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Laura Donnelly shares her powerful journey from her Belfast upbringing to becoming an acclaimed stage actress. In this episode, she delves into how Irish ballet first ignited her love for storytelling and how that passion evolved through drama school and a career full of emotionally rich roles. Laura reveals the deeply personal inspiration behind her performance in The Ferryman, sharing stories of family secrets and how her uncle’s tragic disappearance during the Troubles in Northern Ireland influenced the creation of the play.
Laura also discusses her current role in The Hills of California, offering insights into portraying two distinct characters—mother and daughter—and the emotional and technical challenges it presents. She candidly reflects on the mental toll of intense performances and how she learned to balance her personal well-being with the demands of the stage. In a surprising twist, Laura recounts her childhood gymnastics experience, revealing a unique connection to her life on stage. With an unwavering belief in the power of storytelling, she shares heartfelt advice on self-belief and pursuing one’s passion.
Laura Donnelly is a Tony-nominated and Olivier Award-winning actress known for her standout performances in theater and television. Born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland, she trained in drama in Scotland before embarking on a career that spans critically acclaimed roles such as Caitlin Carney in The Ferryman, Jenny Fraser in Outlander, and Amalia True in The Nevers. Her work also includes credits in Marvel's Werewolf by Night, Britannia, and The Fall. Currently, she stars in The Hills of California on Broadway, continuing her legacy of powerful and complex performances.
Connect with Laura:
IG: @laurafdonnelly
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Ophelia Lovibond. Known for her diverse and memorable roles in film and television, Ophelia shares candid insights about her journey in the entertainment industry. This episode is filled with rich discussions that range from her early career breakthroughs to the creative processes that help her bring complex characters to life.
Ophelia opens up about the defining moments that have shaped her career, the invaluable lessons she’s learned from working alongside esteemed peers, and her approach to embodying authenticity in every performance. She delves into how the industry has evolved, the shifting landscape of storytelling, and why maintaining a balance between her professional and personal life is essential to sustaining her passion for acting. Listeners will appreciate her thoughts on what keeps her motivated, her commitment to storytelling, and the advice she has for aspiring performers.
A must-listen for fans and future actors alike, this episode is brimming with relatable stories, career reflections, and practical advice from an artist dedicated to her craft.
Ophelia Lovibond is a British actress renowned for her versatile performances across film, television, and stage. Born and raised in London, she began acting at a young age and gained early recognition with roles in popular TV series and films such as Guardians of the Galaxy and Nowhere Boy. Lovibond's career includes a standout portrayal in the comedy-drama series W1A, where she showcased her impeccable comedic timing as the enthusiastic junior executive Izzy Gould. More recently, she captivated audiences as Carrie Symonds in the political drama This England and earned acclaim for her starring role in Minx, where she embodied the determined feminist Joyce Prigger.
Connect with Ophelia:
Instagram: @opheliabits
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
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Buckle up for a deep dive into Cheyenne's journey from humble beginnings in Washington State to becoming a Broadway star, TV favorite, and proud father. From his breakout role in All Shook Up to his stints on 30 Rock and American Horror Story, Cheyenne reflects on the unexpected twists that shaped his career, like a chance encounter with Tina Fey that landed him a role on 30 Rock. He shares candidly about the challenges of growing up in a religious, conservative environment and coming to terms with his identity, along with his battles with sobriety.
Throughout the conversation, Cheyenne reveals his love for storytelling, opening up about tough career choices, including the emotional trade-offs between stage and screen work. With humor and heart, he talks about the joys and demands of being a father to twins, balancing an eight-show week, and why his children still don’t quite understand his fame. Wrapping up, he shares advice for aspiring performers: follow your dreams only if it’s the first and last thing on your mind every day.
Cheyenne Jackson is a multi-talented performer known for his roles across Broadway, film, and TV. His Broadway highlights include All Shook Up, Xanadu, and Into the Woods, while TV fans know him from Glee, 30 Rock, and American Horror Story. Offstage, Cheyenne is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a devoted father. He is currently starring in La Cage aux Folles at Pasadena Playhouse.
Connect with Cheyenne:
Instagram: @MrCheyenneJackson
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Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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Get ready for an all-access pass to Broadway’s brightest stars in this special bonus episode. Join host Salisha Thomas as she takes us onto the red carpet for the highly anticipated opening night of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway, captured live for The Broadway Exclusive.
