Breaking the Curtain (Breaking the Curtain)

Sweet Oz! It's Finally Happening—Our Wicked Movie Review is Here! 

Join your Broadway Besties for an 'oz-tastic' hour-long discussion as we dive deep into Part 1 of the much-anticipated Wicked movie adaptation! From Glinda in the bubble all the way to the iconic Defying Gravity scene, we break down everything you need to know about this emotional rollercoaster through Oz!

We're thrilled to be joined by Alaina Anderson to chat all about Mystic Pizza! Alaina talks with us about the iconic movie, her favorite song from the '80s/'90s music catalog featured in the show, Hot Take Pizza questions, and more!

You can catch her starring as Katherine 'Kat' Arujo in Mystic Pizza, currently playing at Riverside Theatre and coming soon to Paper Mill Playhouse.

In this hour long episode, join Cris and Joce as they gush all about the film adaptation of Tick, Tick... BOOM!

The film tells the story of Jonathan Larson; an aspiring composer in New York City who is worried he made the wrong career choice, whilst navigating the pressures of love and friendship.

After a wide search in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and New York over the course of several months, the team behind Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell The Musical finally found their lead - Canadian artist, Travis Cormier! 

We are so thrilled to be joined by Travis Cormier on this episode of Breaking the Curtain where we discuss everything from his Strat audition process to his Tim Horton's order!

What a whirlwind week in Broadway news! Join us as we dive into the thrilling SMASH cast announcement, discuss Jeremy Jordan's upcoming departure from The Great Gatsby, and unpack the Broadway closing announcement for Back to the Future. We’ll also explore the exciting developments of 13 Going on 30 in the UK and preview the upcoming Broadway performances at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade featuring Death Becomes Her, The Outsiders, and Hell's Kitchen. We also question the "Ponyboy seat," celebrate Wicked movie month, and so much more!

We're so excited to be joined by Emily Kristen Morris!

Emily is currently the Elphaba standby on the Broadway National Tour of Wicked. Some of her other favorite theatre roles include Bea in Something Rotten (Broadway National Tour), Daisy in Side Show, Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, and Sophie in Mamma Mia. Emily has performed as a solo vocalist with symphony orchestras, including the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra in China, and the Norwalk Symphony. Her voice is also featured on Joey Contreras’ new album “In Pieces.”

In 2019 Emily began her studies with the Institute for Vocal Advancement, and founded her voice studio EKM Vocal Studio. Since then, the studio has grown exponentially, and Emily has become a highly sought-after, world-renowned vocal instructor! She teaches lessons, masterclasses and workshops to passionate singers both virtually and in person in New York City.

TikTok: @EmilyKristenMorris
Instagram: @EmilyKristenMorris
Website:  www.EmilyKristenMorris.com

December 24th, 9pm... Christmas Bells are RINGING! 

Breaking the Curtain presents their Show History episode in the 'Shows That Sleigh' Series all about RENT in this 25 minute episode exploring the life of Jonathan Larson and creation of RENT, along with interesting facts and personal experiences through loving the musical! 

We're beyond thrilled to bring you another interview with a cast member from The Notebook! In this episode, we're joined by the incredibly talent, Jordan Tyson!

Jordan is currently starring in The Notebook as Young Allie. We chat with Jordan about her portrayal of Allie, working with Ingrid Michaelson, on-stage mishaps, the iconic film and more!

In this episode, we're joined by Paul Salsini, the author of the memoir 'Sondheim & Me' , which tells the story of the relationship between American musical composer Stephen Sondheim and journalist Paul Salsini during the latter's time as the founder and editor of The Sondheim Review, the only publication devoted solely to Sondheim's work during his lifetime. The magazine was begun in 1994 and Salsini shares his unique experiences interviewing, corresponding with, and speaking on the phone with the composer-lyricist through the entire next decade.

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Our dreams came true! We were beyond honoured to speak with Tony Award winner Lena Hall all about starring as Kenna in the new musical In Dreams now playing at the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre in Toronto.

In Dreams tells the story of Kenna - a country-rock singer who brings her old bandmates back together for "the party of a lifetime" while keeping her true motivations a secret. Set in a Mexican restaurant in New Mexico that specializes in tacos, margaritas, and memorial services, this unexpected and moving new musical explores our longing for love and connection - all through the iconic songs of Roy Orbison.

Lena Hall is a Tony Award winner and Grammy nominee. Lena received widespread critical acclaim for her performance of the title role in the feature film Becks, (winner of the U.S. Fiction Award at the L.A. Film Festival). Hall stared as Miss Audrey in the hit sci-fi drama “Snowpiercer” alongside Jennifer Connelly and has been seen on HBO’s “Girls,” Amazon Prime’s “Good Girls Revolt,” and Paramount Plus’ “Evil.” Following Lena’s Tony-winning Broadway run in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Lena toured North America with Josh Groban on his “Stages” tour, and portrayed the dual starring roles of both Hedwig and Yitzhak in Hedwig and the Angry Inch in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Lena originated the role of Nicola in the Kinky Boots on Broadway, she appeared as Sloane in the New York Premiere of Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell, starred opposite Marisa Tomei in Lincoln Center Theatre’s “How To Transcend A Happy Marriage,” and most recently played Audrey in the hit Off-Broadway revival of “Little Shop Of Horrors.” 

