In the episode, Jeff and Richie are joined by Jerry Mitchell to discuss the journey of Boop! The Musical from concept to stage. Jerry reflects on his career highlights, the creative process with the Boop team, and the impact of community initiatives like Broadway Bares. The episode explores the casting of Jasmine Amy Rogers, the lessons from the Chicago run, and the show’s ongoing evolution as it made it to Broadway. Join us for a conversation about passion, collaboration, and the art of making musicals.

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In this episode, we discuss the Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. We break down the show’s production design, direction, and standout performances from Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. We also talk about Sondheim’s legacy, the orchestra’s role, and the emotional impact of the music. Tune in for our full thoughts on the show and what Old Friends means for the future of musical theater.

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In this episode, we discuss the Broadway revival of Floyd Collins at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. We cover the show's historical background, Jeremy Jordan's performance, Adam Guettel's musical score, and the production design. We also share our thoughts on the Tony nominations and how the show connects with audiences. 

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This week, we dive into the latest theater award nominations, including the Tony Awards, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk. We share our reactions to the nominees, discuss surprises and snubs, and look at what these nominations mean for Broadway’s best plays and musicals. We also talk about standout performances, the competition in each category, and how nominations can shape a show’s future. Join us for a candid theater chat and let us know your thoughts on this year’s awards season.

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In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the 2025 City Center Encores! production of Wonderful Town in New York City. We break down what worked-and what didn’t-in this revival of Leonard Bernstein’s musical about two sisters chasing their dreams in 1930s Greenwich Village. From the standout Encores! Orchestra and impressive choreography to the modernized costumes and a book that left us wanting more, we share our honest takes on the show’s direction, design, and overall impact. We also talk about mixed audience reactions, the challenges of updating a classic, and why live theater in NYC is always worth the trip.

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In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway musical Just In Time at Circle in the Square. We break down how the show reimagines the biopic musical, focusing on Bobby Darin’s rise from East Harlem to stardom, and explore what makes this production stand out on Broadway right now. We talk about Jonathan Groff’s dynamic, Tony-worthy performance as Darin, Gracie Lawrence’s scene-stealing turn as Connie Francis, and how the immersive nightclub design puts you right in the middle of the action. Plus, we get into the show’s fresh approach to storytelling, the emotional punch of the music, and our predictions for the Tony Awards. Tune in for our honest take on the performances, the creative team’s choices, and why Just In Time is a must-see for theater fans.

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In this episode, Jeff and Richie break down the Broadway production of Smash at the Imperial Theatre. Inspired by the cult TV series, Smash takes audiences behind the scenes of a new musical about Marilyn Monroe. We share our first impressions, dig into the plot, and debate whether the show’s backstage antics and meta-comedy work on stage. We talk standout performances from Brooks Ashmanskas and Robyn Hurder, energetic choreography, and the show’s Tony potential. But we also question the show’s focus, the integration of its score, and whether Smash should have just been a straightforward Bombshell musical. Join us as we unpack what works, what doesn’t, and what we wish we’d seen from Broadway’s latest adaptation.

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In this episode, we break down the Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s OTHELLO at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. We tackle the impact of casting Hollywood stars in classic roles, the curious omission of Shakespeare’s name from the playbill, and the puzzling decision to set the story in 2028. We share our honest reactions to Kenny Leon’s direction, the production design, and how strict audience policies affected the overall experience. Plus, we debate the show’s Tony Awards chances and what this production means for the future of Shakespeare on Broadway.

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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Marquis Theatre. We break down how the play brings 1959 Hawkins to life, its ties to the original Netflix series, and what makes this prequel stand out on stage. We talk about the show’s jaw-dropping special effects, standout performances, and why the design team deserves a Tony nod. Plus, we share our own experiences in the audience and debate whether the play works for both die-hard fans and newcomers.

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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN at the Booth Theatre. We break down how Kimberly Belflower’s play reimagines The Crucible for a new generation, exploring themes of youth, identity, and power. We talk about standout performances—especially Sadie Sink’s—plus the direction by Danya Taymor and how the show’s music and staging set it apart. We also debate the play’s take on gender dynamics and why it’s connecting with high school audiences. Join us for our review, character analysis, and thoughts on whether this show is a contender for the Tony Awards.

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