The Lance and Ray Show: Recent Episodes
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Lance Rubin and Ray Munoz are best friends. They live in NYC and have made comedy together as The Lance and Ray Show, with runs of several live shows at the UCB Theatre and The PIT, plus mind-blowing videos on the web.
Now they bring their unique brand of genuine, human comedy to this podcast. Every week features talk, an interview, a comedy bit, inspiring words, and music. Always in 20 minutes or less.
"Now I have that Taylor Swift song '22' in my head."
Lance and Ray talk with Zen Anton and Oscar Hallas, who make up the musical duo girlfriend. You can check out their music at soundcloud.com/girlfriend-music. And you can check them out IN PERSON on Friday, November 18th, 9:30 pm at the Parkside Lounge in NYC.
They talk about what it was like growing up in Brooklyn, Zen and Oscar's musical influences, and Lance and Ray's musical influences.
Also, girlfriend's "Your Man," Top 10 Coming-of-Age Films, and Ray and Lance talk about babies and when they were 22.
Lance and Ray talk with Pete Capella, actor/improviser/writer and all-around great human. Back in the day, Lance and Pete co-created an improv show called The NYC, which was a fully-improvised teen drama (a la The OC).
If you're in LA, you can catch Pete at the Westside Theater. His two-man improv show The Elevator (with Aaron Krebs) performs there a lot and also recently headlined the Out-of-Bounds Comedy Festival in Austin.
They talk about how long it took Pete to fall in love with L.A., the key to all good acting/improvising, and the importance of making your own stuff.
Also, An Exercise in Improv, and Ray and Lance talk about not caring about summer movie blockbusters and caring about the world.
Lance and Ray talk with Mariel Rubin, an assistant editor who's worked on Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Drunk History. She's also Lance's sister!
They talk about the responsibilities of an assistant editor, what it's like to watch hours of footage of a very drunk person, and the trade-offs of being a freelancer vs. a 9-to-5er.
Also, "Celebrities Read In Cold Blood by Truman Capote," and Ray and Lance talk about spoilers, anticipation, and time.
Lance and Ray talk with sketch comedy/improv musician Mark Erenstoft, who is a master of underscoring improv comedy. Mark plays a variety of shows at the PIT (People's Improv Theater) as well as the ongoing show Beerprov, which you can catch in NYC on January 22nd at the Highline Ballroom. He also plays in the pit for Avenue Q Off-Broadway.
They talk about how Mark got started in musical improv, how he met Ray, and how his mind works when he's playing a show.
Also, Ray and Lance improvise a pineapple-inspired scene over Mark's dynamic underscoring on a Sesame Street keyboard, Lance and Ray Take a Walk in the Park...and Hear Things!, and Ray and Lance talk about the poorly-attended stoop sale Lance put together to sell his old toys, the difference between short-form and long-form improv, and Red Bank.
Lance and Ray talk with the legendary Annie Golden aka Norma Romano on Orange is the New Black. Annie'samazing career, which began when she was the lead singer of the band The Shirts, includes the film Hair, the TV show Cheers, and originating roles in Assassins, The Full Monty,and Leader of the Pack.
They talk about her being discovered by Milos Forman, working on Orange, her new musical project Annie Golden: Bounty Hunter, Yo! (co-written by Lance), and what Annie loves about Halloween.
Also, Annie Golden Family and Friends' "Clara Bow" (written by Annie Golden and Frank Carillo), Ray's Spooky Stories, and Ray and Lance talk about their Halloween costumes.
“Hold clear in your mind the image of your highest self…and never lose sight of that.”
Lance and Ray talk with the wise and delightful Shakina Nayfack, director, performer, writer, producer, and artistic director of the Musical Theatre Factory in Midtown Manhattan. Last year Shakina underwent transition surgery in Thailand, and her show Post-Op will be happening at Joe's Pub at 9:30 PM on September 22nd, the one year-anniversary of that surgery. Follow her @Shakeenz.
They talk about the Musical Theater Factory sharing a space with a porn studio, the moment when she decided she needed the transition surgery, her experience of that surgery in Thailand (with a pit stop at an elephant sanctuary), and thoughts on Caitlyn Jenner and Transparent. Also, Shakina singing "Him Today, Gone Tomorrow," written by Joe Iconis for her pre-operation show, One Woman Show, Lance Goes Through Ray's CD Shelf and Asks Ray to Share Different Facts About the CDs, and Ray and Lance talk about evolving.
“November 13th, 1991. With musical guest Tin Machine.”
Lance and Ray talk with the delightful Arthur Meyer, who's a writer for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. He's also a co-author (with Kelly Hudson and Dan Klein) of FUDS, a hilarious book about all things food-related. Follow him on Twitter @arthurmeyer13.
They talk about the shift from being Late Night with Jimmy Fallon to being The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, why rhyming is great, the show's behind-the-scenes writing process, Arthur's freaky SNL date brain, and being naked onstage.
Also, "A Medley of Some of Arthur's Favorite Christmas Songs," Arthur shares a bit he wrote for Jimmy Fallon that didn't make the show, and Ray and Lance talk about how chill they are and the passing of time.