CLICK HERE TO BOOK TICKETS FOR IN DREAMS

We’re beyond thrilled to chat with Caden Brauch. Caden is currently touring around North America as everybody’s favourite Future Boy, Marty McFly, in Back to the Future: The Musical!

We chat with Caden about playing this iconic role, performing alongside Don Stephenson, life on the road and more!

On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're kicking off our two-month Stagey Spooks Series with a very special crossover episode. We were so honoured to join Kara and Stephanie of Prophecy Girls: A Buffy Rewatch Podcast to discuss the musical elements of Once More, with Feeling.

"Once More, with Feeling" is the seventh episode of the sixth season of the supernatural drama television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the only one in the series performed as a musical.

Once More, with Feeling explores changes in the relationships of the main characters, using the plot device that a demon— "Sweet" —compels the people of Sunnydale to break into song at random moments to express hidden truths.

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Welcome to this giddy updates episode where we chat all about the shows we saw recently including the Pre-Broadway Engagement of & Juliet! We also share our excitement about the casting announcement for Bat Out of Hell The Musical in Vegas and chat all about the Funny Girl revival drama that has caused us to raise a brow more than once this past month!

Today we’re joined by Lee Lessack and Robert Bannon, who are the wonderful hosts of The Broadway Cast Reunion Series which gives audiences a chance to do what they may never have done before: visit “backstage” with cast members and hear personal, hilarious, unscripted stories and gossip! 

Join us as we discuss ‘Stage Door Tips and Tricks’, etiquette, share our own favourite memories, and read our first batch of Stage Door Listener Stories!

Happy August, Stagey Friends! It's officially our 'podcastiversary' month! Join us for this updates episode to hear all about the wonderful digital shows we watched over the past few weeks, upcoming events, ways you can share your own story on our podcast... And so much more! 

In this very special first episode of Breaking the Curtain, we are joined by performer, Giovanni Spano! We sat down to chat with Gio all about his time in Bat Out of Hell the Musical as well as the X-Factor.

Get ready Baltimore! We're joined by the incredibly talented Niki Metcalf! You can see Niki "eat some breakfast, then change the world" across America as Tracy Turnblad in the National Tour of Hairspray! 

On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the insanely talented and lovely Bradley Gibson and Isabelle McCalla who star as Hercules and Meg in the upcoming Paper Mill Playhouse production of Hercules! 

The inspired Disney animated film is now a mythical new musical adventure. HERCULES is the divinely funny story of an honest-to-Zeus hero on a quest to discover who he is and where he belongs. Is love a possibility too? Oh, Hades, yes! The roof-raising score by Alan Menken and David Zippel features all the hits you love from the film, including the Oscar-nominated song “Go The Distance,” as well as “Zero to Hero” and “I Won’t Say (I’m in Love),” along with new songs written for the stage. The show features a new book by Kwame Kwei-Armah (artistic director of London’s Young Vic) and Tony Award® winner Robert Horn (Tootsie), and direction by Obie Award-winning Lear deBessonet. This cheeky, Greeky MUSE-ical earned a New York Times’ Critic’s Pick for its original Public Theater production in Central Park, with the New York Post cheering it’s “wise-cracking, heartfelt and emotionally rich.” And that’s the gospel truth!

Hercules runs at Paper Mill Playhouse from Feb 16th - March 19th, 2023. Purchase your tickets today!

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What's better than chatting about a Broadway flop? Chatting about a Broadway flop with our friends Bobby & Kristina of MY FAVORITE FLOP! 

Join Jocelyn, Bobby, and Kristina as they discuss BIG FISH and why it's classified as a 'flop.'

MY FAVORITE FLOP is a podcast hosted by Bobby and Kristina, who dive deep into the fathomless files of Broadway history to explore yet another fabulous flop. From Annie 2 to Zombie Prom, they'll leave no stone unturned until every single musical misfit is unearthed, redeemed, and finally gets invited to the Prom. (No pig's blood, please!)

Hey Queendom! We're honoured to be joined by our Canadian queen, Maggie Lacasse!

Maggie recently wrapped up playing Jane Seymour in the Toronto production of Six the Musical! Maggie chats with us about the transition period following closing a production, the support of the Queendom, her insane audition story (you NEED to hear this!), a special announcement and more!

In this episode, we're joined by Katie Tonkinson, currently touring the UK & Ireland as Raven Falco in Bat Out of Hell: The Musical!

We dive into an exciting conversation with Katie about this electrifying musical, life on the road, funny on-stage mishaps, her favourite costumes from the show, and so much more

We've all got our junk, and our junk is Spring Awakening!

On this Show History episode, we're going all the way back to Broadway 2006 to discuss everyones favourite teenage angsty musical: Spring Awakening. We really hope we don't 'totally f*ck' it up!

We are delighted to be joined by Broadway's Katie Rose Clarke to chat all about Merrily We Roll Along!

Katie shares insight into playing Beth in the Broadway revival, the recent midnight surprise cast recording drop, reuniting on stage with Lindsay Mendez and so much more!

Katie Rose Clarke is an actress and singer who has starred in both the Broadway and National Tour productions of hit shows THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA and WICKED, and she was also featured in the Original Broadway Cast of ALLEGIANCE and in the revival of legendary musical MISS SAIGON. Katie is currently on Broadway in the revival of Merrily We Roll Along.

Calling all Corn Nuts!

