Everything Theater Podcast

Actor, director, writer, and filmmaker Kevin Craig West joins us to talk about Black Lives Matter and "8:46", a series of performances in response to the recent killings of Black people and decades of systemic racism. We also discuss where we think the future of performance is heading as theaters and film companies start to reopen.

Chicago comedian and actor, Jamie Black, joins us to talk about solo theater and his show, "It's My Penis and I'll Cry If I Want To", which explores gender norms. Jamie chats about his experience performing solo at Fringe Festivals all over the US and Canada.

Broadway Actress, Mary Callanan, joins us to chat about her work on Broadway in "Annie", "Mamma Mia!", and "Bandstand." She also tells us about her experience with her current touring production of "My Fair Lady" being put on pause during the pandemic.

We're talkin' musicals! Happy 90th Birthday, Mr. Sondheim! We celebrate this musical genius with our guests, Justin Friello and Cleo Handler. Then we discuss Justin and Cleo's new musical, "From the Fire." Hear about the process of putting a musical together and enjoy a demo song from the show!  

Theatre is alive and kicking! Quarantine E-Theatre joins us to talk about the virtual staged readings they are producing over Zoom, which have raised over $10,000 in one month for Capital Region community theatres. Then Byron Nilsson chats with us about his virtual performances such as "Songs That Are Worse Than the Disease," celebrating old time classic songs you probably have never heard!

Imagination Theater in Chicago provides diverse audiences with original, dynamic, participatory theatrical programming that enhances well-being and creates a more civil, safe society. Their anti-bullying and sexual abuse prevention shows have changed numerous lives for the better. Executive Director, Stephen Leaver, joins us to discuss these powerful interactive performances.

Caffe Lena is the longest continuously operating folk music venue in the United States. And although their doors are temporarily closed for social distancing, their Stay at Home Sessions on YouTube stream past performances from a vast array of musicians on their stage. And the best part about it? They are helping these artists survive during these trying times. Executive Director, Sarah Craig, joins us to talk about how Caffe Lena has raised thousands of dollars to support these wonderful performers.

The theaters may be closed at the moment, but the show must go on! Theaters everywhere have been finding ways to bring their art to the public - from streaming past productions, to performing live virtual staged readings! Stephen Sanborn and Constance Lopez join us to talk about The Two of Us Productions and 2 virtual staged readings coming up.

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, costumers have stepped up to the plate to provide highly sought after masks. Maggie Mancinelli-Cahill from Capital Repertory Theatre talks to us about how these amazing costumers have come together to make thousands of masks for the community. Then Sandy Boynton and Connie Rowe Rauhauser, two of our unsung heroes, discuss how to make these masks.

Ithaca College Alum, Mariah Lyttle talks about tour life as she performs Celie in the National Tour of "The Color Purple." Locals from the Capital Region may know her from her performance as Sarah in Park Playhouse's production of "Ragtime" in 2017. Hear about her incredible journey as an actor. Make sure to listen to the end of the episode to hear Mariah sing!!!