“So, when does the roller coaster of being a rock and roll author start?”
In honor of their 50th episode, Lance and Ray ditch their usual format in favor of eighteen minutes of Ray asking Lance hard-hitting questions about his debut YA novel Denton Little's Deathdate. They talk about the first time Lance told Ray about the idea for the book, how much of Ray there is in Denton's best friend Paolo, and Lance's relationship to online Denton reviews.
“I’m watching TV, I’m like, ‘Oh! That’s Ray!'”
Lance and Ray talk with Temmy Maldonado, one of Ray's best friends since high school. Temmy and his buddy Jo have their own podcast, called Break Time Podcast, which focuses on nerd news.
The guys talk about how Dawson's Creek brought Ray and Temmy together, Ray's high school celebrity status, and Temmy's adventures with Kieran Culkin.
Also, Ray's original song "Crazy Ways, Babe," Finish That Lyric, and Ray and Lance talk about their favorite movies of 2014, phenomenons, and the nights you remember forever.
“You can just walk beside me.”
Lance and Ray talk with Ryan Gilliam, the artistic director of Downtown Art--a teen theater in the East Village--and one of Ray's mentors. Her production of To Kill a Mockingbird, starring seven teen actresses, opens this weekend. More info here: http://www.downtownart.org/
They talk about the ensemble as a metaphor for community, how Ryan's company evolved into a teen theater, her stint as NY1's New Yorker of the Week, and how she bought a building for a dollar.
Also, a track Ray wrote and recorded for Ryan's birthday, Outtakes of a Sketch That Never Happened Because Lance Was Cracking Up The Whole Time, and Ray and Lance talk about Lance's book making Ray cry, Lance's son turning 1, and what made Ray the performer and person he is today.
“2015 Me-Time”
Lance and Ray talk with the effortlessly charming Charla Lauriston, stand-up comedian and writer for the upcoming Netflix show (executive produced by Tina Fey) The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, which premieres March 6th. She's also the creator and star of webseries Clench and Release. Learn more about Charla here.
They talk about School Night at UCB, the premise of Clench and Release, and the epic story of how Charla got the writing job on Kimmy Schmidt.
Also, DC Pierson's "It's a Shame," Worst New Year's Resolutions Ever, and Ray and Lance talk about their 2-year-podcast anniversary and the importance of valuing your self.
“Oh, my god, this Monopoly was five dollars.”
Lance and Ray start off 2015 by talking with documentary filmmaker David Novack, whose work includes Burning the Future: Coal in America and an upcoming doc about Russian writer Isaac Babel. David also had a long career as a sound mixer, including the films Kids and Velvet Goldmine.
They talk about why David shifted from a career in engineering to a career in the arts, the difference between sound mixing and sound editing, and David's favorite documentaries and sound mixes.
Also, David Bowie's "Five Years," and Ray and Lance talk about Lonely Planet's questionable selection for the top U.S. tourism destination and the Park Slope Food Co-op.
Lance and Ray get real with Xmas legends Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, the Grinch, Jesus Christ, Christmas Suzy, and more. Best to listen to this one while cuddled up close with your loved ones.
And be sure to stay tuned after the interviews for a special Easter egg from Lance and Ray! Yeah, that's right: a Christmas Easter egg.
Special thanks to Harrison Chad, Tim Shea, Lauren Marcus, Jason SweetTooth Williams, Bill Coyne, Will Roland, Taylor Trensch, and Molly Hager. And also to Cait Weisensee (we're sorry; we should have been cleaning) and the entire cast and crew of the 7th Annual Joe Iconis Xmas Spectacular.
“That sounded wiser than it was.”
In this Very Special Episode, Lance and Ray talk with EACH OTHER, getting real about their own lives and careers.
They talk about the way Ray's life happens in 2-3 year markings, Lance's leap from acting to writing, and what it means to be comfortable.
Also, Fountains of Wayne's "I've Got a Flair," Lance and Ray's Theories About Serial, and Ray and Lance talk Kardashian, Cosby, and Nichols.
“Even Bette Midler can, like, doubt herself.”
Lance and Ray talk with the hilarious and lovely Liz Wisan, an actor/singer/improviser who they met at Williamstown Theater Festival. You can catch Liz in People Improvising on November 30th at The PIT (123 E. 24th St. in Manhattan) on November 30th. And follow her on Twitter!
They talk about running lines with Bette Midler, being a Mayflower Jew from Harlem, auditioning to be Girl With Muffin Top, and the good and bad of being a Broadway understudy.
Also, Liz sings the aptly-titled "The Actress Sings Her Song" (from La Ronde; lyrics by Rainer Maria Rilke, music by Nathan Roberts), Ray Interviews for a Job as a Doctor, and Ray and Lance talk about Chillsgiving and the existential question of understudies.
“You don’t need anybody’s permission to go create what you want to create.”
Lance and Ray talk with Charlie Todd, the founder of Improv Everywhere, a joyful prank collective responsible for dozens of amazing public pranks, including The No-Pants Subway Ride and Frozen Grand Central. Check out the terrific documentary We Cause Scenes on Netflix for Improv Everywhere's full origin story.
