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The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

Alan Seales & Broadway Podcast Network

Intimate, personal conversations with theatre’s biggest talents.

  • 58 minutes 10 seconds
    Ep375 - Bill Berloni: A Lifetime of Rescues, Roles and Rehearsals

    Bill Berloni has dedicated nearly five decades to bringing animals to life on stage and screen, all while championing rescue work and humane training practices. From his semi-accidental start training Sandy for the original production of Annie to working with a menagerie of animals for Broadway, film, and TV, Bill’s journey is as heartwarming as it is inspiring. In this episode, Bill shares stories of training everything from dogs and cats to butterflies and snakes, and how he has created unforgettable moments in productions like Gypsy, The Greatest Showman, and Legally Blonde. He also discusses his groundbreaking work with Naomi Watts in The Friend and how this movie is redefining animal performance in film.

    Bill’s commitment to treating animals with respect and compassion shines through as he recounts the joys and challenges of working in theater and entertainment. Whether it’s training an actor to command a dog or preparing a cat to handle audience applause, Bill’s creative solutions and passion for storytelling offer invaluable lessons for anyone working in the arts—or with animals. With humor, honesty, and insight, this episode is a tribute to the deep connections we share with our animal companions and the magic they bring to the stage.

    Bill Berloni is a Tony Honoree for Excellence in Theatre and the founder of William Berloni Theatrical Animals, a company that provides trained animals for theater, film, and television. His career began in 1977 with the original Broadway production of Annie, where he trained Sandy, a rescued dog. Since then, he has worked on countless productions, including Legally Blonde, The Ferryman, Gypsy, and The Leftovers. Bill is an advocate for animal rescue and humane training practices, and his work has been featured in books, television, and film.

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    28 January 2025, 2:00 pm
  • 56 minutes 54 seconds
    Ep374 - Eva Noblezada (from the vault)

    Originally aired as episode 198 on March 22, 2022.

    Trigger warning: This episode contains discussion of eating disorders.

    At the age of 25, Eva Noblezada is a two time Tony Award nominee, a Grammy Award winner, and a WhatsOnStage Award winning actress and singer. She starred as Kim in Cameron Mackintosh’s London revival of Miss Saigon when she was 17 years old, and shortly after played Eponine in the West End revival of Les Misérables. Eva later reprised her performance as Kim in the first Broadway revival of Miss Saigon (also her Broadway debut). In 2019, she made her film debut in Yellow Rose starring alongside Lea Salonga, who originated the role of Kim in Miss Saigon. Eva originated the role of Eurydice in Hadestown on Broadway, and it's in Hadestown where she continues to lead, and take audiences “way down under the ground”. 


    Eva speaks candidly about her past toxic relationship with the word “perfect”, how it affected her life as a 17 year old all on her own abroad, leading Cameron Mackintosh’s London revival of Miss Saigon, and why she felt like she was “falling for years”. She opens up about living with anxiety, panic attacks, and body dysmorphia, and how she’s learned to come back to herself at those times, and ask the important questions - “Are we in danger? - We're okay”. Talking about Hadestown, Eva shares her thoughts on Eurydice (and playing Eurydice), and her love for the “extra layer of consciousness” that can be seen throughout the whole show. 


    In this episode, we talk about: 

    • Growing up Filipino Mexican, and discovering musical theater 
    • A strong work ethic, instilled by her father 
    • The mental and physical toll of an 8 show schedule 
    • Meeting Tara Rubin at the Jimmy Awards
    • Pole dancing as fitness, and how society sexualizes women 
    • Her “all or nothing” way of life 


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    21 January 2025, 8:00 am
  • 55 minutes 5 seconds
    Ep373 - "Eureka Day" Opening Night with Jessica Hecht, Bill Irwin, Thomas Middleditch, Amber Gray, Chelsea Yakura-Kurtz, and more

    Interviews live from the opening night of Eureka Day, which took place on December 16th, 2024. The order of interviews is:

    • Thomas Middleditch
    • Anna Shapiro
    • Amber Gray
    • Jonathan Spector
    • Chelsea Kurtz
    • Bill Irwin
    • Jessica Hecht

    

    Eureka Day brings comedy and contemplation to the stage, tackling personal beliefs, community conflict, and the art of truly listening. These interviews explore the play's themes of empathy, collective responsibility, and the nuances of human connection amidst a mumps outbreak at a progressive private school.


