Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast (Mackenzie Horner)
Explore every episode of Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Ep. 4 Review | 00:22:58 | |
Enjoy our latest instalment in our episode by episode review miniseries of the new hit musical comedy show 'Schmigadoon!'. In this episode 4 Mackenzie gives his thoughts on whether this episodes plot should have been split into two episodes and if these new couplings pose a really threat to Josh and Melissa reconciling. Plus he continues to point out the various connections to the golden age musicals that inspired songs of this episode. Enjoy! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 17 Jul 2020 | 21. Hairspray | 01:40:25 | |
This week Autumn and Mackenzie are walking up and saying "Good morning Baltimore" because they are talking all about the B-Movie turned hit musical Hairspray! Listen in as Mackenzie and Autumn embrace the beats of time and talk all about how truly timely this musical is and they even debate if you can call Velma and Amber Von Tussle villains. Plus hear the special introduction done by Harvey Fierstein! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Avenue Q Promo | 00:01:51 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie along with guest co-host Jillian Robinson head to New York and discuss the puppet musical comedy Avenue Q! Hear these two friends debate if all the jokes and comedic elements of the show still fit in towards more PC aware world. They explore the power of puppetry and find out how they'd adapt this musical for a modern audience. All of this plus a B.A. in English on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.28: Rent | 02:09:26 | |
As Autumn is away opening her production of Rent this week we are taking a brief hiatus and revisiting our Remastering Project. For our latest instalment we felt it was quite fitting to revisit our season 2 finale episode which is none other the bohemian musical Rent! Enjoy this reedited the episode with fixed the sound quality too! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Wicked Promo | 00:01:52 | |
Next Friday it's the season premiere episode of season 4 of Before the Downbeat! So to kick off the season Autumn, Mackenzie and friend of the podcast Lynn Slotkin are heading to the realm of Oz and discussing the musical about happened before Dorothy arrived Wicked! Hear them explore the character of Glinda and if she can trusted. Find out if they think both Glinda and Elphaba have been changed 'For Good'. Plus discover why Lynn is not this musicals biggest fan. All of this plus a pack of flying monkeys on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 20 Apr 2020 | Cats Film Review | 01:36:59 | |
It's finally here! The long await review of the 2019 movie musical disaster Cats directed by Tom Hooper staring Judi Dench, Jennifer Hudson, and Idris Elba. Listen to Mackenzie and Autumn walk through this musical and break down each song and discuss why this musical was such a hairball. Plus there's still time to do our season 1 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HJBVN5F Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Mar 2023 | Bonus Episode-Live Movie Musical Commentary: Little Shop of Horrors | 01:55:28 | |
In case you missed our live stream, enjoy this edited audio only version of our Live Movie Musical Commentary of 'Little Shop of Horrors'. Listen to Mackenzie and special guest co-host Jillian Robinson break down the adaptation, direction, and performances in this horticultural movie musical. Enjoy as these two friends discuss how this film explores the concept of class, the two endings of the film, and the amazing puppetry. Plus they reveal their somewhere that's green! All this and a horrific trip to the dentist. Leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 17 May 2024 | Bonus Episode- Wicked Official Trailer Shot by Shot Break Down | 00:40:40 | |
It's a big week for the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked! We have new poster, a featurette, and the first official trailer being released all within 72 hours! So join host Mackenzie as he does a shot by shot breakdown of the film's first official trailer. This is mega size trailer that not only lays out the plot of the film but also gives us listen to some of the iconic songs from the musical. We analyze beautifully composed shots from such numbers 'No One Mourns the Wicked' and 'Defying Gravity'! Plus we get our first look at divisive character of Doctor Dillamond! Head over to our YouTube page to watch this shot by shot break down! | |||
| 22 Sep 2023 | Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Promo | 00:03:28 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Maris are breaking out their bibles and heading into the Book of Genesis to discuss the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! Hear them discuss what most performers who portray Joseph miss about the role. They discuss whether they prefer to have a male or female performer in the role of the Narrator. Plus find out if they are excited by the news of a movie musical adaptation being is in the works. All of this and some dreams about stalks of corn and cows on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Ep. 5 Review | 00:21:12 | |
Enjoy our latest instalment in our episode by episode review miniseries of the new hit musical comedy show 'Schmigadoon!'. In this episode 5, Mackenzie gives his thoughts on whether Jane Krakowski's Countess is necessary or if she is a tragically wasted opportunity and if this penultimate episodes sets audiences up for a gratifying finale. Plus he continues to point out the various connections to the golden age musicals that inspired songs of this episode. Enjoy! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 51. The Music Man | 01:49:18 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat Autumn and Mackenzie grab their band instruments and put on their uniforms with a gold stripe as they discuss the classic small town musical The Music Man! Hear Mackenzie attempt to summarize the entire production history as it's outlined in Meredith Wilson's own retelling in his book, "But He Doesn't Know the Territory". They converse about why this musical beat its 1957 revival "West Side Story" and how this musical influenced modern musicals such as "Hamilton". Plus find out which role Autumn auditioned for when she first performed in this musical. All of this and some dirty books by Chaucer, Rabelais, Balzac on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 21 Feb 2020 | Annie Promo | 00:00:58 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn head to New York and adopt an orphan in honour of the musical 'Annie'. Mackenzie and Autumn break down this dark yet feel good family musical. Find out what big names have gone on to play this memorable characters. Plus see if we can answer why does this musical endure? See you next Friday! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 09 Oct 2020 | 27. Carousel | 02:03:55 | |
This week Autumn and Mackenzie are once again joined by friend of the podcast Lynn Slotkin to talk all about the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Carousel. Together these three take ride on the old time carousel and discuss one of the most challenging and to many critics and audiences problematic musicals of the entire musical theatre canon. Through out the episode Autumn works to show Mackenzie and Lynn that this musical one that should still done today. They explore the complex character of Billy Bigelow and they debate if he is a character who we should sympathize with. They also examine Enoch Snow and how and why unlike Billy he proves to be successful. All this and some succulent clams in this latest episode. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 29 Jan 2021 | Godspell Promo | 00:01:41 | |
Next week it's time to head back to the 1970s with Autumn and Mackenzie as they discuss the hippy biblical clown musical Godspell! Tune in and find out why with musical generated such a mixed response from these two and why Autumn decided to subject them to this particular show. Also hear Autumn's thoughts about the many verses of the song Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord. All this plus some peace, love, and happiness next Friday on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 11 Dec 2020 | A Christmas Carol: A Musical Promo | 00:01:55 | |
