This Week: Judy Garland gets some groceries & the Wheel of Fortune lands on Kay Starr!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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A dancer’s life on Broadway can be limited, but, if you are Harvey Evans, your abilities have no boundaries. Starting with his first Broadway credit in 1957’s New Girls In Town, Harvey’s incredible resume includes the original Broadway productions of West Side Story, Redhead, Gypsy, Hello Dolly, Anyone Can Whistle, George M, Our Town, The Boyfriend, Follies, Sextet, Barnum, Sunset Boulevard, and The Scarlet Pimpernel!
Harvey pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he grew up watching Gwen Verdon dance and then became one of her most favorite dance partners, what it was like working for Bob Fosse and Jerome Robbins, and why his favorite time of day is AfterDark!
Also, Harvey shines the spotlight on Hal Prince, Henry Fonda, and Larry Kert!
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This Week: Recapping the 72nd Annual Tony Awards, celebrating a titan of musical theatre’s vocal heritage, and dusting off great dances from musicals of yesteryear!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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She might have once been a drowsy chaperone but the brilliant artist who created her, Beth Leavel, is an energetic life force whose passion for the art of musical theatre is infectious. Beth drops by Shetler Studios to sit down with Rob and Kevin and discuss her incredible career which not only boasts a Tony Award but featured her gracing the Broadway stages of such shows as 42nd Street, Crazy for You, The Civil War, Show Boat, Mamma Mia, The Drowsy Chaperone, Elf, Baby It’s You, Bandstand, and the upcoming The Prom.
Beth pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how becoming a Dame led to a Tony Award, what it was like fighting in the Civil War, and why she never encores “I’ve Got Rhythm!”
Also, Beth shines the spotlight on Casey Nicholaw, Mike Ockrent, Bobo Lewis, and many more!
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This Week: Rob, Kevin and Tony Awards historian Bryan Hobgood discuss Tony Award categories that are no longer part of the ceremony and suggest ones that should be included.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This Week: Rob, Kevin and Tony Awards historian Bryan Hobgood grab their ballots and kiki about the 2017-2018 Tony Award Musical Nominations.
From a stranded band to a clump of mean girls to a sponge fighting a volcano to frozen princesses, from Eliza Doolittle to Carrie Pipperidge, all things musical are discussed, disected, and debated in this week’s episode!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This Week: Individuals, and shows, who should have been nominated for the 2017-2018 Tony Award nominations.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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Rob, Kevin, and Tony Awards historian Bryan Hobgood all sit down with their ballots and review the 2017-2018 Best Play Tony Award nominations.
From Uma Thurman to Glenda Jackson, from Marvin’s Room to The Iceman Cometh, and everything in between, all of the highs and lows, are thorughly discussed and explored before the winners are announced!
The Tony Awards will be on CBS on Sunday, June 10th, at 8:00pm EST.
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This Week: Saying goodbye to Patricia Morison, the new Gwen Verdon documentary, Rob explores Boston, Maltby and Shire become the heroes of all BFAs, and a public access show gives us a glimpse into days gone by.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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The sun won’t come out tomorrow because it is here now and its name is Conrad John Schuck. One of the entertainment industry’s most recognizable character actors, whose on screen credits include MASH, McMillan & Wife, Star Trek, and The Golden Girls (Gil Kessler for Mayor), Conrad first got started on stage as a resident player at ACT which was then followed by countless theatre credits, most notably as Daddy Warbucks in Annie, for which he currently holds the record as the actor who has played that role the most!
Conrad pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he became a legendary part of cinema history, what it was like sharing the stage with Madeline Kahn, and why the 1997 revival of Annie led to one of Broadway’s most epic firings!
Also, Conrad shines the spotlight on Robert Altman, Rue McClanahan, and Charles Nelson Reilly!
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This Week: Rob has a wicked good time in Boston, sending love to Ruthie Ann Miles, revisiting Me and My Girl, Encores’ announces its 26th Season, Big Fish deals with Big Bigots, the joys of musical theatre performance in Culver City, and Kander and Ebb revive Dinah Shore.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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In January of 2017, Rob and Kevin sat down with two time Tony Award winner Helen Gallagher to discuss her incredible life and career. If you are a listener of the podcast you will know that a virus erased the entire interview.
But, through the sheer kindness of Ms. Gallagher, Rob and Kevin got a second chance to interview her. So, without further ado, here is that interview:
You can dance with any girl at all but why would you when the lovely Helen Gallagher is right here and ready to look back on her amazing journey which includes the original productions of Billion Dollar Baby, Brigadoon, High Button Shoes, the 1952 Pal Joey (for which she won a Tony Award), Make a Wish, Hazel Flagg, The Pajama Game, Sweet Charity, and the 1971 No, No, Nanette for which she won her second Tony Awards.
Helen pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she won over Agnes DeMille, what it was like sharing a dressing room with Elaine Stritch, and why she went from refusing Sweet Charity to getting a Tony nomination!
Also, Helen shines the spotlight on Cole Porter, Benny Goodman, Nanette Fabray, Gwen Verdon, and Bobby Van!
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This Week: Rob discusses The Iceman Cometh with Denzel Washington, The York Theatre’s Unexpected Joy, The Boys in the Band, the importance of Mart Crowley, Rob and Kevin appear on Sashay Away with Barry, Rob debuts his new impression of Old Lucy, the world of Kurt Weill, Sasha Velour goes to the Weimar, Bea Arthur loves a declaration, an exploration of directors and their craft.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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For over forty years, Jim Morgan has been one of the most recognizable names in the New York theatre. For twenty years, Jim has served as the the artistic director of the acclaimed Off-Broadway theater company, The York Theatre. And, for twenty years before that, he was one of their most trusted set designers. Jim’s eye for taste and talent has led to some of Off-Broadway’s most recent hits including The Musical of Musicals: The Musical, Cagney, Desperate Measures, Souvenir, and Enter Laughing, as well as cultivating the Musicals in Mufti series which gave audiences second looks at The Grass Harp, Grind, The Grand Tour, Regina, and 100 more.
Jim pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how a job interview led to a thirty plus years of employment, what it was like doing Sweeney Todd on a basketball court, and why an incognito Sondheim always gets recognized!
Also, Jim shines the spotlight on Janet Hayes Walker, Sheldon Harnick, and the great team of Jones and Schmidt!
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This Week: Mispronunciations at the Tony noms, The Tony Award Best Ensemble, the Gypsy Robe gets a new name, Sierra Boggess leaves the West Side, To Kill A Mockingbird goes to Court, Moss Hart captures life upon the wicked stage, and Faith Prince rides a mule!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Are you willing to ride? If so, then you will get to hear the enchanting Tony Award winner Karen Ziemba look back on her incredible career which includes show stealing turns in And The World Goes Round, Crazy For You, Steel Pier, Contact, Curtains, The Prince of Broadway, and so many more!
Karen pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how she became a muse for John Kander and Fred Ebb, what it was like being in the room with Michael Bennett, Jerome Robbins, and Bob Fosse, and why selling programs at the Kenley Players was a highlight of her youth!
Also, Karen shines the spotlight on Bill Irwin, Hal Prince, and, of course, Susan Stroman!
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This Week: Amy Sedaris goes after Michael Riedel & Kevin shares an important message.
This week’s episode is dedicated to Floyd Thomas.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
The wry, witty, and sophisticated Tony nominee Jane Summerhays swings by Shetler Studios to look back on her incredible career in such musicals as A Chorus Line, Me and My Girl (for which she was nominated for the Tony), Lend Me A Tenor, The Wild Party, and what it was like to learn from artists like Barbara Cook, Wally Harper, and Mabel Mercer.
Jane pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she fled Utah, what it was like inhabiting the role of Sheila Bryant from A Chorus Line, and why Mickey Rooney and Ann Miller were her best teachers.
Also, Jane shines the spotlight on George C. Wolfe, Eartha Kitt, and Michael Bennett
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This Week: The genius of “Give Me Fat Boy’s Famous Arrow,” holograms of Cassie and Sheila, altering original staging, Kevin throws some Dolly shade, Whatever Happened To Baby Vanjie, a Better sing along, revisiting The Madwoman of Central Park West, Rob sings a solo, Wakefield Poole makes Broadway history, how a porno funded A Chorus Line, Sondheim goes for a walk in the woods, James Lapine buys an armchair, and Lil Marty stars in Anyone Can Whistle Jr.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
At 94 years old, Tony Award winner Seymour Red Press is one of the most beloved artists working on Broadway. As a music coordinator, Seymour has helped bring to life such musicals as Dreamgirls, Nine, Once on this Island, The Light in the Piazza, Shuffle Along, Bright Star and the revivals of Gypsy, Anything Goes, Carousel, and so many more!