    You'll hear insights about the challenges of portraying deeply layered characters who all believe they are "right," the parallels between the play’s themes and real-world conflicts, and the humor that helps audiences face uncomfortable truths. Whether you're a fan of theater, thoughtful storytelling, or the quest to find common ground in divisive times, this episode delivers heartfelt takeaways and plenty of laughs.


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    14 January 2025, 1:09 pm
  • 54 minutes 42 seconds
    Ep372 - Ethan Slater: From Bikini Bottom to Shiz University

    Ethan Slater returns to the podcast, and what a journey he’s had since his last visit! Best known for his Tony-nominated performance as SpongeBob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical, Ethan has since showcased his versatility in the Spamalot revival and in the much-anticipated Wicked films, where he portrays the endearing yet conflicted Boq. In this conversation, Ethan delves into the evolution of his career, from embracing unexpected opportunities to stepping into beloved roles with fresh perspectives. His reflections on preparation, self-advocacy, and the importance of storytelling offer invaluable insights for anyone in the arts.

    We explore his experience working with Broadway legends, the excitement and challenges of filming Wicked, and his process for making iconic characters his own. Ethan also shares a heartfelt deleted scene from Wicked and reveals how real-life friendships and moments of serendipity have shaped his career. Whether you’re a fan of Broadway, film, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with inspiration and fun.

    Ethan Slater is a Tony-nominated actor, singer, and writer, celebrated for originating the role of SpongeBob in SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical. His recent stage credits include the revival of Spamalot on Broadway, and his screen roles span projects like Lost on a Mountain in Maine, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Wicked. Known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, Ethan continues to captivate audiences with his heartfelt performances.


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    7 January 2025, 8:00 am
  • 54 minutes 30 seconds
    Ep371 - 2024 Wrap up with Alan Seales and Sarah Goodman (and a little Jackie Burns)

    Welp, we've finally made it to the end of 2024. This year was full of changes, ups, downs, and some overall just weird behavior across the board. But hey, we got some amazing shows out of the new 2024-2025 season, and fortunately between the two of us, guest host Sarah Goodman (from the GOOD SHOW Podcast) and I were able to see a lot of them! Listen in as we recap some of our fav's, not-so-fav's, and tucked inside the episode is even a quick appearance from Jackie Burns. Happy new year!


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    31 December 2024, 8:00 am
  • 54 minutes 39 seconds
    Ep370 - Andy Karl: Revisiting Groundhog Day and Finding New Perspectives

    Andy Karl returns to the pod for the first time since episode 4, bringing his signature charm and thoughtful insights. Andy reflects on his incredible journey since his first appearance back in episode four, sharing how his career has grown and evolved over the years. From his Olivier Award-winning role in Groundhog Day to tackling diverse characters in Rocky and Pretty Woman, Andy dives deep into the physical and emotional challenges of performing on stage. He also discusses revisiting Groundhog Day in the UK years later, highlighting the profound personal and professional growth he experienced along the way.


    Currently starring as Pastor Bill O’Keefe in the boundary-pushing Teeth: The Musical, Andy shares what it’s like to explore such a unique and provocative role. He opens up about the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and maintaining joy in the ever-demanding world of theater. This episode offers a perfect blend of inspiration, humor, and behind-the-scenes stories, making it a must-listen for Broadway fans and aspiring performers alike.


    Andy Karl is a three-time Tony-nominated actor and Olivier Award winner known for his dynamic stage presence and versatility. His celebrated performances include Groundhog Day, Rocky, Pretty Woman: The Musical, Legally Blonde, and On the Twentieth Century. He has also appeared on television in Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, and Prodigal Son. Andy currently stars Off-Broadway in Teeth: The Musical, showcasing his ability to take on bold and innovative projects.