Ho ho ho next Friday is the big holiday themed episode on Before the Downbeat! This year for the holidays Autumn and Mackenzie are heading back into the realm of Dickensian London this time to explore a musical based on the authors classic Christmas tale 'A Christmas Carol'. So tune next week as Autumn and Mackenzie breakdown the Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens musical adaption of this Christmas story. Hear which of the host is the holiday Scrooge of the episode, if they think this musical is better than The Muppets: Christmas Carol and if they think this musical should still be performed during the holiday season. All this plus the prize Christmas turkey next Friday on the podcast! Plus there's still time to do our season 2 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P39KLNS Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 05 Apr 2024 | Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella Promo | 00:03:06 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott are leaving their own little corners to discuss the musical Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella! Hear them debate if this adaptation of the Cinderella fairytale is the best. They breakdown the various changes that have been made to the musical with each adaptation. Plus they discuss where this musical ranks for each of them within the Rodgers and Hammerstein canon. All of this and a invitation to the ball for Prince Christopher Rupert Windemere Vladimir Karl Alexander François Reginald Launcelot Herman Gregory James on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 06 Oct 2023 | Nine Promo | 00:03:04 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Maris are heading to Italy to step behind the film camera to discuss the musical Nine! Hear them discuss how they think this musical balances having a large female cast countered by the fact the musical is told predominantly from the male gaze. They discuss which songs that were cut from the movie musical should have been included. Plus find out if they think Guido Contini is a good character. All of this and some Germans at the spa on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 28 Aug 2020 | 24. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street | 01:56:51 | |
This week Autumn and Mackenzie are breaking out their baking supplies and sharpening their straight edge razors as they discuss the bloody musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Join in their debate as they discuss if this is Stephen Sondheim's best musical, and if Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd are truly mad or are they calculating and sane. This is one of Stephen Sondheim's most produced shows but are producing this musical properly? All is and a delicious meat pie in this latest episode. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 56. My Fair Lady | 01:28:27 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat Autumn is back and it's the penultimate episode of season 4. For this episode Autumn and Mackenzie return to the Lerner and Loewe canon as they discuss the rains in Spain and the musical My Fair Lady! Hear them debate whether Higgins or Freddie are the better partner for Eliza. They compare the canons and characters of works of Lerner and Loewe to Rodgers and Hammerstein who almost adapted this musical themselves. Plus find out which character Autumn doesn't think can gender bent in future revivals. All of this and a room somewhere far away from the cold night air with one enormous chair in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jul 2020 | 20. 1776 | 01:58:08 | |
It's time to break out the history books again. Last season Autumn and Mackenzie covered the sinking of the Titanic and this time they are going back to 1776 to talk all about the signing of the Declaration of Independence with the musical 1776! They are once again joined by Canadian theatre critic Lynn Slotkin. Listen in as they debate if this musical is better than Hamilton and if they think the upcoming 2021 revival featuring cast of "multiple representations of gender, race, and ethnicity" is good idea. Plus find out which show prop Lynn has framed in her apartment. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 26 Jan 2024 | Bonus Episode- Norman Jewison Tribute: Fiddler on the Roof Live Commentary | 03:14:39 | |
This week we lost a truly great film director and Canadian cinema icon Norman Jewison. He has a long history of working on music videos and movie musicals including Fiddler on the Roof and Jesus Christ Superstar. Beyond his musical work he also directed many notable and award winning films including 'In the Heat of the Night' and 'Moonstruck'. So in honour of his passing we are revisiting our Live Movie Musical Commentary of his highly praised film adaption of Fiddler on the Roof! Together in this live commentary, Ryan and Mackenzie explored why this film continues to speak to so many generations and they analyze how Jewison was able to so expertly and cinematically interpret a musical number for the big screen. His work will continually be studied for the years to come and the mentorship he provided will certainly be missed by many aspiring directors. Please listen and enjoy this very special tribute. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 12 Feb 2021 | Man of La Mancha Promo | 00:01:43 | |
Next week, it's time to head to La Mancha with Autumn, Mackenzie and their friend and actress Janet Martin as they discuss the musical about one chivalrous man, sore and covered with scars Man of La Mancha! Tune in and hear the continuation of the debate about idealism vs realism that started last season in the Camelot episode. Janet also gives book review the novel that inspired the musical and hear her breakdown this difficult score as she has played the role of Aldonza! Plus find out which legendary stage actor this groups wants to see take on the leading role of Don Quixote. All this plus a little gossip, a little chat, a little idle talk of this and that next Friday on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. Plus check out Janet's company Shaggy Pup Productions at www.shaggypup.ca, or on Facebook at the page Menopause the Musical Canada. You can purchase merchandise for Menopause the Musical, including the soundtrack, at MenopauseTheMusical.com! | |||
| 14 Apr 2023 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Season 2 Ep. 2 Review | 00:28:45 | |
Enjoy our next instalment in our 'Schmigadoon!' review miniseries. Join Mackenzie has dives deeper into the now rebranded world of 'Schmicago!'. He explores the historical context and influence behind the concept of the doorway to where. Plus how the big hit number 'Bustin' Out' reflects how the songs of the 70s worked around the lack of straightforwardly entertaining numbers due to the darker and grittier stories being told by using showy, old-school numbers with thoughtfully written lyrics to ironically comment on the plot. Plus he points out the overlooked Funny Girl reference in the episode. All this and some flimflam, flapdoodle, and pizzazz. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 24 Jan 2020 | Merrily We Roll Along Promo | 00:00:47 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn head into the one of the greatest musical theatre canons. They discuss Stephen Sondheim and one of his greatest flops 'Merrily We Roll Along'. But is this musical a disaster or is it one of the most intellectual and thought provoking musicals of our time? See you next week! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 29 Sep 2023 | 62. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | 01:39:58 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat, Maris and Mackenzie are wrestle with a goat as they discuss the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat! Maris and Mackenzie discuss their own wildest and most recent dreams. They explore this musical's score to find the musical motifs that Lloyd Webber will expand on in his later musicals. Plus discover which performer who has played Joseph has been their favourite. All of this and a dazzling coat of many colours that was red and yellow and green and brown and scarlet and black and ochre and peach and ruby and olive and violet and fawn and lilac and gold and chocolate and mauve and cream and crimson and silver and rose and azure and lemon and russet and grey and purple and white and pink and orange and red and yellow and green and brown and scarlet and black and ochre and peach and ruby and olive and violet and fawn and lilac and gold and chocolate and mauve and cream and crimson and silver and rose and azure and lemon and russet and grey and purple and white and pink and orange and blue in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 20 Dec 2019 | 7. Cats | 01:44:46 | |
