The Backstage Show: Recent Episodes
The Backstage Group
In this theatre-centric “minisode” from That’s Our Show Glen plays a quick game to help discuss his recent endeavor directing the stage play Dial “M” for Murder at The Barley Sheaf Players.
We don’t have a new episode of The Backstage Show for you (yet), but we are happy to announce our new upcoming podcast, That’s Our Show! Listen to this promo for details, including games, discussions, scripted content, and more. We look forward to being back on the airwaves this summer!
We did it!! In this episode, Glen and Jim look back on 100 episodes of The Backstage Show. After more than three years, they discuss how things started, how they’re ending, and where they go from here. Thanks so much to all the listeners who made this milestone possible! Connect… [ More ]
In this, the penultimate episode, Jim and Glen respond to some listener feedback and address the age-new question: Which is better, working onstage or backstage? With their combined experience, they finally come to a definitely definitive conclusion that you’ll have to hear to believe! Or maybe they don’t! I mean,… [ More ]
In this episode, Glen and Jim squeeze in a few important topics that have been on their radar for a while: costumes, makeup, and props. Discover why these are essential elements of any production… and possibly why they haven’t been covered in a previous episode! As always, you can contact… [ More ]
Glen and Jim return their march to 100 episodes with a topic that should have probably been covered years ago: stage lighting. Joined by their friend and lighting designer Mike Fitzgerald, they discuss aspects of theatrical lighting from design through operation. As always, you can contact us or listen to… [ More ]
In this episode, Jim and Glen get together with Deb Topka of Barley Sheaf Players to discuss the role of Publicity. Learn a bit about the ins and outs of how to get the word out, and where that word might go. Please visit podcast.backstage.com to learn more about the… [ More ]
In this episode, Glen and Jim discuss that most vital of backstage roles: Stage Manager. While their direct experience is somewhat limited, as directors, they know how the skill of a stage manager can make or break a show once it’s opened. Please visit podcast.backstage.com to learn more about the… [ More ]
In the latest episode, Jim and Glen return to a topic not discussed since the first season of The Backstage Show: Auditions. This time, they talk about how to prepare to deal with monologues and scene partners. The former may be rarely encountered, but the latter is nearly unavoidable! As… [ More ]
We’re back! Again! After another longer-than-intended space between episodes, Glen and Jim return to discuss how they’ve been filling their theatre time as the pandemic (hopefully) winds down. Spoiler alert: They both found a way to get involved in shows. Visit our website at www.backstage.link for Backstage Show swag, to… [ More ]
The Robinsons are back to join Glen and Jim one last time! This episode doesn’t have a specific topic—it’s just a trip through the minds of a group of community theatre people! More information is available on podcast.backstage.link. As always, thanks for lending us your ears.
In this episode, Glen and Jim discuss what it means for a community theatre to be a part of the community. And, conversely, what it means for a community to be a part of its theatre. More information is available on podcast.backstage.link. As always, thanks for lending us your ears.
With more interview topics to cover, Christine and Kevin Robinson are back for a third round! This time, Glen and Jim grill them on Kids’ Shows in community theatre, a topic with which Christine is quite familiar. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, Backstage Show merch, to leave… [ More ]
Jim and Glen’s interview with Kevin and Christine Robinson continues. This episode, they discuss the ins and outs of being a treasurer in community theatre, a role Kevin has held possibly since the dawn of time. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, Backstage Show merch, to leave a… [ More ]
Back at it again! In this episode, Jim and Glen are joined by Kevin and Christine Robinson, discussing the ins and outs of producing a show in community theatre. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, Backstage Show merch, to leave a comment or suggestion, and more. Thanks for… [ More ]
Glen and Jim are back, roasting another chestnut for your entertainment. This year, they redefine what a chestnut is… sort of… and the fire gets a little out of control. Happy holidays to all! Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to leave a comment or suggestion, and more.… [ More ]
In this episode, Jim and Glen ask the age-old question: Must the show go on? Oh, sure, the old adage is simply “the show must go on,” but must it really? Under all circumstances? Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to leave a comment or suggestion, and more.… [ More ]
Jim and Glen take another look at directing, from the impetus of desire, through selecting a show, and moving on to what directing means. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to leave a comment or suggestion, and more. Be sure to stay home and isolated as much as… [ More ]
