoinette Perry's vision to celebrate excellence in theatre, and further explore how this prestigious event has evolved over the decades.
We reminisce about unforgettable iconic moments, Opening Numbers, discuss the magic of theatre, and reflect on some of the controversies that have sparked important conversations.
We also share our thoughts on this latest Tony Awards season, spotlighting standout shows and performers!
We're beyond thrilled to bring you another interview with a cast member from The Notebook! In this episode, we're joined by the incredibly talent, Jordan Tyson!
Jordan is currently starring in The Notebook as Young Allie. We chat with Jordan about her portrayal of Allie, working with Ingrid Michaelson, on-stage mishaps, the iconic film and more!
We are thrilled to be joined by Gage Thomas of Dog Man: The Musical! Gage chats with BTC about playing Harold & Others, theatre for children, and the importance of PLAY.
Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club.
Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it's time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO!! How hard could it be?
Catch Dog Man: The Musical through June 9th at the CAA Theatre in Toronto!
We are thrilled to be joined by Aaron James McKenzie to chat all about playing Elijah in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Gun & Powder!
Gun & Powder is a new musical inspired by the true story of Mary and Martha Clarke, African American twin sisters who take extraordinary measures to settle their mother’s sharecropper debt and save her home. In 1893 Texas, the Sisters Clarke—passing as white—embark on a remarkable Wild West adventure that examines race, family, and identity with two electrifying women who transformed from farm girls to outlaws to legends.
Catch Gun & Powder now through May 5th at Paper Mill Playhouse!
We're so thrilled to be joined by Delaney Guyer who is currently starring as Cosette on the National Tour of Les Miserables!
We chat with Delaney about portraying the role of Cosette, the show’s lasting legacy, the touring production and bringing it back to Toronto audiences!
So, here's what you missed on Breaking the Curtain...
Surprise! We're joined by Andrew, host of the Gleek of the Week podcast! Andrew chats with us all about Glee pre and post-streaming services, the 'Glacket' aka The Glee Bracket, our favourite episodes, and so much more including our game of Who Said That: Glee Edition!
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We're joined by Broadway's Ryan Vasquez, who is currently starring as Middle Noah in The Notebook!
Ryan chats with us about portraying the role of Noah alongside John Cardoza (Younger Noah) and Dorian Harewood (Older Noah), his first time seeing the film, Ingrid Michaelson's gorgeous score, the iconic rain scene and the Broadway Community.
Join us as we chat about our excitement surrounding the 2023/2024 Broadway season!
This season is stacked with book-to-stage adaptations, original musicals, bio-musicals, jukebox musicals and revivals!
We're sharing our honest opinions ahead of award season, and don't forget – we're diving into your responses from our Instagram prompts, too!
On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by Broadway's Sparkling Diamond, Courtney Reed! Courtney is currently starring in Moulin Rouge on Broadway as Satine after playing the role in the North American Touring Company.
We chat with Courtney about the gorgeous costumes she wears in the show, how her portrayal of Satine adjusts based on the actor playing Christian, the biggest difference between tour and Broadway, her stunning entrance in the show and so much more!
Hey Queens! On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we chat with the incredible 'Standby Slayer' Darcy Stewart from SIX The Musical in Toronto! Darcy spills the royal-tea on slaying as Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn and Anna of Cleves.
We chat about the unique process that goes into stepping into multiple roles, her favorite moments playing each queen and the time she had to improv the closing number as Cleves!
Join us as we chat with the incredible Lauren Patten about her upcoming EP Covers, set to release on March 8th. Lauren gives us a glimpse into the creative process as well as what fans can expect from her EP Release Show at Mercury Lounge.
But that's not all! Lauren also chats with us about her new series, Hulu's Death and Other Details and also discusses her return to the stage this spring in off-Broadway's The Lonely Few.
TICKETS FOR LAUREN'S CONCERT
Dive into the romantic world of The Bridges of Madison County in this special Valentine's episode!
We dive into the history of the original novel by Robert James Waller to the iconic film, the road to the Broadway stage and beyond.
We shine our spotlight on the incredible performances of Kelli O'Hara and Steven Pasquale, who brought these characters to life on stage with their undeniable chemistry and the score by Jason Robert Brown that has made our hearts soar for the last ten years!
Guess who's back?
We're joined by one of our favourite performers Chilina Kennedy for a return interview on Breaking the Curtain! Chilina chats all about starring as Cindy in the new musical A Sign of the Times coming to New World Stages this February!
Set in the Summer of 1965. With the country in transition – as the war in Vietnam rages on and struggles for civil rights and women’s liberation command headlines – one aspirational young woman finds herself in New York City, and ready to dive into this brave new world. In A Sign of the Times, journey back to America’s most unforgettable decade as a young photographer tries to make her way amid the changing times that defined an era. A totally original story with such classic songs as “Downtown,” “Gimme Some Lovin’,” “Rescue Me,” and “I Know A Place,” plus dozens more.
Chilina Kennedy most recently played Billie Jean King in Love All by Anna Deavere Smith. Broadway: Paradise Square, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Film/TV: “The 2015 Kennedy Center Honors,” With Me. Other: The Band’s Visit (International Tour), This Ain’t No Disco (Atlantic Theater Company), Mamma Mia! (1st National Tour), A Gentleman’s Guide To Love And Murder. Chilina is the composer of the new musicals Wild About You and Silk, and is Artistic Producer of Eclipse Theatre Company. chilinakennedy.com
Hi Queens! We're joined by Elysia Cruz and Julia Pulo who currently star as Katherine Howard and Anne Boleyn in the Toronto production of SIX running now through March 31st, 2024 at the Royal Alexandra Theatre!
Elysia and Julia chat with us about their research process into the wives of Henry VIII, special memories with the Queendom, the ghost at the Royal Alexandra Theatre and so much more!
We are so 'tappy' to speak with Nicole-Lily Baisden, who is starring as Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street!
We speak with Nicole about her love of theatre, Peggy’s infectious optimism, and of course, ICE BATHS.
Fresh off the bus from small-town America, young and beautiful Peggy Sawyer arrives in New York City dreaming of her name in lights. She quickly catches the eye of a big-time director and lands a spot in the chorus line of Broadway’s newest show… and when the leading lady gets injured, Peggy gets her shot at stardom.
This dazzling new production is onstage in Toronto through January 21st!
We're breaking down the history behind Almost Famous: The Musical, from the real story that inspired the film to the opening night on Broadway and beyond. We'll discuss the incredible cast, the abrupt Broadway closure, the latest developments, and some changes made to the show within the latest workshop. We also question what happened to the changed purple poster design and so much more!
We are delighted to chat with Liam Pearce who stars as Drew in the groundbreaking Broadway musical: How to Dance in Ohio!
We speak with Liam about making his Broadway debut in this incredible new musical, the audience response at the stage door and online, meeting the real-life Drew, opening night and so much more insight about the show!
Based on the award-winning HBO documentary, How to Dance in Ohio is a heart-filled new musical exploring the need to connect and the courage it takes to step out into the world. At a group counseling center in Columbus, Ohio, seven autistic young adults prepare for a spring formal dance—a rite of passage that breaks open their routines and sets off hilarious and heartbreaking encounters with love, stress, excitement, and independence.
Breaking the Curtain is going from pink to ROUGE for this episode that is so exciting, it'll have you booking a ticket to see the show!
We're beyond honoured to be joined by TANISHA SPRING and DOM SIMPSON to chat all about playing Satine and Christian in the West End production of Moulin Rouge!
Listen to Tanisha and Dom share their favourite song(s) within the Elephant Love Medley, how they prepare for such a massive show, their iconic entrances in the musical and so much more!
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We are delighted to be joined by Broadway's Katie Rose Clarke to chat all about Merrily We Roll Along!
Katie shares insight into playing Beth in the Broadway revival, the recent midnight surprise cast recording drop, reuniting on stage with Lindsay Mendez and so much more!
Katie Rose Clarke is an actress and singer who has starred in both the Broadway and National Tour productions of hit shows THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA and WICKED, and she was also featured in the Original Broadway Cast of ALLEGIANCE and in the revival of legendary musical MISS SAIGON. Katie is currently on Broadway in the revival of Merrily We Roll Along.