In honour of the release of the movie musical 'Cats' Mackenzie and Autumn get in touch with their feline side as they deep dive into this mega musical. Hear them talk about all things cat related. Plus see if we agree this musical is purfect or if it belongs in the heaviside layer. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 18 Aug 2023 | 60. Mary Poppins | 01:57:28 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat, Maris and Mackenzie are feeding the bird with their bags full of crumbs as they discuss the musical Mary Poppins! Discover if Maris would rather play Mary or Mrs. Banks! They explore why the addition of the villainous Miss Andrew doesn't quite work for the show in their opinion. Plus discover which Beatle almost composed the score the stage show! All of this and a chim chiminey, chim chim cher-oo in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 19 Mar 2021 | 37. South Pacific | 02:06:17 | |
This week Mackenzie, Autumn, and friend of the podcast Lynn Slotkin continue their exploration of the Rodgers and Hammerstein canon as they travel to Bali Ha'i to discuss the wartime musical South Pacific! Hear this trio discuss why this character of Nellie Forbush far more complex and isn't simply a character battling her internalized racial prejudice. They praise and explore the most critiqued song of the show You've Got to Be Carefully Taught and how it was both a timely and unfortunately timeless message about racism. Then discover what iconic song from the musical made Autumn's cut or skip list. All of this plus a cockeyed optimist and some enchanted evening on this Friday's all new episode of the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 08 Nov 2019 | 4. Oklahoma! | 00:53:33 | |
Mackenzie and Autumn go back in time to the musical that started it all. The musical is of course Rodgers and Hammerstein's Oklahoma! Join Autumn and Mackenzie as they debate whether is this musical should be put out to pasture or if it still has something to say about community, acceptance, and love triangles. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 14 Jul 2023 | A Chorus Line Promo | 00:03:17 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat it's the long awaited premiere season episode of Season 5! So join the inaugural outing of this new pairing of Maris and Mackenzie. Together they head into world of 1970s New York and step up to The Line to discuss A Chorus Line! Hear them reminisce about their experiences in the audition room. They debate if the right dancers got picked by the end of the show. Plus find out why 'A' is such an important part of the show title. All of this, "And a one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight!" on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 30 Oct 2020 | Rent Promo | 00:02:53 | |
Next week is the final episode of season 2! So to end the season Autumn and Mackenzie are covering the musical they've eluded to since episode 1. So the musical they will cover is none other than the Jonathan Larson smash hit Rent! Plus Autumn and Mackenzie are joined by one of Mackenzie's best friends and certainly one of Rent's biggest fans Jessica Maxwell. Together this trio deep dives into this musical. Learn why this is Mackenzie's least favourite musical, discover who they think is best couple of the show is, and find out where Mackenzie would move the titular song 'Seasons of Love' to in Act 2. All this and some performance art next Friday on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 12 Apr 2024 | 68. Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella | 02:05:44 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat, Mackenzie and Scott are heading out to prince's ball and along the way they discuss the musical Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella! Together these two explore why this particular fairy tale has sparked so many musical adaptations. They debate which names for the step sisters they prefer across the various versions of this piece. Plus discover which of the added trunk songs from other Rodgers and Hammerstein shows they think fits best with this piece. All of this and a world that is full of zanies and fools who don’t believe in sensible rules in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 50. The Phantom of the Opera | 01:58:49 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat it is our 50th episode and to mark this special occasion and the return of Autumn Smith we are heading to the masquerade ball and dropping the chandelier as we discuss the romantic and gothic horror musical The Phantom of the Opera! Hear these two friends debate which gentleman suitor Christine should choose. They converse about who their favourite Phantom is and what has made this character so appealing particularly to female audience members. Plus find out which iconic number from the show made the top of the skip/cut list for both Autumn and Mackenzie. All of this and some unwanted notes from the Opera Ghost on this Friday's extra special all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 01 Nov 2019 | Oklahoma! Promo | 00:00:53 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn take to the wide open plains of Oklahoma in the classic Rodger and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! Join us as we explore the world of farmers and cowboys and how we all must be friends in this divided time. Found out if this timeless musical real does still deserve a place in our musical theatre landscape. See you next week! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 26 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.2: West Side Story | 01:47:43 | |
As Autumn and Mackenzie are preparing for Season 4 during this brief hiatus they've embarked on a large and exciting Remastering Project! Enjoy as they dive back into their earliest episodes and they reedit the episode and fix the sound quality too. This time it's Season 1-Episode 2: West Side Story! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 15 Mar 2024 | Kiss of the Spider Woman Promo | 00:04:05 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott going over the wall as they discuss the musical Kiss of the Spider Woman! Hear them debate whether this musical's story is more focused on Aurora or Molina as the musical did lean heavily into the star power of the original Aurora, Chita Rivera. They breakdown the relationship between Molina and Valentin and how it would have to be adjusted for todays' audiences. Plus they discuss the recently announced film adaptation that is starring and co-executive produced by Jennifer Lopez. All of this and a Balenciaga scarf on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.11: Evita | 01:13:50 | |
This week we have another instalment in our Remastered Episodes project! Don't worry Season 4 is coming sooner than you think! In the meantime, enjoy another dive back into one of our earliest episodes that has now been reedited and has had the sound quality fixed too. For this latest instalment enjoy Season 1-Episode 11: Evita! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 29 Jun 2020 | 1776 Promo | 00:01:05 | |
In honour of Independence Day and Canada Day coming this week Autumn and Mackenzie have reworked the schedule and we are releasing our episode all about the musical 1776 a week early! Enjoy as Autumn and Mackenzie are joined once again by Lynn Slotkin. Together they deep dive into this forgotten historical musical that was the Hamilton before Hamilton. On this upcoming episode Mackenzie, Autumn, and Lynn give their reasons for why this musical is so timely and important and they discuss if these historical shows need to be more historically accurate. All this and more coming this Friday on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 08 Jan 2021 | 32. Cabaret | 02:09:33 | |