We sat down with Erin Caldwell to chat all about playing the role of Veronica Sawyer in the West End production of Heathers The Musical! Erin shares with us her pre-show rituals, on-stage mishaps (Um, J.D? More like 'Jay-Z'!) and performer advice. 

Guess who's back?

We're joined by one of our favourite performers Chilina Kennedy for a return interview on Breaking the Curtain! Chilina chats all about starring as Cindy in the new musical A Sign of the Times coming to New World Stages this February!

Set in the Summer of 1965. With the country in transition – as the war in Vietnam rages on and struggles for civil rights and women’s liberation command headlines – one aspirational young woman finds herself in New York City, and ready to dive into this brave new world. In A Sign of the Times, journey back to America’s most unforgettable decade as a young photographer tries to make her way amid the changing times that defined an era. A totally original story with such classic songs as “Downtown,” “Gimme Some Lovin’,” “Rescue Me,” and “I Know A Place,” plus dozens more.

Chilina Kennedy most recently played Billie Jean King in Love All by Anna Deavere Smith. Broadway: Paradise Square, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Film/TV: “The 2015 Kennedy Center Honors,” With Me. Other: The Band’s Visit (International Tour), This Ain’t No Disco (Atlantic Theater Company), Mamma Mia! (1st National Tour), A Gentleman’s Guide To Love And Murder. Chilina is the composer of the new musicals Wild About You and Silk, and is Artistic Producer of Eclipse Theatre Company. chilinakennedy.com

*Spoilers ahead!*

It's another theatre updates episode, y'all! Crissy just returned from a week in New York City, so you're in for a treat.

We’re diving into Swept Away (we circle back to talk about the show throughout the entire episode because we’re OBSESSED), a recap of The Notebook’s closing night, another return to The Outsiders (and hitting PB Bingo), the Bat Out of Hell sitzprobe, Andy Karl joining the cast of Moulin Rouge, and so much more!

Happy September, Stagey Friends! On this episode we discuss the latest adventure in our lives as well as all of the exciting Theatre News around the globe! 

Hello Gorgeous! We're joined by our new friends, Fiona and Julianna, from the Drama Fiends podcast, to break down the history behind Funny Girl! From Babs launching into stardom playing the iconic Fanny Brice, to the film, the Broadway revival, casting drama and everything in between - we discuss it all!

Check out our episode with the Drama Fiends on their podcast!

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I'm the month you want! It's me, it's Maaaaay! 

Welcome to yet another stagey end of the month ramble where we give you the 411 on the latest theatre news! Broadway's coming back? New RENT Documentary? Listen for all the updates!

It's time to unwrap our Stagey Holiday Gift Guide! Join Crissy and Jocelyn as they chat about the HOTTEST theatre news around the world from the upcoming NBC event - Annie Live! to the new Gatsby musical across the pond. They also share what made their 'must-have stagey gift list', and so much more on the final updates episode for Season 2 of Breaking the Curtain!

We’re back with another interview! Last month we sat down with Travis Cormier who plays Strat; the leader of the Lost in Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell The Musical in Las Vegas.

In this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we’re joined by Alizé Cruz who is talented beyond words and the literal sweetest person ever! Alizé plays the role of Raven Falco; the daughter of Falco who catches the eye of Strat. She chats with us all about the audition process, her favourite part of the show and more! 

Greetings and Salutations!

On this episode, we're joined by Simon Gordon, who plays the role of 'JD' in the upcoming U.K. tour of Heathers the Musical! Slap on your Swatch, sit back with a slushie and enjoy as we chat all about Heathers! It's so very! 

Hey Queens! On this episode of Breaking the Curtain, we chat with the incredible 'Standby Slayer' Darcy Stewart from SIX The Musical in Toronto! Darcy spills the royal-tea on slaying as Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn and Anna of Cleves.

We chat about the unique process that goes into stepping into multiple roles, her favorite moments playing each queen and the time she had to improv the closing number as Cleves!

We're thrilled to be joined by the incredible Kevin William Paul, who is currently starring as Bob Sheldon in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!

We chat with Kevin about his journey from growing up in Florida to starring in The Outsiders on Broadway, the craziest story to ever grace the podcast, taking on the role of Bob Sheldon, a little T-Swift serenade moment and more!

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We're back! Join us as we reflect on the past month and spill all the details about our upcoming podcast guests, including a very special announcement at the end of the episode!

It's another theatre updates episode, y'all!

This week, we're diving into The Last Five Years studio recording teaser, Joshua Boone leaving The Outsiders, all of the recent stage door drama, the countdown to the Swept Away album and so much more!

In a world where cell phones and social media have become all the rage, the rise of platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have dramatically transformed the way we experience theatre. From the early days of message boards to the rise of theatre influencers, 'parasocial relationships', and TikTok trends, we explore the evolution of the digital impact on Broadway and beyond.

So, grab your virtual front-row seat and join us as we uncover how the digital age is rewriting the script for theatre.

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Starbucks and stars and sharks... Oh my!

It's another updates episode and you're in for a laugh! Can you believe it's already November? Get cozy with us as we sip our Starbucks holiday drinks and round up the past two months of our Stagey Spooks Series episodes, chat all about seeing the National Touring Company of Mean Girls, sensing spirits inside a haunted theatre, Crissy's 'snoring habits' in hotel rooms, seeing The Shark is Broken and the latest cast recording releases.