Seymour pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he became a side man to Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey, what it was like to duet with Patti LuPone, and why a little pressure got him the best bands at the Palace!
Also, Seymour shines the spotlight on Jule Styne, Elvis Presley, and John Kander!
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This Week: Kevin and Rob have a dialect-off, Rob redecorates, Kevin sweats it out, Rob reveals some upcoming 54 Below shows, Kevin goes to the Catskills, Rob introduces to the Kutcher Emcee, the merits of talkbacks, Nathan Lane vs. Faith Prince, Victoria Clark needs a hug, Jackie Mason tackles Rodney Dangerfield, Jackie Mason goes into Les Miz, four books that praise the National Theatre, the brilliance of Nicholas Hytner,
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Brace yourselves because the infamous Assassin of Broadway, Michael Riedel, sits down with Rob and Kevin to look back on his career and to celebrate the great legends that fascinated him when he first began in this business. Michael also discusses his incredible book, Razzle Dazzle: The Battle For Broadway, which is required reading for anyone who loves the theatre, plus lets loose with gossip from the Great White Way.
Michael pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he came to write Razzle Dazzle , what it means to be a modern day Walter Winchell, and why a fishbowl of napkins and matchbooks made him the most feared man on Broadway.
Also, Michael shines the spotlight on a sweaty Alan Rickman, an outrageous Dorothy Loudon, and a supportive Gerald Schoenfeld!
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This Week: Merman becomes a critic, discussing the new Angles in America, praising Andrew Garfield, Nathan Lane takes on Peter Sellars, Stritch goes multi-cam, Lucy plays Dolly, Madeline Kahn takes a walk, Elaine conquers the West End, the legacy of Elaine Stritch, accentuating the positive, being on the line (for real), how a revival comes to life, the A Chorus Line legacy, the secret passageways of Broadway, loving Michael Bennett, Freddie Martinez makes a comeback, and Rob brings out new impressions.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Two-time Tony Award winning orchestrator, Michael Starobin, swings by Shetler Studios to discuss his illustrious career with Rob and Kevin. As an orchestrator, Michael created those magical charts for such shows as Sunday in the Park with George, Falsettos, the 1992 Guys and Dolls revival, Next to Normal, Once on this Island, Legs Diamond, Carrie, Romance/Romance, and Rags!
Michael pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he discovered the world of orchestrating, what film composers are his favorites, and why Carrie would’ve been a big hit in Athens!
Also, Michael shines the spotlight on Stephen Sondheim, Tom Kitt, and Bill Finn!
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This Week: Kevin has sound issues, Rob and Kevin go to Encores’ Grand Hotel, the brilliance of Josh Rhodes, Anita Gillette sings the lullaby of Birdland, Tommy Tune reinvents a a forgotten musical, celebrating David James Carroll, the history of At The Grand, was Kismet really a hit, Goulet gets dissed, Joan Deiner Diner, the 1989-1990 musical season, the infamous Grand Hotel commercial, Michael Jeter’s brilliance, Tommy Tune Types a Tell All, Mae West gets fired from Sephora, and NYC’s sketchiest hotel.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
What happens when you put three obsessive fans of the American Songbook into the same room? Well, you get this week’s episode with acclaimed author and champion of the great American Songbook, Deborah Grace Winer. Deborah’s passion not only extends into the literary world, where she wrote Sing Out Louise: 150 Stars of the Musical Theatre Remember 50 Years of Broadway, The Night and the Music: Rosemary Clooney, Barbara Cook and Julie Wilson Inside the World of Cabaret, and On the Sunny Side of the Street: The Life and Lyrics of Dorothy Fields, she served for ten years as the Artistic Director of the 92nd Street Y’s Lyrics and Lyricists Series and is now the Artistic Director of the Classic American Songbook Series at Feinstein’s/54 Belo.
Deborah pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she first became enamored of the American songbook while her contemporaries were rocking out to The Beatles, what it was like rubbing elbows with Betty Comden and Rosemary Clooney, and why Elaine Stritch never met a fruit she didn’t like!
Also, Deborah shines the spotlight on Dorothy Fields, Paul Newman, and Sheldon Harnick!
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This Week: Evan Hansen needs to do laundry, debating the baseball glove song, Rob’s new shower playlist, Rob toots his horn, directorial tips from Susan H Schulman, James Lipton returns, Savage AF with actors, Rob defends directors, the celebration of British theatre, connecting global audiences, Audra McDonald needs some rain, JAY Records and John Yap return, and celebrating Jones & Schmidt.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
On January 29th, 2018, we lost our 37th guest, Rick McKay.
We always wanted Rick as a guest but we didn’t put him at the top of our list because he was so young and we thought “Oh, we got plenty of time.” Well, to paraphrase The Secret Garden, how could we ever know?
Rick was one of our show’s biggest supporters and immediately ingratiated himself to us when he opened our studio door and said “Now, which one of you loves Joyce DeWitt?”
His work on Broadway The Golden Age is astounding and we so hope we will one day see what Rick had in store for the second and third part of his trilogy.
In his honor, we have reposted our interview with him, which was conducted in October of 2016.
We send our love to his siblings Stephen, Linda, Sandy, Stacie and Hope.
This Week: Bombshell Bernadette, revisiting Broadway commercials, Betty Bacall stars in Get Out, the reality of commercials, Kevin reveals his favorite summer stock role, Rob recounts his community theatre roles prior to the era of political correctness, recounting The York Theatre’s Musicals in Mufti, the comedy team of Charles Nelson Reilly & Robert Morse, a Golden Age KiKi, Kevin hordes his records,celebrating a building, a home for diversity, the kindness of Irving Berlin, Bea Arthur sings “What’ll I Do,” the logic of George M. Cohan, seeking the demo of Rainbow Jones, contemplating In My Life, and the world of Charles Nelson Reilly.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Lift up your head, wash off your mascara, and get ready to be entertained by the original Seymour from Little Shop of Horrors, Tony nominee Lee Wilkof. While audiences are familiar with Lee’s counltess stage appearances in such shows as Little Shop of Horrors with Ellen Greene, Sweet Charity with Debbie Allen, Assassins with Victor Garber, She Loves Me with Boyd Gaines, Kiss Me Kate with Brian Stokes Mitchell, The Odd Couple with Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick, Lee is also a familiar face on screen having appeared in Delta House, Law & Order, Private Parts, and Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead and, behind the camera, as the director of the fabulous No Pay, Nudity.
Lee pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how his performance as Seymour won him a trip down the aisle, what it was like collaborating with Howard Ashman, and why Brushing Up His Shakespeare led him to tears and a Tony nomination!
Also, Lee shines the spotlight on Nathan Lane, Kathleen Marshall, and Norman Lear!
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This Week: A new Favorite Things theme song? A “Change” medley. A Broadway Kiki. Kevin gets outed for his love of RuPaul’s Drag Race. Shout-out to Bubba’s on Ditmars. Kevin’s enthusiasm for Lip Synching for their lives. Alexis Michelle and the wonderful Broadway Match Game at Feinstein’s/54 Below. How do revivals alter their texts to fit modern sensibilities? What topics have musical theatre not tackled? Things get a bit political. The love of reference books. The brilliance of Steven Suskin. Rob’s Frat Bro comes back. Taking a look back at Encores’ Hey, Look Me Over! Kevin outs Rob for his secret love of Lucy. Lucy Ricardo strikes oil. Fred Mertz makes an appearance. In praise of Lucille Ball and Leaning In.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Rob and Kevin are back for another round with one of the most celebrated choreographers of the 1970s, Larry Fuller. Joining us via phone from his new home in Palm Springs, California, Larry looks back on choreographing the original productions of Hal Prince’s A Little Night Music (film), On The 20th Century, Sweeney Todd, Evita, Merrily We Roll Along, and A Doll’s Life.
Larry pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he calmed the nerves of the First Lady of Argentina, what it was like jumping into the world of Merrily We Roll Along, and why he is excited to revisit his works.
Also, Larry shines the spotlight on Mandy Patinkin, Patti LuPone, and Ron Fields!