In this episode, Salisha catches up with cast members, creatives, and some surprise guests, delivering fun interviews full of behind-the-scenes insights, opening night energy, and advice for aspiring performers. From star-studded moments to career reflections, this episode perfectly captures the magic of a Broadway premiere.
If you love the excitement of red carpets and the charm Salisha brings to every conversation, this one’s for you!
Follow the podcasts:
The Salisha Show: Listen here
The Broadway Exclusive: Listen here
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Meghan Finn is leading the charge to reshape New York City’s theater landscape. As the artistic director of The Tank, she champions affordable access to creative spaces and amplifies new voices in the arts. Recently awarded the prestigious David Prize for her innovative ideas, Meghan is determined to revitalize theater by developing sustainable financial models and creating more venues to foster emerging talent. Her vision addresses the pressing challenges of rising production costs, theater closures, and the need for equitable opportunities.
In this episode, Meghan reflects on her journey from Ann Arbor, Michigan to becoming a pivotal figure in New York’s cultural ecosystem. She discusses her work with The Tank, including the challenges of managing a nonprofit theater and the success of revenue-sharing models that have allowed artists to thrive even amidst adversity. Meghan also shares insights on the intersection of art, advocacy, and accessibility, emphasizing the importance of nurturing new talent to keep theater vibrant for future generations.
Connect with Meghan:
Website: meghanfinn.com
The Tank: thetanknyc.org
Instagram: @thetanknyc
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
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Aurin Squire’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing unexpected opportunities. Originally on the path to journalism, a paperwork mix-up in college led him into the world of film and theater. That detour launched him into a multi-faceted career as a writer, producer, and playwright. From producing hit TV shows like This Is Us, The Good Fight, and Evil, to contributing articles to outlets like the Chicago Tribune and ESPN, Aurin has honed his storytelling craft across various mediums. Now, he’s set to make his Broadway debut as the book writer of A Wonderful World, the new Louis Armstrong musical opening November 11 at Studio 54.
In this conversation, Aurin reflects on the blend of chaos and order in producing for TV versus theater, highlighting how each medium shapes his creative process. He discusses how his Miami upbringing, surrounded by diverse communities, deeply influenced his voice as a writer. Aurin also touches on his passion for telling complex stories through race, identity, and history. Whether he’s sharing how Armstrong’s four wives shaped the musical’s structure or offering advice on following uncomfortable opportunities, Aurin’s insights are both inspiring and practical.
Connect with Aurin:
Instagram: @aurinsquire
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Rising star Helen J. Shen, who is making her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending opposite Darren Criss, dives into her journey from a classical piano prodigy to a Broadway performer, reflecting on the intense years of piano competitions and how those skills have shaped her approach to musical theater. She shares stories from her time at the University of Michigan, where her passion for theater solidified, and talks about the thrill of playing a robot in her Broadway debut.
Helen also opens up about the creative process behind Maybe Happy Ending and how she's putting her personal spin on a role previously staged in Korea and Asia. She reflects on what it’s like working alongside Darren Criss and the supportive environment of her team. They discuss the unique challenge of playing robots and how the production explores themes of mortality, connection, and what it means to be human.
Helen J. Shen is an actor, musician, and writer. Before her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending, she starred in The Lonely Few at MCC Theater and captivated audiences in Teeth at Playwrights Horizons. Her regional credits include Man of God at Williamstown Theater Festival and Sunset Boulevard at ACT of Connecticut.
Connect with Helen:
Instagram:insta
TikTok: @miss.shelen
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Originally aired as episode 169 on October 22, 2021.
Gavin Creel is an actor, singer and songwriter who received a Tony Award for his performance as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, starring Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce. He made his Broadway debut originating the role of Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie, for which he received his first Tony Award nomination, and has additional Broadway credits that include La Cage aux Folles, She Loves Me, Mary Poppins, Waitress, and Hair, which earned him his second Tony Award nomination. Gavin originated the role of Elder Price in the West End production of Book of Mormon (earning an Olivier Award), and reprised the role on Broadway and the US National Tour. On television he co-starred alongside Julie Andrews in ABC’s Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime, and stars in Ryan Murphy's new spin off American Horror Stories.