Listen up! In this episode, we're joined by the beautiful Maddison Firth who plays the role of Heather Chandler in the West End production of Heathers and can also be seen playing the role in the Roku Channel pro-shot of Heathers!

It’s been a long time coming, and we’re SO excited to finally be joined by Dan Berry to talk all about The Outsiders on Broadway!

In this episode, we chat with Dan about his role as Paul, understudying the roles of Sodapop and Darrel, and his personal favorite magnet from the 'Dan Berry on a magnet' collection. We also dive into the Macy’s Day Parade performance, on-stage mishaps and so much more!

In this episode of Breaking the Curtain we're joined by the incredibly talented, lovely Anika Larsen to chat all about playing Elaine Miller in Almost Famous on Broadway!

Almost Famous: The Musical opens on Broadway at the Jacobs Theatre on November 3rd, 2022. Visit almostfamousthemusical.com to purchase tickets!

Anika Larsen has performed on Broadway in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Avenue Q, Xanadu, All Shook Up and Rent. Off-Broadway, she was in Zanna, Don’t!; Myths and Hymns, Closer Than Ever, Miracle Brothers, How to Save the World…, Disaster! and Unbroken Circle. Anika grew up in Cambridge, MA, with nine brothers and sisters from different races and countries, and she majored in theater at Yale University. She released an album of lullabies for all ages called Sing You to Sleep and she is a proud member of Actors’ Equity and the board of NYC Children’s Theater.

A few months ago we had the pleasure of seeing A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical and it was SO GOOD, SO GOOD, SO GOOD! What we didn't know while in the audience is that we were witnessing Mary Page Nance's first performance in the role of Marcia Murphey.

Mary Page is a New York City-based Broadway Performer, Event Producer, Director/Choreographer, and Business Owner. During COVID, she opened a paper goods business called ⁠a page of mary⁠ where she sells her handmade goods that sell out in minutes! She produces, directs and choreographs events with Broadway Talent in the private sector and beyond, and also teaches Broadway Master Classes, and one on one privates.

As a performer, Mary Page was in the original casts of both Finding Neverland and Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812 on Broadway, and toured the country with the First National Company of Bright Star. She works frequently developing new musicals in the city, most recently: Black No More written by Black Thought and John Ridley, choreographed by Bill T Jones, and Lempicka, directed by Tony Award Winner Rachel Chavkin.

Mary Page is currently a member of "THE NOISE" in A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical!

In this thrilling episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the sensational Jennifer Allen and Jarran Muse. They are currently playing Mother Superior and Lt. Eddie Souther in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Sister Act!

Based on the 1992 hit film, this feel-good musical comedy smash sizzles with powerful music, spectacular dancing, and a story that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits. The madcap plot is set in motion when disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a murder and must go into hiding in a convent, where she helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own.

Sister Act plays through Sunday, June 26th, 2022. You do not want to miss this production, it's fabulous, baby!

We're so thrilled to be joined by Jonathan Cullen to discuss playing the role of rockstar Stacee Jaxx in Toronto's Rock of Ages!

Jonathan Cullen has wowed audiences on stages across North America since 2010. Most recently he played a leading role on the 1st National Tour of the Broadway Smash-hit, The Book of Mormon. Jonathan helped Grammy Nominated Steven Page, formerly of Barenaked Ladies, workshop his new musical, Here’s What It Takes. Previously in his career, Jonathan worked with Tony Award Winning Director Stephen Daldry and Tony Award Winning choreographer Peter Darling along with multiple Academy and Grammy Award Winning artist Elton John on their ground-breaking Broadway success, Billy Elliot.

We're thrilled to be joined by the incredible Brent Comer, who is currently starring as Darrel in the 2024 Tony Award Winning Best Musical: The Outsiders!

We chat with Brent about beginning his Outsiders journey as Paul in the La Jolla run to then taking on the role of Darrel for Broadway, meeting the incredible S.E. Hinton, what's really in the 'hamburger mystery surprise' and more!

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Happy May! We're back with a special updates episode for you. Join us as we ramble about the upcoming Tony Nominations, News from Bat Out of Hell the Musical, Dating Apps and more!

Welcome to Tulsa, 1967!

In this episode, we explore the journey of The Outsiders from S.E. Hinton’s groundbreaking novel to its powerful film adaptation, and how its timeless themes inspired a Tony Award Winning Best Musical on Broadway!

We discuss the original workshop productions, the La Jolla pre-Broadway run, major changes made from book to stage and more!

TW: Dally's death

Hello Stagey Friends! It's our first updates episode of Season 3. Join us as we take a look behind the scenes at the research into our premiere episode 'The Life & Legacy of Jonathan Larson', chat all about the latest theatre news and share what's coming up in February!

Breaking the Curtain is going from pink to ROUGE for this episode that is so exciting, it'll have you booking a ticket to see the show!

We're beyond honoured to be joined by TANISHA SPRING and DOM SIMPSON to chat all about playing Satine and Christian in the West End production of Moulin Rouge!

Listen to Tanisha and Dom share their favourite song(s) within the Elephant Love Medley, how they prepare for such a massive show, their iconic entrances in the musical and so much more!

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Happy almost Fall, y'all! It’s the start of our Stagey Spooks Series… May your apple pie scented candles be lit and your cup always filled with pumpkin spice. In fact, we’re going to chat all about everyone’s favourite Pumpkin Queen… Cinderella!