They talk about the connotations of the word prank, the scariest moment in Improv Everywhere history, why Charlie wishes he'd chosen a different name for the group, and one of his all-time favorite IE missions.
Also, composer Tyler Walker's "Teenage Time Traveler" (his score for Back to the Future in Real Life), Intergalactic Open Mic, and Ray and Lance talk about peanut-butter smoothies and going your own way.
“You’re gonna get slapped in the face by your heroes.”
Lance and Ray interview the sweet and talented Patrick O'Neill, an actor Ray has known for over ten years. Patrick has been on Louie and Boardwalk Empire and can currently be seen on an E-surance commercial playing real-life candy crush with a wacky lady. (You can view that commercial at: www.patrickhoneill.com)
They talk about when Ray and Patrick met at Downtown Art (an East Village teen theater company), Patrick's experience playing young Louis CK in a Season 2 episode of Louie, and which actor's career he would most like to emulate.
Also, The Living End's "Roll On" (from a CD Ray encouraged Patrick to buy ten years ago), Top Five Lost Audio Clips from History, and Ray and Lance talk about ebola, getting older, and a bad movie premise.
“Everything’s so short, so you might as well enjoy yourself.”
Lance and Ray talk with the fantastic Daniel Everidge, a Drama Desk-nominated actor/singer who's been seen on Broadway in Grease and Off-Broadway in Falling.
Daniel's currently in Found, a new musical with the Atlantic Theater Company co-starring Nick Blaemire (past L + R guest!) and Danny Pudi (Community!) at the Linda Gross Theater (336 W. 20th St) through November.
They talk about Daniel being nominated in the same category as Tom Hanks for his role as a severely autistic young man in Falling, an encounter he had with Tracy Letts, tearing his ACL onstage during a performance of Grease, and why he respects teachers so much.
Also, Daniel's performance of "Moonin'" from Grease, The 15 Favorite Movie List Your Friend Made That Confused You, and Ray and Lance talk about not drinking 40's, not sweating the small stuff, and not respecting the old lyrics to "My Favorite Things."
“I would just wanna go to Canada just so that I can not be worried about my body anymore.”
Lance and Ray talk with the lovely Tara Koett (formerly Sampson), a high school drama teacher and improviser and the FIRST CANADIAN TO EVER APPEAR ON THIS PODCAST. She can be seen with the Rapid Fire Theatre (http://rapidfiretheatre.com/) in Edmonton, Alberta.
They talk about what led her to take an improv intensive in NYC in 2011 (where she met Ray), her personal struggles with FOMO, and Canada's low crime rate and universal healthcare system.
Also, Canadian band Union Duke's "Knew It All Along," Some of Ray's Favorite Canadians, and Ray and Lance talk about Robin Williams, deep philosophical questions, and going to Canada.
“People don’t understand we don’t all look like Sofia Vergara.”
Lance and Ray talk with charming actress/comedian/writer Suni Reyes. She performs stand-up and improv all over the city, and her one-woman show Hardware Dreams was performed at the PIT and Theater for a New City. She'll be appearing at the Boston Comedy Arts Festival in September. For more info, check out: http://sunireyes.weebly.com/.
They talk about the challenges of being in New York City when her family is in Puerto Rico, her father's famous invention, how Latinas in TV and movies are still--more often than not--relegated to playing the maid or the slut, and working with Lena Dunham and Gillian Jacobs while shooting an episode for the upcoming season of Girls.
Also, Owl City's "To the Sky" (from unironic Ray favorite The Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole), 15 Seconds of Exclusive Pre-Podcast Conversation Audio, and Ray and Lance talk about Lance's upcoming Ewing Jesus year and their cultural identities as, respectively, a Puerto Rican and a Jew.
Happiest 32nd birthday to Ray No-Middle-Name Muñoz!
“And I knew, like, as an eight-year-old, that I was going to remember this forever.”
Lance and Ray talk with the uber-talented and infinitely delightful Molly Hager, an actor and singer most recently seen Off-Broadway in Heathers: The Musical, which just ended its run yesterday. She performs often with Joe Iconis and Family (check out her rendition of "Broadway, Here I Come") and was in the film It's Kind of a Funny Story.
They talk about playing H-O-R-S-E with George Clooney on the set of ER, going to college with Lady Gaga, and what it was like understudying 8 separate roles in Heathers.
Also, Molly Hager and Ian Kagey's "Oh Well," Lance and Ray's WAR OF THE WORLDS, and Ray and Lance celebrate their ten year friend-i-versary.
“Smile more.”
Lance and Ray talk with the charming and knowledgeable Jorge Garcia, a science teacher at an all-girls' middle school in the East Village and one of Ray's best friends since elementary school.
They talk about the number of hours Jorge and Ray spent together when they were growing up, which students have the privilege of referring to Jorge as Mr. G instead of Mr. Garcia, and how Jorge responded when a 5th-grader asked him where exactly in the universe God is.