Willkommen! And bienvenue! Welcome to this Friday's episode which is all about the Kander and Ebb musical Cabaret. Join hosts Autumn and Mackenzie along with theatre critic and friend of the podcast Lynn Slotkin as they break down this timely musical. Hear them debate why we as a society keep repeating ourselves throughout history and listen to this trios opinion on how we can change the narrative and move forward in a positive direction. Also hear their reviews of the iconic 1990s Sam Mendes revival production and why it may not hold up today. All this plus a nationalistic anthem this Friday on the podcast! There's still time to do our season 2 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P39KLNS Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 18 Dec 2020 | 31. A Christmas Carol: A Musical | 01:37:12 | |
"God bless us, every one!" It's the holiday episode!! This week Autumn and Mackenzie are getting into the holiday mood by exploring Menken and Ahrens musical adaption of A Christmas Carol: A Musical. Find out if they think Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens as Americans were able to properly adapt this quintessential English story. See which song Autumn has particular dislike for and discover if Mackenzie's heart of coal is warmed and changed by this musicals love song duet. All this plus 3 holiday ghosts this Friday on the podcast! Plus there's still time to do our season 2 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P39KLNS Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 24 Nov 2023 | Bonus Episode- Galavant Season 1 Ep. 3 Review | 00:58:12 | |
Enjoy the latest episode of our review miniseries of the musical tv show 'Galavant'! Join Mackenzie and the Cup of Hemlocks Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as they head out and celebrate two balls. They breakdown the Fiddler on the Roof connections that are found in this episode. They explore if the episodic nature of the past two episodes works or if these episodes should have been combined and given a more serialized format. Plus find out if they feel there are one to many eunuch jokes in this episode! All this and a jackass in a fancy metal can in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 11 Sep 2020 | 25. Miss Saigon | 02:07:12 | |
In honour of our milestone 25th episode Autumn and Mackenzie take a ride on a helicopter and journey back to the 1970s to the fall of Saigon as they talk about the epic romance musical Miss Saigon. This is a highly charged episode full debates from who are the proper people tell this particular story to how can tackle this show today. While this musical has a controversial history it also features one of the most beautiful scores of the entire musical theatre canon so this episode features much conflict as Autumn and Mackenzie try to figure out if this beautiful music excuses the complex past of the cinematic musical. All this and more in this episode. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 49. Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark | 01:33:42 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat while Autumn is away Mackenzie and audio magician and returning guest Teni Brant break out their comic book collections and discuss the mishandled rock super hero musical Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark! Hear these two debate the character of Arachne and if she is necessary. They breakdown down the creative choices of this musical and what characters from the comics translated best from page to stage. Plus hear about Teni's design concepts for his version of this musical. All of this and a rant against the wall crawler by J. Jonah Jameson on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 22 Jan 2021 | 33. Mamma Mia | 01:46:14 | |
This week on BTDB Autumn and Mackenzie are facing their Waterloo in go go boots as they discuss the jukebox musical sensation Mamma Mia! These two ABBA enthusiasts break this musical and all things ABBA down. They discuss why the sentimental song 'Slipping Through My Fingers' is the heart of this musical and not 'The Winner Takes It All'. Plus find out how they would alter and redo the fan favourite song 'Dancing Queen'. All this plus a Greek family drama this week on the podcast! There's still time to do our season 2 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P39KLNS Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 19 Apr 2024 | La Cage aux Folles Promo | 00:03:47 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott head down to the "jewel" of the Riviera to discuss the musical La Cage aux Folles! Hear them debate if this musical should have won Best Musical at the Tony Awards over the Sondheim musical 'Sunday in the Park with George'. They breakdown the conflicts that arose between the creative team about how to tackle the LGTQIA+ representation in this piece. Plus they discuss whether or not this musical gives Jean-Michel a proper resolution with Albin. All of this and some girdles and jocks on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 55. Legally Blonde | 01:34:52 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat Jessica and Mackenzie are perfecting their bend and snap as they cross examine and discuss the pink and blonde musical Legally Blonde! Hear them deep dive into court room proceedings and debate if certain trial songs are necessary. They converse about the role the Greek Chorus plays in the musical and if they are necessary. Plus find out which song Jessica has had a turn of heart on. All of this and a package from Kyle the UPS guy in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 15 Dec 2023 | Bonus Episode- Galavant Season 1 Ep. 6 Review | 00:48:10 | |
Enjoy the latest episode of our review miniseries of the musical tv show 'Galavant'! Join Mackenzie and the Cup of Hemlocks Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as they take some xanax and dive into some repressed childhood memories. They breakdown the complex love coupling of Gal and Madalena. They explore all the fun jabs Menken and Slater take a traditional musical love duets. Plus find out if they agree with Gal and Izzy that the concept of love is nothing like the fairy tales you grow up dreaming of! All this and some hocus pocus and expialidocious in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 01 May 2020 | Fiddler on the Roof Promo | 00:01:43 | |
It's the season 2 premiere and next Friday we will be doing the iconic musical 'Fiddler on the Roof'! In honour of this musical Mackenzie and Autumn are breaking out their fiddles and of quarantine and heading up onto their roofs to see just how dangerous it is to be a fiddler on the roof. Join us as we discuss to pros and cons of traditions, the power of community, and what we leave behind on the land we call home. Plus there's still time to do our season 1 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HJBVN5F Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 24 Mar 2023 | Bonus Episode-Live Movie Musical Commentary: Chicago | 02:01:25 | |
In case you missed our live stream, enjoy this edited audio only version of our Live Movie Musical Commentary of 'Chicago'. Listen to Mackenzie and special guest co-host Jessica Maxwell break down the adaptation, direction, and performances in this best picture winning movie musical. Enjoy as these two long time friends discuss their opinions on some of the alternative casting choices, the Canadian connections to the film and the importance of knowing how to properly stage and edit musical numbers for film! All this and a razzle dazzle court room. Leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Mar 2020 | 14. Little Shop of Horrors | 01:11:45 | |
It's the final episode of season 1 of Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast! Mackenzie and Autumn make a faustian bargain and discuss the Ashman and Menken dark musical comedy 'Little Shop of Horrors'! Find out what Autumn and Mackenzie think the killer plant of the musical represents in todays culture and if they'd kill to achieve their dreams. Enjoy! Do this survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HJBVN5F Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 26 Dec 2022 | 42. Rags | 01:22:28 | |
