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The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

Alan Seales & Broadway Podcast Network

Intimate, personal conversations with theatre’s biggest talents.

  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    Ep361 - Cheyenne Jackson: Sobriety, Stages, and Super Dad Duties

    Buckle up for a deep dive into Cheyenne's journey from humble beginnings in Washington State to becoming a Broadway star, TV favorite, and proud father. From his breakout role in All Shook Up to his stints on 30 Rock and American Horror Story, Cheyenne reflects on the unexpected twists that shaped his career, like a chance encounter with Tina Fey that landed him a role on 30 Rock. He shares candidly about the challenges of growing up in a religious, conservative environment and coming to terms with his identity, along with his battles with sobriety.

    Throughout the conversation, Cheyenne reveals his love for storytelling, opening up about tough career choices, including the emotional trade-offs between stage and screen work. With humor and heart, he talks about the joys and demands of being a father to twins, balancing an eight-show week, and why his children still don’t quite understand his fame. Wrapping up, he shares advice for aspiring performers: follow your dreams only if it’s the first and last thing on your mind every day.

    Cheyenne Jackson is a multi-talented performer known for his roles across Broadway, film, and TV. His Broadway highlights include All Shook Up, Xanadu, and Into the Woods, while TV fans know him from Glee, 30 Rock, and American Horror Story. Offstage, Cheyenne is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a devoted father. He is currently starring in La Cage aux Folles at Pasadena Playhouse.


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    12 November 2024, 8:00 am
  • 34 minutes 3 seconds
    BONUS - Nicole Scherzinger, Mandy Gonzalez, JoJo and More: LIVE From the SUNSET BLVD Opening Night Red Carpet

    Get ready for an all-access pass to Broadway’s brightest stars in this special bonus episode. Join host Salisha Thomas as she takes us onto the red carpet for the highly anticipated opening night of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway, captured live for The Broadway Exclusive.

    In this episode, Salisha catches up with cast members, creatives, and some surprise guests, delivering fun interviews full of behind-the-scenes insights, opening night energy, and advice for aspiring performers. From star-studded moments to career reflections, this episode perfectly captures the magic of a Broadway premiere.

    If you love the excitement of red carpets and the charm Salisha brings to every conversation, this one’s for you!


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    5 November 2024, 8:00 am
  • 1 hour 58 seconds
    Ep360 - Meghan Finn: Winning $200k to Disrupt the Broadway Industry

    Meghan Finn is leading the charge to reshape New York City’s theater landscape. As the artistic director of The Tank, she champions affordable access to creative spaces and amplifies new voices in the arts. Recently awarded the prestigious David Prize for her innovative ideas, Meghan is determined to revitalize theater by developing sustainable financial models and creating more venues to foster emerging talent. Her vision addresses the pressing challenges of rising production costs, theater closures, and the need for equitable opportunities.

    In this episode, Meghan reflects on her journey from Ann Arbor, Michigan to becoming a pivotal figure in New York’s cultural ecosystem. She discusses her work with The Tank, including the challenges of managing a nonprofit theater and the success of revenue-sharing models that have allowed artists to thrive even amidst adversity. Meghan also shares insights on the intersection of art, advocacy, and accessibility, emphasizing the importance of nurturing new talent to keep theater vibrant for future generations.


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    29 October 2024, 7:00 am
  • 53 minutes 19 seconds
    Ep359 - Aurin Squire: From Journalism to Jazz Hands

    Aurin Squire’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing unexpected opportunities. Originally on the path to journalism, a paperwork mix-up in college led him into the world of film and theater. That detour launched him into a multi-faceted career as a writer, producer, and playwright. From producing hit TV shows like This Is Us, The Good Fight, and Evil, to contributing articles to outlets like the Chicago Tribune and ESPN, Aurin has honed his storytelling craft across various mediums. Now, he’s set to make his Broadway debut as the book writer of A Wonderful World, the new Louis Armstrong musical opening November 11 at Studio 54.