Our primary focus in this episode will be Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, in particular, we’ll focus on the 2013 Beane Broadway production. But don’t you worry, we’ll also cover the incredible Brandy version as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella. 

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Welcome to the Second Edition of Listener Stories where we read your theatre stories back to you! In this episode, we've got stories about what happens when Olaf's butt falls off on stage, excitement-shouting at the stage door, first time seeing shows, an on-stage toilet paper mishap, shattered snow globes and more!

You can submit your listener story here!

Dearest Listeners,

We’ve been following the drama and lawsuit surrounding B&B's The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical that has taken place over the past few days as we know most of you listening have done as well. It’s a bit confusing, so we thought we would make a little episode chatting about what has gone down and our thoughts.

We wish to echo that all of this has been made public knowledge within the media and internet and we personally cannot be 100% certain of anything that has been released as we have no personal involvement.

It's March 1st. And it's cheese.

Next To Normal is a rock musical about a typical American family hiding mental illness from the world.  Diana Goodman has been struggling with bipolar depressive illness and delusions for seventeen years following the passing of her infant son. The show recognizes the strain her mental illness puts on her family, and their struggle to find their own “normal.”

*TRIGGER WARNING* contents of the show include death, mental illness, drug use and abuse, and suicide.

We're back with another Musical Theatre meets True Crime episode! Did you know there are musicals about Charles Manson and the Manson Family? No? Neither did we!

Join us as we discuss the life of Manson leading up to the events that took place in the Summer of 1969. We primarily focus on Stefan Pucher's Charles Manson: Summer of Hate Das Musical and the off-off-Broadway production of Manson: The Musical.

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In honour of the 58th Anniversary of the iconic film version of Bye Bye Birdie, we sat down with Bobby Rydell who played the role of Hugo Peabody! 

Teen idol, Bobby Rydell ruled late-’50s charts with hits like “Volare,” “Wild One,” “Kissin’ Time,” and “Forget Him.” He was so influential up through the early ’60s that the high school in Grease was even named after him! Bobby has gone on to sell over 25 million records including more than 30 Top 100 hits. 

It's another updates episode!

Can you believe it's already September? Get cozy with a pumpkin spice latte and listen as your ‘Broadway Besties’ recap their summer adventures, discuss putting together the Outsiders Interview Series, an exclusive announcement, the upcoming fall Broadway season (‘tis the season of Audra!), the Wicked movie and more!

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We're delighted to be joined by Benjamin Durham who plays the iconic role of Winnie the Pooh in the new musical adaptation now touring around the UK & Ireland!

The show features many of the original songs written by Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman, who composed most of the music for the Winnie the Pooh franchise over the years. The puppets were lovingly crafted within the walls of Rockefeller Productions by a talented and dedicated team of artists, designers, patternmakers, builders, welders and fabricators; all influenced by Disney's seminal character designs with nods to E.H.Shephard’s original illustrations.

In honour of Jim Steinman, we've reworked our original Bat Out of Hell: the Musical Show History episode script to bring you a more detailed timeline of events leading up to the creation of this rock 'n' roll night at the theatre!

Bat Out of Hell is a post-apocalyptic rock and roll love story. Set in a dystopian future, the island of Manhattan; renamed Obsidian, has floated out to sea and is now under the reign of Falco; the tyrannical ruler set on ‘revitalizing’ the city. Living in the abandoned subway tunnels underneath the city are a group of genetically-altered teenagers, known as The Lost, who are frozen at the age of eighteen. When Strat; the reckless, rebellious leader, meets Falco’s sheltered daughter, Raven on the eve of her eighteenth birthday, the stars align and they fall head first into the wonder of first love.

Welcome to our very first edition of THEATRE HOT TAKES where we anonymously read the Theatre Hot Takes our listeners submitted and discuss the topic with our own opinions!

00:47 - The BOOH LV cast was awesome

01:45 - Stunt casting should be given a chance

06:20 - Next to Normal is better than Dear Evan Hansen

09:07 - I love Hamilton and Wicked dearly, but they’ve had their day. They should close

11:30 - Audiences shouldn’t be allowed to drink alcohol at shows

14:46 - The New York Critics are harsh

17:08 - The West End is better than Broadway

21:16 - Hamilton is extremely overrated and not worth the hype

24:55 - Audience members are so entitled these days with no respect for the cast sometimes

25:20 - Cats is a genuinely good and enjoyable musical, people only bash it because it’s easy!

27:04 - Traditional soprano theatre voices <<<

34:43 - Bigger shows aren’t always the best, smaller shows are sometimes better

36:14 - If you’re going to a show set in high school you can’t really complain about “annoying teen fans”

37:43 - Diana The Musical is actually so good and campy. I think it'll come back like Carrie!

41:36 - Jukebox musicals are very overrated. I miss the old classic shows

45:39 - People can be a little too quick to defend their 'faves' when something is brought up that isn't good

47:35 - People take being a 'theatre fan' too seriously

School is now in session!

Is there anything spookier than realizing summer vacation is over and school has begun? ... Well, maybe a wannabe rockstar pretending to be an elementary school substitute teacher, but that goes without saying.

Did you know there's a real-life Dewey Finn?! Tune those guitars, in this episode we discuss School of Rock’s field trip to Broadway and beyond!

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We're honoured to be joined by Orville Mendoza to chat all about Broadway's Swept Away!