This week Mackenzie and Autumn are selling and sewing buttons on rags as they discuss the turn of the century immigrant musical Rags! Hear them breakdown how and why assimilating like Nathan Hershkowitz while profitable may ultimately be detrimental. They debate whether it should be Rebecca or Bella who should sing the title song Rags. Plus hear both Mackenzie and Autumn sing the praises of the incredible Judy Kuhn who originated the role of Bella on Broadway. All of this plus some bread and freedom in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 08 Jun 2020 | Oliver Part 2 Promo | 00:01:08 | |
With so much to discuss it's no wonder that this musical, Oliver!, earned the honour of being the first two parter of the podcast! Join Autumn, Mackenzie, and Lynn this Friday as they finish their exploration of Dickensian London and this musical. Hear them discuss their favourite songs, the songs they'd cut, and see if they think this musical warrants another revival. All this and more coming the Friday on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | My Fair Lady Promo | 00:02:21 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat it's the penultimate episode of Season 4 and Autumn is back from her directorial adventures! So join these two anglophiles as they head to Covent Garden and discuss the musical where the English learn to speak My Fair Lady! Hear these two explore the potential troublesome character of Henry Higgins and if his misogynistic views prevent this piece from continuing to be performed. They debate if Julie Andrews should have been cast as Eliza in the film version over Audrey Hepburn. Plus hear their thoughts on if there is a romantic connection between Eliza and Henry. All of this and a trip to Ascot on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 09 Apr 2021 | Anything Goes Promo | 00:02:06 | |
Next week Autumn and Mackenzie are hitting the high seas along side Mackenzie's former professor and Autumn's college Marlis Schweitzer as they discuss the Cole Porter musical Anything Goes. Together they break down some of the most classic songs of the Broadway canon. They examine how this musical still has relevance today and listen to Marlis delve into a queer reading of the lyrics and book this musical. Plus find out which Broadway diva this trio thinks best performed the role of Reno Sweeney. All of this plus a Gabriel's horn on next weeks episode on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 24 May 2024 | Spamalot Promo | 00:03:07 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott are searching for both a shrubbery and the Holy Grail as they discuss the musical Spamalot! Hear them discuss their favourite Monty Python sketches. They debate whether this piece actually has substance or if it's just Python light as it was described by some of the Pythons. Plus they discuss if the placement for the iconic 'Always Look on the Bright Side of Life' song works for the show. All of this and a Trojan rabbit on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 30 Apr 2021 | 40. Next to Normal | 01:57:06 | |
This week Mackenzie, Autumn, and returning guest Jessica Maxwell are discussing the Pulitzer Prize winning musical Next to Normal! Hear them debate the moral dilemma behind power ballad song 'I Miss the Mountains'. Discover why Mackenzie proposing cutting out the character of Henry and find out if after Autumn's revelations in our last rock musical episode she's able to connect with another musical in this genre. All of this plus just another day on this Friday's all new episode of the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 10 Mar 2023 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.15: Fiddler on the Roof | 01:52:20 | |
Yesterday (Thursday March 9th, 2023) the legendary performer of stage and screen Chaim Topol passed away at the age of 87. He is best known for his portrayal of the poor milkman Tevye in the musical Fiddler on the Roof. He portrayed this role on stage more than 3,500 times from 1967 through 2009 and to critical acclaim on the big screen in the 1971 film adaptation. So, in honour of Topol's greatest performance we are releasing our Remastered version of our season 2 opening episode which deep dives into this traditional yet timeless musical! Plus enjoy the fixed the sound quality too! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.16: Chicago | 01:38:21 | |
With Autumn currently away managing her production of Rent this week we are still on our brief hiatus and revisiting our Remastering Project. For our latest instalment, we decided to revisit the second episode from season 2 all about the musical where they both reached for the gun Chicago! Enjoy this reedited the episode with fixed the sound quality too! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | The Last Five Years Promo | 00:01:28 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Autumn and Mackenzie head back into the musical canon of Jason Robert Brown to discuss his two hander, relationship ending musical The Last Five Years! Hear these two breakdown breakdown the relationship of Jamie and Cathy and they try to see who is to blame for the ultimate ending of this marriage (spoiler alert). They debate if this musical is simply a therapy piece for Jason Robert Brown or if this musical is able to stand on it's own beyond its initial inspiration. Plus, hear all about Autumn's experiences directing this musical. All of this and a theatrical summer in Ohio on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 15 Sep 2023 | 61. Gypsy: A Musical Fable | 01:42:22 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat, Maris and Mackenzie are getting a gimmick and some chow mein as they discuss the musical Gypsy: A Musical Fable! Maris and Mackenzie debate if the divisive song 'Little Lamb' is truly necessary for the show or if it should be cut. They explore where the line is between cute and annoying regarding June and her musical numbers. Plus discover which Rose and Herbie duet was almost cut from the show during out of town tryouts. All of this and an egg roll for Mr. Goldstone in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 15 Nov 2019 | Jesus Christ Superstar Promo | 00:01:10 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn go way back to biblical times to explore the last days of Christ in the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice concept album musical Jesus Christ Superstar. Join us for discussions of how this show relates to modern day politics and if the song Superstar is overrated. See you then! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 30 Jun 2023 | Meet Maris Lyons! | 00:32:00 | |
Well as you may have noticed Season 5 has taken a little longer to get out to all you wonderful loyal listeners and it's time to reveal the reason which is that our team has had slight shake up and we have needed time to adjust to these changes. Our wonderful Canadian Bea Arthur, director extraordinaire, and John Adams of Canadian theatre Autumn Smith has decided to take an official step back from her co-host duties as she has proven to be quite busy with her teaching schedules, her new amazing radio show Lesbi-Honest and her theatre company which has been taking off with great success. Never fear though, as Autumn will be returning as a guest through out the upcoming seasons. But with Autumn taking a well earned and deserved step back that left an opening for a new permanent co-host and in this special episode we are excited to introduce to you our new permanent co-host Maris Lyons! She is not only Mackenzie's cousin but she also hails from Wales and is a theatre producer, a world traveler, and a very talented performer! We are so excited for you to meet and get to know Maris! Please give this episode a listen and Maris a very warm welcome! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Ep. 3 Review | 00:21:38 | |