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This Week: Happy Birthday, Robert! Robert’s birthday hallucinations. Bergman’s moody movies. A plug for the brilliance of Film Forum. Looking at The New Group’s Jerry Springer: The Opera. When does John Rando sleep? The prophetic nature of Jerry Springer. Where is The Princess Bride musical? Praising Adam Guettel. The Light In The Piazza. Celebrating the life of Nanette Fabray. Advocation in the Arts. Ed Sullivan makes a mistake. Beethoven underscores The King of Comedy. Before DeafWest, there was Nanette Fabray. Yente the Matchmaker meets Nanette. And a very special Elaine Epilogue.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Grab your good friend Sweeney and snag a comfy seat on the 20th Century as Rob and Kevin speak to one of the most celebrated choreographers of the 1970s, Larry Fuller. Joining us via phone from his new home in Palm Springs, California, Larry looks back on a career that included appearances in the original productions of The Music Man, Donnybrook, Kean, Bravo Giovanni, and Funny Girl, plus choreographing the original productions of Hal Prince’s A Little Night Music (film), On The 20th Century, Sweeney Todd, Evita, Merrily We Roll Along, and A Doll’s Life.
Larry pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he assisted the late, great Carol Haney, what it was like creating dance steps for the First Lady of Argentina and Che Guevera, and why a trip to Europe launched his career.
Also, Larry shines the spotlight on Barbra Streisand, Patti LuPone, and Madeline Kahn!
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This Week: Kevin busts out some Le Jazz Hot, the output of Frank Loesser, Rob challenges with some Pleasures and Palaces, looking at “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”, political correctness in theatre, the Al Jolson of the Senior Circuit, celebrating under-appreciated Kander and Ebb, Liza wants to be serious, George Costanza skates, the man behind “Once Upon A Time”, the world of character actors, the dedication to craft, and why character actors have the best careers.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Let us all say Solla Sollew because three-time Tony nominee Kevin Chamberlin swings by Shetler Studios to look back on a varied career that includes the Broadway productions of My Favorite Year, Seussical, Dirty Blonde, The Addams Family, Triumph of Love, Disaster, and the hit Disney television show Jessie.
Kevin pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he was busted as a wee lad for bootlegging, what it was like creating the roles of Horton and Fester in two of high school’s most produced musicals, and why he loves developing new works!
Also, Kevin shines the spotlight on Nathan Lane, Ahrens and Flaherty, and Detective Beth Fowler!
A big thanks to listener/brilliant artist Ray Kampf who set up this interview. Check out his work here: http://raykampf.com
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This Week: Kevin takes a break, Rob goes to Palm Springs, the reenactment of Charlotte Rae, Professor Rob Explains Live TV Dramas, Chinese gravestones….yes, Chinese gravestones, the pop-opera that came and went, celebrating Paul Gordon, when tech holds down a process, Alanis Morissette wants to be David Merrick, The Curse Of The Show Boat Overture, The Emcee tries to disappear, and Pizza and Showtunes!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
We’re gonna whomp, and stomp, and whoop it up all night with the legendary director/choreographer Jeff Calhoun. From his days as a hoofer in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, My One and Only, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas film, to helming the Broadway revivals of Grease, DeafWest’s Big River, Jekyll and Hyde and the original Broadway companies of Brooklyn, Bonnie and Clyde, and Newsies, Jeff tells all to Rob and Kevin.
Jeff pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he befriended Tommy Tune, what it was like documenting the life of the infamous John Kenley, and why Grease ’94 started with a sock-hop!
Also, Jeff shines the spotlight on Dolly Parton, Laura Osnes, and Frank Wildhorn!
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This Week: Back to the firing of Annie, Rob tries a Barbara Walters impression, Life After Annie, discussing the original Effie, a celebration of Nell Carter, the joys of opting down, Kevin jaunts to gay Paree, Rob’s Cole Porter lullaby, Hal Prince and his hands on direction and Elaine Stritch needs a hand, the brilliance of Dean Jones, how the art of direction has changed, an original Company cast member throws some shade at John Doyle, the brilliance of NT Live, the merits of the new Follies with Imelda Staunton, the inspiration of BC/EFA, a coffee table book and its potent imagery, the Emcee comes to life, Lilias White lives her best life, and Helen Hayes’ heroes.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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It Takes Two…well, almost two…… glorious hours to look back on the career of Broadway’s favorite neurotic, Chip Zien. One of entertainment’s most recognizable character actors sits down with Rob and Kevin to discuss his collaborations with Stephen Sondheim, Bill Finn, James Lapine, and what it was like to create such roles as Falsetto’s Marvin AND Dr. Mendel, and Into The Woods’ The Baker.
Chip pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how a lunch break from a shoe store led to his big break, what it was like meeting Bill Finn for the first time, and why he really wants to go to ComicCon!
Also, Chip shines the spotlight on Dustin Hoffman, Joanna Gleason, Mike Nichols, and Howard the Duck!
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This Week: Kevin goes In Transit, the kindness of Bobby and Kristen Lopez, impromptu Frozen karaoke, Rob discusses the Feinstein’s/54 Below reunion concert of Memphis with Chad Kimball, some Dear Evan Hansen surprises at 54 Celebrates The Music Box, Rockabye Hamlet returns, the 50th Anniversary celebration of The Happy Time, Kevin goes down under….again, the brilliance of Chris Lilley, Annie and Sandy get fired, Andrea McArdle pulls no punches, the new Miss Hannigan number, Kevin’s greatest punchline, and Barbara Walters is shady.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Come spend a moment in the woods with one of Broadway’s finest artists, Joanna Gleason, who not only won a Tony Award for her magnificent portrayal of The Baker’s Wife in Into The Woods, but also starred in such Broadway hits as I Love My Wife, Social Security, and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. Joanna’s career is not just limited to the theatre as she has appeared in dozens and dozens of film and television works including Boogie Nights, The West Wing, Crimes and Misdemeanors, Hannah and Her Sisters, Hello, Larry, and more!
Joanna pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how every night she paid tribute to her I Love My Wife costar Lenny Baker in Into the Woods, what it was like being in a rehearsal room with Mike Nichols , and why Joanna returned to the well-known disaster Nick and Nora after twenty years!
Also, Joanna shines the spotlight on Arthur Laurents, John Spencer, and Stephen Sondheim
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This Week: Rob creates a new character- Kyle, the Straight Guy Who Doesn’t Understand Musicals, Kevin makes a Super Bowl pick, Encores! Off-Center Series, the joys of local orchestras, debating the merits of Songs for a New World, Parisian musicality, Off-Broadway’s beautiful landscape, David Bowie’s favorite musical theatre album, alternative Newsies casting, the unknown Johnny Mercer musical, The Prince of Broadway buys a typewriter, observations on the future of theatre from 1974, and a glimpse into the world of Hal Prince.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Brush Up Your Marshall because we have three time Tony Award winning director and choreographer, Kathleen Marshall, to discuss all things theatre, dance, and musical theatre history! From an actress in the chorus of the Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera to associate choreographer, from reality TV show judge to Artistic Director, Kathleen has held every job imaginable and is still raring to do more! Her Broadway credits include Kiss Me Kate, Wonderful Town, Grease, Nice Work If You Can Get It, and so many more!
Kathleen pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she and her brother, Rob, fell in love with the business living in Pittsburgh, PA, what it was like to bring a contemporary lens to Golden Age musicals, and why her first Broadway visit involved strippers and animals chilling in a hotel room.
Also, Kathleen shines the spotlight on Michael Blakemore, Hal Prince, Chita Rivera, Graciela Daniele, and Donna Murphy!
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This Week: Wave your little hand and say Hello, Skipper because the expert on all things Dolly, Richard Skipper, swings by Shetler Studios to celebrate Dolly, both Carols (Channing and Burnett), and look back on the career of Ms. Channing and to reveal what he is planning for Richard Skipper Celebrates Carol Channing’s 97th Birthday at The Laurie Beechman on January 31st, 2018, at 8pm.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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Company. Sweeney Todd. Merril We Roll Along. 42nd Street. La Cage Aux Folles. Those original cast recordings, and so many others, were produced by the 12 time Grammy Award winning producer who revolutionized how a cast album gets produced, Thomas Z. Shepard. A protege of the great Goddard Lieberson, Thomas walked into Columbia’s studios in 1960, and helped bring so many of our favorite original cast recordings to life.
Thomas pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he produced Stephen Sondheim’s greatest albums including the infamous Company original cast recording,, what it was like taking on the volatile David Merrick, and why Follies in Concert almost never happened!
Also, Thomas shines the spotlight on Herb Ross, Linda Lavin, Jose Menendez, and the truth behind Elaine Stritch’s “The Ladies Who Lunch!”