OMG! We're joined by Nico Juber (music, lyrics & book), Kristolyn Lloyd (Brenda) and Diana Huey (Katrina) to chat all about Millennials are Killing Musicals!
We're beyond obsessed with this new musical and cannot stop listening to the cast recording! So, make yourself an avocado toast, settle in with a PSL and listen to these incredible artists tell you all about the musical!
LEARN MORE + LISTEN TO THE ALBUM
We're beyond thrilled to be joined by Allison Sheppard who plays Bella in the National Touring Production of Jagged Little Pill!
Allison chats with us about her audition journey, insight into her powerful character, loving Alanis Morissette, fan interactions at the stage door, her real-life friendship with Dillon Klena (Nick Healy) and so much more!
*Trigger warning: sexual assault
Listen up Queendom! We're joined by Julia McLellan who is currently in the Canadian company of SIX: The Musical as the alternate for Jane Seymour, Katherine Howard and Anne Boleyn.
Julia has performed on stages across North America, including three companies of the Tony award winning hit Kinky Boots The Musical-- on Broadway, the Broadway 1st National Tour, and the original Canadian cast. She has had the pleasure of leading shows on some of Canada’s most prestigious stages: starring as Val Clark in The Stratford Festival's A Chorus Line, as Persephone in the North American premiere of Mythic, in the original cast of Musical Stage Co.'s world premiere of Kelly v. Kelly, Doralee Rhodes in Dolly Parton's 9 to 5 at the Citadel theatre, and alternating the role of Dorothy Gale on the 1st National tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Wizard of Oz.
Her stage career intertwines with her climate activism, as she is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Canadian Green Alliance, the national not-for-profit dedicated to bridging the gap between theatre and sustainability.
We are beyond thrilled to be joined by one of our favourite performers, Will Branner!
Will is best known for appearing in the National Touring Productions of Mean Girls and Bat Out of Hell: The Musical as LeDoux. He recently made his Broadway debut in the ensemble of Back to the Future: The Musical and starred in the internet sensation: Nerdy Prudes Must Die as Max.
We chat with Will about the phone call he received with news of his Broadway Debut, the epic fan response to Nerdy Prudes Must Die, the sudden closure of the Bat Out of Hell US Tour and much more!
Do you believe Broadway's Marquis Theatre is cursed?
We dive deep into 'The Great Theatre Massacre of 1982', which brought down five theatres including the historic Morosco Theatre and the original Helen Hayes Theatre to make room for the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square.
Could a curse upon the location be the reason why many shows have been unsuccessful flops at the Marquis Theatre?
It's hard to ignore the eerie coincidence that many shows have struggled to find success at the Marquis Theatre. Some even say that the ghost of the Morosco Theatre haunts the location, seeking revenge for its demolition. Regardless of the reason, we discuss the flops and successful productions that once played at the Marquis including Cry-Baby, Nick and Nora, Evita, 9 to 5, Beetlejuice, Once Upon a One More Time and more!
Resources:
The New York Times
Wikipedia
Broadway World Message Board
YouTube
We're beyond thrilled to be joined by Samatha Pauly for the season final of Breaking the Curtain!
Samantha joins us to chat about playing the role of Jordan Baker in the Paper Mill Playhouse premiere of The Great Gatsby.
This world premiere musical adaptation of the acclaimed novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald tells the impassioned tale of eccentric and mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby in his tragic pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, the woman he’s loved since his youth. Directed by Marc Bruni (Beautiful), this story of extravagance and longing in the lavish Roaring Twenties features a book by Kait Kerrigan (The Mad Ones) and a jazz- and pop-influenced original score by Jason Howland and Nathan Tysen (Paradise Square)
Samantha Pauly is best known for originating the role of Katherine Howard in SIX the Musical on Broadway, as well as her portrayal of Eva Peron in Jamie Lloyd’s critically acclaimed West End revival of Evita at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.
She has starred in many regional productions in Chicago including Betsy in Honeymoon in Vegas, Eva Peron in Evita, Jovie in Elf the Musical, and Amber von Tussle in Hairspray, to name a few. In 2018, Samantha starred as Valkyrie in the First National tour of Jim Steinman’s Bat Out Of Hell The Musical.
THE GREAT GATSBY
Meet The Plastics! We got to sit with Maya Petropoulos, Kristen Amanda Smith and MaryRose Brendel who play the iconic roles of Regina George, Gretchen Wieners and Karen Smith in the Touring Production of Mean Girls: The Musical to chat all about life on the road, their audition experiences, what they hope people take from seeing the show, their favorite costumes and so much more! It was so fetch!
Our dreams came true! We were beyond honoured to speak with Tony Award winner Lena Hall all about starring as Kenna in the new musical In Dreams now playing at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre in Toronto.
In Dreams tells the story of Kenna - a country-rock singer who brings her old bandmates back together for "the party of a lifetime" while keeping her true motivations a secret. Set in a Mexican restaurant in New Mexico that specializes in tacos, margaritas, and memorial services, this unexpected and moving new musical explores our longing for love and connection - all through the iconic songs of Roy Orbison.
Lena Hall is a Tony Award winner and Grammy nominee. Lena received widespread critical acclaim for her performance of the title role in the feature film Becks, (winner of the U.S. Fiction Award at the L.A. Film Festival). Hall stared as Miss Audrey in the hit sci-fi drama “Snowpiercer” alongside Jennifer Connelly and has been seen on HBO’s “Girls,” Amazon Prime’s “Good Girls Revolt,” and Paramount Plus’ “Evil.” Following Lena’s Tony-winning Broadway run in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Lena toured North America with Josh Groban on his “Stages” tour, and portrayed the dual starring roles of both Hedwig and Yitzhak in Hedwig and the Angry Inch in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Lena originated the role of Nicola in the Kinky Boots on Broadway, she appeared as Sloane in the New York Premiere of Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell, starred opposite Marisa Tomei in Lincoln Center Theatre’s “How To Transcend A Happy Marriage,” andmost recently played Audrey in the hit Off-Broadway revival of “Little Shop Of Horrors.”
CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS FOR IN DREAMS
This is an extra special episode because we're chatting with Natalie Shaw who recently set out on her first National Touring Production playing Cady Heron in Mean Girls: The Musical!
We chat with Natalie all about adjusting to life on the road in a musical theatre production, the audition process for Mean Girls, which character she relates to the most, the time she fell down a 10-ft orchestra pit... And so much more!
Great Scott! We're joined by Back to the Future: The Musical's Liana Hunt, who currently stars in the Broadway production as Lorraine Baines.
Liana chats with us all about playing the iconic role in this epic history changing musical! She also shares her pre-show routine, the fan response to the musical adaptation, what it was like meeting Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd and Lea Thompson at the Broadway opening and more!
We hop in the DeLorean to travel through Liana's iconic career during a segment we called 'Back to the Future with Liana Hunt' where Liana shares with us memories from working on shows including Newsies, Wicked and Mamma Mia!
We recently attended the Opening Night performances of SIX and In Dreams.
Mirvish Productions is having such an incredible season and we’re so honoured to have been invited to attend these two amazing shows, which are the kick off of their 2023/2024 Season!
Listen to hear our review of these two epic shows!
Click here for more information!
On this episode, we discuss the stories behind two haunted theatres in North America: The Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto and the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago! We include the stories of our own personal hauntings inside the Royal Alexandra.
We also discuss potential hauntings and tragic events on Broadway based on old tales told on forums. Who knows... Maybe the 'Pearl Studios Shitter' is the real ghost of Broadway?
We are beyond thrilled to chat with Glinda Upland herself, Broadway's McKenzie Kurtz, who joined us to discuss the upcoming 20th Anniversary of Wicked!
In this episode, McKenzie shares her story of seeing Wicked on Broadway for the first time, booking the role, which Glinda costume is her favourite, her first flight inside the bubble and more!
McKenzie Kurtz made her Broadway debut as Princess Anna in FROZEN in February of 2020.
Most recently, and prior to her current role in Wicked, she appeared in NBC’s Annie Live! as the Star-to-Be, and as “Heather” in Marvel’s new television series SHE HULK on Disney+. In the fall of 2021, she performed in the out-of-town tryout of TRADING PLACES directed by Kenny Leon.