Here we are with the next instalment in our episode by episode review miniseries of the new hit musical comedy show 'Schmigadoon!'. In this episode 3 Mackenzie gives his thoughts on the character of Florence Menlove and he gives insights on how this episode not only covers a lot of plot points but also shows how it balances the genuine emotions of the characters and cheeky humour to pokes fun at this era of Broadway musicals. Plus he continues to point out the various connections to the golden age musicals that inspired songs of this episode. Enjoy! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 08 Mar 2024 | 66. The Color Purple | 02:03:37 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat, Mackenzie and Scott are opening up their eyes and looking at what god has done as they discuss the musical The Color Purple! Scott and Mackenzie explore whether or not the character of Mister is redeemed by the end. They debate if the musical went far enough in portraying the queer relationships that are present in the source material. Plus discover if Scott and Mackenzie think this musical needed an overture. All of this and a blade of corn in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 18 Oct 2019 | Chess Promo | 00:01:05 | |
| 02 Feb 2024 | Bonus Episode- Chita Rivera Tribute: Bye, Bye, Birdie Remastered | 01:31:46 | |
This week on Tuesday January 30th the theatre community lost two very important and influential members Chita Rivera & Hinton Battle. Today we turn our focus to Ms. Rivera who was not only a multi awarding artists (including two Tony Awards for Best Lead Actress in a Musical, the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Tony Award, two Drama Desk Awards, a Drama League Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom) but also a performer who was the consummate professional who worked tirelessly at her craft and lit up the stage with her dazzling charisma and incredible dancing. She was a true trailblazer whether it was through her origination of many iconic stage roles like Anita in West Story, Rosie in Bye Bye Birdie, Velma Kelly in Chicago, Anna in The Rink or Aurora in Kiss of the Spiderwoman or through her accolades including being the first Latina and the first Latino American to receive a Kennedy Center Honor in 2002. She was someone who continually inspired and mentored so many artists and had one of the most infectious laughs that could fill up any room she was in or an stage she was on. Chita Rivera was a true old school Broadway artist who kept their head down and focused on their work and we will certainly not see the likes of her again any time soon. So in honour of her passing we are revisiting our episode on Bye Bye Birdie which is the musical she earned her first Tony nomination for. We will also dive deeper into her work this season when we tackle Kiss of the Spiderwoman in a few weeks. But for now listen and enjoy this special tribute to a one of a kind artist. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 20 Sep 2024 | Bonus Episode-The Color Purple (2023 film) Review | 00:54:33 | |
Get excited because Shug Avery is coming to town, and the long-awaited special review episode of The Color Purple movie musical remake is finally here! Join Scott and Mackenzie, along with special guest Arlene Duncan, as they dive deep into this stunning adaptation. In this episode, they explore how the new film compares to the often overlooked 1985 movie and the beloved stage show. Plus, they unpack the unique dramaturgical choreography that sets this version apart in today’s world of movie musicals. Tune in to find out which cut songs they wish had made it into the final film! All of this and a very spiffy pair of Miss Celie's pants on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 52. The Last Five Years | 01:31:57 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat Autumn and Mackenzie head to couples therapy for a tumultuous session where they break down Jason Robert Brown musical The Last Five Years! Hear Autumn make the case for why Jamie's cheating is not as bad as Mackenzie thinks it is. They converse about whether this musical is better than Brown's earlier musical 'Parade'. Plus they give their thoughts on the legal battle that surround this musical. All of this as they are climbing up hill in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Dec 2019 | The Secret Garden Promo | 00:00:49 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn kick off 2020 with trip into the land flora and fauna and discuss the underrated musical, 'The Secret Garden'. Join us we discuss the healing power of nature and the strong hold and affect grief can have on a person. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 May 2024 | A New Brain Promo | 00:02:44 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott are having some calamari and ziti as they’ve watch Mr. Bungee and discuss the musical A New Brain! Hear them debate where they would rank this musical against the other William Finn pieces of Falsettos and 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. They breakdown the differences between the 1998 and the 2015 versions of the show . Plus they discuss the pros and cons of using theatre as a form of therapy. All of this and the homeless lady’s revenge on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 48. Hair | 01:50:22 | |
This Friday on Before the Downbeat while Autumn is still away Mackenzie and his wonderful theatre friend Katie Miller let their hair down and let the sunshine in as they discuss the hippie musical Hair! These two dive deep into the lyrics and explain how the lyrics are supported by the score. They explore whether this show still has the same impact when not seen live. Plus discover which iconic song made Mackenzie's skip list. All of this plus some pleading for some clean air on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 05 Jun 2020 | 17. Oliver! | 01:18:07 | |
This week Mackenzie and Autumn are joined by theatre critic Lynn Slotkin. Together they discuss the classic musical Oliver! and debate the concept of a 'Fine Life', if they'd do anything for each other, and where is love! Listen in as they share their personal connections with this musical and their thoughts on Charles Dickens the author of the source material for this musical. Find out the original 'happy ending' of this musical and if Autumn, Mackenzie, and Lynn think it's better than what is finale of this musical. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 09 Feb 2024 | Meet Scott Hurst! | 01:11:27 | |
As we revealed in our 42nd Street episode the shoes of our wonderful Canadian Bea Arthur Autumn Smith left were just too big to fill for one co-host. So the decision was made to split the co-hosting duties between two wonderful hosts and you've met Maris Lyons and now we are excited to introduce you to our new and other permanent co-host Scott Hurst! Scott is a survivor of 48 years in professional & community theatre, Scott has earned a living as an actor, singer, dancer, director, writer & producer, and his resume includes seasons at the Stratford Festival, Charlottetown Festival, Blyth Festival, Thousand Islands Playhouse, the National Arts Centre and a side trip to the MDM Theatre in Moscow. A recipient of an Excellence in the Arts award at the 2009 Barrie Arts Awards, Scott is known locally for his extensive work with The South Simcoe Theatre, Kempenfelt Community Players, Talk is Free Theatre, Theatre by the Bay, Huronia Players, and the Orillia Sunshine Festival. He currently sits on the Board of Directors for The South Simcoe Theatre and is helping to develop a training program for actors, directors, singers and production teams. A proud member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, Scott is now considered by some to be a Gay Elder and he's grateful to have lived long enough to achieve that status. 3TY Rob! We are so excited to have Scott on our team and please joy this introductory interview where Mackenzie and Scott discuss Scott's theatrical background and we explore his thoughts on the current musical theatre landscape. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | 45. Snoopy! The Musical | 01:15:22 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat Autumn and Mackenzie are hanging out with the Peanuts gang while starring at the clouds and discussing Snoopy! The Musical! Hear these two reveal their favourite Peanuts character. They explain why this musical while not having the best book still has important messages to impart to both adults and kids. Plus find out how Autumn thinks the upcoming reworking of the book should tackle Peppermint Patty. All of this plus a manuscript submission to Playbeagle on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 24 Dec 2023 | Holiday Message 2023 | 00:02:19 | |