Glen and Jim continue their triumphant(?) return to your ears with a continuation of their discussion of The New Reality. Hear how area theatres are traversing the pandemic, what may be in store for their futures, and more. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to leave a comment… [ More ]
Jim and Glen share their stories of theatrical horror in their latest (and final?) Hallowe’en extravaganza. Learn about the worst side of theatre and what’s scarred them for life! Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to leave a comment or suggestion, and more. Be sure to stay home… [ More ]
Yes, it’s been a while, but Glen and Jim have returned to your ears! (You might want to get that checked out.) Hear how they’ve been traversing the pandemic, what’s in store for the future of The Backstage Show, and more. Please visit us on backstage.link for past episodes, to… [ More ]
Glen and Jim take a break from their hiatus to give a little information about how Coronavirus (COVID-19) is affecting community theatres in their area. Please stay home and isolated as much as you are able, wash your hands, and stay safe. We’ll get through this by working together, as… [ More ]
In this episode, Glen and Jim welcome their wives, Gina and Erin, to discuss aspects of being a “theatre couple.” From showmance to happy marriage, they discuss their own experiences and what they’ve learned over the years. We’ll be entering another hiatus after this two-part episode, but rest assured, we… [ More ]
In this episode, Glen and Jim welcome their wives, Gina and Erin, to discuss aspects of being a “theatre couple.” From showmance to happy marriage, they discuss their own experiences and what they’ve learned over the years. We’ll be entering another hiatus after this two-part episode, but rest assured, we… [ More ]
It took two years, but Glen and Jim are finally tackling musicals! With guest Greg Kasander, who is much more experienced with musical theatre, they discuss some basic differences with non-musicals and give an overview on procedure. Should this episode be called “Musicals 103”? Maybe! Have we missed a musical… [ More ]
It took two years, but Glen and Jim are finally tackling musicals! With guest Greg Kasander, who is much more experienced with musical theatre, they discuss some basic differences with non-musicals and give an overview on procedure. Should this episode be called “Musicals 102”? Maybe! Have we missed a musical… [ More ]
It took two years, but Glen and Jim are finally tackling musicals! With guest Greg Kasander, who is much more experienced with musical theatre, they discuss some basic differences with non-musicals and give an overview on procedure. Have we missed a musical topic you’d like to see covered? Leave us… [ More ]
As the year draws to a close, Jim and Glen look back on what’s happened with their lives and with The Backstage Show. It’s been about two years since this crazy journey began, and their jokes are just as bad as ever. Thanks for sticking with us throughout 2019, and… [ More ]
Glen and Jim are at it again, roasting another classic, beloved “chestnut” show for their holiday special. Join them at the fireside for snide comments, mildly amusing quips, and horrible puns as they celebrate the holiday season. And why not provide them with a Christmas gift of communication? Simply visit… [ More ]
From audience applause to media coverage to adjudication, no feedback methods are left untouched by Glen and Jim in this episode. They discuss how to separate the wheat from the chaff, how to handle the community theatre “receiving line,” and more. Please visit us at backstage.link, where you can find… [ More ]
In this episode, Jim and Glen discuss ways in which community theatres evolve over time, what and why they might change (or stay the same), and the associated consequences. Don’t forget, you can give us episode ideas, ask questions, or make comments about our show by going to backstage.link and… [ More ]
Once again, Glen and Jim are back on their respective theatrical therapy couches to talk out their mental problems. This time, they dive into what it means to feel a part of “the group” when doing a show. Visit our website at backstage.link, where you can buy Backstage Show merch… [ More ]
Join Jim and Glen as they discuss what Thanksgiving is all about—food! From onstage to off, they go through the ins and outs of dealing with food and drink in theatre, including their own experiences. But mostly, we thank you for listening! And for providing your feedback at backstage.link, supporting… [ More ]
This week, Glen and Jim are back on location at Langhorne Players, continuing their overview of another local community theatre. Joining them once again is member at large John Boccanfuso. From details about the historic Spring Garden Mill building to the company’s “plays worth talking about,” listen in for more… [ More ]
This week, Glen and Jim are on location at Langhorne Players to give an overview of another local community theatre. Joining them is member at large John Boccanfuso. From details about the historic Spring Garden Mill building to the company’s “plays worth talking about,” listen in for more details about… [ More ]