She graduated from the University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre, and Dance with a BFA in Musical Theatre in 2019.
On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're kicking off our two-month Stagey Spooks Series with a very special crossover episode. We were so honoured to join Kara and Stephanie of Prophecy Girls: A Buffy Rewatch Podcast to discuss the musical elements of Once More, with Feeling.
"Once More, with Feeling" is the seventh episode of the sixth season of the supernatural drama television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the only one in the series performed as a musical.
Once More, with Feeling explores changes in the relationships of the main characters, using the plot device that a demon— "Sweet" —compels the people of Sunnydale to break into song at random moments to express hidden truths.
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Welcome to our very first edition of THEATRE HOT TAKES where we anonymously read the Theatre Hot Takes our listeners submitted and discuss the topic with our own opinions!
00:47 - The BOOH LV cast was awesome
01:45 - Stunt casting should be given a chance
06:20 - Next to Normal is better than Dear Evan Hansen
09:07 -I love Hamilton and Wicked dearly, but they’ve had their day. They should close
11:30 -Audiences shouldn’t be allowed to drink alcohol at shows
14:46 - The New York Critics are harsh
17:08 - The West End is better than Broadway
21:16 - Hamilton is extremely overrated and not worth the hype
24:55 - Audience members are so entitled these days with no respect for the cast sometimes
25:20 - Cats is a genuinely good and enjoyable musical, people only bash it because it’s easy!
27:04 - Traditional soprano theatre voices <<<
34:43 - Bigger shows aren’t always the best, smaller shows are sometimes better
36:14 - If you’re going to a show set in high school you can’t really complain about “annoying teen fans”
37:43 - Diana The Musical is actually so good and campy. I think it'll come back like Carrie!
41:36 - Jukebox musicals are very overrated. I miss the old classic shows
45:39 - People can be a little too quick to defend their 'faves' when something is brought up that isn't good
47:35 - People take being a 'theatre fan' too seriously
We are beyond thrilled to be joined by Joe Iconis to chat about his upcoming new musical: The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical opening later this month at La Jolla Playhouse, the epic fan response on social media to Be More Chill, 'Broadway Here I Come' and much more!
Joe Iconis is a musical theater writer and performer. He has been nominated for a Tony Award, two Drama Desk Awards and a Lucille Lortel Award, is the recipient of an Ed Kleban Award, Jonathan Larson Award and Richard Rodgers Award. Joe’s musical Be More Chill (with Joe Tracz) opened on Broadway in 2019 at the Lyceum Theatre, following a sold-out Off-Broadway run at The Pershing Square Signature Center and a world premiere at Two River Theatre.
He is the author of Broadway Bounty Hunter (with Lance Rubin and Jason SweetTooth Williams; Barrington Stage Company and Greenwich House Theater Off-Broadway), Bloodsong of Love (Ars Nova, NAMT), The Black Suits (Center Theater Group, Barrington Stage Company), ReWrite (Urban Stages, Goodspeed Opera House), Theaterworks USA’s The Plant That Ate Dirty Socks and We The People. Musicals in development include Punk Rock Girl and Love In Hate Nation.
His music appeared on Season 2 of NBC’s “Smash,” with his song “Broadway, Here I Come!” hailed by The New York Times as a new entry in The Great American Songbook.
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A few months ago we had the pleasure of seeing A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical and it was SO GOOD, SO GOOD, SO GOOD! What we didn't know while in the audience is that we were witnessing Mary Page Nance's first performance in the role of Marcia Murphey.
Mary Page is a New York City-based Broadway Performer, Event Producer, Director/Choreographer, and Business Owner. During COVID, she opened a paper goods business called a page of mary where she sells her handmade goods that sell out in minutes! She produces, directs and choreographs events with Broadway Talent in the private sector and beyond, and also teaches Broadway Master Classes, and one on one privates.
As a performer, Mary Page was in the original casts of both Finding Neverland and Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812 on Broadway, and toured the country with the First National Company of Bright Star. She works frequently developing new musicals in the city, most recently: Black No More written by Black Thought and John Ridley, choreographed by Bill T Jones, and Lempicka, directed by Tony Award Winner Rachel Chavkin.
Mary Page is currently a member of "THE NOISE" in A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical!
Our 2023 Tony Interview Series continues with the highly talented and kind, Taylor J. Williams, who is nominated for his work on Broadway's Ain't No Mo!
Taylor J. Williams is a musician and sound designer who has been nominated for a Tony Award for his work on Broadway’s Ain’t No Mo’ along with Jonathan Deans. He has worked as an electronic music designer on more than 30 Broadway productions including Moulin Rouge, Beetlejuice, Be More Chill, King Kong, Disney’s Frozen, Falsettos, and The Who’s orchestral tour: The Who Hits Back.
Taylor’s role as Co-Sound Designer for Ain't No Mo was integral in bringing this vision to life, as his perspective as a Black man allowed him to serve on the sound team as a voice and advocate for the Black community. With his input, he was able to ensure that the sound design of the production accurately represented Black culture and history within the play.
Working alongside three-time Tony Award nominee Jonathan Deans, Taylor’s specific focus for the project was to compose original music, build sound cues to appear between vignettes which were in dialogue with the play, and to speak for Miss Bag, a prop character who embodies the creations of the Black community in the U.S.
Hello Gorgeous! We're joined by our new friends, Fiona and Julianna, from the Drama Fiends podcast, to break down the history behind Funny Girl! From Babs launching into stardom playing the iconic Fanny Brice, to the film, the Broadway revival, casting drama and everything in between - we discuss it all!
Check out our episode with the Drama Fiends on their podcast!
Click here to listen
We had the absolute pleasure of speaking with the incredible Tom Kitt, who is nominated for the 2023 Tony Award for Best Original Score Written for the Theatre for Broadway's Almost Famous!
As huge fans of the show and score, we were thrilled to have an in-depth conversation about Tom's work with the piece.
Tom Kitt is a two-time Tony, two-time Emmy, Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award winner. As a musical theatre composer, he has written the music for six Broadway shows: Next to Normal (Tony Award), If/Then (Tony Nomination), Flying Over Sunset (Tony Nomination), High Fidelity, Bring it On, The Musical, and Almost Famous. His work for the stage has also been seen Off-Broadway at 2nd Stage (Next to Normal, Superhero), The Public Theater (The Visitor, Shakespeare in the Park) and he has worked at some of the most prestigious regional theatres including The Old Globe, Arena Stage, Berkeley Rep, The Signature Theater, and ART. In addition, Tom’s Broadway credits as an orchestrator include: Next to Normal (Tony Award), The SpongeBob Musical (Tony Nomination), Jagged Little Pill (Tony Nomination), Almost Famous, Head Over Heels, Everyday Rapture, and American Idiot.
Tom has also been active in the world of film and TV. As one of the vocal arrangers working on the Pitch Perfect films, Tom most notably helped create the classic “Riff-off.” Tom also served as music supervisor/arranger/orchestrator for Grease Live and contributed songs for Royal Pains and Penny Dreadful. He also provided music supervision for the NBC series, Rise and has written numerous songs for Sesame Street. And he is known for his two original opening numbers for The Tony Awards, Live in 2019, written with David Javerbaum for James Corden, and the Emmy Award winning, Bigger in 2013, written with Lin-Manuel Miranda for Neil Patrick Harris. Tom is also proud that his musical adaptation of Freaky Friday, co-written with Bridget Carpenter and Brian Yorkey was turned into an original movie musical for Disney Channel. Most recently, Tom served as a Supervising Music Producer on the new Bobby Lopez/Kristen Anderson-Lopez/Steven Levenson/Thomas Kail musical television series, Up Here.
We're delighted to be joined by Benjamin Durham who plays the iconic role of Winnie the Pooh in the new musical adaptation now touring around the UK & Ireland!
The show features many of the original songs written by Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman, who composed most of the music for the Winnie the Pooh franchise over the years. The puppets were lovingly crafted within the walls of Rockefeller Productions by a talented and dedicated team of artists, designers, patternmakers, builders, welders and fabricators; all influenced by Disney's seminal character designs with nods to E.H.Shephard’s original illustrations.