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This Week: The wonderful Ilana Levine of the uplifting podcast Little Known Facts, drops by Shetler Studios to discuss her show, the inspiration behind the podcast, and what it was like learning from Robert Altman, Alan Alda, Cynthia Nixon, John Slattery, Neil Simon, Kristin Chenoweth, and countless others.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
At 91, Charlotte Rae has no intentions of slowing down, as this interview will show. Charlotte began her career in Wisconsin and quickly conquered New York appearing in such musicals as Three Wishes for Jamie, The Threepenny Opera, Lil Abner, Pickwick, The Littlest Revue, and many others. Plus Charlotte was a pioneer of live television having appeared in The Philco Television Playhouse, The Colgate Comedy Hour, The DuPont Show of the Week, and many others. Now, over a crackly phone connection, Charlotte sits down with Rob for a quick chat.
Charlotte pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she discovered a new talent named Sheldon Harnick, what it was like going to school with Paul Lynde, and why Charlotte always wanted to be a serious actress.
Also, Charlotte shines the spotlight on Michael Kidd, Lotte Lenya, and Golda Meir!
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This Week: Looking back at Cole Porter’s Happy New Year. The joys of resolutions. Discussing Applause and the length of those songs. Fangirling on social media. Saraving Under The Influence. The backstage saga of Kwamina. Richard Adler and Sally Anne Howes have some “creative differences.” Party lines are not so fun. Finding a Law and Order with a laugh track. Charlotte Rae wants to love Little Miss Pioneer. Lainie Kazan gets dumped for Katherine Helmond while Jean Stapleton stands by. George S. Irving sings a solo and 142 Tickets on the Aisle.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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While 2017 was filled with so many theatrical highs (Ben Platt, The Band’s Visit, Spongebob, Bette Midler, etc), it was also a time to say good bye to some of the industry’s most beloved artists whose work made the theatre, and our world, a better place.
Rob and Kevin sit down with Broadway Royalty, Lee Roy Reams, and reflect on the passing of such legends as Barbara Cook, Mary Tyler Moore, Gemze de Lappe, Thomas Meehan, Liz Smith, Robert Guillame, and so many others.
But, in the tradition of the great Irish wakes, this episode features a lot of funny, juicy stories like Sammy Davis Jr trading in his gold chains for the Phantom mask, Joanne telling Cunegonde to take a ten, and Gomer Pyle seeking “The Impossible Dream.”
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This Week: Rob and Kevin wanna be in The Producers, discussing David Yazbeck’s The Band’s Visit, the effervescent Katrina Lenk, Spongebob Squarepants, Elaine Stritch Teaches Focus Pulling, documenting one of Broadway’s most original music, The Greatest Third Act in a Documentary, The Lost Art of Smoking & Singing, Blood Brothers, Kevin explains Instagram, Craig Burns and his love of history, obscure photos, Ben Brantley pans the gym, Insta looks back, and much more!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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What started as a dream has evolved into one of the industry’s longest-running celebrations of the history of American Musical Theatre.
To celebrate their 100th episode, Rob and Kevin get the tables turned on them and are asked to look back on Behind the Curtain: Broadway’s Living Legends by the one and only Robbie Rozelle.
Rob and Kevin reveal how they met, why they started the podcast, and what the future might hold for the show.
Plus, they reveal their favorite interviews, their most embarrassing moments, and never before heard stories about themselves and their guests.
And, of course, they debate George Furth dialogue, Goulet sings Dear Evan Hansen, Kevin’s love of RuPaul, and so much more in this hysterical retrospective.
This Week: Christmas songs vs Hanukah songs. The Heat Miser makes an appearance. The joys of Stop Motion. Rob loses the button. Kevin does an impression. Hazel wants to sing. Groucho offers some creative consulting. Shelley Winters tries to sing. Lewis Stadlen meets Groucho. Clive Barnes hits a new low. Shelley Winters hits a note. RCA walks away. Tattoo sings a solo.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
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In one of the most versatile careers on record, Richard Jay-Alexander has pretty much done it all. Starting first as a PA on Broadway, then moving his way up to stage manager, it was his collaboration with uber-producer Cameron Mackintosh where Richard really thrived, becoming the Associate Director and Executive Producer of a new show called Les Miserables. Together, they led the revolution of how a Broadway musical is produced and viewed by global audiences. As if that wasn’t enough, Richard is the foremost “diva whisperer”, having directed the concerts of Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Kristin Chenoweth, and countless others. Now, he is sitting down with Rob and Kevin to look back on it all.
Richard pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how best to create and direct a one person show, what it was like seeing Les Miserables for the first time (grab tissues for this one), and why honesty is always the best policy…..always!
Also, Richard shines the spotlight on Lea Salonga, Norm Lewis, and Bernadette Peters!
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This Week: Rob and Kevin celebrate winter, hanukah, and the lovely month of December! Plus, the holy grail of cast recordings and the burning of Rome…..Harold Rome.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
53 Broadway credits and counting. Yes, that record belongs to the incredible Jerry Adler, who is Equity’s third oldest working member. Jerry swings by Shetler Studios to discuss what it was like stage managing the original productions of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, My Fair Lady, The Apple Tree, Coco, and countless others.
Jerry pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how the first preview of My Fair Lady was one of the longest performances of his career, what it was like stage managing Katherine Hepburn , and why Jose Ferrer’s greatest performance was in his dressing room.
Also, Jerry shines the spotlight on Julie Andrews, Moss Hart, and Barbara Harris!
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This Week: The incredible Rick Skye, who has made a career of impersonating Liza Minnelli, swings by Shetler Studios to discuss his career, his show, and his fabulousness! Rick has long been a Judy/Liza fan but this episode looks back on how it all got started.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Today we are not in praise of women, but, in praise of the original Count Carl-Magnus, Laurence Guittard. One of Broadway’s greatest voices swings by Shetler Studios to discuss some of the shows Laurence has appeared, including Baker Street, Man of LaMancha, Anya, A Little Night Music, Love Match, Oklahoma, and countless others.
Laurence pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how Christopher Walken knocked out a man onstage, what it was like creating Carl Magnus, and why the son of a chocolate dynasty dedicated his life to theatre!
Also, Laurence shines the spotlight on Fritz Weaver, Richard Kiley, Stephen Sondheim, Hal Prince, and Agnes DeMille!
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This Week: Rob and Kevin chat about their Thanksgivings, when it is apporpriate to play Turkey Lurkey Time, Rob’s dad plays a trick, revisiting community theaters, the joys of teaching, nostalgia appropritate casting, and more!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
It’s not going to be a lazy afternoon when the great Golden Age musical comedy star, Kaye Ballard, sits down with Rob in her Palm Springs home to look back on her incredible career that includes the original productions of The Golden Apple, Carnival, Molly, plus Top Banana with Phil Silvers, The Mothers-in-Law with Eve Arden, Cinderella with Julie Andrews, and countless appearances on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and The Muppet Show.
Kaye pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she ended up on the cover of Life Magazine, what it was like discovering Paul Lynde, and why Kaye was saved from a life in prison by the generosity of Spike Jonze.
Also, Kaye shines the spotlight on Eve Arden, Bert Lahr, and Phil Silvers!
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This Week: Rob and Kevin have a matinee cocktail and get on the air, things get a bit dirty, Bob Fosse becomes resourceful, discovering brothers in podcasting, Kevin doesn’t cast Rob, Rob shows Bebe how to dance, newbie Mary Beth Peil, Kurt Weill loves Twinkies, Rob sings from The Visit, Rob and Kevin play their favorite theatre game and you can play too, the return of Freddie Martinez, the brilliance of David Yazbeck and The Band’s Visit, Jerry Herman needs some lyrics, the saga of Dear World, Rob wants more swag, celebrating the great articles of Filichia, Mandelbaum, Riedel, and the Broadway gossip no one knows nor no one wants to know, and Freddie Martinez does summer stock.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Come down from your balcony, Golda, because Tovah Feldshuh is sitting down with Rob and Kevin to look back on her incredible career in theatre, film, and television. Tovah dissects not only her process, but, her collaborations with countless directors, writers, and fellow actors. From Cyrano to Pippin, Sarava to Yentl, Hello, Dolly to Gypsy, Tovah takes everyone down memory lane with love and laughter.
Tovah pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she became Golda Meir, what it was like becoming Yentl, and why a spontaneous cartwheel made her a star!
Also, Tovah shines the spotlight on Christopher Plummer, Jerry Zaks, and, of course, Sarava!