    In this conversation, Aurin reflects on the blend of chaos and order in producing for TV versus theater, highlighting how each medium shapes his creative process. He discusses how his Miami upbringing, surrounded by diverse communities, deeply influenced his voice as a writer. Aurin also touches on his passion for telling complex stories through race, identity, and history. Whether he’s sharing how Armstrong’s four wives shaped the musical’s structure or offering advice on following uncomfortable opportunities, Aurin’s insights are both inspiring and practical.


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    22 October 2024, 7:00 am
  • 37 minutes 5 seconds
    Ep358 - Helen J. Shen: Finding Humanity Playing Robots on Broadway

    Rising star Helen J. Shen, who is making her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending opposite Darren Criss, dives into her journey from a classical piano prodigy to a Broadway performer, reflecting on the intense years of piano competitions and how those skills have shaped her approach to musical theater. She shares stories from her time at the University of Michigan, where her passion for theater solidified, and talks about the thrill of playing a robot in her Broadway debut.

    Helen also opens up about the creative process behind Maybe Happy Ending and how she's putting her personal spin on a role previously staged in Korea and Asia. She reflects on what it’s like working alongside Darren Criss and the supportive environment of her team. They discuss the unique challenge of playing robots and how the production explores themes of mortality, connection, and what it means to be human.

    Helen J. Shen is an actor, musician, and writer. Before her Broadway debut in Maybe Happy Ending, she starred in The Lonely Few at MCC Theater and captivated audiences in Teeth at Playwrights Horizons. Her regional credits include Man of God at Williamstown Theater Festival and Sunset Boulevard at ACT of Connecticut.


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    15 October 2024, 7:00 am
  • 50 minutes 21 seconds
    Ep357 - Gavin Creel (from the vault)

    Originally aired as episode 169 on October 22, 2021.

    Gavin Creel is an actor, singer and songwriter who received a Tony Award for his performance as Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!, starring Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce. He made his Broadway debut originating the role of Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie, for which he received his first Tony Award nomination, and has additional Broadway credits that include La Cage aux Folles, She Loves Me, Mary Poppins, Waitress, and Hair, which earned him his second Tony Award nomination. Gavin originated the role of Elder Price in the West End production of Book of Mormon (earning an Olivier Award), and reprised the role on Broadway and the US National Tour. On television he co-starred alongside Julie Andrews in ABC’s Eloise at the Plaza and Eloise at Christmastime, and stars in Ryan Murphy's new spin off American Horror Stories.

    From conservative Ohio, to the lights of Broadway, Gavin is a proud member of the theatre community, but also talks candidly about the mental, physical and emotional toll of a life on the stage. He reflects on the last few years through the pandemic, how he went “inward” in a way he never has before, and opens up about the ways in which therapy - “unconditional acceptance” and support - have helped him. Gavin talks about using his voice to support activists/activism, and shares the story of his involvement in getting the green light for the Broadway’s Hair to miss a show and join the National Equality March in Washington, D.C in 2009. He also chats about the history of Broadway Bares, and the magic of “I Put A Spell On You: The Sanderson Variant”. 

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    11 October 2024, 7:00 am
  • 48 minutes 30 seconds
    Ep356 - Chad Beguelin: The Journey Behind the Lyrics and 'Showmance', a New Novel

    Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony Award-nominated book writer and lyricist, whose name is synonymous with Broadway hits like The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. From his humble beginnings in a small town where he fell in love with theater to becoming a key figure behind some of Broadway’s biggest productions, Chad shares his remarkable journey. He takes us behind the scenes of his latest creative venture, a novel called Showmance, giving us a glimpse into the challenges of transitioning from writing musicals to penning fiction. With parallels to his own life, Showmance follows a struggling Broadway writer navigating the highs and lows of theater life.