We're so thrilled to be joined by Jonathan Cullen to discuss playing the role of rockstar Stacee Jaxx in Toronto's Rock of Ages!
Jonathan Cullen has wowed audiences on stages across North America since 2010. Most recently he played a leading role on the 1st National Tour of the Broadway Smash-hit, The Book of Mormon. Jonathan helped Grammy Nominated Steven Page, formerly of Barenaked Ladies, workshop his new musical, Here’s What It Takes. Previously in his career, Jonathan worked with Tony Award Winning Director Stephen Daldry and Tony Award Winning choreographer Peter Darling along with multiple Academy and Grammy Award Winning artist Elton John on their ground-breaking Broadway success, Billy Elliot.
We're so excited to be joined by Emily Kristen Morris!
Emily is currently the Elphaba standby on the Broadway National Tour of Wicked. Some of her other favorite theatre roles include Bea in Something Rotten (Broadway National Tour), Daisy in Side Show, Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, and Sophie in Mamma Mia. Emily has performed as a solo vocalist with symphony orchestras, including the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra in China, and the Norwalk Symphony. Her voice is also featured on Joey Contreras’ new album “In Pieces.”
In 2019 Emily began her studies with the Institute for Vocal Advancement, and founded her voice studio EKM Vocal Studio. Since then, the studio has grown exponentially, and Emily has become a highly sought-after, world-renowned vocal instructor! She teaches lessons, masterclasses and workshops to passionate singers both virtually and in person in New York City.
TikTok: @EmilyKristenMorris
Instagram: @EmilyKristenMorris
Website: www.EmilyKristenMorris.com
EXTRA! EXTRA! Calling all Fansies! We've got an exciting interview with Bronté Barbé and Michael Ahomka-Lindsay who play the roles of Katherine Plumber and Jack Kelly in the UK production of Newsies!
We're thrilled to be joined by Louise Camilleri who is currently playing Justice Charlier in the Toronto production of Rock of Ages!
Louise has been an entertainer for over 3 decades with appearances in television, film and commercials. Career highlights feature her in Musical Theatre shows throughout Canada to the Broadway stage. These include performing as a featured dancer in the U.S. national tour of Sophisticated Ladies produced by Mercedes Ellington, the role of Anita in West Side Story, the world premier production of The Lord of the Rings, the role of Tanya in Mamma Mia!, and the world premier production of Show Boat at the Gershwin Theatre on Broadway. Film and television highlights include the movies Superstar, Blues Brother’s 2000 and Disney’s Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure. Vocal highlights include performing as a guest soloist with The Tenors, a featured singer with Josh Groban in concert, performing and recording with The Parachute Club, and as lead vocalist with her band Mark Camilleri and The CT Project on their debut album.
This is weird. It's weird. Very weird. Fking weird.
When RENT opened in London’s West End in 1998, the poor reviews from the British press would eventually become the least of their issues surrounding a UK-based production of this iconic musical.
In 2007, Jonathan Larson’s work would be flipped into a tragic, reworked West End production named Rent Remixed. Yup, you heard that right. We’re going to dive deep into the history of the first non-replica production of RENT and give detailed accounts of the remixed songs and scenes. We also discuss what we believe the differences are between British Theatre VS American Theatre and why certain shows flop following a transfer to the West End/Broadway.
As a special bonus, we play a game called 'NAME THAT RENT REMIX' where Jocelyn, a massive 'renthead', listens to the remixed clips and tries to guess which song it is.
The Bat is back in London! We're thrilled to be joined by returning guests Glenn Adamson (Strat) and Kellie Gnauck (Raven) to chat about their recent journey with the show's Arena tour in Australia and New Zealand, exciting new information about the upcoming London run, overcoming anxiety, what they think Strat and Raven would gift each other for Valentine's Day and more!
Bat Out of Hell The Musical is a Rocky-Horror, Romeo-and-Juliet celebration of star-crossed lovers from opposite sides of the tracks caught in a city teetering on the brink of disaster. When Raven falls in love with the rebellious Strat, all bets are off in this love-at-all-costs, rock-and-rollercoaster story based on uncompromising youth.
Bat Out of Hell plays a limited season at the Peacock Theatre beginning Feb 17 - April 1, 2023!
Rouge, baby! Happy Valentine's Day, chickens! Join us as we break down the history behind the real Moulin Rouge, Baz Luhrmann's iconic film and the process of adapting it for the stage, the 2020 Covid-19 Broadway Shutdown, our favourite songs in the show and more!
We're so thrilled to be joined by Rachel Webb to discuss Broadway's & Juliet, the hard work and dedication that goes into being an understudy, which pop/rock artist and Shakespeare play should get the & Juliet jukebox musical treatment and more!
On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the insanely talented and lovely Bradley Gibson and Isabelle McCalla who star as Hercules and Meg in the upcoming Paper Mill Playhouse production of Hercules!
The inspired Disney animated film is now a mythical new musical adventure. HERCULES is the divinely funny story of an honest-to-Zeus hero on a quest to discover who he is and where he belongs. Is love a possibility too? Oh, Hades, yes! The roof-raising score by Alan Menken and David Zippel features all the hits you love from the film, including the Oscar-nominated song “Go The Distance,” as well as “Zero to Hero” and “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love),” along with new songs written for the stage. The show features a new book by Kwame Kwei-Armah (artistic director of London’s Young Vic) and Tony Award® winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), and direction by Obie Award-winning Lear deBessonet. This cheeky, Greeky MUSE-ical earned a New York Times’ Critic’s Pick for its original Public Theater production in Central Park, with the New York Post cheering it’s “wise-cracking, heartfelt and emotionally rich.” And that’s the gospel truth!
Hercules runs at Paper Mill Playhouse from Feb 16th - March 19th, 2023. Purchase your tickets today!
herculesthemusical.com
It's our first messy updates episode of Season 4! Join us as we recap Crissy's birthday, Groundhog Day The Musical ft. the death of Fred la Marmotte, Aaron Tveit's return to Moulin Rouge! on Broadway (our cheeks are ROUGE with adoration, baby!), Sunset Boulevard at the Kennedy Center, the icky Glee Documentary, our upcoming guests in February and more!
We are so thrilled to have Julie Boardman join us to chat all about the Museum of Broadway!
Julie is an entrepreneur and Tony Award-winning producer. She recently conceived and produced I'm Still Here, a 90th anniversary celebrationfor the Billy Rose Theatre Division at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, featuring archival materials from the Theatre on Film and Tape archive, interviews with Broadway legends and emerging creatives and reimagined musical numbers with a cast of over 100 artists. In fall 2020 she produced In Our America: A Concert for the Soul of the Nation and Artists for Change. She is currently a co-producer on the Broadway revival of Funny Girl. Other Broadway credits include: An American in Paris (Tony nomination), Carousel (Tony nomination), Company (Tony Award), Dames at Sea, Head Over Heels, Hughie, Indecent (Tony nomination), and The Inheritance (Tony Award). Tours: An American in Paris, Dreamgirls, Peter and the Starcatcher. West End: An American in Paris (Olivier nomination), Academy Award winner Florian Zeller's The Son. Julie is a Tony voter and member of The Broadway League. She is on the Theatre Committee at New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, the Leadership Council for the Costume Industry Coalition, the Creative Advisory Board of Festival Internazionale del Musical Milano, the Musical Theatre Advisory Board for the University of Southern California, the Advisory Board for the Musical Theatre Conservatory at Orange Country School of the Arts, and an arts advocacy coalition of arts leaders in NYC.
Through her company Boardman Productions she has has worked with some of the worlds leading brands including Nike, Maybelline, Evian, Vogue, Victoria’s Secret, Microsoft, Diet Coke, VitaminWater, Samsung, Game of Thrones, Disney’s The Lion King and many more on their activations and fan experiences. With over 14 years working in experiential and promotional marketing, she is thrilled to combine all of her talents to create The Museum of Broadway.
themuseumofbroadway.com
In the early years of the 2000s, we began to see a rise in the modern movie musicals with film adaptations of Dreamgirls, Hairspray, RENT, The Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, Mamma Mia and more. It was the era of Myspace, fansites and forums. The trilogy release of Disney’s High School Musical, would only mark the beginning of what would spiral into 'theatre fandemonium', with musical theatre making its way to the forefront of mainstream media outlets and finally gaining in popularity.