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This Week: Rob and Kevin sing from Sunset Boulevard, the insanity of recitative, Rob and Kevin try to speak with the young kids, Kevin advocates for Lil Abner, the brilliance of Jones & Schmidt, how J&S really led the musical theatre revolution, the saga of Grover’s Corners, Ethel Merman plays teacher, David Merrick sings, and the brilliance of musicals within musicals.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
No one is going to rain on your parade today because the wonderful survivor of over sixty years of show business, Mimi Hines, joins Rob and Kevin for one of their most intimate and revealing interviews to date with the star of Funny Girl and countless television specials, late night talk shows, and nightclub acts.
Mimi pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she ended up replacing Barbra Streisand in Funny Girl, what it was like working in burlesque, and why she wakes up every day wanting to sing a song!
Also, Mimi shines the spotlight on Phil Ford, Ed Sullivan, and Ethel Merman!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This Week: Rob announces his cast for Woman of the Year at Feinstein’s/54 Below, Joyce DeWitt is a goddess, Rob gets starstruck over Janet Wood, Angela Bower is Miss Mannerly, who’s nice vs who isn’t, Judith Light takes out the ladies who lunch, the genius of John Kenrick, the definitive musical theatre website, greasing the lightning again, Sandy’s cousin needs a girlfriend, and the class of Rydell High needs social security.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Well, we’ve got her, so we are going to flaunt her. The wonderful, Tony Award winning Cady Huffman swings by Shetler Studios to look back on her career, including such shows as La Cage Aux Folles, Big Deal, The Will Rogers Follies, Steel Pier, The Producers, The Nance, and many others!
Cady pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she danced for Bob Fosse, what it was like being a teenage drag queen , and why she got the role of Ulla in The Producers.
Also, Cady shines the spotlight on Mel Brooks, Nathan Lane, and Bob Fosse!
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This Week: Rob and Kevin discuss color blind casting in musical theatre and what can musical theatre programs across the country to do to help lead the cause, our guests send us swag, celebrating the great Kafritz & Mamie Eisenhower, Alka Seltzer’s greatest commercial, spilling the tea on Weekend at Bernies, Nathan Lane can’t get work, Donna Murphy goes to acting school, and the follies of the AEA.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Everyone step to the rear and let Tony Roberts take the day. One of America’s most beloved character actors drops by Shetler Studios to look back on his career with Rob and Kevin. While Tony’s film career includes such movies as Annie Hall, Play It Again, Sam, and Serpico, we will discuss his amazing theatre career, which includes How Now, Dow Jones, Sugar, Barefoot in the Park, Don’t Drink the Water, Xanadu, and Victor/Victoria.
Tony pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how a broken leg led to fifty years of work, what it was like to work with Woody Allen, and why Bob Merrill had him audition in his living room.
Also, Tony shines the spotlight on Al Pacino, Neil Simon, and Walter Matthau!
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This Week: Happy Halloween! To celebrate the spookiness of the season, Rob and Kevin reveal their costumes, Mrs. Garrett pulls a Patty Duke, Tim Curry can’t find his tambourine, Charles Strouse gets spooky, Big Daddy Whiz goes to the pumpkins, Rob meets Christine Pedi, Liza Minnelli has a pokerface, Rob plays Daddy Warbucks, and Christine Pedi wants to save the Cafe Edison!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Even if your feet’s too big come to the heavyside layer and join Rob and Kevin as they sit down with the incredible star of The Wiz, Ain’t Misbehavin, Cats, and the iconic The Nightmare Before Christmas, the warm and wonderful Ken Page.
Ken pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how a young boy from Missouri became one of Broadway’s most beloved actors, what it was like learning to play a cat, and why he still loves being the Oogie Boogie.
Also, Ken shines the spotlight on The MUNY, Trevor Nunn, Nell Carter, and Tim Burton!
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This Week: Life post-Merrily We Roll Along, Kevin gets to watch The World Go Round, Rob brings back 24 Broadway Bound musicals, Rob breaks the rules that Kevin follows, Van Johnson sees red, Letterman loves La Cage, the joys of My Mama’s Attic, Kevin is a dancer and a dancer dances, celebrating Center Stage, and Donna Murphy hits the barre.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Everyone’s favorite little bird, little Chavala, Neva Small, sits down with Rob and Kevin to look back on her fabulous career both onstage and on the screen. Neva takes us back to the filming of the immortal Fiddler on the Roof film, as well as how her career as a child actress led to her Broadway appearances in Something More, Henry, Sweet Henry, The Impossible Years, Frank Merriwell, and Something’s Afoot.
Neva pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she landed the role of Chava, what it was like sharing the stage with Barbara Cook , and why she now makes her home in education!
Also, Neva shines the spotlight on Alice Playten, Alan King, and Topol!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This Week: Rob and Kevin sit down with Ben Van Buren and Lucas Tahiruzzaman Syed, the co-founders and editors of Musical Theater Today, a new, yearly periodical inspired by the extraordinary variety of artists, institutions, and audiences engaged in the musical theatre world. Ben and Lucas not only discuss the genesis of the book but discuss some of its contributors and its most fascinating articles.
You can purchase this must have book here: http://amzn.to/2gbSMLq
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
The musical theatre of the 1970s offered audiences the most diverse style of musical entertainment. There were traditional golden age shows, concept shows, revivals, nostalgia crazes, social commentary shows, and Pat Birch was involved in every genre.
While audiences best know her as the choreographer of both the stage and movie versions of Grease and the director and choreographer of Grease 2, plus her resident choreography gig on the first six years of Saturday Night Live, her work on Broadway includes A Little Night Music, Over Here, Truckload, Pacific Overtures, They’re Playing Our Song, and countless others.
Pat pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she got Steve Martin to dance, what was it like to hand jive , and why Grease 2 might just be better than Grease.
Also, Pat shines the spotlight on John Travolta, Robert Altman and Gilda Radner
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This Week: Looking back on The Last Five Years, celebrating Honeymoon in Vegas, creeping on JRB, Merrily We Roll Along opens this Friday, international Sondheim, back to Bacall, a sneak peak of a bygone Broadway, teaching Bacall to dance, the librettos of Doc Simon, secrets of A Chorus Line, the importance of the libretto, Sid Caesar, the grittiness of Charity, what its like to show doctor, musicals that have other, unaccredited creators, the loss of obscurity, is Joshua Harmon the new Neil Simon, the “boulevard comedy” and a demand for humor in the theatre.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Peter Bogyo, author of Broadway General Manager: Demystifying The Most Important And Least Understood Role In Show Business, sits down with Rob and Kevin to discuss his wonderful new book and how a General Manager serves a play or musical. Peter looks back on a career that includes the orignail production of Sondheim’s The Frogs, Starmites, Fortune’s Fool, Anyone Can Whistle: In Concert, and so many more!
Peter pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he went from swimming with Sondheim at Yale to one of Broadway’s most respected leaders, what infamous Broadway musical is going to be the inspiration for his new book, and why the “General Manager” is one of the most cruical, and most misunderstood, roles in theatre.
Also, Peter shines the spotlight on Stephen Sondheim, Meryl Streep, and Arthur Laurents
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This Week: Hide the children because this episode gets a bit naughty with acclaimed writer and director Ben Rimalower (Patti Issues, Bad With Money). The gents discuss Patti LuPone as a gateway drug, Ben’s Top 5 Divas, the joy of ranking cast albums, the best auditions ever seen, what was Ben’s most controversial Playbill article, what its like to have Patti in the audience, Into The Light returns, then it just all goes downhill, and a lengthy discussion about length, what shows need to come back, a case for why The Wiz movie is better than The Wiz stage play and Rob does Robert Goulet in Fiddler.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Rob and Kevin go together with Broadway’s original Sandy, Carole Demas, on this week’s fascinating episode. Carole looks back not only on her time with Grease, and what it was like to create one of Broadway’s most iconic heroines, but also Carole discusses the resilience she created within herself when she was let go from both the revival of No, No, Nanette and Stephen Schwartz’s The Baker’s Wife.
Carole pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she got the role of Sandy in Grease, what went on behind the scenes during her involvement with both No, No, Nanette and The Baker’s Wife, and why she proudly embraces her Grease heritage!
Also, Carole shines the spotlight on David Merrick, Patti LuPone, and Jeff Conaway!
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This Week: Listening devices, Mrs. Lovett vs. Joanne, the role of the prompter, the top ten most produced high school plays and musicals, the soothing voices of NPR, a book that fortold the podcast, and Rob and Kevin debate the greatest musical episodes!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
One of Broadway’s greatest leading men, Ron Husmann, joins Rob and Kevin in a telephone discussion about his incredible Broadway career that started with Fiorello and was a whirlwind of big shows, big stars, and big hurdles. As Ron became a much sought after leading man, his resume began to add such credits as Tenderloin, All American, On the Town, etc. But, just as Ron’s talents were at its zenith, he soon began to lose the power of speech. After many years, Ron vividly recalls the triumphs and tragedies that led to him to regain the power of speech.