From conservative Ohio, to the lights of Broadway, Gavin is a proud member of the theatre community, but also talks candidly about the mental, physical and emotional toll of a life on the stage. He reflects on the last few years through the pandemic, how he went “inward” in a way he never has before, and opens up about the ways in which therapy - “unconditional acceptance” and support - have helped him. Gavin talks about using his voice to support activists/activism, and shares the story of his involvement in getting the green light for the Broadway’s Hair to miss a show and join the National Equality March in Washington, D.C in 2009. He also chats about the history of Broadway Bares, and the magic of “I Put A Spell On You: The Sanderson Variant”.
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Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony Award-nominated book writer and lyricist, whose name is synonymous with Broadway hits like The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. From his humble beginnings in a small town where he fell in love with theater to becoming a key figure behind some of Broadway’s biggest productions, Chad shares his remarkable journey. He takes us behind the scenes of his latest creative venture, a novel called Showmance, giving us a glimpse into the challenges of transitioning from writing musicals to penning fiction. With parallels to his own life, Showmance follows a struggling Broadway writer navigating the highs and lows of theater life.
Chad opens up about the resilience it takes to thrive in show business, recounting career-defining moments like the crushing reviews of his early work and the ultimate triumph of Aladdin on Broadway. He also discusses the collaborative process of writing for musicals versus novels and shares advice for aspiring writers and theater professionals. Whether you're a fan of his Broadway musicals or curious about the world of showbiz from behind the curtain, this conversation offers something for everyone.
Chad Beguelin is a Tony-nominated book writer and lyricist known for his work on The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. He recently made his debut as a novelist with Showmance, a witty and heartfelt story inspired by his own experiences as a Broadway writer. Chad's works have graced both stage and screen, earning critical acclaim and legions of fans. With a career marked by both creative triumphs and challenges, Chad continues to be a dynamic force in the world of theater and beyond.
Connect with Chad:
Get Showmance
Instagram: @chadbeg
Website: www.chadbeguelin.com
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Sydney Lemmon brings her authentic charm and deep insight to this conversation, sharing her journey from growing up in an entertainment family to her Broadway role in the thought-provoking play JOB. With an impressive background that includes rigorous training at the Yale School of Drama and roles in hit shows like Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession, Sydney opens up about the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in acting. She offers a candid look at how she balances the demands of heavy roles, the importance of self-care routines, and the role mentors have played in shaping her path. Her dedication to her craft shines through as she shares advice for aspiring performers about staying committed and following their passion.
We dive deep into what it means to stay grounded while navigating the highs and lows of a performer's life. Sydney’s genuine approach to handling intense roles, coupled with her light-hearted love for reality TV, makes her journey relatable and inspiring. She reminds us that while the road may be tough, it’s filled with unexpected moments of joy, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you're looking for insight into the acting world or simply want to be inspired by someone who’s living her dream, this episode has something for you.
Sydney Lemmon is a talented actress with a rich background in both stage and screen. She earned her master's degree from the Yale School of Drama, where she was the recipient of the Julie Harris Scholarship. Sydney made her Broadway debut alongside Uma Thurman in The Parisian Woman and has captivated audiences with roles in Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession. As a singer and guitarist, she also writes music with her brother, actor Jon Lemmon. Currently, she stars in the provocative Broadway play Job, which has been extended through October 27th.
Follow Sydney Lemmon:
Instagram: @sydney_lemmon
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Miranda Ferriss Jones brings a refreshing blend of storytelling, activism, and creativity to this episode. With her upcoming concert, Spiral Bound, she discusses her passion for challenging societal binaries and feminine identity through her music and performances. We dive deep into how her upbringing in Vermont, with a Black father and a white mother, shaped her perspective and inspired her to explore themes of race, gender, and identity in her work. Miranda also opens up about her experience with ADHD, and how it fuels her creativity, helping her balance multiple projects, motherhood, and her commitment to activism.
Miranda's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of being true to oneself. She shares the story of how her father's passion for jazz and her mother's love for Motown influenced her artistic path, and how her work continues to be rooted in her lived experiences and the desire to see positive change in the world. Tune in to hear about her activism, her thoughts on societal binaries, and the inspiration behind Spiral Bound.