It took the following year after the final High School Musical film to set the world ablaze with covers of show tunes populating on YouTube and climbing the iTunes charts weekly. Soon enough, not only did the entire world know what it meant to be a ‘theatre geek’, they celebrated and dubbed themselves as a new word that would sweep social media in the years to follow - ‘gleeks.’
So, where exactly did the term ‘gleek’ come from? Well, if you clicked on the episode or you consider yourself a “Gleek’, then you already know it stems from the hit Fox TV Series Glee.
Join Cris and Joce as they recount the early days of the Glee Phenomenon, the impact the series and songs had on the theatre community, The Glee Project competition, the ultimate decline in viewer numbers and more!
Two stagey best friends interview their idols and break down the history behind your favourite musicals from popular shows like RENT and Beetlejuice to iconic flops like Carrie and Bonnie & Clyde - we cover them all!
And if you like what you hear, consider giving our show the ol’ razzle dazzle by leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcast!
In this very special BONUS episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the phenomenal Rob Colletti who stars as Lester Bangs in Almost Famous on Broadway!
We chat with Rob all about the genius that is Cameron Crowe, the wonderful support from the fans, the real Lester Bangs and the current state of Broadway in the era of Covid.
Almost Famous runs on Broadway until January 8th, 2023. You do not want to miss this special show!
SURPRISE! Last week, we took a trip to New York City to spend time under the bright lights of Broadway in preparation for our upcoming season to bring you even more exciting content! On this final episode of Season 3, we chat all about seeing Wicked, Almost Famous, Moulin Rouge and MJ. We also tell you all about our experience at the Museum of Broadway, visiting 508 and Rise NY!
In this episode, we're joined by Paul Salsini, the author of the memoir 'Sondheim & Me' , which tells the story of the relationship between American musical composer Stephen Sondheim and journalist Paul Salsini during the latter's time as the founder and editor of The Sondheim Review, the only publication devoted solely to Sondheim's work during his lifetime. The magazine was begun in 1994 and Salsini shares his unique experiences interviewing, corresponding with, and speaking on the phone with the composer-lyricist through the entire next decade.
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Once upon a time, in a faraway land, an Enchantress turned a cruel Prince into a hideous Beast. To break the spell, the Beast must learn to love another and earn her love in return before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose…
In the final Show History episode of Season 3, we're chatting all about the history behind Disney's first Broadway production, Beauty and the Beast, and the drama that followed as the big mouse signed a 49-year revenue-based lease at the New Amsterdam Theatre, the Disney Channel stunt-casting era, the iconic Toni Braxton, and more!
In this very exciting episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by Jade McLeod who is currently playing Jo in the North American Touring Production of Jagged Little Pill!
Jocelyn and Jade attended college together, making this episode a lovely chat and reunion!
Jade is a proud non-binary Canadian, working artistically in both Canada and the US as an Actor, Writer, and Singer.
Since graduating from St. Clair College in 2017, Jade has worked on shows across Canada, such as Mamma Mia! and Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert (Both with Stage West Calgary), and enjoyed a brief stint with Carnival Cruise Lines.
Having found their voice first as a singer, then as a songwriter, actor and activist, Jade now uses their platform to explore issues related to the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, and mental health.
In this episode, we chat all about how Tina Fey made fetch happen by bringing one of our favourite Y2K movies to the stage!
If you don’t know what Mean Girls is about because you live under a rock or got hit by a bus, Mean Girls: The Musical tells the story of Cady Heron through the point of view of her friends, Janis Sarkisian and Damian Hubbard.
Join us as we discuss the process from book to movie to stage production, the fearlessness of a performer who literally saved a performance by stepping into a role they did not cover, the changes made between the out-of-town run to Broadway and the stunt casting of Cameron Dallas.
We’re back with another interview! Last month we sat down with Travis Cormier who plays Strat; the leader of the Lost in Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell The Musical in Las Vegas.
In this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we’re joined by Alizé Cruz who is talented beyond words and the literal sweetest person ever! Alizé plays the role of Raven Falco; the daughter of Falco who catches the eye of Strat. She chats with us all about the audition process, her favourite part of the show and more!
Starbucks and stars and sharks... Oh my!
It's another updates episode and you're in for a laugh! Can you believe it's already November? Get cozy with us as we sip our Starbucks holiday drinks and round up the past two months of our Stagey Spooks Series episodes, chat all about seeing the National Touring Company of Mean Girls, sensing spirits inside a haunted theatre, Crissy's 'snoring habits' in hotel rooms, seeing The Shark is Broken and the latest cast recording releases.
In this episode of Breaking the Curtain we're joined by the incredibly talented, lovely Anika Larsen to chat all about playing Elaine Miller in Almost Famous on Broadway!
Almost Famous: The Musical opens on Broadway at the Jacobs Theatre on November 3rd, 2022. Visit almostfamousthemusical.com to purchase tickets!
Anika Larsen has performed on Broadway inBeautiful: The Carole King Musical, Avenue Q, Xanadu,All Shook Upand Rent.Off-Broadway, she was in Zanna, Don’t!;Myths and Hymns,Closer Than Ever, Miracle Brothers, How to Save the World…,Disaster! and Unbroken Circle. Anika grew up in Cambridge, MA, with nine brothers and sisters from different races and countries, and she majored in theater at Yale University. She released an album of lullabies for all ages called Sing You to Sleepand she is a proud member of Actors’ Equity and the board of NYC Children’s Theater.
Happy Halloween! After receiving many requests, we're finally covering the history behind the Canadian musical; Ride the Cyclone... Which is kind of like Cats, if Grizabella was decapitated and carried around a headless doll...
We discuss how social media plays a major role in bringing a newfound fanbase to this epic show, the creation behind Atomic Vaudeville and bringing the musical to off-Broadway!
He's there... The Phantom of the Opera!
Join us as we deep dive into the history behind one of the most beloved musicals of all-time, The Phantom of the Opera.
Listen up! In this episode, we're joined by the beautiful Maddison Firth who plays the role of Heather Chandler in the West End production of Heathers and can also be seen playing the role in the Roku Channel pro-shot of Heathers!
After a wide search in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York over the course of several months, the team behind Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell The Musical finally found their lead - Canadian artist, Travis Cormier!
We are so thrilled to be joined by Travis Cormier on this episode of Breaking the Curtain where we discuss everything from his Strat audition process to his Tim Horton's order!
In this episode, we discuss the creation behind Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's Little Shop of Horrors. You know, the horror comedy rock musical about a florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh.
The swanky 10-story Midtown apartment house at 51 St. didn’t exactly scream ‘murder’ when you strolled by. In fact, it was home to a glamorous celebrity couple of the stage and screen living the high life during the Roaring Twenties. However, on a warm June 9th in 1929 when shrieks were heard coming from the building, the NYPD didn’t expect to find a Broadway star laying dead in her bed.
This is the tragic murder of Margaret Lawrence.
Calling all Corn Nuts!
We sat down with Erin Caldwell to chat all about playing the role of Veronica Sawyer in the West End production of Heathers The Musical! Erin shares with us her pre-show rituals, on-stage mishaps (Um, J.D? More like 'Jay-Z'!) and performer advice.
Is everyone awake? Yes? Good!
This Show History episode is all about rage, love and punk rock.
Join us as we dive deep into the events that surrounded the creation and writing process of Green Day's iconic 2004 album, American Idiot, which would later be adapted into a stage production by Broadway's Michael Mayer and Tom Kitt. Find out what happens when Billie Joe Armstrong, Michael Mayer and Bernadette Peters walk into a theatre bar following a performance of Spring Awakening...
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In this episode, we're joined by Linedy Genao and Brandon Espinoza; the stars of Paper Mill Playhouse's production of On Your Feet!
On Your Feet follows the lives of pop superstars Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Cuban immigrants in Miami, as they fall in love, struggle to overcome family obstacles, and work tirelessly to take their Latin sound to the American mainstream.
