Life Upon the Wicked Stage

In this episode, actors Olivia, Jen, and Ashley begin with light-hearted introductions, discussing their star signs, hairstyles, the weather, quirky personal details, and favorite desserts. The conversation transitions into a mesmerizing narrative about the haunted Annie Russell Theatre in Winter Park, Florida, offering historical insights about the actress Annie Russell, her career, health, and personal life. The hosts share chilling stories of ghosts and paranormal events within the theatre. The episode briefly teases next week's discussion on actress Nell Gwynn and her royal affair. Additionally, the hosts reveal an upcoming deep dive into the fascinating 'language of the fan,' stirring excitement for future episodes.

00:00 Introduction and Weather Talk

00:25 Meet the Hosts

00:53 Bang Styles and Merch Ideas

01:29 Better Than Sex Restaurant

02:49 The Fan and Menopause

03:50 Spooky Season and Halloween

07:10 Annie Russell Theater History

09:22 Annie Russell's Early Life

12:14 Annie Russell's Acting Career

23:41 Annie Russell's Later Years

37:48 The Haunted Annie Russell Theater

38:37 Theater Ghost Stories

39:25 Annie's Seat and the Golden Retriever

41:43 Disembodied Applause and Other Hauntings

42:58 Annie's Dressing Room and the Open Door

45:13 Apparitions and the Painted Message

48:05 The Electrocution Incident of 1962

52:27 Personal Ghost Encounters

56:41 Dark Spirits and the Hanging Incident

01:01:16 Final Thoughts and Future Topics

In this inaugural episode of the ‘The Wicked Stage' podcast, hosts Olivia, Jen, and Ashley introduce their true crime series focused on the world of arts and entertainment. With backgrounds in theater and a fascination for true crime, they delve into the life of early 1900s beauty Evelyn Nesbitt, her relationships with architect Stanford White and millionaire Harry Thaw, and the ensuing drama of Stanford White's murder by Thaw. The episode covers the sensational trials of Harry Thaw, the intense public and media scrutiny, and the impact on Nesbitt's life and career, leading to her eventual retreat from the public eye. The story is set against the vibrant backdrop of New York's theater scene and includes reflections on its broader cultural and historical significance.

00:00 Welcome to the Wicked Stage Pod

00:32 Meet the Hosts: Olivia, Ashley, and Jen

02:24 The Confusion of Identity

06:34 The Origin of 'Life Upon the Wicked Stage'

10:54 Introducing Evelyn Nesbitt

16:47 Evelyn's Early Life and Rise to Fame

20:04 The Dark Side of Fame: Stanford White

35:25 The Assault and Its Aftermath

41:51 Ignoring Unwanted Advances

42:13 Jack the Feminist Chihuahua

42:34 The Fear of Women's Safety

43:29 True Crime and Education

44:24 Evelyn Nesbitt's Complicated Relationships

50:01 Harry Thaw's Troubled Past

01:05:22 The Murder of Stanford White

01:08:52 The Aftermath and Trials

01:15:41 Evelyn Nesbitt's Later Life

01:22:23 Conclusion and Reflections