The Backstage Creative

Joanna Staub is a New York City based sound designer. We talk about diversity in sound design, mixing shows, and some of the realities of Broadway.

Susan Sampliner is the company manager for Wicked on Broadway. We talk about what a company manager does, dealing with difficult people, and the Broadway Green Alliance.

Emily Grishman is a New York City based music copyist. We talk about what a music copyist does, the importance of community, and changes in the industry over the past several decades.

Kate Sutton-Johnson is a scenic designer based in the Twin Cities. We talk about measuring effectiveness, importance of transitions, and creativity.

Robbie Cowan is a music director, singer, and pianist. We talk about doing theater during a pandemic, touring, and balancing ambition with satisfaction.

Meredith Ries is a New York City based scenic designer. We talk about getting stuck in the design process, asking good questions, and the different ways to lead while creating.

Nia Sciaretta is the production stage manager at Asolo Repertory Theatre in Florida. We talk about the Nia Explains It All videos, diffusing tense situations, and organization.

Adriane Heflin is a Minneapolis based technical director. We talk about inviting collaboration, leadership, and effective communication.

Kyra Sims is a New York City based musician, writer, and actor. We talk about subbing on Broadway, the New York Neo-Futurists, and working on off-Broadway.

Anne McPherson stage manages in NYC. We talk about effective communication, self advocacy, and building trust with those you work with.