The production runs at Paper Mill Playhouse from October 7th until November 6th, 2022!
We're back with another Musical Theatre meets True Crime episode! Did you know there are musicals about Charles Manson and the Manson Family? No? Neither did we!
Join us as we discuss the life of Manson leading up to the events that took place in the Summer of 1969. We primarily focus on Stefan Pucher's Charles Manson: Summer of Hate Das Musical and the off-off-Broadway production of Manson: The Musical.
A musical about America's most infamous outlaws, a composer known for a string of Broadway flops, investors pulling their money out of the production... What could possibly go wrong?
In this Show History episode, we discuss the real-life history behind the robbery duo who inspired Wildhorn's Bonnie & Clyde: The Musical and the road that led to shooting their shot on Broadway.
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School is now in session!
Is there anything spookier than realizing summer vacation is over and school has begun? ... Well, maybe a wannabe rockstar pretending to be an elementary school substitute teacher, but that goes without saying.
Did you know there's a real-life Dewey Finn?! Tune those guitars, in this episode we discuss School of Rock’s field trip to Broadway and beyond!
Happy almost Fall, y'all! It’s the start of our Stagey Spooks Series… May your apple pie scented candles be lit and your cup always filled with pumpkin spice. In fact, we’re going to chat all about everyone’s favourite Pumpkin Queen… Cinderella!
Our primary focus in this episode will be Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, in particular, we’ll focus on the 2013 Beane Broadway production. But don’t you worry, we’ll also cover the incredible Brandy version as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella.
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What happens when you send 50 Danny and Sandy-wannabes to a Grease training school in hopes of becoming the next leads in the 10-million-dollar Broadway revival? Chaos. Pure, absolute chaos.
In this episode, we take you Over the Rainbow where Any Dream Will Do as we discuss The Rise of Musical Theatre Reality Shows – you know, the very thing that made Laura Osnes a Broadway Star. Grab some jam and bread, we’re spilling all the reality show tea as we go back to the early 2000s. At the very height of reality-style television shows such as American Idol and The Simple Life, it was only a matter of time before the theatre world took a stab at auditioning unknown aspiring performers in front of millions across the world from the comfort of their living rooms.
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Dearest Listeners,
We’ve been following the drama and lawsuit surrounding the Unofficial Bridgerton Musical that has taken place over the past few days as we know most of you listening have done as well. It’s a bit confusing, so we thought we would make a little episode chatting about what has gone down and our thoughts.
For one episode... And one episode only; Mamma Mia: the Show History!
Honey-honeys, in this episode, we’re taking you on a journey with us to a little Greek island known as Kalokairi!
Based on the music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! follows the story of 20-year-old Sophie as she is ready to get married to her fiancée Sky, except for one thing - she has never met her father and wants him present for the big day to walk her down the aisle. She invites three men whom she discovers in her mother’s diary.
Join us as we discuss how a jukebox musical became a global phenomenon with two stellar films!
Welcome to this giddy updates episode where we chat all about the shows we saw recently including the Pre-Broadway Engagement of & Juliet! We also share our excitement about the casting announcement for Bat Out of Hell The Musical in Vegas and chat all about the Funny Girl revival drama that has caused us to raise a brow more than once this past month!
Will you share your life with us for the next 40 minutes?
In this latest Show History episode, we chat all about The Last Five Years, our personal opinions on the relationship between the two characters, the film version and the real-life marriage that inspired the hit musical.
The Last Five Years is an emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of five years. The show’s unconventional structure consists of Cathy, telling her story backwards while Jamie, tells his story chronologically; the two characters only meet once, at their wedding in the middle of the show.
Welcome to the Second Edition of Listener Stories where we read your theatre stories back to you! In this episode, we've got stories about what happens when Olaf's butt falls off on stage, excitement-shouting at the stage door, first time seeing shows, an on-stage toilet paper mishap, shattered snow globes and more!
You can submit your listener story here!
In this thrilling episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the sensational Jennifer Allen and Jarran Muse. They are currently playing Mother Superior and Lt. Eddie Souther in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Sister Act!
Based on the 1992 hit film, this feel-good musical comedy smash sizzles with powerful music, spectacular dancing, and a story that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits. The madcap plot is set in motion when disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder and must go into hiding in a convent, where she helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.
Sister Act plays through Sunday, June 26th, 2022. You do not want to miss this production, it's fabulous, baby!
Happy May! We're back with a special updates episode for you. Join us as we ramble about the upcoming Tony Nominations, News from Bat Out of Hell the Musical, Dating Apps and more!
In this thrilling episode, we’re joined by Mike Wartella and Christy Altomare to chat all about the new hit musical The Wanderer based on the life of legendary singer/songwriter Dion. The Wanderer is currently playing at Paper Mill Playhouse through April 28th, 2022. Head over to TheWandererMusical.com for ticket info!
Get ready Baltimore! We're joined by the incredibly talented Niki Metcalf! You can see Niki "eat some breakfast, then change the world" across America as Tracy Turnblad in the National Tour of Hairspray!
In this hour long episode, join Cris and Joce as they gush all about the film adaptation of Tick, Tick... BOOM!
The film tells the story of Jonathan Larson; an aspiring composer in New York City who is worried he made the wrong career choice, whilst navigating the pressures of love and friendship.
It's time to get SERIOUS about Legally Blonde the Musical! Join us as we discuss how a film about sorority-girl-turned-lawyer Elle Woods became one of our favorite musicals! From working with live dogs on stage, being the first fully-staged musical to play on TV while still playing in New York City, to an MTV reality show... We're cracking open our books and breaking down the history behind Legally Blonde the Musical.
On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by legendary Broadway Musical Director and arranger David Loud, who has written a book recounting his wildly entertaining and deeply poignant trek through the wilderness of his childhood and the edge-of-your-seat drama of a career on, in, under, and around Broadway for decades.
PRE-ORDER FACING THE MUSIC
It's March 1st. And it's cheese.
Next To Normal is a rock musical about a typical American family hiding mental illness from the world. Diana Goodman has been struggling with bipolar depressive illness and delusions for seventeen years following the passing of her infant son. The show recognizes the strain her mental illness puts on her family, and their struggle to find their own “normal.”
*TRIGGER WARNING contents of the show include death, mental illness, drug use and abuse, and suicide.*
What a way to spend the day!
On this very special episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by Matt O'Grady, Jonathan Larson's best friend and the real-life inspiration behind Michael in Tick, Tick... BOOM! and Angel in RENT.
In a beautiful follow up to our season opener, The Life and Legacy of Jonathan Larson, tune in to hear about Jon’s life, art, and healing from someone very near and dear to him.
We are so grateful to Matt for taking the time to share personal stories and memories with us as well as chat all about the wonderful Academy Nominated film ‘Tick, Tick… BOOM!!
Episode Artwork Credit: O’Grady and Larson Circa 1983, photo courtesy of Matt O’Grady
LINKS TO CHECK OUT:
We Are Here: A Documentary By David Weissman
The Jonathan Larson Foundation
The Big Groups (Formerly run by Friends In Deed)
CANFAR
Calling all you love fools, we’re diving beneath the covers into the cruellest love story of all - Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical! We highly encourage you to sit back, relax, pour yourself an iced tea... From long island... Oh, and one last thing… Happy hunting!
Hello Stagey Friends! It's our first updates episode of Season 3. Join us as we take a look behind the scenes at the research into our premiere episode 'The Life & Legacy of Jonathan Larson', chat all about the latest theatre news and share what's coming up in February!
We catch up with2021 Lotte Lenya Competition Winner, Andrew Polec! Andrew starred as Strat in the original company of Bat Out of Hell: the Musical, Berger in Hair, and most recently took on the titular role of the Grinch at The Old Globe.
When we spoke with Andrew, he was getting ready for his last few shows as the Grinch, and took some time out of his busy schedule to catch up with us about performing during a global pandemic, getting his Masters degree, and much more!
This story takes place in the winter of 1996 in New York City. Inside the fourth floor of an apartment building on the corner of Greenwich and Spring Street in lower Manhattan is 35-year-old composer Jonathan Larson who’s preparing for the first preview of his new show; RENT. He will soon become the future of musical theatre, but the world doesn’t know that yet… And unfortunately, Jonathan would never live to see the success of his work.
