PARDO'S TURN

In this third episode, BE MORE CHILL star Lauren Marcus sings one of our favorite songs from one of our favorite shows, "Somewhere That's Green" from LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. We discuss the strength of the writing, the under-appreciation of the show among musical theatre elites, her unique history with the character of Audrey, and her approach to characters that are often painted with a broad brush.

Noël Coward Award Winner and three time Drama Desk Nominee Nancy Anderson masterfully performs the American Songbook Standard, "What'll I Do?" by Irving Berlin. My analysis focuses primarily on Berlin's use of mode mixture, while our discussion centers on the transition from American Operetta to Depression-Era Melancholy.

Broadway heartthrob James Snyder sings and discusses "If I Loved You" from the R&H classic, CAROUSEL. The analysis contrasts this complex and musically dense "not at all in love" type song with its simpler counterparts from other shows. James and I also talk about navigating the monumental "Bench Scene," and his own history with Billy Bigelow, as his wife was pregnant with their first child.

Broadway vet and regional star Ellen Harvey takes her turn as Mrs. Lovett from Stephen Sondheim's musical thriller, SWEENEY TODD. We discuss the challenges and gifts that come with preparing a Sondheim role, the use of the waltz throughout the score, and her non-stop patter lyrics. Don't miss this powerhouse performance by a real pro of the stage.

Over the summer, I had the pleasure of music-directing FUN HOME at the Weston Playhouse in Vermont. Our Small Alison, Ava Lynn Vercellone, came on to sing the powerful "Ring of Keys." My analysis focuses on the song's instrumentation, smart use of rhythm in the vocal line, and registration shift in the bridge. Ava talks about sharing a role with two other talented actresses, working in an intimate theater, and making friends with her young co-stars.

Rather than singing one song, this episode contrasts two of Eliza Doolittle's ditties: "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" with "I Could Have Danced All Night." The analysis talks about the comparative vocal range, tempo, harmony, and style. The conversation with Julie Benko discusses the current revival, the false notion that it's not a feminist musical, and her new album, DISCOVERING JULIE BENKO! Enjoy.

Welcome to Pardo's Turn! In this short teaser, I describe what you will hear and come to expect in subsequent episodes: Approachable musical analysis, fantastic guests and performances, stirring conversations, fun bonus material, and a genuine love and admiration for the songs we're placing under the microscope.