In our conversation, Orville shares insights on the whirlwind closing announcement, followed by the two-week extension due to popular demand. We also talk about recording the cast album ('Ain't No Man' is available now!) and what Orville hopes audiences will take away from experiencing Swept Away.

Welcome to the whirlwind of a week that is Crissy's Big Broadway Adventure! Join Crissy and Jocelyn as they discuss The Notebook, The Outsiders, MJ, Moulin Rouge, cancelled flights and Stage Door etiquette.

This episode is all about our adventures attending Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell the Musical! 

Join us as we discuss the changes made between runs, the origin of the musical, answer your questions, and chat about our own experiences attending. Did you know, combined, we've seen the show 27 times?! Bananas!

Join us as we chat all things Carrie: The Musical Revival with CHRISTY ALTOMARE!

Christy portrayed the role of Sue Snell in the reimagined MCC Theater off-Broadway production of Carrie. She made her Broadway debut as Sophie in Mamma Mia!, and also starred as Wendla in the national tour of Spring Awakening. Most recently, Christy originated the titular role in the Broadway premiere of Anastasia! 

Two stagey best friends interview their idols and break down the history behind your favourite musicals from popular shows like RENT and Beetlejuice to iconic flops like Carrie and Bonnie & Clyde - we cover them all!

And if you like what you hear, consider giving our show the ol’ razzle dazzle by leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcast!

In this very exciting episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by Jade McLeod who is currently playing Jo in the North American Touring Production of Jagged Little Pill!

Jocelyn and Jade attended college together, making this episode a lovely chat and reunion! 

Jade is a proud non-binary Canadian, working artistically in both Canada and the US as an Actor, Writer, and Singer.

Since graduating from St. Clair College in 2017, Jade has worked on shows across Canada, such as Mamma Mia! and Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert (Both with Stage West Calgary), and enjoyed a brief stint with Carnival Cruise Lines.

Having found their voice first as a singer, then as a songwriter, actor and activist, Jade now uses their platform to explore issues related to the LGBTQ+ community, feminism, and mental health.

It’s another update episode!

We’re chatting about the Swept Away cast recording, the opening number preview from SMASH, the full cast announcement for John Proctor Is the Villain, and we head back to fifth grade with a Valentine’s Day-inspired game of “The Ultimate Broadway Boyf” March Madness style!

Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived... Podcast listeners, we are LIVE! 

Breaking the Curtain presents another thrilling Show History episode all about the fan favourite musical, SIX! In this 30 minute episode, the stagey ladies explore the musical as well as The Real Housewives of Henry VIII! 

It's our Tony Awards episode-ish! Join us as we discuss our highlights, Best Dressed, and shame the fact the ceremony was put behind a paywall! Ah, Tony Season... 

We're breaking down the history behind Almost Famous: The Musical, from the real story that inspired the film to the opening night on Broadway and beyond. We'll discuss the incredible cast, the abrupt Broadway closure, the latest developments, and some changes made to the show within the latest workshop. We also question what happened to the changed purple poster design and so much more!

In this very special BONUS episode of Breaking the Curtain, we're joined by the phenomenal Rob Colletti who stars as Lester Bangs in Almost Famous on Broadway!

We chat with Rob all about the genius that is Cameron Crowe, the wonderful support from the fans, the real Lester Bangs and the current state of Broadway in the era of Covid.

Almost Famous runs on Broadway until January 8th, 2023. You do not want to miss this special show!

Calling all you love fools, we’re diving beneath the covers into the cruellest love story of all - Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical! We highly encourage you to sit back, relax, pour yourself an iced tea... From long island... Oh, and one last thing… Happy hunting!

We're back with another updates episode! Did you miss our theatre ramblings? We sure missed you!

On this episode, we discuss the big Tony win for The Outsiders, crying over Jonathan Groff, Aaron Tveit and Jojo (not Siwa) returning to the Moulin Rouge, being a 2000s theatre fangirl, The Last Five Years going to Broadway and more!

Our 2023 Tony Interview Series continues with the highly talented and kind, Taylor J. Williams, who is nominated for his work on Broadway's Ain't No Mo!

Taylor J. Williams is a musician and sound designer who has been nominated for a Tony Award for his work on Broadway’s Ain’t No Mo’ along with Jonathan Deans. He has worked as an electronic music designer on more than 30 Broadway productions including Moulin Rouge, Beetlejuice, Be More Chill, King Kong, Disney’s Frozen, Falsettos, and The Who’s orchestral tour: The Who Hits Back.

Taylor’s role as Co-Sound Designer for Ain't No Mo was integral in bringing this vision to life, as his perspective as a Black man allowed him to serve on the sound team as a voice and advocate for the Black community. With his input, he was able to ensure that the sound design of the production accurately represented Black culture and history within the play. 

Working alongside three-time Tony Award nominee Jonathan Deans, Taylor’s specific focus for the project was to compose original music, build sound cues to appear between vignettes which were in dialogue with the play, and to speak for Miss Bag, a prop character who embodies the creations of the Black community in the U.S.

Rouge, baby! Happy Valentine's Day, chickens! Join us as we break down the history behind the real Moulin Rouge, Baz Luhrmann's iconic film and the process of adapting it for the stage, the 2020 Covid-19 Broadway Shutdown, our favourite songs in the show and more!

Join us as we chat with the incredible Lauren Patten about her upcoming EP Covers, set to release on March 8th. Lauren gives us a glimpse into the creative process as well as what fans can expect from her EP Release Show at Mercury Lounge.