En route to another theatre interview (to be aired next week), Glen and Jim are at it again for another Backstage Roadshow. This time, they discuss representations of various transportation types on stage. Visit our website at backstage.link, where you can buy Backstage Show merch to help support the show. You… [ More ]
Once upon a midnight dreary, two hosts pondered, weak and wearyOver many a staged mystery, from recently and long ago—While they babbled, nearly ranting, so exhausted, nearly panting,From their banter, their banter on The Backstage Show.“Hi, I’m Glen,” one muttered. “And I’m Jim” the other, Lo!—“And welcome to The Backstage… [ More ]
Back to random babbling this week and Jim and Glen talk about their ongoing place in theatre and how it fits into their lives. Is it time for a shift, or is it time to take a break? Visit our website at backstage.link, where you can now buy Backstage Show… [ More ]
Whether they end up in a box in your closet, back at the theatre, or in a recycling bin, almost every theatrical show you go to see has an associated program. In this episode, Glen and Jim dissect the show program, examining its content in detail, discussing its pros and… [ More ]
We’re 63 episodes into this podcast, so what better time than now to talk about getting started in community theatre? Know a friend, who’s interested in joining your hobby? This is the episode to point them to! Glen and Jim talk about beginning a new hobby, what’s involved, and what… [ More ]
In this episode, the lads take a break from more formal topics and open up their brains to let out all their random theatre thoughts. You might gain insight on Glen and Jim’s theatre thought processes, feelings about the latest show one of them saw, how theatre relates to their… [ More ]
Great Autumnal Equinox, Backstage Show fans… we’re back! In this episode, Jim and Glen talk about some changes for Season Four of the show, where they went on their respective summer vacations, and what they’ve been up to, theatre-wise. See our revamped website at backstage.link, were you can now buy… [ More ]
Rehearsals. Arguably the most important part of a production. Certainly where you’ll spend the most time when working on a show. In this two-part episode, Jim and Glen get into the details of rehearsals—using their experience to relate how they’re broken down and what gets done when and how. We’ll… [ More ]
Rehearsals. Arguably the most important part of a production. Certainly where you’ll spend the most time when working on a show. In this two-part episode, Jim and Glen get into the details of rehearsals—using their experience to relate how they’re broken down and what gets done when and how. Remember,… [ More ]
Inevitably, something will happen while working on a show that you’re not expecting. In this episode, Glen and Jim talk about what some of those things might be and how to avoid having these unplanned events not destroy your production… when that’s possible. You can contact the show by leaving… [ More ]
In this episode, Jim and Glen discuss applications for improv in community theatre and share their stories. To contact the show, call 267-225-8869 or visit backstage.link
If you’ve never gotten involved in community theatre but you’ve stumbled across this podcast, perhaps it’s a question you’re now asking. If you are involved, maybe it’s a question you still ask yourself. Glen and Jim discuss the why and share their thoughts.
Jim and Glen discuss the basic leadership structure common to most community theatres, touch on their experience with theatre politics, and how you might best avoid becoming ensnared.
Glen and Jim sit down with independent filmmaker Steve Niles (S&N Films), who’s also involved with community theatre, to discuss the similarities and differences he’s found between the two.
Glen and Jim sit down with independent filmmaker Steve Niles (S&N Films), who’s also involved with community theatre, to discuss the similarities and differences he’s found between the two.
Everyone is inspired by something. In this episode, Glen and Jim discuss the shows that inspired them, running down another top ten, this time of the shows that have influenced them the most in their community theatre escapades.
In this two-part series, Jim and Glen walk you through the different types of theatre sets and what’s involved in their construction. This high-level overview gives you an idea of how community theatre sets come together.
In this two-part series, Jim and Glen walk you through the different types of theatre sets and what’s involved in their construction. This high-level overview gives you an idea of how community theatre sets come together.
Glen and Jim invite you along as they explore a theatre where they’ve both spent some time working, “The Barn” (as it’s colloquially known) in Jeffersonville, Pennsylvania. Joining them on their journey is Steve DiNenno, frequent collaborator, friend, and Barn board member.
Glen and Jim invite you along as they explore a theatre where they’ve both spent some time working, “The Barn” (as it’s colloquially known) in Jeffersonville, Pennsylvania. Joining them on their journey is Steve DiNenno, frequent collaborator, friend, and Barn board member.