Also, J&R Music World--Jorge and Ray's music duo--does a cover of Third Eye Blind's "Motorcycle Drive By," Our List of Fun Things to Do in New York City in the Summertime, and Ray and Lance talk about Sly's first swim lesson and friendship.
“Gutu. Gurrustunda. Poonta, fulaboozi.”
To celebrate their 35th episode, Lance and Ray talk with and about Ray's cat, Dora. She is a beautiful cat who has been with Ray and his family for ten years.
They talk about how Dora got her name, Ray's gibberish cat language, how she expresses happiness, and similarities between having a cat and a baby.
Also, Bloo's "Tomorrow" (from their album Land Mimes), Ray Tries to Prank Call Lance Multiple Times, and Lance and Ray talk about celebrities on Twitter like Pat Sajak, Joss Whedon, and Carmelo Anthony, Facebook statuses from Phil Wedo, Bill Coyne, Amanda Nicastro, and Molly Hager, and titles of movie sequels.
“Oh baby, I smell a sequel!”
Lance and Ray talk with the funny and lovely Dawn Harris, Ariella Knight, and Christine Piñeiro, performers from Navy Blue Seals, Ray's house improv team at the People's Improv Theater (PIT). You can catch their free show there every Monday night at 9 PM.
They talk about how Ariella's pregnancy gets worked into the dynamic of the team, the ephemeral nature of house teams, how they each found their way to the PIT (be it Kristen Schaal, a magical feeling, or a need to avoid an ex), and the things they aspire to do outside of improv.
Also, The Argument's "Grudge," Lance and Ray exchange a series of letters, and Ray and Lance talk about Lance's move/Ray's ideas for new inventions and run into a nice man from the PIT named BJ.
“Then throughout the season I went back and hunted the guy down who gave me the bad drugs…and made him take them.”
Lance and Ray talk with uber-charming actor/musician/writer Eric William Morris, whose TV credits include arcs on Blue Bloods and Golden Boy, as well as guest-starring appearances on Law and Order: SVU and Royal Pains. His stage credits include Mamma Mia and Bloodsong of Love.
They talk about how Eric is always cast as good guys onstage and as dicks on film/TV, a crazy spontaneous moment that happened in his fourth performance of Mamma Mia, and the borderline-depressing advice he has for aspiring actors.
Also, Ray and Jorge Garcia's two-man band J & R Music World performs a cover of "Killer Tofu" (originally heard on Nickelodeon's Doug), The Lance and Ray-laxation Tapes, and Ray and Lance talk about why players must love being in the NBA, Hugh Grant's romcom partners, and what ever happened to Andie MacDowell.
“[baby burp]”
In this Very Special Episode, Ray interviews Lance, his wife Katie, and their newborn son Sly about what life as a new family has been like thus far.
They talk about Katie consuming her own placenta, Sly's desire to be back in the womb, Ray's confusion about middle names, and sleep-deprivation dream hallucinations.
Also, Lance attempts to record one of Sly's burps for posterity.
“What do I look like naked on film?”
Lance and Ray are reunited with their old pal Matt Shear, an actor/great dude who they met at the same time they met each other, in the summer of 2004 as apprentices at the Williamstown Theatre Festival.
They talk about the last time Matt ran into Ray, taking Lewis Black's stand-up comedy workshop together, Matt's first film role in Ang Lee's Taking Woodstock, and a new top-secret movie he's in.
Also, LANCE AND RAY'S TOP 13 MOVIES of 2013!
And Lance tells a joke.
NOTE: This episode was recorded a few days before Lance and his wife Katie had their baby, an awesome little guy named Sylvester, who will be discussed in future episodes.
It was also recorded several days before Philip Seymour Hoffman passed away (which is a relevant piece of info once you listen to the ep).
“There are no elevators in cars.”
Lance and Ray talk with the charming and delightful Ashley Ward, an improviser, teacher, actor, and singer. Ashley performs with various long-form improv groups, including Big Black Car and Taco Supreme at the PIT, as well as musical improv group Baby Wants Candy. She is one of the co-writers and co-stars of 50 Shades! The Musical!, opening Off-Broadway in February.
They talk about Ashley's experience as a Jeopardy! winner, why she thinks she'll be doing improv for the rest of her life, and the actor whose career she'd most like to emulate.
Also, Prateek Kuhad's "Savera" from his EP Raat Raazi, Lance and Ray debate Cars Vs. Buildings, and Ray and Lance talk about Ray's beautiful foggy bike ride, Lance's future baby, and their new year's resolutions.
“Lance, Ray… You’re good boys.”
Lance and Ray talk with the charming and legendary Santa Claus, famous for delivering gifts to kids all over the world on Christmas Day.
They talk about what Santa does in his downtime, what his salary is like, why he refuses to allow any documentaries to be made about him, and the real backstory behind the song "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus."
Also, original holiday song "Celebrate Christmas (With Me)", co-written and performed by Joe Iconis, Matt Hinkley, Jason "SweetTooth" Williams, and Lance, Ray Explains How to Open a Gift, and Ray and Lance reflect on the holidays and their first year of podcasting.