    Chad opens up about the resilience it takes to thrive in show business, recounting career-defining moments like the crushing reviews of his early work and the ultimate triumph of Aladdin on Broadway. He also discusses the collaborative process of writing for musicals versus novels and shares advice for aspiring writers and theater professionals. Whether you're a fan of his Broadway musicals or curious about the world of showbiz from behind the curtain, this conversation offers something for everyone.

    Chad Beguelin is a Tony-nominated book writer and lyricist known for his work on The Prom, Disney’s Aladdin, The Wedding Singer, and Elf: The Musical. He recently made his debut as a novelist with Showmance, a witty and heartfelt story inspired by his own experiences as a Broadway writer. Chad's works have graced both stage and screen, earning critical acclaim and legions of fans. With a career marked by both creative triumphs and challenges, Chad continues to be a dynamic force in the world of theater and beyond.

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    8 October 2024, 12:10 pm
  • 50 minutes 54 seconds
    Ep355 - Sydney Lemmon: Staying Grounded and Tackling Tough Roles

    Sydney Lemmon brings her authentic charm and deep insight to this conversation, sharing her journey from growing up in an entertainment family to her Broadway role in the thought-provoking play JOB. With an impressive background that includes rigorous training at the Yale School of Drama and roles in hit shows like Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession, Sydney opens up about the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in acting. She offers a candid look at how she balances the demands of heavy roles, the importance of self-care routines, and the role mentors have played in shaping her path. Her dedication to her craft shines through as she shares advice for aspiring performers about staying committed and following their passion.

    We dive deep into what it means to stay grounded while navigating the highs and lows of a performer's life. Sydney’s genuine approach to handling intense roles, coupled with her light-hearted love for reality TV, makes her journey relatable and inspiring. She reminds us that while the road may be tough, it’s filled with unexpected moments of joy, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you're looking for insight into the acting world or simply want to be inspired by someone who’s living her dream, this episode has something for you.

    Sydney Lemmon is a talented actress with a rich background in both stage and screen. She earned her master's degree from the Yale School of Drama, where she was the recipient of the Julie Harris Scholarship. Sydney made her Broadway debut alongside Uma Thurman in The Parisian Woman and has captivated audiences with roles in Fear the Walking Dead, Hellstrom, and Succession. As a singer and guitarist, she also writes music with her brother, actor Jon Lemmon. Currently, she stars in the provocative Broadway play Job, which has been extended through October 27th.

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    1 October 2024, 7:00 am
  • 1 hour 1 minute
    Ep354 - Miranda Ferriss Jones: Breaking Binaries and Finding Harmony

    Miranda Ferriss Jones brings a refreshing blend of storytelling, activism, and creativity to this episode. With her upcoming concert, Spiral Bound, she discusses her passion for challenging societal binaries and feminine identity through her music and performances. We dive deep into how her upbringing in Vermont, with a Black father and a white mother, shaped her perspective and inspired her to explore themes of race, gender, and identity in her work. Miranda also opens up about her experience with ADHD, and how it fuels her creativity, helping her balance multiple projects, motherhood, and her commitment to activism.

    Miranda's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of being true to oneself. She shares the story of how her father's passion for jazz and her mother's love for Motown influenced her artistic path, and how her work continues to be rooted in her lived experiences and the desire to see positive change in the world. Tune in to hear about her activism, her thoughts on societal binaries, and the inspiration behind Spiral Bound.

    Miranda Ferriss Jones is a Vermont-born songwriter, theatrical storyteller, performer, and creativity/vocal coach whose work explores feminine identity and challenges societal binaries. She has four shows in development, including The Precipice, which received support from Bob Weir and was workshopped at Williamstown with Laura Benanti, who is also a creative producer on Miranda's song cycle Spiral Bound. Her other works include Edmonia, gearing up for a spring workshop, and Showing Up, which had readings at Middlebury College and Princeton University. As a mother of two and wife to Ben, Miranda embodies the multifaceted journey of an artist committed to crafting stories that challenge and inspire.