Miranda Ferriss Jones is a Vermont-born songwriter, theatrical storyteller, performer, and creativity/vocal coach whose work explores feminine identity and challenges societal binaries. She has four shows in development, including The Precipice, which received support from Bob Weir and was workshopped at Williamstown with Laura Benanti, who is also a creative producer on Miranda's song cycle Spiral Bound. Her other works include Edmonia, gearing up for a spring workshop, and Showing Up, which had readings at Middlebury College and Princeton University. As a mother of two and wife to Ben, Miranda embodies the multifaceted journey of an artist committed to crafting stories that challenge and inspire.
Social Media Accounts:
Instagram: Miranda Ferriss Jones
Get tickets to Spiral Bound
Connect with The Theatre Podcast:
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My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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This heartfelt episode features the multi-talented Laura Benanti, a Tony Award-winning actress known for her unforgettable performances on Broadway and TV. From her powerful roles in Gypsy and My Fair Lady to her hilarious portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Laura shares the ups and downs of her diverse career. This conversation goes deep as Laura opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood and a thriving career, her struggles with postpartum depression, and how becoming a parent has shaped her approach to acting.
Beyond the stage and screen, Laura is a dedicated activist, working with theater maker Miranda Ferris Jones to present benefit concerts in support of political and social causes. A mother of two, Laura speaks openly about the struggles and joys of balancing parenthood with her career, and how these experiences have made her a more empathetic and dynamic performer.
Laura Benanti is a Tony Award-winning actress with an illustrious career that spans Broadway, TV, and film. Known for her roles in Gypsy, She Loves Me, and My Fair Lady, Laura has captivated audiences with her stunning vocal range and emotional depth. On TV, she's appeared in series such as Younger, Supergirl, and The Good Fight, while her portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has brought her comedic talents to a whole new audience.
Connect with Laura:
On the web: laurabenanti.com
IG & TikTok: @laurabenanti
Voices for Victory Benefit Concert (September 25, 2024) at City Winery, NYC
Spiral Bound Benefit Concert (September 30, 2024) at Racket, NYC
Laura’s one-woman show on Audible: Nobody Cares
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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We dive deep into the incredible career of Roger Bart, a Tony Award-winning actor who has brought iconic characters to life on both stage and screen. Currently starring as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, Roger shares his journey with us, from his early Broadway debut in Big River to his voice work as young Hercules in Disney's animated classic.
Roger reflects on his career highlights, including his award-winning role as Snoopy in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, working with Mel Brooks in The Producers and Young Frankenstein, and his memorable TV roles in Desperate Housewives and Revenge. He offers fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his time developing Back to the Future from its early days in Europe to its current run on Broadway, touching on the challenges of portraying Doc Brown and how he brings his unique comedic flair to the role. Roger also discusses his love for comedy, the influence of Warner Bros. cartoons on his sense of humor, and how he balances broad comedic moments with genuine character depth. He offers heartfelt advice for young performers: be prepared, be kind, and don’t be afraid to make bold choices.
Roger Bart’s passion for performing began in childhood, using his singing talent to connect with his parents and spark his love for the stage. His professional journey truly began after studying acting at Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he transitioned from instinctual performing to a more profound understanding of the craft. This education laid the foundation for his wide-ranging career, where his unique blend of humor and depth has become a hallmark of his performances. His comedic style, influenced by the precise timing and structure of Warner Bros. cartoons, was refined during his collaborations with Mel Brooks in the beloved productions of The Producers and Young Frankenstein.
Roger’s career spans both stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in Big River and won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Snoopy in the 1999 revival of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. In addition to his stage work, Roger has also left a mark on television with notable roles in Desperate Housewives, Revenge, Good Trouble, and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Film and voice work include the 2005 movie version of The Producers and voicing young Hercules in Disney’s Hercules. Currently, he stars as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, a role that has earned him a Tony nomination and further solidified his reputation as a versatile and beloved actor.
SPECIAL ACCESSIBLE BTTF TICKET INFO, valid on performances Sept 17 - Nov 10, 2024 only
Upper Level Seats from $59 (including fees)
Stage Level Seats from $79 (including fees)
Tickets are available at BackToTheFutureMusical.com, through Telecharge by calling 212-239-6200 or visiting Telecharge.com, or at the Winter Garden Theatre box office.