Sure, Glen and Jim have worked at many different theatres in the Philadelphia suburbs, but none of them have been perfect. In this episode, they discuss the bad and the good and try to hash out what would be their ideal community theatre. Connect with us:Visit us on our website… [ More ]
For some, the week leading up to opening night can be a nightmarish hell week. For others, it’s merely production week. In this episode, Glen and Jim discuss all the ins and outs of technical week and what its meant to them. Connect with us:Visit us on our website at… [ More ]
Because there’s not enough fooling around on this podcast already, Jim and Glen let out all the stops for an episode dedicated to the theatrical fool, exploring its past, discussing its present, and presenting its future in a three-act, four-hour radio play. If you like our podcast, please share us… [ More ]
In this episode, Glen and Jim dive back into the topic of casting, last discussed in the four-part series, Auditions and Casting, that begin with Episode 5. Now they go into more detail about precasting—when is it acceptable, when is it not, and how should it be handled? If you… [ More ]
They begin with a built-in common interest and burn brightest during a production. But are they different from other friendships? And do they end when the final curtain falls? Jim and Glen examine theatre friendships from their perspective in this episode. If you like our podcast, please share us with… [ More ]
Glen and Jim step out from backstage and into the audience to give you an idea of what you might experience from the patron’s perspective. You get the lowdown on everything from buying tickets to what happens when the curtain closes.
Glen and Jim step out from backstage and into the audience to give you an idea of what you might experience from the patron’s perspective. You get the lowdown on everything from buying tickets to what happens when the curtain closes.
Glen and Jim delve into the life and works of the late, great playwright Neil Simon (1927–2018). After a discussion of his career, they filter their (admittedly minimal) experiences with his work into Top Five lists.
One of the most important components of a successful show is a cast that gets along. In their first episode of the new year, Glen and Jim delve into cast politics and how people from different backgrounds come together to make community theatre work.
One of the most important components of a successful show is a cast that gets along. In their first episode of the new year, Glen and Jim delve into cast politics and how people from different backgrounds come together to make community theatre work.
As the year comes to a close, Jim and Glen reflect on the start of their podcast, changes they’ve made, and thoughts on what lies ahead. There’s also a discussion of their 2018 theatre experiences… and the usual tangents.
Glen and Jim pull out all the stops on this Christmas Eve extravaganza, featuring everything from carols to roasting a chestnut. Bear witness to what may become our holiday tradition!
Glen and Jim discuss the things that audience members do that distract on-stage performers. Individual top-five lists were made, but there’s bound to be some overlap!
In a more loose, “(almost) anything goes” format, Jim and Glen welcome their longtime theatre friends Steve and Renée for a conversation about their experiences with community theatre throughout the years.
In a more loose, “(almost) anything goes” format, Jim and Glen welcome their longtime theatre friends Steve and Renée for a conversation about their experiences with community theatre throughout the years.
Glen and Jim talk about drawing the line between involvement and over-involvement with theatre, including how that line moves over time, and what to do to combat burnout and maximize enjoyment. Got your own story of theatre burnout? Share it with us at podcast@backstage.link! See our website at https://backstage.link or… [ More ]
Riffing off an Arts People blog entry by Patrick Spike, Jim and Glen explore the evolving expectations of community theatre (from inside as well as from the audience) and discuss the implications. Arts People blog article: https://www.arts-people.com/expectation-for-community-theatres/ Patrick Spike’s website: http://www.patrickspike.com/
The set often gives the audience its first impression of a show. Glen and Jim bring Erin Ryan in to discuss the ins and outs of community theatre set design.
Theatre may be a visual medium, but a good production meets your ears with more than just the actors’ voices. In this episode, Jim and Glen discuss details about sound design for community theatre.
Everyone knows not to say “MacBeth” in a theatre. In this episode, Glen and Jim delve further into several theatre superstitions, the history behind them, and their personal experiences.
Everyone knows not to say “MacBeth” in a theatre. In this episode, Glen and Jim delve further into several theatre superstitions, the history behind them, and their personal experiences.
Allison Schrader and Ashley Lora-Lee (President and Vice President of The Village Players of Hatboro) regale us with history and stories of Jim’s “home” theatre.
Allison Schrader and Ashley Lora-Lee (President and Vice President of The Village Players of Hatboro) regale us with history and stories of Jim’s “home” theatre.
Allison Schrader and Ashley Lora-Lee (President and Vice President of The Village Players of Hatboro) regale us with history and stories of Jim’s “home” theatre.
After Jim and Glen’s interview with Keith Chamberlain of Barley Sheaf Players, bits of conversation were left over as they chatted away. These are the pieced together clips that didn’t fit in the full interview.
