From an interview with Donald Feltham on his Broadway Radio Show, join Barry on his journey writing a book on Stephen Sondheim's love for puzzles and games, spurred by birthday gifts from his wife. Barry shares how interviewing over 120 people, many of whom were Sondheim's friends and game enthusiasts, helped paint a comprehensive picture of this multifaceted Broadway legend. The episode concludes with a plug for Barry's book and podcast, encouraging listeners to explore these resources for a deeper understanding of Sondheim's playful genius.

Make sure to get the book everywhere books are found, ⁠⁠or click here⁠⁠.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:34 Donald Feltham's Broadway Radio Show

02:29 Discussing the Book: Matching Minds with Sondheim

03:06 Barry Joseph's Background and Inspiration

03:21 The Influence of Stephen Sondheim

04:43 The Genesis of the Book

05:13 Exploring Sondheim's Life and Work

10:48 The Ludological Lens

11:21 Structure of the Book

16:43 Sondheim's Playful Side

18:11 Research and Interviews

23:16 Sondheim's Treasure Hunts

26:51 Engaging Everyone at the Party

27:04 The 2013 Treasure Hunt

29:02 Recreating the Treasure Hunt Over Zoom

31:37 The Famous Murder Game

38:36 The Last of Sheila: From Game to Movie

43:57 Sondheim's Challenging Jigsaw Puzzles

48:32 Conclusion and Podcast Invitation

Special Links:

Colm Molloy

Ann Morrison

Mateo Chavez Lewis

The Broadway Radio Show with Donald Feltham

Thanks to everyone who contributed behind the scenes to this episode: the Musical Stingers composed by Mateo Chavez Lewis, our line producer Dennis Caouki, and the theme song to our podcast with lyrics and music by Colm Molloy and sung by the one only Anne Morrison, currently on the road starring in Kimberly Akimbo. Of course, I'd also like to thank Donald Feltham both for interviewing me and letting me rebroadcast our interview.

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