Connect with Roger:
Instagram: @rogerbartofficial
Watch the full "Shooting Star" cut song from Hercules: https://youtu.be/hkPhGYMGmno
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Originally aired as episode 200 on April 5, 2022.
With a remarkable 14 nominations and six wins across the Emmys, Grammys, Olivier, and Tony Awards, Patti LuPone is a force in the entertainment industry. Her illustrious career includes 27 Broadway credits, most notably her Tony Award-winning roles as Eva Perón in Evita and Rose in the 2008 revival of Gypsy. Other significant Broadway appearances include Anything Goes, Sweeney Todd, Noises Off, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, War Paint, Working, Oliver!, The Robber Bridegroom, and The Beggar's Opera.
LuPone has also made her mark on the London stage, originating roles in Les Misérables, The Cradle Will Rock, Sunset Boulevard, and starring in the West End revival of Company. Beyond the stage, her extensive career in television and film includes performances in Driving Miss Daisy, Frasier, Will & Grace, Ugly Betty, 30 Rock, Glee, American Horror Story, Girls, Penny Dreadful, and Life Goes On. A versatile performer, LuPone has also lent her talents to voiceover work, cabaret performances, and regular appearances with the New York Philharmonic, contributing to 22 albums. She is the first American to win an Olivier Award and has been inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame. Currently, she stars in the Broadway revival of Company.
In this episode, LuPone reflects on her introduction to Gypsy, recalling her role as Louise in high school, and shares the story of how she was once banned from working on any of Arthur Laurents' projects before ultimately winning a Tony Award for her portrayal of Rose. She opens up about the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 shutdown, discussing how the lack of purpose impacted her deeply. She also highlights the strong sense of camaraderie and support among the cast and crew of Company, forged through their shared experiences during the pandemic. LuPone delves into her rehearsal process, explaining why she completes all her preparation in the rehearsal room so that she and the audience can enjoy the spontaneity and energy of live performance. Additionally, she reveals why she makes it a point to look at the audience every night.
In this episode, we discuss:
Being one of the first students in Juilliard’s School of Drama in the 1970s
Her Marilyn Monroe impression at three years old
The joy she finds in eliciting laughter from an audience
The “Italian blast” and her unapologetic lack of a filter
The infamous “Andrew Lloyd Webber memorial pool”
Her frustration with producers who underestimate the intelligence of their audience
Connect with Patti:
Twitter: @pattilupone
IG: @pattilupone
Web: pattilupone.com
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Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
Alan's personal Instagram: @alanseales
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We explore the remarkable journey of Evan Alexander Smith, whose path from Ontario to Broadway—and beyond—has been marked by diverse experiences and significant milestones. Evan's passion for theatre ignited in his early years, catalyzed by a transformative production of "Oliver" and a pivotal audition opportunity presented by a friend for an arts high school.
Evan reflects on his tenure with Disney Cruise Line, where he not only honed his craft but also experienced a "showmance" that blossomed into marriage, ultimately guiding him to the vibrant theatre scene of New York City. He discusses his role as an audition reader and how this experience helped him demystify the audition process, thereby alleviating his fears and enhancing his performance skills. Having shared the stage with luminaries such as Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff, and Lindsay Mendez in the production of "Merrily We Roll Along," Evan emphasizes the centrality of storytelling in his approach to acting.
He delves into his current portrayal of George McFly in "Back to the Future: The Musical," a role he approaches with a blend of humor and depth, focusing on George's distinct mannerisms and psychological complexity. Evan concludes with practical advice for aspiring performers: prioritize authenticity and self-belief over concerns about others' perceptions. His insights offer valuable guidance for those navigating the competitive landscape of the performing arts.
Evan Alexander Smith is an actor, singer, and voiceover artist hailing from Toronto. A Dora Award nominee and Gemini Award winner, he starred in the original Canadian production of “The Toxic Avenger” musical and spent two seasons at Canada's prestigious Shaw Festival in productions of “Ragtime”, “His Girl Friday”, “Guys & Dolls”, and “Lady Windermere's Fan”. His National Tour credits include “Dirty Dancing” and “The Play That Goes Wrong”. His Broadway credits include “Amazing Grace” the recent revival of “Merrily We Roll Along" and now, “Back to the Future: The Musical” where he is currently starring as George McFly.