Jim and Glen sit down for a chat with Keith Chamberlain, Vice President of Barley Sheaf Players, to talk about the theatre that Glen calls “home.”
Jim and Glen sit down for a chat with Keith Chamberlain, Vice President of Barley Sheaf Players, to talk about the theatre that Glen calls “home.”
Foul language, extreme violence, sexual situations… these and other factors occur more and more often in theatre. In this episode, Glen and Jim relate their personal experience on how to deal with adult content. Note: We bleep out any language, but due to the matters we discuss, listener discretion is… [ More ]
Once you’ve obtained the rights to a script, what can you do? What must you do? Glen and Jim scrape at the surface of theatrical legal issues as only a couple of amateurs can do.
Once you’ve obtained the rights to a script, what can you do? What must you do? Glen and Jim scrape at the surface of theatrical legal issues as only a couple of amateurs can do.
Glen and Jim travel to Burlington, New Jersey, for a two-part interview with Lindsey Kilchesty, Director of Marketing for the Bridge Players Theatre Company.
Glen and Jim travel to Burlington, New Jersey, for a two-part interview with Lindsey Kilchesty, Director of Marketing for the Bridge Players Theatre Company.
Join Jim and Glen in this special episode on the road as they discuss various theatre-related transportation issues.
One of the tenets of live performances is that anything can happen. Glen and Jim discuss how you might prepare for that and share their experiences of Things Gone Wrong.
One of the tenets of live performances is that anything can happen. Glen and Jim discuss how you might prepare for that and share their experiences of Things Gone Wrong.
Okay, you’ve been approved, and you’ve been given the helm of your first show. What now? Glen and Jim take you from planning rehearsals through opening night in this two-part series. Part 2/2. Contact us at podcast@backstage.link or visit our website at backstage.link
Okay, you’ve been approved, and you’ve been given the helm of your first show. What now? Glen and Jim take you from planning rehearsals through opening night in this two-part series. Part 1/2. Contact us at podcast@backstage.link or visit our website at backstage.link
Once you decide “what I really want to do is direct,” how do you set off on that road? In this two-part series, Glen and Jim share their experiences with that process and how they turned their directorial ambitions into reality. Contact us at podcast@backstage.link or visit our website at… [ More ]
Once you decide “what I really want to do is direct,” how do you set off on that road? In this two-part series, Glen and Jim share their experiences with that process and how they turned their directorial ambitions into reality. Contact us at podcast@backstage.link or visit our website at… [ More ]
From audition preparation, through the audition itself, and on to casting, actors and directors alike have many options. In this four-part series, Glen and Jim chat about how the process has (and hasn’t) worked for them. And yes, they answer the dreaded question: Why wasn’t I cast? Contact us at… [ More ]
From audition preparation, through the audition itself, and on to casting, actors and directors alike have many options. In this four-part series, Glen and Jim chat about how the process has (and hasn’t) worked for them. And yes, they answer the dreaded question: Why wasn’t I cast? Contact us at… [ More ]
From audition preparation, through the audition itself, and on to casting, actors and directors alike have many options. In this four-part series, Glen and Jim chat about how the process has (and hasn’t) worked for them. And yes, they answer the dreaded question: Why wasn’t I cast? Contact us at… [ More ]
From audition preparation, through the audition itself, and on to casting, actors and directors alike have many options. In this four-part series, Glen and Jim chat about how the process has (and hasn’t) worked for them. And yes, they answer the dreaded question: Why wasn’t I cast?
How do directors select their plays? How do theatres select the plays that make up their season? In this three-part series, Glen and Jim discuss what their experiences have been (from their perspectives as directors, theatre members, and board members), what’s worked best for them, and what hasn’t.
How do directors select their plays? How do theatres select the plays that make up their season? In this three-part series, Glen and Jim discuss what their experiences have been (from their perspectives as directors, theatre members, and board members), what’s worked best for them, and what hasn’t.
How do directors select their plays? How do theatres select the plays that make up their season? In this three-part series, Glen and Jim discuss what their experiences have been (from their perspectives as directors, theatre members, and board members), what’s worked best for them, and what hasn’t.
In our first episode, we answer the questions burning in everyone’s minds: Who are Glen and Jim? Why are they creating a podcast (and why now)? Consider this our brief introduction to you, the listener, so you get to know us a bit better before we dive into topics that… [ More ]