But that's not all! Lauren also chats with us about her new series, Hulu's Death and Other Details and also discusses her return to the stage this spring in off-Broadway's The Lonely Few.

TICKETS FOR LAUREN'S CONCERT

Join us as we chat about our excitement surrounding the 2023/2024 Broadway season!

This season is stacked with book-to-stage adaptations, original musicals, bio-musicals, jukebox musicals and revivals!

We're sharing our honest opinions ahead of award season, and don't forget – we're diving into your responses from our Instagram prompts, too!

As you know, Breaking the Curtain loves new musicals! Join Cris and Joce as they sit down with Spencer Williams and Shenelle Salcido, co-writers of the new musical, For Tonight! The group is also joined by Joseph Perdue, the orchestrator working with the team on the U.K concept album being released this summer!

For Tonight is a new, original, musical inspired by the writer's third great grandfather's handwritten journal. Through a riveting score, the atmospheric soundscape blends traditional Welsh choral, indie-pop, folk, and Romani inspired melodies and rhythms. At its core, For Tonight is an exploration of the power and meaning of home.

Enjoy this exclusive listen and look into For Tonight!

We recently attended the Opening Night performances of SIX and In Dreams.

Mirvish Productions is having such an incredible season and we’re so honoured to have been invited to attend these two amazing shows, which are the kick off of their 2023/2024 Season!

Listen to hear our review of these two epic shows!

Click here for more information!

Xena Gusthart is a Broadway and West End choreographer living between New York and London. She choreographs, holds rehearsals and does castings for large stage shows and musicals. Xena’s credits include dancing and choreographing for, Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, Nike, Adidas, Bat Out of Hell and Bodyguard The Musical amongst many others. 

We sat down with Xena to chat all about her latest project; The Showbiz Clinic - the place where showbiz entrepreneurs go to level up, achieve real momentum and harness their mindset! 

All you dancing queens better put on your go-go boots for this episode because we're joined by Sophie Sheridan herself, Alisa Melendez!

We chat with Alisa all about touring around as Sophie Sheridan in Mamma Mia, the joy this musical brings to so many, who Alisa thinks is Sophie's biological dad, let's hear it for the aunties, our love of Almost Famous the Musical and so much more!

Take a journey with us through the history of the Tony Awards! We start with Antoinette Perry's vision to celebrate excellence in theatre, and further explore how this prestigious event has evolved over the decades.

We reminisce about unforgettable iconic moments, Opening Numbers, discuss the magic of theatre, and reflect on some of the controversies that have sparked important conversations.

We also share our thoughts on this latest Tony Awards season, spotlighting standout shows and performers!

In this very special episode, we had the opportunity to interview Avionce Hoyles, who is one of our absolute favourite humans! We chat with Avionce all about his time as Tink in the North American productions of Jim Steinman's Bat Out of Hell the Musical, playing Gator in the National Tour of Memphis the Musical, his recent performance on America's Got Talent, and his project, the Next Generation Young Artist Showcase - listen to hear how you can get involved!

ngyas.org

Hi! We'll be your guides... We'll be your G-U-I-D-E-S until the end of this Podcast! 

We're back with the third episode in our Stagey Spooks Series... This week we're jumping beneath our floorboard and heading to the Netherworld as we discuss Beetlejuice! 

In this thrilling episode, we’re joined by Mike Wartella and Christy Altomare to chat all about the new hit musical The Wanderer based on the life of legendary singer/songwriter Dion. The Wanderer is currently playing at Paper Mill Playhouse through April 28th, 2022. Head over to TheWandererMusical.com for ticket info!

We're joined by Broadway's Ryan Vasquez, who is currently starring as Middle Noah in The Notebook!

Ryan chats with us about portraying the role of Noah alongside John Cardoza (Younger Noah) and Dorian Harewood (Older Noah), his first time seeing the film, Ingrid Michaelson's gorgeous score, the iconic rain scene and the Broadway Community.

We're back with another episode in the Stagey Spooks Series! 

This week, we're taking you all the way back to 1988 with Broadway's Biggest Flop... Carrie! Oh, yes, you will remember her name after this episode! Hold onto your boutonniere, this prom themed musical is going to be one you'll never forget. 

*Theme song by William Karras @williamkarras

SURPRISE! Last week, we took a trip to New York City to spend time under the bright lights of Broadway in preparation for our upcoming season to bring you even more exciting content! On this final episode of Season 3, we chat all about seeing Wicked, Almost Famous, Moulin Rouge and MJ. We also tell you all about our experience at the Museum of Broadway, visiting 508 and Rise NY!

We had the absolute pleasure of speaking with the incredible Tom Kitt, who is nominated for the 2023 Tony Award for Best Original Score Written for the Theatre for Broadway's Almost Famous!

As huge fans of the show and score, we were thrilled to have an in-depth conversation about Tom's work with the piece.