Connect with Evan:
Website: www.evanalexandersmith.com
Instagram: @iamevansmith
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TheTheatrePodcast.com
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Isaac Mizrahi, an acclaimed fashion designer, performer, and television personality, has achieved an iconic status in the fashion industry—despite initially having little desire for a career in this field. In this episode, Mizrahi unveils the source of his bold creativity and charismatic presence, offering a candid look into his extraordinary journey. From his beginnings in Brooklyn, where his passion for fashion first took root, to his childhood fascination with designing clothes for puppets, his path has been both unique and inspiring. He discusses his formative years at Parsons School of Design and the subsequent launch of his celebrated fashion label.
Mizrahi also shares his personal habit of reading obituaries, driven by a desire to ensure his own legacy is accurately remembered—ideally as a performer rather than merely a fashion icon. Despite his substantial success in fashion, Mizrahi reveals a long-held aspiration to act, sing, and perform—dreams he once hesitated to pursue. With new acting opportunities on the horizon, his future is poised to be as dynamic as ever.
Reflecting on his experiences, Mizrahi expresses a preference for failure over success, acknowledging that setbacks are a natural part of pursuing an acting career. He emphasizes that, regardless of the outcome, delivering a stellar performance in auditions ensures that one's talent is recognized.
Isaac Mizrahi is a creative force with an unparalleled ability to blend fashion, entertainment, and art. He has left an indelible mark on each field he touches, and his journey from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the glittering stages of Broadway and the forefront of fashion innovation has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a decades-long career, he has become a household name known for his sharp wit, bold designs, and magnetic personality. Whether behind the scenes or in the spotlight, he has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what it means to be a modern-day Renaissance man. He can be seen performing at 54 Below from August 28th through 31st.
Connect with Isaac:
Website: https://www.isaacmizrahi.com/
Instagram: @imisaacmizrahi
Isaac Mizrahi: A Brief History at 54 Below: Get tickets here
Connect with Heather Vickery and the Was it Chance podcast:
Slip into our Instagram DMs at @wasitchance
More about Heather via @heather_vickeryandco on Instagram, @Braveheather on TikTok, and listen to The Brave Files
More about Was It Chance using bpn.fm/wasitchance
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Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph.
Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre.
This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show.
Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation.
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Sophie reflects on her remarkable journey from a passionate young dancer in the UK to a celebrated triple-threat performer on London’s West End and New York’s Broadway. She recounts her early dedication to dance, including her practice sessions in a local church hall and self-recorded rehearsals for critique. This unwavering commitment laid the foundation for her illustrious career, which began in the West End and culminated in her Broadway debut.
Sophie provides an insightful look into her audition process for “Moulin Rouge!” conducted via Zoom during the pandemic. She shares how she impressed director Alex Timbers with her fresh and dynamic interpretation of the role of Nini. Additionally, she discusses her transition into television and film, highlighting her significant milestone of securing a non-musical acting role in the UK soap opera “Casualty,” which demonstrated her versatility beyond dance and singing.
Sophie also delves into the camaraderie of performing in productions like “Moulin Rouge!” where the cast becomes a close-knit second family. She contrasts her experiences working in the UK and the US, addressing the challenges of accessibility and financial concerns faced by performers. With her deep passion for the craft, Sophie offers valuable advice to aspiring performers: to push beyond their comfort zones and maintain a balanced life that includes both professional growth and personal enjoyment.
Sophie Carmen-Jones has appeared in several West End productions and UK tours, including “Moulin Rouge!”, “Jersey Boys”, “Wicked”, “We Will Rock You”, and “Chicago”. Her film and TV credits include the live-action films of “The Little Mermaid”, “Cats”, “Aladdin”, and “Beauty and the Beast”, and she recently made her Broadway debut in the Broadway production of “Moulin Rouge!” as Nini.