Join Cris and Joce as they dive deep into the life and legacy of Jonathan Larson.
It's time to unwrap our Stagey Holiday Gift Guide! Join Crissy and Jocelyn as they chat about the HOTTEST theatre news around the world from the upcoming NBC event - Annie Live! to the new Gatsby musical across the pond. They also share what made their 'must-have stagey gift list', and so much more on the final updates episode for Season 2 of Breaking the Curtain!
We've all got our junk, and our junk is Spring Awakening!
On this Show History episode, we're going all the way back to Broadway 2006 to discuss everyones favourite teenage angsty musical: Spring Awakening. We really hope we don't 'totally f*ck' it up!
Happy November Stagey Friends! On this update episode we tackle all of the latest news and exciting topics in Theatre Land including a heavy discussion about the Wicked film casting announcement, the return of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a potential 'royal' theatre disaster, our favourite holiday drinks and so much more!
In this final episode of our Bat Out of Hell The Musical Interview Mini Series we're joined by Killian Thomas Lefevre who plays Tink in the new UK & Ireland touring production! Listener beware, we drop some major plot spoilers throughout.
We're back with a very exciting third episode in our Bat Out of Hell The Musical Interview Mini Series! This time we're joined by the leads of the show, Glenn Adamson and Martha Kirby to chat all about their journey as Strat and Raven in the UK & Ireland touring production!
In this very exciting second episode in our Bat Out of Hell The Musical Interview Mini Series, we're joined by Original Cast Members, Sharon Sexton and Rob Fowler to chat all about their journey from the beginning all the way to starring in the UK & Ireland touring production!
In this very exciting first episode in our Bat Out of Hell The Musical Interview Mini Series, we're joined by performers, Kellie Gnauck and Danny Whelan to chat all about their roles as Valkyrie and LeDoux in the UK & Ireland touring production!
Join us as we sink our teeth into the history behind yet another spooky musical: Dance of the Vampires! Is there anything more terrifying than a very expensive flop? We think not!
This campy musical, based on the Roman Polanski film The Fearless Vampire Killers, follows Professor Abronsius and his bumbling assistant Alfred as they attempt to prove the existence of vampires in Transylvania. Alfred falls for innkeeper's daughter Sarah, unaware that she is being pursued by the mysterious Count von Krolock.
Lizzie Borden took an axe, gave her mother forty whacks. When she saw what she had done, she gave her father forty-one...
On this Show History episode, we hang up our LaDuca shoes and take a stab at True Crime. Join us as we look into the real-life case of Lizzie Borden, who inspired the musical LIZZIE; an American mythology set to a blistering rock score with a sound owing less to Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber than to Bikini Kill, the Runaways, and Heart.
It's our Tony Awards episode-ish! Join us as we discuss our highlights, Best Dressed, and shame the fact the ceremony was put behind a paywall! Ah, Tony Season...
Hello Spooky Friends! It's October and we've got some exciting news... Listen to find out!
You better shape up and sharpen your pencils, 'cause we’re taking it all the way back to the Class of 1959 for this Show History lesson! Join Cris and Joce as they hand-jive their way through all the exciting Grease milestones.
Happy September, Stagey Friends! On this episode we discuss the latest adventure in our lives as well as all of the exciting Theatre News around the globe!
THANK YOU FOR SPENDING 525600 MINUTES WITH US!
Today is 1 Year since we began our podcast journey and we couldn't be more grateful for everyone who listens to our theatre ramblings, joins us for interviews, messages us about our episodes, etc… We love you, stagey friends!
Enjoy the episode full of our favourite podcast moments, news about future episodes, and even a blooper reel!
Thank you!!!
Join Jocelyn and Cris as they sit down with Nicolette Blount (Creator, Composer, Book Writer, and Lyricist of Savage the Musical) & Lindel Hart (Book Writer) Savage is a new musical based on a true story about Chickasaw Sharpshooter, Wanda Savage in the 1920s. She went from being a widowed single mom, to the circus, to Vaudeville, to Hollywood, to a dirty brothel. A redemption story about her loves, losses, fame, regrets, hopes, & survival in a world that chewed her up & spit her out. She was ahead of her time. She knew what she wanted and sacrificed everything to get it.
Listen to the EP: https://open.spotify.com/album/0jAOeNaN4Uvr8C3487jUFv?si=mcgLo5slT9KNNwgrYZpCKA&dl_branch=1
Christine... Christine...
We chat all things the Phantom of the Opera with Broadway's current Christine Daaé, Meghan Picerno!
Meghan Picerno is an American theatre actress and coloratura soprano opera singer. She is known for her role as Christine Daaé in the US Premiere and 1st National Tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Love Never Dies.
Happy August, Stagey Friends! It's officially our 'podcastiversary' month! Join us for this updates episode to hear all about the wonderful digital shows we watched over the past few weeks, upcoming events, ways you can share your own story on our podcast... And so much more!
In this very special episode, we had the opportunity to interview Avionce Hoyles, who is one of our absolute favourite humans! We chat with Avionce all about his time as Tink in the North American productions of Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell the Musical, playing Gator in the National Tour of Memphis the Musical, his recent performance on America's Got Talent, and his project, the Next Generation Young Artist Showcase - listen to hear how you can get involved!
ngyas.org
Join us as we discuss ‘Stage Door Tips and Tricks’, etiquette, share our own favourite memories, and read our first batch of Stage Door Listener Stories!
What's better than chatting about a Broadway flop? Chatting about a Broadway flop with our friends Bobby & Kristina of MY FAVORITE FLOP!
Join Jocelyn, Bobby, and Kristina as they discuss BIG FISH and why it's classified as a 'flop.'
MY FAVORITE FLOP is a podcast hosted by Bobby and Kristina, who dive deep into the fathomless files of Broadway history to explore yet another fabulous flop. From Annie 2 to Zombie Prom, they'll leave no stone unturned until every single musical misfit is unearthed, redeemed, and finally gets invited to the Prom. (No pig's blood, please!)
In honour in Jim Steinman, we've reworked our original Bat Out of Hell: the Musical Show History episode script to bring you a more detailed timeline of events leading up to the creation of this rock 'n' roll night at the theatre!
Bat Out of Hell is a post-apocalyptic rock and roll love story. Set in a dystopian future, the island of Manhattan; renamed Obsidian, has floated out to sea and is now under the reign of Falco; the tyrannical ruler set on ‘revitalizing’ the city. Living in the abandoned subway tunnels underneath the city are a group of genetically-altered teenagers, known as The Lost, who are frozen at the age of eighteen. When Strat; the reckless, rebellious leader, meets Falco’s sheltered daughter, Raven on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, the stars align and they fall head first into the wonder of first love.
Hey Corn Nuts!
Step into our Candy Store! Continuing with our Heathers 3-Part Series, we've dedicated an entire episode to the creation of Heathers The Musical! Slap on a swatch and grab a Diet Coke, we're about to motor right into this wacky cult-classic!
Greetings and Salutations!
On this episode, we're joined by Simon Gordon, who plays the role of 'JD' in the upcoming U.K. tour of Heathers the Musical! Slap on your Swatch, sit back with a slushie and enjoy as we chat all about Heathers! It's so very!
Welcome to yet another stagey end of the month ramble where we give you the 411 on the latest theatre news! Broadway IS back! Two new productions of Heathers opening in the UK?! We have to PAY to watch the Tony Awards?! Listen for all the updates!
As you know, Breaking the Curtain loves new musicals! Join Cris and Joce as they sit down with Spencer Williams and Shenelle Salcido, co-writers of the new musical, For Tonight! The group is also joined by Joseph Perdue, the orchestrator working with the team on the U.K concept album being released this summer!
For Tonight is a new, original, musical inspired by the writer's third great grandfather's handwritten journal. Through a riveting score, the atmospheric soundscape blends traditional Welsh choral, indie-pop, folk, and Romani inspired melodies and rhythms. At its core, For Tonight is an exploration of the power and meaning of home.
Enjoy this exclusive listen and look into For Tonight!