Tom Kitt is a two-time Tony, two-time Emmy, Pulitzer Prize and Grammy Award winner.  As a musical theatre composer, he has written the music for six Broadway shows: Next to Normal (Tony Award), If/Then (Tony Nomination), Flying Over Sunset (Tony Nomination), High Fidelity, Bring it On, The Musical, and Almost Famous. His work for the stage has also been seen Off-Broadway at 2nd Stage (Next to Normal, Superhero), The Public Theater (The Visitor, Shakespeare in the Park) and he has worked at some of the most prestigious regional theatres including The Old Globe, Arena Stage, Berkeley Rep, The Signature Theater, and ART.  In addition, Tom’s Broadway credits as an orchestrator include: Next to Normal (Tony Award), The SpongeBob Musical (Tony Nomination), Jagged Little Pill (Tony Nomination), Almost Famous, Head Over Heels, Everyday Rapture, and American Idiot.

Tom has also been active in the world of film and TV. As one of the vocal arrangers working on the Pitch Perfect films, Tom most notably helped create the classic “Riff-off.”  Tom also served as music supervisor/arranger/orchestrator for Grease Live and contributed songs for Royal Pains and Penny Dreadful.  He also provided music supervision for the NBC series, Rise and has written numerous songs for Sesame Street.  And he is known for his two original opening numbers for The Tony Awards, Live in 2019, written with David Javerbaum for James Corden, and the Emmy Award winning, Bigger in 2013, written with Lin-Manuel Miranda for Neil Patrick Harris.  Tom is also proud that his musical adaptation of Freaky Friday, co-written with Bridget Carpenter and Brian Yorkey was turned into an original movie musical for Disney Channel.  Most recently, Tom served as a Supervising Music Producer on the new Bobby Lopez/Kristen Anderson-Lopez/Steven Levenson/Thomas Kail musical television series, Up Here.

On this episode, we are joined by Director, Producer, and Creator, Connie Rotella!

Connie has been dancing, teaching, choreographing and directing professionally for the past twenty five years, working in different styles of dance and performance, on film, television and stage. Closest to her heart has been representing and helping young up-and-coming performers get established in their careers. 

Amongst many credits, Connie has directed and produced hit shows such as Forever Broadway, Musical Show Off, Panto, and many more with her production company BronCon since 2010. Musical Theatre is her passion, directing is a dream for her upcoming musical she wants to write.

Connie Rotella joins us today to chat about her latest project; Triple Threat Academy! 

GOOD NEWS... 

This is the very first episode of our Stagey Spooks Series! For the month of October, we'll be bringing the show history and stories behind all of our favourite spooky musicals. 

Kicking things off is everyones favourite musical... Wicked! Join us as we discuss the magic behind one of Broadway's best selling musicals! 

We’re beyond excited to sit down with Matt DeAngelis to dive into the world of Swept Away, the brand-new Broadway musical!

In this episode, Matt shares insights into the preview process of a show, the stunning music by The Avett Brothers, working alongside the incredible John Gallagher Jr., and so much more.

What happens when you send 50 Danny and Sandy-wannabes to a Grease training school in hopes of becoming the next leads in the 10-million-dollar Broadway revival? Chaos. Pure, absolute chaos.

In this episode, we take you Over the Rainbow where Any Dream Will Do as we discuss The Rise of Musical Theatre Reality Shows – you know, the very thing that made Laura Osnes a Broadway Star. Grab some jam and bread, we’re spilling all the reality show tea as we go back to the early 2000s. At the very height of reality-style television shows such as American Idol and The Simple Life, it was only a matter of time before the theatre world took a stab at auditioning unknown aspiring performers in front of millions across the world from the comfort of their living rooms.

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Welcome to the rock! We're beyond excited for Come From Away to make its return to Toronto on September 22nd!

We're joined by company members: Saccha Dennis, Jawon Mapp and Kristen Peace to discuss this beautiful musical making its way back to Toronto, the importance of Come From Away, kissing the cod and so much more!

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Welcome to yet another stagey end of the month ramble where we give you the 411 on the latest theatre news! Broadway IS back! Two new productions of Heathers opening in the UK?! We have to PAY to watch the Tony Awards?! Listen for all the updates!

For one episode... And one episode only; Mamma Mia: the Show History!

Honey-honeys, in this episode, we’re taking you on a journey with us to a little Greek island known as Kalokairi!

Based on the music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! follows the story of 20-year-old Sophie as she is ready to get married to her fiancée Sky, except for one thing - she has never met her father and wants him present for the big day to walk her down the aisle. She invites three men whom she discovers in her mother’s diary.

Join us as we discuss how a jukebox musical became a global phenomenon with two stellar films!

"Damn the man, save the Empire!"

We're thrilled to be joined by Analise Scarpaci to chat all about starring as Debra in Empire Records: The Musical!

Empire Records is currently playing at McCarter Theater through October 6th and you absolutely do not want to miss this exciting new musical!

Don't forget to check out Analise's new song "Flashbacks" available on September 27th!

Join us as we sink our teeth into the history behind yet another spooky musical: Dance of the Vampires! Is there anything more terrifying than a very expensive flop? We think not!

This campy musical, based on the Roman Polanski film The Fearless Vampire Killers, follows Professor Abronsius and his bumbling assistant Alfred as they attempt to prove the existence of vampires in Transylvania. Alfred falls for innkeeper's daughter Sarah, unaware that she is being pursued by the mysterious Count von Krolock.

Listen, Nessa... We've got one heck of a fun episode for you!

We're joined by Hunter Brown from Broadway's Swept Away to chat all about this incredible musical on its final weekend of performances. We also discuss his viral TikTok moment ("Um, Nessa"), growing up in Florida, the tale of Lon Crisp, and more. Plus, we’ve got two special guests dropping by to say hi!

The Astroband