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    27 September 2024, 7:00 am
  • 1 hour 12 minutes
    Ep353 - Laura Benanti: Will The Real Melania Trump Please Stand Up

    This heartfelt episode features the multi-talented Laura Benanti, a Tony Award-winning actress known for her unforgettable performances on Broadway and TV. From her powerful roles in Gypsy and My Fair Lady to her hilarious portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Laura shares the ups and downs of her diverse career. This conversation goes deep as Laura opens up about the challenges of balancing motherhood and a thriving career, her struggles with postpartum depression, and how becoming a parent has shaped her approach to acting.

    Beyond the stage and screen, Laura is a dedicated activist, working with theater maker Miranda Ferris Jones to present benefit concerts in support of political and social causes. A mother of two, Laura speaks openly about the struggles and joys of balancing parenthood with her career, and how these experiences have made her a more empathetic and dynamic performer.

    Laura Benanti is a Tony Award-winning actress with an illustrious career that spans Broadway, TV, and film. Known for her roles in Gypsy, She Loves Me, and My Fair Lady, Laura has captivated audiences with her stunning vocal range and emotional depth. On TV, she's appeared in series such as Younger, Supergirl, and The Good Fight, while her portrayal of Melania Trump on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has brought her comedic talents to a whole new audience.


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    22 September 2024, 7:00 am
  • 55 minutes
    Ep352 - Roger Bart: Going the Distance with Doc Brown and Beyond!

    We dive deep into the incredible career of Roger Bart, a Tony Award-winning actor who has brought iconic characters to life on both stage and screen. Currently starring as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, Roger shares his journey with us, from his early Broadway debut in Big River to his voice work as young Hercules in Disney's animated classic.

    Roger reflects on his career highlights, including his award-winning role as Snoopy in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, working with Mel Brooks in The Producers and Young Frankenstein, and his memorable TV roles in Desperate Housewives and Revenge. He offers fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his time developing Back to the Future from its early days in Europe to its current run on Broadway, touching on the challenges of portraying Doc Brown and how he brings his unique comedic flair to the role. Roger also discusses his love for comedy, the influence of Warner Bros. cartoons on his sense of humor, and how he balances broad comedic moments with genuine character depth. He offers heartfelt advice for young performers: be prepared, be kind, and don’t be afraid to make bold choices.

    Roger Bart’s passion for performing began in childhood, using his singing talent to connect with his parents and spark his love for the stage. His professional journey truly began after studying acting at Rutgers’ Mason Gross School of the Arts, where he transitioned from instinctual performing to a more profound understanding of the craft. This education laid the foundation for his wide-ranging career, where his unique blend of humor and depth has become a hallmark of his performances. His comedic style, influenced by the precise timing and structure of Warner Bros. cartoons, was refined during his collaborations with Mel Brooks in the beloved productions of The Producers and Young Frankenstein.

    Roger’s career spans both stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in Big River and won a Tony Award for his portrayal of Snoopy in the 1999 revival of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. In addition to his stage work, Roger has also left a mark on television with notable roles in Desperate Housewives, Revenge, Good Trouble, and A Series of Unfortunate Events. Film and voice work include the 2005 movie version of The Producers and voicing young Hercules in Disney’s Hercules. Currently, he stars as Doc Brown in Back to the Future: The Musical, a role that has earned him a Tony nomination and further solidified his reputation as a versatile and beloved actor.


    SPECIAL ACCESSIBLE BTTF TICKET INFO, valid on performances Sept 17 - Nov 10, 2024 only

    • Upper Level Seats from $59 (including fees)
    • Stage Level Seats from $79 (including fees)
    • Tickets are available at BackToTheFutureMusical.com, through Telecharge by calling 212-239-6200 or visiting Telecharge.com, or at the Winter Garden Theatre box office.


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    17 September 2024, 7:00 am
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