Special thanks to Sebastian Conelli, Santa's personal assistant, for helping to make this amazing interview happen.
“Go on, tell me a story.”
Lance and Ray's first LIVE episode! The boys broadcast from awesome literary/design exhibition Divine Details (www.divinedetailsshop.com) in the Flatiron district.
The episode is devoted to objects and the relationships people have with them. For the first time, they have THREE GUESTS in one episode, and they are all fantastic:
actor/writer Ana Noguiera (The Michael J. Fox Show), actor Jon Bass (The Book of Mormon), and musician Todd Goldstein, front-man for the band Arms (and the guest from Episode 8!).
Ana talks about her stuffed pig, Jon talks about his blankie, and Todd talks about a magical piece of junk. Plus, Lance, Ray, and their guests read stories written for Divine Details by Eric Dufault, Katie Schorr, Bekah Brunstetter, and Brian Watkins.
Also, two terrific songs performed live by Todd ("Comfort" and "Heat & Hot Water"), Bad Stand-up Comedy About Objects, OBJECT TRIVIA, a trip to the Story Station, and Lance and Ray talk about lending out The B.F.G., Ray's bikes, and choosing between your computer and your cat.
Note: Because this is live, it does exceed our usual 20 minutes. More show to enjoy!
“Well, to this day that’s my mom’s favorite thing I’ve ever done.”
Lance and Ray talk with fantastic actor/singer/musician/writer Jason "SweetTooth" Williams, whose musical theatre credits include Bloodsong of Love, The Black Suits, The Plant that Ate Dirty Socks, and The Trouble With Doug. Jason is also co-writing the musical Annie Golden: Bounty Hunter, Yo! with Lance and Joe Iconis.
They talk about the origin of the nickname SweetTooth, how marriage feels, Jason's favorite movies, and when it's okay to refer to oneself as a writer.
Also, SweetTooth performs one of his mind-blowing rhymes for the first time in many years, Third Eye Blind's Stephan Jenkins and Kevin Cadogan do audio commentary for their debut album, and Ray and Lance talk about their podcast time-lag, why actors need to check their props, and the tradition of rhyming art.
“I like to be music rather than a soloist.”
Lance and Ray talk with actor and vocal percussionist extraordinaire Chris "Shockwave" Sullivan. Shockwave was a regular on PBS' new version of The Electric Company and is part of the fantastic hiphop improv group Freestyle Love Supreme. He also co-hosts The Beatdown, a comedy rap battle at UCB. Check out: www.shockwavebeatbox.com.
They talk about the origin of the name Shockwave, his general philosophy on beatboxing, how his unique career in New York City began, when he saw Freestyle Love Supreme for the first time, and his thoughts about competition.
Also, Shockwave gives a brief and fantastic sampling of his beatboxing abilities, Lance and Ray present A Non-Visual Puppet Show, and Ray and Lance talk about Forrest Gump, childbirth, and finding your niche.
Check out Lance and Ray LIVE at Divine Details this Tuesday, November 19th at 7:30 PM! Use code DDGuest15 for $15 tix!
https://divinedetailsshop.com/events/22-story-go-on-tell-me-a-story-35
“Fastest route is ME!”
Lance and Ray celebrate their 25th episode by talking with charming screenwriter/playwright Jane Miller, who is currently in her first year at UCLA's graduate screenwriting program.
They talk about what her courses are like, why her professors tell the students not to feel any ownership over their screenplays, what genre Jane enjoys writing, and how grad school is different from undergrad.
Also Lance's "Song to Myself," Lance Meets a Robot, and Lance's baby news. Plus Ray's thoughts on the past and future, and a brand new segment: Lance and Ray's Netflix Streaming Recommendations!
FYI: We'll be having our first LIVE EPISODE of our podcast on Tuesday, November 19th at 7:30 at Divine Details, a pop-up shop on 164 5th Ave between 21st and 22nd. Free beer and wine! Come check it out! All info here: https://divinedetailsshop.com/events/22-story-go-on-tell-me-a-story-35
“Learning what you don’t want to do is just as important, if not more important, than figuring out what you want to do.”
Lance and Ray talk with the lovely and talented Rachael Weiner, a prop stylist for print media, who has also worked as an editor for HGTV Magazine and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. She currently does freelance styling for a variety of companies, including One King's Lane.
They talk about the aspirations Rachael had when she was eleven, the moment when she realized prop styling was an actual job, being a freelancer versus working 9 to 5, and what it was like to work in an office with Martha Stewart.
Also, Ray Eats Banana Bread, Granian's "Immune" from their album Without Change, and Ray and Lance talk about Breaking Bad, scary Facebook statuses, and Lance's birthday.
“Make tonight a story.”
Lance and Ray talk with the smart and likable Steven Levenson, a playwright/TV writer. Two of Steven's plays were produced in New York City this past summer: The Unavoidable Disappearance of Tom Durnin with the Roundabout Theatre Company and Core Values with Ars Nova. Steven has written for NBC's The Playboy Club and CBS's Vegas.