Ho, ho, ho everyone! Just want to share a brief message to say thank you to all you wonderful loyal listeners for such a terrific year. We hope you have enjoyed our bonus episode content like our Schmigadoon and Galavant review series and our first 7 episodes of season 5. We cannot wait to share the new episodes of season 5 with you in the new year and all the other amazing content we have lined up for you! Be sure to check out our social holiday image as we have left clues in the Christmas orbs in what our back 7 episodes will be. Have fun guessing and we will see you in 2024! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 20 Nov 2019 | Cats Trailer Review | 00:15:13 | |
Mackenzie and Autumn review the first trailer for the upcoming movie musical 'Cats'! Find out if we think this film will be good or is just plain creepy. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Spring Awakening Promo | 00:02:00 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat while Autumn is still away Mackenzie is joined this time by friend and returning guest turned co-host Jessica Maxwell! Together they head to Germany and discuss the angsty teen rock musical Spring Awakening! Hear these two long time friends debate if the score properly reflects teenage angst or if it blows its proverbial load too soon. They explore whether they can still relate to a musical that is geared toward a more youth audience. Plus hear about the time Jessica met a member of this musical creative team All of this and some future Glee stars on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 17 Jan 2020 | 9. Titanic | 01:02:12 | |
Autumn and Mackenzie set sail and explore the musical about the doomed ocean liner 'Titanic'. Enjoy as Autumn and Mackenzie debate whether musicals about mass casualty disasters like the sinking of the Titanic should be made in theatrical entertainment. See if we can agree if this musical was deserving of the coveted 'Best Musical' award at the Tonys. Plus find out Mackenzie's strange connection to this musical. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 17 Nov 2023 | Bonus Episode- Galavant Season 1 Ep. 2 Review | 00:57:42 | |
As we prepare to release the last 7 episodes of season 5 we are bringing you our next review miniseries which is all about the musical tv show 'Galavant'! Join Mackenzie and the Cup of Hemlocks Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as they join a jousting contest. They breakdown the first of many surprise star cameo appearances this series will feature. They explore their complex feelings on how this show portrays traditional masculinity. Plus hear what they think of the portrait of Gareth's mother. Stay tune for more episode reviews! All this and we're off on a hero's journey out where adventure lies Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Ep. 2 Review | 00:21:12 | |
Here we are with the next instalment in our episode by episode review miniseries of the new hit musical comedy show 'Schmigadoon!'. In this episode 2 Mackenzie gives his thoughts on the characters Betsy and Mayor Menlove and he deep dives into all the easter eggs that can be found in the 'Oklahoma!' inspired basket auction scene. Plus he continues to point out the various connections to the golden age musicals that inspired songs of this episode. Enjoy! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 08 Dec 2023 | Bonus Episode- Galavant Season 1 Ep. 5 Review | 00:58:16 | |
Enjoy the latest episode of our review miniseries of the musical tv show 'Galavant'! Join Mackenzie and the Cup of Hemlocks Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as they go completely Mad...Alena for this episode. They breakdown the slightly jumbled plot of this episode and try to figure out why it doesn't quite work. They explore the cute yet also surprising dark relationship of Chef and Gwen. Plus find out if they think Weird Al and his monk character were used in the best possible way for the show! All this and some trench mouth, tapeworms, and lice in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 30 Sep 2024 | Bonus Episode-Mean Girls (2024 film) | 01:35:31 | |
Break out your pink outfits and get ready for a special, long-awaited review of Mean Girls: The Musical! Join Mackenzie and returning guest Graeme McClelland as they dive deep into this fetch yet divisive adaptation. In this episode, they explore the film’s choice to shy away from its musical and camp elements, unpack the cut songs (with a surprising focus on the numbers featuring Damian), and share their thoughts on how they would have more effectively marketed the movie. Don’t miss it! All of this and one candy cane, please on this Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Bonus Episode-Dear Evan Hansen Film Review | 01:26:47 | |
This week on Before the Downbeat marks the first in series of episodes where Autumn will be away on a theatre contract. But never fear Autumn and Mackenzie have some great content planned for you in the meantime. So sit back and enjoy as Mackenzie and guest cohost Graeme McClelland do a deep dive review of the latest movie musical to hit the big screen Dear Evan Hansen. Hear these two give their thoughts on Ben Platts casting, why they think this film didn't translate well from stage to screen, and what they think of the new songs. Plus find out what simple fixes they would do to help improve the story. All of this plus an awkward dinner with the Murphy family! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 13 Mar 2020 | 13. Company | 01:30:49 | |
Phone rings, door chimes, in comes Autumn and Mackenzie with all the ladies who lunch to rise a glass of vodka stinger to this iconic musical from the Stephen Sondheim canon! Mackenzie and Autumn will debate Prince, Sondheim, and Furth's satirical views on upper class middle married life. Plus hear their thoughts on the most recent gender switched revivals of this musical. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 01 Dec 2023 | Bonus Episode- Galavant Season 1 Ep. 4 Review | 00:54:23 | |
Enjoy the latest episode of our review miniseries of the musical tv show 'Galavant'! Join Mackenzie and the Cup of Hemlocks Co-Artistic Producer Ryan Borochovitz as they break out some comedy gold. They breakdown the various comedy routines that Richard and the jester Steve explore in their titular duet. They debate whether the joke of showing Isabella's under garments is dated. Plus find out which sea shanty is their favourite. All this and the lords of the sea just not of the actual sea in this all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | Bonus Episode-Remastered Ep.22: Camelot | 01:52:38 | |
As Autumn and Mackenzie work to get the big season finale episode ready for release enjoy another revisit of our Remastering Project. For our latest instalment, since we just discussed My Fair Lady we decided to revisit our season 2 Lerner and Loewe episode all about the Arthurian musical Camelot! Enjoy this reedited the episode with fixed the sound quality too! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 28 Feb 2020 | 12. Annie | 01:21:54 | |
Mackenzie and Autumn forgo the hard knock life and break down the iconic, family musical 'Annie'! Mackenzie and Autumn we be discussing all things from why the song 'Maybe' is such a unique opening to a musical and if this show deserves another run on Broadway or should it just stay with community and regional theatres? Enjoy! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 19 Feb 2021 | 35. Man of La Mancha | 02:07:34 | |
This week Mackenzie and Autumn are tilting at windmills with their friend and actress Janet Martin. As they charge head on at these whirling devils they discuss the idealistic musical Man of La Mancha! Hear this trio break down the iconic songs like Impossible Dream and Man of La Mancha (I, Don Quixote). Find out why Mackenzie thinks this musical is better than last seasons idealistic musical Camelot and learn Janet's secret in how she managed to perform this very challenging score when she played Aldonza. All this plus a continual striving to reach that unreachable star in this Fridays all new episode on the podcast! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. Plus check out Janet's company Shaggy Pup Productions at www.shaggypup.ca, or on Facebook at the page Menopause the Musical Canada. You can purchase merchandise for Menopause the Musical, including the soundtrack, at MenopauseTheMusical.com! | |||
| 29 May 2020 | Oliver! Promo | 00:01:05 | |