Ron pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how advancements in medicines gave him back the power of speech, what was the first day of rehearsal like for the assumed to flop Fiorello, and why Debbie Reynolds was a creature of the stage.
Also, Ron shines the spotlight on Hal Prince, Ray Bolger, and Frank Loesser.
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This Week: Kevin passes the football, Rob is confused by the meaning of NFL, celebrating the all-black revival of Guys and Dolls, who wanted to be Broadway’s second Phantom, Peter Filichia ranks the greatest musical theatre moments in history.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
If you are in the musical theatre business, chances are you have thanked heaven for the brilliance of Michael Lavine. While any one of us could easily go and pick up the scores to My Fair Lady, Carousel, Dear Evan Hansen, or Hamilton, what do we do when we need a song cut from one of those shows? Or, the whole score of a musical that closed on opening night? What if we want to see the cut songs from Oklahoma? We go to Michae Lavine, who owns one of the world’s largest private collections of musical theatre sheet music.
Michael pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he acquired nearly half a million different songs, what happened when Stephen Sondheim met Michael, and why we should all be celebrating the obscure!
Also, Michael shines the spotlight on John Kander, Hugh Martin, and Jerry Herman!
Plus: Michael sings a never before recorded Sondheim song!
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This Week: Merrily We Roll Along, a secret YouTube clip, a magazine from the past, celebrating the orchestrator, and there WILL be trumpets!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
As the Great Comet passes and the Bandstand plays the last tune, Rob and Kevin sit down with theatre critic Peter Filichia to recap the 2016-2017 theatre season and explore the 2017-2018 theatre seasons and the shows that are bound for Broadway!
Peter pulls back the curtain on the new season to discuss how William Goldman’s 1967-1968 exploration of Broadway, The Season, compares to 2017, what Denzel Washington brings to Broadway, and why the Marquis just might be better than the theatres it replaced.
Also, Peter shines the spotlight on Mean Girls, The Band’s Visit, Spongebob, and countless others.
NOTE: This recording was the last one made with our old sound board. There is a cracking sound that makes the interview feel as if it was recorded from the Miss Saigon helicopter. We apologize but feel that Peter’s wit and wisdom should compensate for our technology.
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This Week: Thanking the Sound Gods, onstage mistakes, the Holy Grail of Broadway impressions is found within Robbie Rozzelle, Gwen Verdon wants to go to the movies, the joys of a second whorehouse, Tommy Tune does double duty, praising the poster, Lincoln Center’s greatest weapon, and much more!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
For many young musical theatre actors, a rite of passage in their New York City development is appearing in one of the many wonderful productions that are produced by the award winning Musicals Tonight, a theatre company whose mission is to produce those really obscure works from the musical theatre canon. Since its inception it has been run by Mel Miller, an ardent lover of the art of musicals.
Mel pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how Musicals Tonight was first created, what has been his most challenging project, and why audiences from all over the world embrace the “neglected” musical.
Also, Mel shines the spotlight on Fats Waller, Robert Stack, and George S. Irving!
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This Week: Mourning Thomas Meehan, celebrating the great bookwriters of yesterday and today, Michael Jackson wants to be David Merrick, Larry Hart meets Larry Hart, Diane Sawyer snoops around Smile, Ariel wants to go to Disneyland, and the puzzlement of the 1986-1987 Broadway season.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
The Secret Garden. Little Women. Violet. The revivals of Sweeney Todd and The Sound of Music. All that, and many more, were directed by Susan H. Schulman, one of the very first female directors of musical theatre. At a time when women were rejected from Yale’s graduate directing program, and told to become actresses not directors, Susan triumphed in New York, and abroad!
Susan pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how she got a bunch of hog farmers into The Hot Box, what was the genesis of her acclaimed revival of Sweeney Todd , and why she slept everyday outside the offices of a producer!
Also, Susan shines the spotlight on Hugh Wheeler, Sutton Foster, and Stephen Sondheim!
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This week: Praising the bible of Musical Theatre geekdom, Where in the World is Ken Mandelbaum, the Beckettian podcast from last week, praising Yma Sumac (or, Amy Camus), what would go in a Not Since Carrie 2, and more!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
One of Broadway’s most acclaimed designers, Clint Ramos, joins Rob and Kevin, via phone, to discuss his illustrious career, which includes collaborating on such recent productions as Sunday in the Park with George, In Transit, Eclipsed, Violet, Six Degrees of Separation, Kid Victory, and countless others.
Clint pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how became the first person of color to win a Tony Award in his category, what was the process of creating the fascinating Kid Victory set design, and why he made five dresses out of metro cards. Plus, Clint opens up about his work with SLAM-NYC, NYC’s first ever recovery high school, and FIERCE NY, an organization dedicated to building the leadership of LGBTQ persons of color.
Also, Clint shines the spotlight on Liesl Tommy, Oskar Eustis, and the next generation of designers!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Remembering Barbara Cook
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Yes, mama, there’s a rainbow but stop looking at it long enough to listen to Tony nominated composer Larry Grossman discuss what it was like not only working on Minnie’s Boys, Goodtime Charley, Grind, A Doll’s Life, and Snoopy, but to discuss what it was like working with Bing Crosby, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, and the Muppets!
Larry pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he won over Groucho Marx, what it was like working with Shelley Winters, and why Goodtime Charley will one day be appreciated (plus, who was slated to originally star in Goodtime Charley will blow your mind!)
Also, Larry shines the spotlight on Joel Grey, Hal Prince, and Kermit the Frog!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob and Kevin answer listener’s tweets and messages. Emulating our friends at Broadwaysted, Stritch doesn’t need your help, Rob sings some Loesser, fighting over some revivals, biggest lessons from each guest, the generosity of legends, Joanne wants to be a lady who karaokes, talking to the ghost of Hammerstein, the oddest casting of Chicago, and Dear Robert Preston!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
One of Broadway’s funniest guys, John Bolton, sits down with Rob and Kevin to discuss his incredibly wild and varied career. From Damn Yankees to Contact, Spamalot to A Christmas Story, to this year’s smash hit, Anastasia, John looks back on it all and offers us a glimpse into what it is like being a contemporary character actor.
John pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he learned at the feet of Jerry Lewis, what it was like being a Susan Stroman standby, and why fighting Tim Curry was one of his most hair raising adventures.
Also, John shines the spotlight on Victor Garber, Mike Nichols, and Pasek and Paul !
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Singing Sunday, praising Broadway Briefing, the fight for Casting Directors, Kevin has a kiki with the Giants, Jason Robert Brown’s odd writing spaces, putting a twist on a Gershwin classic, Fred Ebb teaches Liza how to sell a song, and the bitterness of “How Much Is That Doggie In The Window?”
#FairnessForCasting
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Put on your plaid jacket because original Forever Plaid cast member, Jason Graae, is sitting down with Rob and Kevin to talk about his career in theatre, cabaret, and the land of voice over. Jason’s numerous credits include over 45 recordings, the original casts of Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?, Stardust, and A Grand Night for Singing, and, a personal favorite, the voice of the Lucky Charms leprechaun!
Jason pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he has conquered the world of cabaret, what was the inspiration behind his racy album cover, and why Los Angeles actually does have a thriving theatre community and how Angelino artists can make it even stronger!
Also, Jason shines the spotlight on Faith Prince, Charles Strouse, and Jerry Herman!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: The return of Freddie Martinez, Kevin’s strange obsession Rob’s shower playlist, Kevin abuses the word “kiki,” the correct way to listen to a cast recording is debated, Kevin is attacked by a Fantastick mosquito, Bert from Mary Poppins becomes a theatre cat, Rob celebrates being a Quilter, Carol Channing is The King of Siam, Rob breaks out a Yul Brynner & Rob & Kevin have dueling Channings, plus the beat boxing of John Bucchino and Friends.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This is the moment because Broadway’s very own Dr. Jekyll AND Mr. Hyde, Robert Cuccioli, sits down with Rob & Kevin to look back on his career as both an actor and a director. Robert discusses such projects as And The World Goes Round, Rothschild & Sons, Les Miserables, plus his unyielding love of Shakespeare.
Robert pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how the basement of a Gristedes gave him a chance to shine, what it was like creating the role of Dr. Jekyll AND Mr. Hyde, and why a terrible audition lead him to a great job!