They talk about why it's intimidating to be around Dennis Quaid, the difference between the way theater actors and TV/film actors relate to writing, and what it's like to be on-set for an episode you've written.
Also, S2pid (Ray and Jesse Gavin) performs a cover of Green Day's "Basketcase", Top 10 Things to Be Excited About This Fall, and Ray and Lance talk about suspending disbelief, back-to-school photos on Facebook, and how amazing it is that the ancient ritual of writing and performing stories still exists.
“Like how does that actually make you feel, hearing someone say that to you?”
Lance and Ray talk with the charming Abra Tabak, who's an improviser, actress, teacher, and writer. You can catch Abra at the UCB Theatre (NY) Saturday nights at 10:30 with her team Grandma's Ashes and at the UCBeast (in the East Village) Friday nights at 9 in the show Take it Personal: The Hip Hop Improv Show. She also performs often in UCB's Sunday night Asssscat shows.
They talk about what brought her to improv comedy, meeting Treach from Naughty by Nature, her experience acting on 30 Rock, and the note she most often gives to improv students.
Also, Lauren Marcus's delightful "Play With You", First Drafts of Iconic Movie Lines, and Ray and Lance talk about twerking (Lance being the last human to know what it is) and Back-to-School time.
[harmonica solo]
Lance and Ray talk with the sweet and hilarious Matt Schatz, a writer of plays (The Tallest Building in the World), musicals (Love Trapezoid, Dunkfest '88), and television. Matt is working on a pilot he wrote for Fox as well as one he was commissioned to write for USA.
They talk about the various pilots Matt is working on (including one inspired by a rabbi in NJ who hired a hitman to kill his wife), why he doesn't like asking questions about TV writing contracts he signs, the key to his writing process, and his advice to aspiring artists.
Also, Matt performs a brand-new original song about he and his wife moving to LA, Television Reviews Based Entirely on Hearsay, and Ray and Lance talk about NJ beaches, N'Sync, and people (like Matt) making the move to LA.
“It’s become very strange that people are so afraid to support each other.”
Lance and Ray talk with the multi-talented, multi-charming Nick Blaemire, actor (Godspell, Dogfight), musical theatre writer (Glory Days, After Robert Hutchins), and all-around performer. Nick fronts a band called Nick Blaemire and the Hustle, who you can catch at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2 on Tuesday, September 3rd at 11 PM. It's a free show/release party for their new video, "I Like It More."
They talk about what it was like when Glory Days (a Broadway show Nick co-wrote) closed the morning after opening night, why musicians are cooler than actors, the bass line in Bell Biv DeVoe's "Poison", and the value of supporting others.
Also, Nick performs his new song "Trouble," Lance and Ray take a Field Trip to the Grand Canyon, and Ray and Lance talk about why Ray was recently inspired to send a naked photo of himself to a bride on her wedding day, how excited they are that the person who first cast them in a play together just got married, and how it feels when someone doesn't like you.
“You can smile, and then you’ll be happy.”
Lance and Ray talk with the inspiring Jen Mazer, the Queen of Manifestation. Her company (www.queenofmanifestation.com) helps people to manifest their life dreams.
They talk about taking ideas from your brain and making them into reality, how Jen became the Queen of Manifestation, what the Egyptian pyramids actually are, and the state of the world today.
Also, "Aviators" by The Sea & the Gulls (Episode 8's Todd Goldstein and Leah Beeferman), Old Future Stories, and Ray and Lance talk about deciphering Shakespeare's dated references in Much Ado About Nothing, Lance's last iphone game addiction, and how they perceive the word "spiritual."
And Jen inspired us to start a Twitter account for our podcast! Follow: @lanceandray
"Have one hard year, and you’ll be fine.”
Lance and Ray talk with stand-up comic/blogger/writer Max Silvestri. Max co-hosts a comedy show called Big Terrific every Wednesday at 8 PM at the Cameo Gallery in Williamsburg.
They talk about Max's impressive Twitter following, his stand-up comedy origin story, and the moment when he finally decided to leave his day job to do comedy full-time.
Also, an original song by Joe Iconis, Jason "Sweettooth" Williams, and Lance, Competitive Roller Coaster Testers, and Ray and Lance talk about McDonald's being horrible, Ray's new idea for Facebook, and money.
“Dozens of small things make up a life well-led.”
Lance and Ray talk live via satellite (the telephone) with writer Anthony King, former artistic director of the UCB Theatre in NYC. Anthony has written for BFF and Save Me, both on NBC, and is currently writing for the upcoming USA comedy Playing House.
They talk about whether or not Anthony was aware of the aura of intimidation and power that he had as the artistic director of UCB, why it's nice to live in LA in your 30's, how improv experience translates to a TV writers' room, and putting your ass in the chair.
Also, the Shotgun Jazz Band's "Oriental Man", the commentary track off Matchbox 20's first album (with Rob Thomas and guitarist Kyle Cook), and Ray and Lance talk about Mark Twain, doing the right thing, and Richard Pryor saying the N-word.
“Work is not always fun, but it’s fulfilling.”