Next Friday Autumn and Mackenzie welcome Canadian theatre critic Lynn Slotkin to the podcast. The three of them are heading into the east end of Dickensian London to try and pick a pocket or two plus they are oom pah pahing with the locals at the Three Cripples. Join in the fun as Autumn, Mackenzie, and Lynn deep dive into the iconic British musical Oliver!. Hear them the discuss their opinions on the depiction of the character Fagin and listen to them break down of the creative journey of each song in this musical. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 02 Dec 2022 | Bonus Episode- Schmigadoon! Ep. 3 Review | 00:21:38 | |
Here we are with the next instalment in our episode by episode review miniseries of the new hit musical comedy show 'Schmigadoon!'. In this episode 3 Mackenzie gives his thoughts on the character of Florence Menlove and he gives insights on how this episode not only covers a lot of plot points but also shows how it balances the genuine emotions of the characters and cheeky humour to pokes fun at this era of Broadway musicals. Plus he continues to point out the various connections to the golden age musicals that inspired songs of this episode. Enjoy! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | The King and I Promo | 00:02:18 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Autumn and Mackenzie are heading into the East and back into the Rodgers and Hammerstein canon to discuss musical The King and I! Hear these two discuss the complexities of this piece from how it was adapted to the controversial casting ideas for the role of the King to how this musical depicts the Asian culture. They debate whether the social messages in this musical are strong and told well enough to warrant the show being revived again. Plus, hear about Autumn's performance history in this show. All of this and late night sensual polka on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 04 Oct 2024 | The Sound of Music Promo | 00:03:08 | |
Next week the hills are live with sound of Before the Downbeat season 6! Mackenzie and Maris kick off this new season with a trip to the Austrian alps in their clothes made of drapes as they discuss the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical The Sound of Music! Hear them discuss why they think this musical is such a hit across multiple generations. They debate whether it was right to remove the political songs from the film. Plus they discuss why the song 'I Have Confidence' doesn't translate well to the stage. All of this and a some edelweiss on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 27 Apr 2021 | West Side Story (2021) Teaser Trailer Review | 00:30:42 | |
The journey to Before the Downbeat's holiday movie musical review has begun. Last year Autumn and Mackenzie had planned to review the remake of West Side Story however COVID-19 had other plans. So instead now it's happening this holiday season. The marketing campaign for the film kicked off on Sunday night at the 93rd Academy Awards with the release of the teaser trailer for this film. So now join host Mackenzie as he dives in and gives his thoughts on the trailer and his thoughts on this remake overall. Head over to our YouTube page to watch part 2 of this review where Mackenzie does a shot by shot break down of this trailer. | |||
| 23 Dec 2020 | The Prom Film Review | 01:48:21 | |
Last holiday season Mackenzie. and Autumn ventured out and saw Tom Hooper's movie musical monstrosity Cats. This holiday season they were suppose to see the Steven Spielberg's remake of West Side Story but alas the pandemic had other plans for this duo. Thankfully Netflix came through and released their adaption of the musical The Prom directed by Ryan Murphy. So tune in and found out what Autumn and Mackenzie thought of this star studded musical film. See if they agree with the critical masses about James Corden's miscasting as Barry Glickman. Plus hear their intense debate about Kerry Washington's antagonist character Mrs. Greene and how find out if they feel Kerry Washington's character and the larger community get a fair and well rounded depiction. All this and a performance by Dee Dee Allen in this holiday film review! Plus there's still time to do our season 2 survey! Do the survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/P39KLNS Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 28 Jul 2023 | Guys and Dolls Promo | 00:02:23 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat it's the oldest established, permanent floating, Crap game in New York and our latest episode all about Guys and Dolls! Hear Maris and Mackenzie discuss why this musical is so beloved after all these years. hey debate whether Miss Adelaide was right to wait for Nathan Detroit. Plus find out why the character of Nathan has so few songs. All of this and a bushel and a peck on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 07 Feb 2020 | Evita Promo | 00:01:15 | |
Next Friday Mackenzie and Autumn cover the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice political musical 'Evita'! So join us as head to Argentina to discuss the real life Eva and her rise to power and perfectly it's reflected in this timely musical. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 25 Oct 2019 | 3. Chess | 01:38:51 | |
Mackenzie and Autumn break out the game board to play a game of Chess. Listen to them as they discuss the 1980s Cold War era musical Chess. Find out which version of the show is there favourite and if a musical about the Cold War is still worth performing today. Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 22 May 2020 | 16. Chicago | 01:41:52 | |
Last season Mackenzie and Autumn explored the court case of Leo Frank in the musical 'Parade'. Now this season they are exploring not only one murder case but two! You've read about this show, listened to the albums, seen the 2002 film and now here is the breakdown you've been waiting for all about those killer dillers - those two scintillating sinners -Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly! That's right this week is all about the musical 'Chicago'! Enjoy as Autumn and Mackenzie are breaking out their dancing shoes to do those Fosse moves and explore this timely musical about our relationship between media and crime. Plus find out if Autumn and Mackenzie think this musical still packs a punch or should court be adjourned on this musical. Enjoy! Do our Season 1 feedback survey and get your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HJBVN5F Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 26 Dec 2022 | 43. Beauty and the Beast (musical) | 02:09:46 | |
It's the final episode of season 3 of Before the Downbeat: A Musical Podcast and this time Autumn and Mackenzie and their friend and fellow podcast Teni Brant of the "Speak Dicely" podcast are lighting their torches and grabbing their pitch forks as they head off to storm the castle and talk all about the classic Disney musical Beauty and the Beast! Tune and find out why both Teni and Autumn are not fans of the new song 'Me'. Hear Mackenzie get in touch with his romantic side as he swoons for the titular love ballad Beauty and the Beast and discover which role from this musical both Teni and Mackenzie have performed. All of this plus antlers in all of the decorating on this weeks final episode of season 3! Plus do our end of the season survey and you enter your chance to win a prize! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H6LQNR6 Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||
| 01 Mar 2024 | The Color Purple Promo | 00:03:04 | |
Next Friday on Before the Downbeat Mackenzie and Scott are exploring an adaptation of a beloved novel the musical The Color Purple! Hear them discuss why this musical's revival is an improvement over the original Broadway production. They breakdown the concepts of spirituality verses faith and how this musical's message on this topic is one people need now more than ever. Plus they discuss how both major productions of this musical were directed by white men and the impacted this has had on how this story was interpreted. All of this and Shug Avery is comin' to town on next Friday's all new episode! Don't forget to leave us a review and share your thoughts on this episode on our social media pages. Follow the links below to reach our pages. | |||