What's your dream musical?
Join us as we countdown our Top 5 Dream Musicals based on pre-existing material (books, films, musician, etc!) Listen to find out which one of us wants a "Brucebox Bruceical"...
In honour of the 58th Anniversary of the iconic film version of Bye Bye Birdie, we sat down with Bobby Rydell who played the role of Hugo Peabody!
Teen idol, Bobby Rydell ruled late-’50s charts with hits like “Volare,” “Wild One,” “Kissin’ Time,” and “Forget Him.” He was so influential up through the early ’60s that the high school in Grease was even named after him! Bobby has gone on to sell over 25 million records including more than 30 Top 100 hits.
I'm the month you want! It's me, it's Maaaaay!
Welcome to yet another stagey end of the month ramble where we give you the 411 on the latest theatre news! Broadway's coming back? New RENT Documentary? Listen for all the updates!
Discover 'what baking can do' in our latest Show History episode all about Broadway's favourite 'baked from the heart' musical, Waitress!
Waitress is a musical with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles and a book by Jessie Nelson. The musical is based on the 2007 film of the same name, written by Adrienne Shelly. It tells the story of Jenna Hunterson, a baker and waitress in an abusive relationship with her husband, Earl. After Jenna unexpectedly becomes pregnant, she sees a pie baking contest and its grand prize as her chance.
I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical is a sparkling musical revue lifts the lid on the highs and lows of life as a musical theatre performer. From voice-straining high notes to limb-spraining high kicks, via on-stage smooches and off-stage feuds, this laugh-out-loud caper takes in the journey from wide-eyed drama school graduate to difficult diva (or past-it chorus member).
We had the opportunity to chat with comedy album chart-topper Alexander S. Bermange, and West End regulars Lucas Rush and Charlotte Anne Steen who star in this brilliant musical.
We're also fortunate to give our listeners at sneak peek at two songs from the show!
Booking a ticket will allow you to stream the show on demand from 22 April - 12 May through King's Head Theatre!
We wanna rock!
Join us for this very exciting Show History episode where we talk all about the five-time Tony Nominated Musical ROCK OF AGES in honour of the 12 Anniversarywith our special guest, the Original Broadway Drew, Constantine Maroulis!
Constantine's New Album 'Until I'm Wanted': https://ffm.to/wdyaypd
Rock of Ages Reunion Concert: https://www.stellartickets.com/o/rock-of-ages/events/rock-of-ages-live-all-star-reunion-concert
We're back! Join us as we reflect on the past month and spill all the details about our upcoming podcast guests, including a very special announcement at the end of the episode!
Today we’re joined by Lee Lessack and Robert Bannon, who are the wonderful hosts of The Broadway Cast Reunion Series which gives audiences a chance to do what they may never have done before: visit “backstage” with cast members and hear personal, hilarious, unscripted stories and gossip!
We’re so thrilled to have Kate Lumpkin join us! We were so fortune to have met Kate while working on The Mad Ones Lab this past year.
Kate is the Founder of and Lead Casting Director at Kate Lumpkin Casting, CSA. Collectively, as a casting professional, she has worked on over 40 TV/Film productions and 80 theatrical productions in New York City and across the USA.
Her credits include fan favourite shows such as the National Tour of Bandstand and the off-Broadway production of We Are The Tigers.
Kate teaches workshops in New York and at numerous Colleges and Universities. She is a private coach to clients all around the world.
Xena Gusthart is a Broadway and West End choreographer living between New York and London. She choreographs, holds rehearsals and does castings for large stage shows and musicals. Xena’s credits include dancing and choreographing for, Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, Nike, Adidas, Bat Out of Hell and Bodyguard The Musical amongst many others.
We sat down with Xena to chat all about her latest project; The Showbiz Clinic - the place where showbiz entrepreneurs go to level up, achieve real momentum and harness their mindset!
HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY!
We chat all about our favourite female characters in theatre, share our frustration about fan culture frowning upon certain strong female roles, and simply gush about our love of all women!
On this episode, we are joined by Director, Producer, and Creator, Connie Rotella!
Connie has been dancing, teaching, choreographing and directing professionally for the past twenty five years, working in different styles of dance and performance, on film, television and stage. Closest to her heart has been representing and helping young up-and-coming performers get established in their careers.
Amongst many credits, Connie has directed and produced hit shows such as Forever Broadway, Musical Show Off, Panto, and many more with her production company BronCon since 2010. Musical Theatre is her passion, directing is a dream for her upcoming musical she wants to write.
Connie Rotella joins us today to chat about her latest project; Triple Threat Academy!
Join us as we chat all things Carrie: The Musical Revival with CHRISTY ALTOMARE!
Christy portrayed the role of Sue Snell in the reimagined MCC Theater off-Broadway production of Carrie. She made her Broadway debut as Sophie in Mamma Mia!, and also starred as Wendla in the national tour of Spring Awakening. Most recently, Christy originated the titular role in the Broadway premiere of Anastasia!
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! In this episode, the gals chat all about their favourite romance musicals, couples, love songs, character crushes, and share juicy real life theatre romance stories!
On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the wonderful CHILINA KENNEDY to talk about her experience playing the role of Carole King in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical!
Get ready to feel All Revved Up with this thrilling episode of Breaking the Curtain! Introducing the Bat Out of Hell the Musical Reunion with special guests: DANIELLE STEERS (ZAHARA), BEN PURKISS (HOFFMAN/STRAT), AND SIMON GORDON (ESQUIVEL/STRAT)!
Join us as we chat all things Bat Out of Hell from on-stage mishaps, character backgrounds, hilarious in-audience stories, and MORE!
Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived... Podcast listeners, we are LIVE!
Breaking the Curtain presents another thrilling Show History episode all about the fan favourite musical, SIX! In this 30 minute episode, the stagey ladies explore the musical as well as The Real Housewives of Henry VIII!
December 24th, 9pm... Christmas Bells are RINGING!
Breaking the Curtain presents their Show History episode in the 'Shows That Sleigh' Series all about RENT in this 25 minute episode exploring the life of Jonathan Larson and creation of RENT, along with interesting facts and personal experiences through loving the musical!
We're back! Did you miss us? We've rebranded our podcast and now we're back to bring you more stagey goodness!
Happy November! In this episode, the Breaking the Curtain gals answer stagey questions in a segment called Getting to Know You! Tune in to find out our favourite musicals to our funniest theatre memories!
Ghouls, Gremlins, Ghosts... Are you ready for the final episode in our Stagey Spooks Series?!
We take a deep dive into haunted theatres all around the world, as well as a look into those who inhabit them.
'Ghost Stories Incorporated - Alone With Your Voices'
In the fourth episode of the Stagey Spooks Series, we're here to take you on a strange journey as we break down the show history of one of our all-time favourite musicals: The Rocky Horror Show!
Hi! We'll be your guides... We'll be your G-U-I-D-E-S until the end of this Podcast!
We're back with the third episode in our Stagey Spooks Series... This week we're jumping beneath our floorboard and heading to the Netherworld as we discuss Beetlejuice!
In this first edition of 'Let's Babble About...' we' discuss the 2020 TONY NOMINATIONS!
We're back with another episode in the Stagey Spooks Series!
This week, we're taking you all the way back to 1988 with Broadway's Biggest Flop... Carrie! Oh, yes, you will remember her name after this episode! Hold onto your boutonniere, this prom themed musical is going to be one you'll never forget.
*Theme song by William Karras @williamkarras
GOOD NEWS...
This is the very first episode of our Stagey Spooks Series! For the month of October, we'll be bringing the show history and stories behind all of our favourite spooky musicals.
Kicking things off is everyones favourite musical... Wicked! Join us as we discuss the magic behind one of Broadway's best selling musicals!
This episode is all about our adventures attending Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell the Musical!
Join us as we discuss the changes made between runs, the origin of the musical, answer your questions, and chat about our own experiences attending. Did you know, combined, we've seen the show 27 times?! Bananas!
In this very special first episode of Breaking the Curtain, we are joined by performer, Giovanni Spano! We sat down to chat with Gio all about his time in Bat Out of Hell the Musical as well as the X-Factor.