Also, Robert shines the spotlight on Richard Harris, Woody Allen, and Frank Wildhorn!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Broadway bitmojis, Rob tries out a new impression, the great Madwoman of Central Park West debate of 2017, Attack of The Elvis Impersonators, Jim Brochu in Zero Hour, which episodes of The Golden Girls make Rob & Kevin reach for the hanky, Bea Arthur shows shade at Jerry Herman, Rob sings a theme song, The Public Theatre controversy, has America created its own blacklist, Don Quixote sings about the wind, and a Robert Viagas book that reflects our ideas of collaboration.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Imagine growing up in a world where your neighbors were Tennessee Williams, The Marx Brothers, Alan Jay Lerner, Noel Coward, Arthur Miller, and scores of others. For Michael Colby he did grow up in such a world because his grandparents owned New York’s famous Algonquin Hotel. Now, Michael swings by Shetler to discuss with Rob and Kevin his enviable life as a real life Eloise of The Plaza.
Michael pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he became the confidante of some of the Algonquin’s most infamous residents, what prompted a flashing by Norma Jean, and why Harpo Marx never traveled alone!
Also, Michael shines the spotlight on Vivien Leigh, Ella Fitzgerald, and Lorenz Hart!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob & Kevin discuss their summer plans, Kevin finds his Doonesbury, haggling with record stores, Hello Muddah, Hello Allan Sherman, and a forgotten musical makes a return after 40 years!
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Sound the drums because Tony Award winning orchestrator Larry Hochman swings by Shetler Studios to discuss with Rob and Kevin the art of being an orchestrator. Larry’s works has been heard in the original productions of Spamalot, The Book of Mormon, Something Rotten and the revivals of She Loves Me, On the 20th Century, and Hello, Dolly!
Larry pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how Jerry Zaks would “meat” Larry Hochman, what is the function of an orchestrator, and why he was terrified meeting Sir Paul McCartney !
Also, Larry shines the spotlight on The Book of Mormon, Something Rotten and Hello, Dolly!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob & Kevin recap the 2017 Tony Awards broadcast, dream cast Kevin Spacey, praise the madness of Aunt Jackie, celebrate a singer gone too soon, and praise a lyricist who needs more recognition!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
You might not know this man but you sure will know this woman, the effervescent Carolee Carmello. Carolee swings by to discuss Falsettos, Parade, Lestat, The Addams Family, Scandalous, Tuck Everlasting, and so much more!
Carolee pulls back the curtain on her career to discuss how a business major went on to become a three time Tony nominee, what song did she hear in someone else’s dressing room that gave her a panic attack , and why she is not a fan of the rehearsal process!
Also, Carolee shines the spotlight on Stephen Sondheim, Hal Prince, and Kathie Lee Gifford!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: A spirited discussion about the Portland “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” and the role of diversity in casting, the power of imagination, an exploration of William Goldman’s great book, and a celebration of the brilliance of Canadian comedy!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Order in the court because entertainment lawyer to the stars, Mark Sendroff, swings by the studios to discuss his life, career, and what he has learned from his legendary client list with Rob and Kevin. You’ll hear no objection from us as Mark discusses his profession and what he loves most about his job.
Mark pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he became the legal eye for some of Broadway’s biggest legends, what really happened at his infamous 50th birthday party, and why he is so passionate about fighting for the rights of orchestrators!
Also, Mark shines the spotlight on Nancy LaMott, Marilyn Maye, and Bette Davis!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob goes to Central Park West and Kevin goes to Woop Woop.
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Curtain up! Light the lights….literally, because this week’s guest is Tony Award winning lighting designer Ken Billington, Ken swings by Shetler Studios to discuss his over one hundred Broadway credits including Sweeney Todd, Chicago, and On the 20th Century.
Ken pulls back the curtain on his career to discuss how he was the first to use moving lights in a Broadway musical, what was the moment his parents were truly impressed with his choice of career, and why you should always look your best on tech day!
Also, Ken shines the spotlight on Susan Stroman, Hal Prince, and Bob Fosse!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
This week Rob, Kevin, and Tony Award historian Bryan Hobgood discuss categories that used to be part of the Tony Awards ceremony but have since been removed….plus, categories that we want to see added for future shows!
Rob and Kevin welcome back Tony Awards historian Bryan Hobgood to discuss the 2016-2017 Tony Award Nominations!
This week’s episode focuses on this season’s musical works. From Come From Away to Groundhog’s Day.Hello, Dolly to Sunset Boulevard. Josh Groban to Ben Platt, and everything in between that sings, is discussed, dissected, and dismantled.
Plus: Who will win? Who will lose? Who cares! It was an incredible season and we are all winners!
In 1996, when Julie Andrews was the only artist involved with Victor/Victoria to receive a Tony nomination, she withdrew her name from the ballot. In a statement, she said, “I have searched my conscience and my heart and find that I cannot accept this nomination, and prefer instead to stand with the egregiously overlooked –”
On this Favorite Thing, Rob, Kevin, and Tony Award historian Bryan Hobgood look at those artists from the 2016-2017 Season who were egregiously overlooked and duke it out over who should’ve been nominated!
Rob and Kevin welcome back Tony Awards historian Bryan Hobgood to discuss the 2016-2017 Tony Award Nominations!
This week’s episode focuses on this season’s dramatic works. From Oslo to Indecent, The Little Foxes to Six Degrees of Separation, Kevin Kline to Laurie Metcalf, and everything in between, is discussed, dissected, and dismantled.
Plus: Who will win? Who will lose? Who cares! It was an incredible season! We’re all winners!
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: One of Rob and Kevin’s favorite people, Robbie Rozelle, swings by to discuss his illustrious career as a graphic designer for cast recordings AND to talk about his upcoming show at Feinstein’s/54 Below, Songs From Inside My Locker, which is June 9th, 2017 at 9:30pm.
Robbie and the guys talk about The Kate Baldwin Wallace School of Mixing, The oddest movie musical experiences, holding Playbills from the 1920s, the genius of Carrie.com, social apps with Barbara Cook, mourning for Footlight Records, Robbie names his Top Five Desert Underappreciated CDs, The Emily-Skinner-Riff-Down, Eartha Kitt picks up the medicine ball, forgiving our bullies, Paul Lynde goes to Broadway, and so much more!
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Buy tix to Robbie’s show here: https://54below.com/events/robbie-rozelle/
Everything today is thoroughly Hal….Luftig, that is! Four time Tony Award winning producer Hal Luftig swings by Shetler Studios to look back on his career of hits including Thoroughly Modern Millie, Legally Blonde, and Kinky Boots.
Hal pulls back the curtain on his career, including how Sutton Foster landed the role of a lifetime, what it is like to create a Tony Award campaign , and why Legally Blonde made its MTV debut before it was closed on Broadway.
Also, Hal shines the spotlight on Jerry Mitchell, Sutton Foster, and Cyndi Lauper!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Woody Allen’s only movie musical & a great resource for obscure cast recordings!
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What does a musical coordinator do, you ask? Well, John Miller, one of Broadway’s most respected in the field, swings by to discuss this pivotal role and some of his 100 plus Broadway credits…..yes, that’s right, 100 plus Broadway credits!
John pulls back the curtain on his career, including how Cy Coleman taught him to follow the band, what led him to join Amazon’s Mozart in the Jungle, and why a Chinese Restaurant ended up being his saving grace!
Also, John shines the spotlight on John Dexter, John Doyle, and Don Scardino!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: The schizophrenia of the 1970s, Mrs. Garrett slays Kander & Ebb, Bacall belts her face, why Lee Roy Reams is the best bartender, Wright & Forrest start anew,
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Brilliant. Hysterical. Dangerous. Those three words best sum up veteran character actor Lewis Stadlen. A two time Tony nominee, Lewis has seen it all and has worked with the best. His many credits include Minnie’s Boys, the 1974 revival of Candide, the 1996 revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, The Producers, Guys and Dolls, plus four Neil Simon premieres. And, now, Lewis sits down with Rob and Kevin to look back on his journey; unedited and unfiltered.
Lewis pulls back the curtain on his career, including how he fought the Prince of Broadway, what it was like getting direction from Mel Brooks, and why Nathan Lane moonlights as Lewis’ agent!
Also, Lewis shines the spotlight on Shelley Winters, Neil Simon, and Groucho Marx!
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Lewis book, Acting Foolish, can be purchased here: http://amzn.to/2pLxtlP
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Who’s Who of the Broadway Senior Home, ventriloquists on radio, the mutual love of Unsolved Musical Mysteries, Ethel and Elaine share a leading man, and the President sings!