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    27 December 2024, 8:00 am
  • 40 minutes 6 seconds
    Ep369 - Jared Loftin: Stage, Screen, and Turning Audiences Against You

    Jared Loftin takes us on a captivating journey from his Alabama roots to his thriving career in theater and television. With notable credits including Teeth at New World Stages, Tick, Tick… Boom! on Netflix, and Little America on Apple TV, Jared reflects on the unique process of developing new works, the highs and lows of regional theater, and his experiences in the evolving post-pandemic performing arts world. This episode shines a spotlight on his ability to bring complex, layered characters to life, sharing insights into the emotional and technical challenges behind his performances.

    From the thrill of audiences turning against his character in Teeth to navigating the early days of his career without a showcase or agent, Jared’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and community. His advice for aspiring performers is as inspiring as it is practical: dive in, embrace the challenges, and stay open to the magic of collaboration. This episode offers a blend of humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom that will resonate with theater lovers and aspiring artists alike.

    About Jared Loftin:

    Jared Loftin is a New York-based actor with a diverse array of credits in theater and television. His stage work includes Teeth at Playwrights Horizons and New World Stages, Gigantic, The Panic of ’29, and regional productions of Peter Pan, All Shook Up, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. On screen, Jared has appeared in Tick, Tick… Boom! on Netflix, Little America on Apple TV, and Red Oaks on Amazon. Originally from Alabama, he studied musical theater at Elon University and has become a sought-after collaborator in new musical theater works.

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    • Instagram: @jloftin2


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    24 December 2024, 12:55 am
  • 1 hour 4 minutes
    Ep368 - Alyse Alan Louis: Boundaries, Boldness, and the Body’s Secrets

    Alyse Alan Louis takes us on a deeply personal and inspiring journey in this episode. From her Broadway credits in Mamma Mia!, Amélie, and Soft Power to her groundbreaking work in Teeth: The Musical, Alyse opens up about the evolution of her career and the unique challenges of her craft. Her portrayal of Dawn in Teeth showcases her ability to embody bold, complex characters while navigating both emotional and physical demands. Alyse reflects on how years of collaboration shaped the role and shares the lessons she’s learned about setting boundaries and embracing vulnerability as an artist.

    This conversation also dives into the fascinating connection between the body and performance. Alyse discusses how she discovered she was holding stress in her pelvic floor, the impact of that realization on her work, and how she’s learned to manage the physical and emotional toll of performing in demanding roles. From her experiences as a young performer in regional theater to her insights on the importance of self-advocacy, Alyse offers practical wisdom for aspiring artists and anyone navigating a creative path.

    Alyse Alan Louis is a Broadway performer celebrated for her work in Amélie, Soft Power, Mamma Mia!, and Disaster! She currently stars as Dawn in the critically acclaimed Teeth: The Musical, a role she has helped shape over the past decade. Known for her fearless approach to bold material, Alyse has earned a reputation for bringing humor, depth, and nuance to her performances. Her dedication to storytelling and her advocacy for self-awareness make her a standout voice in musical theater.


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    20 December 2024, 5:08 pm
  • 52 minutes
    Ep367 - Anna K. Jacobs: Evangelical Teens, Andy Warhol, and Live Action Moana

    Broadway and beyond, Anna K. Jacobs is creating waves in musical theatre. A Sydney-born composer, lyricist, and educator, Anna's storytelling prowess shines through her diverse works, from the live-action adaptation of Moana for Disney Cruise Line to the boundary-pushing Teeth, a horror musical exploring ideology, faith, and desire. With a foundation in classical composition and a career built through bold experimentation, Anna’s journey is as inspiring as it is unique.