Lance and Ray talk with dynamic musical comedy duo The Parodivas (www.parodivas.com) AKA Darlene Rae Heller and Jason B. Schmidt. Check out their upcoming show on Thursday, June 28th, 7 PM at Vlada Lounge in midtown NYC.
They talk about the Parodivas' origin story, their writing process, Darlene and Jason's noble day jobs, and the word "portmanteau."
Also, a live performance of the Parodivas hit "Shut Up and Let Me Blow," (a parody of the Ting Tings' "Shut Up and Let Me Go"), Ray Interviews For a Job as an Astronaut, and Ray and Lance talk about government phone surveillance, M. Night Shyamalan ghost-writing She's All That, and enduring artistic collaborations.
“Oh, cool, we’re all in this together.”
Lance and Ray talk with lovely actor/writer Leah Henoch, co-creator and co-star (along with Katie Schorr) of upcoming webseries Yoga Partners, coming out later this month at www.yogapartnerswebseries.com. (Also, Lance directed the webseries. And Ray is in it, too.)
They talk about Leah's relationship with yoga, what it's like to live with her 87-year-old grandfather, working as an associate producer for the New Georges theater company, and the process of making Yoga Partners.
Also, Leah shares her love for YouTube Karaoke with a rendition of Sonny and Cher's "I Got You, Babe", Lance and Ray present People in New York Talking About Weather and Trains, and Ray and Lance talk about actors' dialects, The Before Trilogy, and Marlee Matlin.
(Please pardon the strange whooshing noise in the second half of the interview. A technical mishap with Lance's computer fan. Won't happen again. Love, Lance and Ray)
“The bigger the statue, the more I’m freaked out by it.”
Lance and Ray interview the delightfully effervescent and knowledgeable Jennifer Ashley Tepper, theatrical producer and musical theatre historian/superfan. Her book, The Untold Stories of Broadway, will come out sometime within the next year.
They talk about Jen's book (what it's all about, the events that led to her writing it, how she felt interviewing Broadway legend Hal Prince), the budgets of Broadway shows, and Jen's 5 favorite musicals of all time.
Also, Elana Arian's "I Know What You're Doing," Where in the World are Lance and Ray-o?, and Ray and Lance talk about Coney Island, selfies, and statues.
“Yeah, but they usually don’t know if it ended up in death or not.”
Lance and Ray talk with hilarious storyteller/teacher/director John Flynn. He has a weekly open mic storytelling show Oh, Hey Guys! Thursdays at 6 at UCBEast, and his album Faggot Munchkin, recorded live at the UCB Theatre, will be available for purchase soon.
They talk about John's approach to storytelling, why being a drug dealer was the best job in the world, and how performing in a show at the Paper Mill Playhouse changed his life forever.
Also, Ray performs his song "Pick 'Em Up", Lance and Ray present The World's Worst Joke-tellers, and Ray and Lance talk about After Earth and Bang With Friends.
“Always pick up the dog.”
Lance and Ray talk with Jeff De Picciotto, creator/star of the fantastic cooking webseries Fudehouse (fudehouse.com) and all-around terrific dude. They talk about the time Jeff went on a Food Network competition show with his family, the joy he derives from messing with people both on-stage and off, and Jeff's life-defining performing origin story.
Also, Matt Hinkley's "Blue & Grey", Famous People Reading Excerpts from Cormac McCarthy's The Road, and Lance and Ray talk about blind people cleaning up after seeing-eye dogs, the magic the Knicks bring to Lance's life, and the energy of shared experiences.
“I’m gonna try and do everything I can to go for a swim.”
Lance and Ray talk with Zack Wagman, a senior editor at Crown (an imprint of Random House) and Lance's best friend since age 3. Current books Zack has edited include Swedish crime epic The Andalucian Friend, by Alexander Soderberg, and the upcoming thriller Save Yourself, by Kelly Braffet. They talk about the state of the book industry, what an editor does, and:
They each share their Top 5 Favorite TV Shows of All Time.
Also, "Hold Love, Keep it in Your Hands" by Freddy Hall and the Best Intentions, Lance and Ray's Scary Stories, and Ray and Lance talk about Boston, love, and lockers.
“I just like the way things look when you got a bunch of ’em.”
To celebrate their 10th Episode, Lance and Ray talk with delightful performance artist and impressive collector Iris Rose. They talk about living in The Mildred (where RuPaul may or may not have also lived), her collaborations with her son (including a short film she made called The Joe Project, which documents his life from birth to age 17), the work of Watchface--her theater company in the 80's, and her advice for artists.
Also, Lance performs his song "Today," Lance and Ray present Confessions, and Ray and Lance talk about positive daily affirmations and the Iris-inspired idea of a kid being your biggest artistic project.
“Love is the unifying force in this world.”
Lance and Ray talk with the huge-hearted Adam James Gallo, fitness trainer and founder of the Loft Collective, located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn (corner of Norman and Henry, walk by and see him training people through the big windows!).
They talk about his time working as a bouncer at Coyote Ugly, two of his heroes - Bruce Lee and Jean-Claude Van Damme, why auditions are lame, and his thoughts on what would make the world a better place.