Connect with Sophie:
Instagram: @sophiecarmenjones
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My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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David Harris is an Australian actor who somehow found himself moving from architecture school to the bright lights of Broadway. He shares his early passion for architecture and how he pivoted to a career in performing arts just three days into his studies. He looks back on his journey, including participating in talent quests at RSL clubs in Australia and having friendly competitions with Broadway performer Ricky Rojas. Being in the workshop and eventually being cast in "The Boy From Oz" marked a significant turning point in his career and what he considers his claim to fame. He reminisces about his experience working with Hugh Jackman in the show, and a memorable commercial shoot with him just before New York shut down for COVID (click here to watch). David reflects on the differences in how musical theatre is perceived in Australia, the UK, and the US, his personal experiences with it, and his frustrations with the lack of recognition for musical theatre actors in Australia compared to Broadway performers in the US. He emphasizes the critical importance of swings and understudies in theatre, and his gratitude for them in keeping the show running smoothly. While he’s already managed to prove naysayers wrong, David has no plans on stopping when it comes to the pursuit of growth and constant learning.
David Harris is a native of Australia, where he's one of the most acclaimed leading men of his generation. In the US, he has received critical praise for his performance of Dan in TheatreWorks’ “Next to Normal”. He starred as Jean Valjean in the Connecticut Repertory Theatre production of “Les Misérables”, which was co-starred and directed by Tony Award winner Terrence Mann. He starred as Billy Crocker in Goodspeed's production of “Anything Goes” and as Father in Barrington Stage Company's “Ragtime” in 2017. He originated the role of Max Bronfman in Stephen Schwartz's new production of “Rags” at Goodspeed Opera House. After playing the role of the Duke on the first national tour of “Moulin Rouge” in 2022, he can now be seen playing the same role in “Moulin Rouge” on Broadway.
Connect with Brian:
Website: www.davidharrisofficial.com
Instagram: @davidharrisoz
Watch David with Hugh Jackman
Connect with The Theatre Podcast:
Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
TheTheatrePodcast.com
My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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Brian Stokes Mitchell is a two-time Tony Award-winning actor who has always thought the universe chose him. Born on Halloween when “people dress up in costumes and pretend to be other people”, the stars have indeed decided. Aside from performing, he also writes, dances, produces his own music, and orchestrates, but out of all the things he can do, his best quality is being a really good student. He details his latest project, “HOPE”, realizing that sometimes creative works have their own timing - this video dropping exactly when we need to hear it the most. He presents a profound metaphor about life as a "long sentence" full of commas rather than periods, and what his “dead questions” are. With an upcoming role in “3 Summers of Lincoln” at the La Jolla Playhouse, he recounts how the project deeply resonated with him upon reading the script. Aside from all his projects, he always makes sure to give back to the community–from being chairman of the board for the Entertainment Community Fund for 19 years to providing entertainment from his balcony during the pandemic. Stokes shares how curiosity continues to motivate him, and why we should follow our heart in all our endeavors.
Brian Stokes Mitchell is a two-time Tony Award-winning, Drama Desk Award-winning, and Outer Critics Award winning actor. He is renowned for his powerful baritone voice and dynamic stage presence with standout performances in Broadway productions like “Ragtime”, “Kiss Me, Kate”, “Man of La Mancha”, and “Shuffle Along”. He's become a celebrated figure in musical theater, but beyond Broadway, he has showcased his talent on television, including shows like “Vampirina”, “Wolverine”, “Billions”, “Mr. Robot”, and of course, “Trapper John, M. D.” He's also recognized for his philanthropic work, particularly for his 19 years of serving as chairman of the board for the Entertainment Community Fund, and is a member of the Theater Hall of Fame since 2016.
Connect with Brian:
Website: www.brianstokes.com
Facebook: @bstokesmitchell
Instagram: @brianstokesm
Youtube: @brianstokesmitchell7280
X: @bstokesmitchell
Listen: Brian Stokes Mitchell - HOPE (feat. Jason Robert Brown)
“3 Summers of Lincoln” at La Jolla Playhouse
What’s Possible When the Arts Belong to Everybody | Lear deBessonet with Brian Stokes Mitchell | TED
Connect with The Theatre Podcast:
Support the podcast on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast
YouTube: YouTube.com/TheTheatrePodcast
Threads, Twitter & Instagram: @theatre_podcast
TikTok: @thetheatrepodcast
Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast
TheTheatrePodcast.com
My personal Instagram: @alanseales
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