    In this episode, Anna dives deep into her creative process, her collaboration with talents like Michael R. Jackson, and the evolution of her musicals, including her experiences developing Teeth amidst a cultural shift. She also discusses her impactful work as an educator, her journey from Sydney to New York, and her upcoming performance at 54 Below, where she'll premiere songs from her new musical, A House Without Windows. Whether it's crafting larger-than-life stories or inspiring young artists, Anna’s artistry and passion for innovation stand out in today’s theater landscape.

    Anna K. Jacobs is a celebrated composer, lyricist, and educator originally from Sydney, Australia. Her works include Teeth (co-written with Michael R. Jackson), Pop (a murder mystery about Andy Warhol), and the live-action stage adaptation of Moana for Disney Cruise Line. A recipient of the Jonathan Larson and Billy Burke Ziegfeld Awards, she is an alumna of NYU’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program and a mentor to emerging artists through the New York Youth Symphony and The New School. Anna’s vibrant, daring approach to musical storytelling continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

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    17 December 2024, 8:00 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    Ep366 - Grey Henson: Playing with the Freedom in the Framework

    Tony-nominated actor Grey Henson joins Alan for an engaging conversation about his journey through the world of Broadway comedy. Grey reflects on his rise from a Georgia-born performer with a background in ballet to a Tony-nominated role as Damian Hubbard in Mean Girls: The Musical. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning into comedic roles, including his current portrayal of Buddy the Elf in Elf: The Musical on Broadway. Grey shares the importance of embracing your unique qualities and how his comedic style evolved through his experiences in high school theater, college at Carnegie Mellon, and professional work.

    Throughout the episode, Grey discusses the impact of comedy on his career and the importance of balancing preparation with spontaneity. He talks about his time in Shucked, a show that required him to be constantly aware of the audience's reactions and how that shaped his performance. The conversation also touches on his thoughts on comedy in general—how it should feel effortless and truthful rather than forced—and how he brings that mentality into every role, from Mean Girls to Elf. Grey also dives into the reality of performing eight shows a week, the pressures of portraying iconic characters, and how the key to a long career in theater is remaining grounded and generous to your scene partners.

    Grey Henson is a Tony-nominated actor best known for his comedic roles on Broadway. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon’s prestigious School of Drama, Grey first made a name for himself as Elder McKinley in the Book of Mormon first national tour before joining the Broadway company. He later earned a Tony Award nomination for his standout performance as Damian Hubbard in Mean Girls: The Musical. Grey has also appeared in Shucked, playing Storyteller Two, and most recently, he’s been bringing holiday cheer as Buddy the Elf in Elf: The Musical on Broadway.


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    13 December 2024, 8:00 am
  • 56 minutes 54 seconds
    Ep365 - Jennifer Ashley Tepper: Preserving the Past, Shaping Broadway’s Future

    Jennifer Ashley Tepper, a celebrated Broadway historian, producer, and author, joins Alan for an inspiring conversation about preserving theater history and amplifying untold stories. As the programming director at 54 Below, Jennifer has curated over 7,000 performances, and her work as the author of The Untold Stories of Broadway series and her latest book, Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That the History Books Left Out, has cemented her as a vital voice in the theater community.

    In this episode, Jennifer shares her passion for uncovering the forgotten corners of Broadway’s past, including musicals that never made it into the spotlight and the enduring impact of cast recordings on theater history. She also discusses the fascinating research process behind her new book, which spans centuries of contributions from female musical theater writers, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women shaping the art form. With insights on how Broadway can embrace a more inclusive future, this conversation is a must-listen for theater enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

    Jennifer Ashley Tepper is a Broadway historian, producer, and author. She has served as the creative and programming director at 54 Below, curating over 7,000 performances. She is the author of The Untold Stories of Broadway book series and Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That History Books Left Out. Her producing credits include Be More Chill, Broadway Bounty Hunter, Love in Hate Nation, The Jonathan Larson Project, and the revival of Godspell. She has also worked on [title of show] and her projects have been featured in outlets such as Broadway Podcast Network, The New York Times and TheaterMania.


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    10 December 2024, 8:00 am
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