Also, the song "Don't Mess With Texas" by Seeking Homer, your monthly horoscopes from Lance and Ray, and talk about Roger Ebert and living your passion.
“Last night I counted to 2,000 sheep.”
Lance and Ray talk to kick-ass musician/charismatic human Todd Goldstein, frontman for the band Arms, which has a new EP coming out this summer. They talk about one of Todd's coolest rock performance experiences, why success doesn't matter if you're not enjoying yourself, and how his now-defunct band The Harlem Shakes has had an accidental resurgence because of "The Harlem Shake."
Also, Todd performs "Sleepwalker" from Arms' upcoming EP, Lance and Ray perform their radio play Death of a Salesman Part 2 (Part 1), and Ray and Lance talk about a bizarre deleted scene from Lance's all-time favorite movie Back to the Future, the joys of waking up early, and things you can visualize to help you fall asleep.
“I’m trying to create a safe space for Caucasians.”
Lance and Ray talk with hilarious comic/actor Naomi Ekperigin. She regularly performs all over NYC, including her monthly show Coyote Average at Karma Bar and Lounge. They talk about the origin of Naomi's moniker The Blacktress, how being a minority gives you more freedom of speech, and having a boyfriend who watches Bunheads.
Also, one-man-band the Muggies performs "Kiss Me, Jane," Ray explains how to use a door, and Ray and Lance talk about The Office (both NBC and BBC), Lance's narrowly-focused Twitter feed, and when it's time to get rid of your kid stuff.
“They’ve given us merit in heaven.”
Lance and Ray talk to musical theatre writer and all-around-great-dude Joe Iconis. Besides having music featured in this season of NBC's Smash, Joe has written many awesome musicals, including Bloodsong of Love, The Black Suits, and Things to Ruin. They talk about meeting Anjelica Huston, movie musicals, and Joe's favorite place to perform in New York City.
Also, Joe performs "Geek Rock Garage King" (a cut song from The Black Suits), Ray interviews for a job as a zookeeper, and Ray and Lance talk about NYC springtime, Union Square, and the temperatures in LA.
“Art is either plagiarism or revolution.”
Lance and Ray talk with the wise and delightful Terrence Ross, who is a filmmaker, novelist, professor, and former masseur. Terrence taught Ray screenwriting at Adelphi University, where he is now a full-time film production/media literacy professor.
They discuss the question of how to make art and money at the same time, putting in the effort to craft a solid story structure, and Terrence's penchant for ripping up money in front of his students.
Also, Lance and Ray present their first radio play, singer/songwriter Emily Morrow performs her first song, and the boys talk for the first time about lobbying for a longer February, babies taking over, and getting away from NYC in the wintertime.
“Really, anything can happen if you, uh, believe.”
Lance and Ray interview Emmy-award-winning Frank Lesser, who's been a writer for The Colbert Report since 2006. Frank's also the author of Sad Monsters, hilarious essays written from the perspective of monsters. Their interview includes talk about working on Colbert, how Frank turned down a pre-fame John Krasinski for the lead robot role in his short film, and what it was like to watch Ghostbusters as a kid.
Also Lance and Ray each share their Top 12 Movies of 2012, they try to meld their minds, and Lance sings a song he wrote in French (a language he does not speak) for Vicky Wight's short film Oui Oui Non Non.
“This is a bigger world than just us.”
Lance and Ray talk to filmmaker/playwright/blogger extraordinaire Eljon Wardally, whose short film Docket 32357 is currently on the film festival circuit. They talk about Sidney Poitier's daughter Sidney Poitier, the stroke Eljon had two years ago which inspired her blog for young stroke survivors, and the timeless creepiness of the Twilight Zone.
Also, Ray gives an in-depth tutorial on how to use the microwave, rock and roll duo S2pid (Ray and Jesse Gavin) perform a song, and Lance and Ray talk about Nemo, Community's return, and being neurotic about DVRing/spoilers.
This episode is dedicated to Dean Comerford.
“Make a drawing together.”
Lance and Ray interview the lovely and talented Katie Schorr, an actor/writer who's had one-woman shows in NYC at UCB, Ars Nova, and Joe's Pub, been in many commercials (including a Downy spot with Amy Sedaris), and narrated over a dozen audiobooks (including the Immortals series). She's also married to Lance and co-starred with the boys in the improvised teen drama The NYC and in their live show. Their interview includes talk of upcoming webseries Yoga Partners, actors dating actors, the TickleBug, and Katie's advice for young ladies.
Also: Katie and Lance's pop duo Coldfighter performs an excerpt from their song "I Am the Girl," Lance and Ray uncover a podcast from the future, and Ray and Lance talk about the Super Bowl, 30 Rock, and crying at entertainment.
"One perfect moment."
Lance and Ray’s inaugural podcast features an interview with Alan Fessenden, an improviser/writer/teacher at NYC’s Magnet Theater. They also perform a slam poem they wrote in 2008, a live performance of their theme song, and talk about the Knicks, the Oscars, and falling through sidewalks.