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Tony Award winner Ted Sperling is one of Broadway’s most sought after music directors. His brilliance and versatility have been on display in numerous Broadway musicals including Fiddler on the Roof,The King and I, South Pacific;Guys and Dolls, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Full Monty, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Kiss of the Spider Woman, My Favorite Year, Falsettos, The Mystery of EdwinDrood, Les Misérables, Roza, and Sunday in the Park with George. Now, Ted puts down the baton to discuss his career with Rob and Kevin.
Ted pulls back the curtain on his career, including how a college production brought him to the attention of Stephen Sondheim, what it was like to play aboard the Titanic, and why Lady in the Dark needs a major Broadway revival!
Also, Ted shines the spotlight on Victoria Clark, Ahrens & Flaherty, and Adam Guettel!
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A big thank you to Michelle Tabnick of Michelle Tabnick PR for arranging this interview.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Odd marketing, SNL does theatre, political correctness in musical theatre, Hal Prince tackles racism, and Ethel Merman sings Nirvana.
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Sue Frost is one of the most inspirational producers working on Broadway. In addition to her indefatigable generosity, Sue is one of the theatre’s loudest advocates for new musicals. In addition to the Tony Award winning Memphis, Sue also produced Make Me A Song, First Date, Doctor Zhivago, and one of Behind the Curtain’s favorite musicals, this season’s Come From Away.
Sue pulls back the curtain on her career, including how a train ride to Washington DC cemented her journey, what was the impetus to produce Come From Away, and why she refunded 1,506 people in one night! Also, Sue walks us through the process of producing a new musical!
AND, Sue shines the spotlight on Chita Rivera, Donny Osmond, and Doug Henning, who could make an entire audience disappear!
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Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob and Kevin debate leaving shows at intermission and “second act”-ing a show. Plus, Ann Miller’s fourth wall, Bob Fosse’s debut, Sammy Davis Jr comes to Broadway, and Freddie Martinez makes a come back.
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“I had such a great time with those two sessions, I’m wondering if you’d like to do a third. With Miss Saigon opening in March, I wouldn’t mind doing a detailed description about how that show was written. There’s a real story there and it’s never been told. ”
And with that email Rob and Kevin quickly secured a location to sit down and hear Tony Award winner Richard Maltby Jr look back on the creation of Miss Saigon.
Richard pulls back the curtain on the creation of Miss Saigon, including how a stage manager got him onto Miss Saigon, what was the controversy behind Jonathan Pryce’s casting, and why Miss Saigon needed a revival in 2017!
Also, Richard shines the spotlight on Cameron Mackintosh, Lea Salonga, and Nick Hytner!
Note: Due to supernatural forces beyond our control, Rob’s mic cuts out towards the end. It was either a glitch or the ghost of David Belasco being mischevious.
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Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Celebrating four legends who are no longer with us! Plus, Rob and Kevin recount some of the most bizarre theatre they have ever seen.
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The Secret Service might make her nervous but it doesn’t stop the wonderful Anita Gillette from telling all in this fascinating interview. Anita invited Rob and Kevin over to her apartment to look back on her Broadway credits including Gypsy, All-American, Mr. President, Cabaret, and many others.
Anita pulls back the curtain on her career, including how Irving Berlin dealt with critics, what it was like to work on the 1 performance flop Kelly, and why David Merrick sent her a bill!
Also, Anita shines the spotlight on Neil Simon, Gower Champion, and Ethel Merman!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Nathan Lane needs a Nyquil & Mark Twain needs a melody!
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Yes, he has directed some of entertainment’s greatest comedians, including Tina Fey, Steve Carrell, Alec Baldwin, and Jim Carrey BUT its onstage where Don Scardino first made a name for himself. As one of Broadway’s most sought after young actors, he appeared in such cult musicals as Angel, King of Hearts, and Park! But, then he donned his directing cap to bring to life A Few Good Men, Lennon, and countless others!
Don pulls back the curtain on his career, including how he made Meryl Streep’s only unreleased film, what it was like auditioning for Richard Rodgers, and why Yoko Ono gave him permission to direct Lennon!
Also, Don shines the spotlight on Aaron Sorkin, Al Pacino, and Victor Garber!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Revisiting an obscure Frank Loesser & praising the genius of Scott Siegel
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
The words “Just Do It” should be emblazoned across the office walls of Tony Award winning producer Barry Weissler. On a beautiful Spring day, Barry invited Rob and Kevin into his offices to discuss his career and how he produced the revivals of Chicago, Annie Get Your Gun, and Grease and gave power to new shows like The Scottsboro Boys, Falsettos, and Waitress.
Barry pulls back the curtain on his career, including how a Tijuana bullfight put his life into focus, what was Shakespeare in the Shopping Mall, and why no one wanted Chicago!
Also, Barry shines the spotlight on Anthony Quinn, James Earl Jones, and Kander & Ebb!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: The wicked tongue of Bea Arthur & the golden voice of Audra McDonald.
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The hills are alive with the warmth and wit of three time Tony nominee Rebecca Luker. Best known for her appearances in The Secret Garden, Show Boat, The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, and Fun Home, Rebecca makes a splash on today’s episode!
Rebecca pulls back the curtain on her career, including how Elaine Stritch warmed up, what show she auditioned for five times before being cast, and why she champions new voices in musical theatre!
Also, Rebecca shines the spotlight on Danny Burstein, Susan Stroman, and Hal Prince!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob and Kevin invent the Broadway Home Shopping Network! Plus, a new musical and a good read!
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It “Don’t Take Too Much” to be excited that Tony Award winner Chuck Cooper swings by Shetler Studios to talk to Rob and Kevin about his forty plus year career onstage in shows like The Life, Passion, and Caroline, or Change.
Chuck pulls back the curtain on his career, including how he survived Getting Away With Murder, what was so magical about Cy Coleman’s hands, and why he was the most musical washer machine you ever saw !
Also, Chuck shines the spotlight on Stephen Sondheim, Lilias White, and George C Wolfe!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Wife swapping set to music & Lady Holiday throws some shade!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Up there, high, high in the lovely apartment in midtown Manhattan, lives the mysterious Paul Kandel. Who is this creature? What is he? How did he come to be there? Hush! Rob and Kevin will tell you as they sit down with the wonderful Mr. Kandel, best known for his role as Uncle Ernie in The Who’s Tommy and as the voice of Clopin in Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Paul pulls back the curtain on his career, including how a missing hat led to a Tony nomination, what was it like to create the role of Clopin, and why his rendition of On The Street Where You Live gets more laughs than sighs!
Also, Paul shines the spotlight on Alan Menken, The Who, and Stephen Schwartz!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Remembering a great director and celebrating a new book!
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Because he has a whole lot of livin’ to do, Rob and Kevin’s time with Tony Award winning lyricist Lee Adams was short but it did make them feel happy and rosy (or Rosie). The 93 year old Adams joined Rob and Kevin on the phone from his home in Briarcliff, NY.
Lee pulls back the curtain on his Golden Age career, including how Lee went from the world of journalism to the world of musicals, what it was like to collaborate with Mel Brooks, and why Lauren Bacall was a great musician!
Also, Lee shines the spotlight on Paul Lynde, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Charles Strouse!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Rob & Kevin were so fascinated by the costume designs of Tony Award winner Paloma Young (Natasha, Pierre, & The Great Comet of 1812 & Bandstand) they asked her in for a chat about her career and design choices!
Become a sponsor of Behind The Curtain and get early access to interviews, private playlists, and advance knowledge of future guests so you can ask the legends your own questions. Go to patreon.com and search Behind The Curtain: http://bit.ly/2i7nWC4
Imagine taking the proceeds from your paper route, training into NYC by yourself, and, for only $2, seeing the original 1776, Company, Follies, Pippin, and 196 other shows. And, at your tender age, writing a detailed review of what you just saw. Well, that’s exactly what our guest Ron Fassler has done.
Before he was known as one of the industry’s most reliable character actors, Ron was a theatre junkie, not only seeing these shows, but walking backstage to meet some of the theatre’s greatest stars. Now, its all in his new book, Up In The Cheap Seats, available here: https://griffithmoon.com/cheapseats/
In his time with Rob and Kevin, Ron not only discusses his book but why he thought Hello, Dolly! was “gripping”, what advice his teenage-self wanted to give Stephen Sondheim on how to fix Company, and how an insult to James Earl Jones was embraced by the great actor.
Every week director Robert W Schneider and actor Kevin David Thomas pull back the curtain on neglected, forgotten, and under appreciated musicals, as well as bizarre performances, endearing television appearances, and all things show business.
This Week: Leaning In with Jeanine Tesori & Betty Comden
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