The Roundtable with Robert Bannon

Today on The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we’re diving headfirst into indie film with Pools, the new movie making waves from creators Michael Vlamis (Roswell, New Mexico) and writer/producer Sam Hayes. A heartfelt, funny, and raw story of connection and rediscovery, Pools captures the messy, beautiful truth of friendship, love, and finding yourself in unexpected places.

Michael and Sam join Robert for a candid, laugh-filled conversation about writing, directing, and bringing Pools to life—from its early beginnings to its festival buzz. They share the challenges, the surprises, and the joy of seeing a passion project resonate with audiences everywhere. It’s a must-hear look at independent filmmaking and the artists who make it happen.

🎧 The Roundtable with Robert Bannon streams daily on Broadway World, the Broadway Podcast Network, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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Today on The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we head to Princeton, NJ, for a very special conversation about the brand-new production I & You: The Musical at the McCarter Theatre Center. Starring the incredible Jasmine Forsberg and Benji Santiago, this fresh new musical reimagines Lauren Gunderson’s beloved play with soaring music, heart, and a story that reminds us how two strangers can change each other’s lives forever.

Jasmine and Benji join Robert to share their journey bringing these unforgettable characters to life, the creative process of transforming the play into a musical, and the magic of making theatre at one of the country’s most storied stages. With laughter, insight, and a little behind-the-scenes fun, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the power of connection and new voices in the theatre.

🎧 The Roundtable with Robert Bannon streams daily on Broadway World, the Broadway Podcast Network, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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Today on The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we welcome the incomparable Kiki Shepherd! Beloved for her years as the iconic co-host of Showtime at the Apollo, Kiki has built a career filled with talent, grace, and charisma. From her work as an actress and television personality to her role as a cultural trailblazer, she’s entertained and inspired audiences across generations.

But Kiki’s story doesn’t stop there. She’s also the founder of the K.I.S. Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness and support for those living with sickle cell disease. Her annual celebrity golf event has become one of the most celebrated gatherings in entertainment and philanthropy. And, as if that wasn’t enough, she’s heading to Chiller Theatre to meet fans and share her incredible journey firsthand. Get ready for an uplifting, heartfelt, and fabulous conversation you won’t want to miss!

Available now on Broadway World, the Broadway Podcast Network, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, and YouTube.

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Today we welcome acclaimed filmmaker Cosima Spender, the director of the powerful new documentary Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe. Known for her intimate and deeply human approach to storytelling, Cosima takes audiences behind the curtain into the extraordinary life of Andrea Bocelli. From his Tuscan roots to his journey as one of the world’s most beloved voices, the film paints a portrait that is both epic and deeply personal. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival and set for worldwide release, Because I Believe is already being hailed as a moving cinematic celebration of music, family, and faith.

In our conversation, Cosima shares what it was like to capture Andrea’s story on film, the unique trust they built through their shared Tuscan heritage, and the process of turning a global icon’s private moments into universal art. With warmth and insight, she opens up about the challenges and triumphs of directing this one-of-a-kind documentary, and why Andrea’s story resonates far beyond the stage. It’s a fascinating glimpse into both the man and the filmmaker who brought his journey to life.

📺 Watch on the Broadway Podcast Network

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Today, we welcome the one and only Matteo Bocelli, the rising global star carrying forward the legendary Bocelli name while stepping boldly into his own spotlight. With his brand-new album, Falling in Love (out September 12, 2025), Matteo blends his Italian roots with modern pop and romantic storytelling, creating songs that connect across cultures and generations. Growing up alongside his father, the iconic Andrea Bocelli, Matteo shares how he’s found his own voice and what this new chapter of artistry means to him.

In our chat, Matteo opens up about crafting Falling in Love, collaborating with world-class songwriters, and bringing the music to life on his Falling in Love World Tour, which kicks off in New York and travels across the globe. From Italy to America and beyond, Matteo shares stories of life on the road, the passion behind his songs, and why his music is designed to make the world fall in love again. It’s a heartfelt and inspiring conversation with a voice destined to touch audiences everywhere.

📺 Watch on the Broadway Podcast Network

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Today we welcome Jack Viertel, one of Broadway’s most influential voices and now a novelist. For decades, Jack shaped the landscape of American theatre as the longtime creative force behind Jujamcyn Theaters, the Artistic Director of New York City Center’s Encores! series, and the mind behind shows like Smokey Joe’s Café, After Midnight, and The Prom. He also penned the best-selling book The Secret Life of the American Musical, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of Broadway storytelling. Now, Jack is stepping into a new chapter with his son Josh, writing their debut thriller The Glass Eel, a gripping environmental crime novel that takes readers into the high-stakes world of black-market eel poaching off the coast of Maine.

We also dive into Jack’s latest theatrical work, the brand-new jukebox musical Let the Good Times Roll: A New Orleans Gumbo, which just premiered at the Phoenix Theatre Company in Arizona. With music spanning from Bessie Smith to Harry Connick Jr. and Rebirth Brass Band, this show brings the soul of New Orleans to the stage in a way only Jack could imagine. From Broadway blockbusters to literary crime drama to brand-new musical frontiers, this chat with Jack Viertel is a journey through the past, present, and future of storytelling.

📺 Watch on Broadway World and the Broadway Podcast Network

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Today on The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we welcome scholar, writer, and cultural critic Daniel Pollack-Pelzner to talk about his brand-new book Lin-Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist. The first major biography of the Tony-, Grammy-, and Pulitzer-winning creator, the book traces Miranda’s journey from a young artist growing up in Manhattan to an international cultural force behind In the Heights, Hamilton, Moana, and Encanto. With exclusive interviews and in-depth research, Daniel paints a portrait of the genius, the hustle, and the humanity that reshaped Broadway and beyond.

In our conversation, Daniel shares surprising stories from Miranda’s childhood, insights into his creative process, and what it means to chronicle an artist whose work continues to inspire audiences worldwide. From the basement of the Drama Book Shop to Disney superstardom, this is a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential storytellers of our time. Whether you’re a die-hard Hamilton fan or simply curious about the man who changed the sound of Broadway, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

🎙️ The Roundtable with Robert Bannon streams on BroadwayWorld, the Broadway Podcast Network, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, and YouTube.

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Today on The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we’re taking it back to the corner under the streetlight with the incredible voices of The Doo Wop Project. Known for blending the timeless harmonies of the 1950s and 60s with today’s biggest hits, these powerhouse performers are keeping the doo wop spirit alive while adding their own fresh spin. With Broadway roots and pure vocal magic, the group is here to celebrate the release of their brand-new album Echoes of the Street and talk all about their nationwide tour bringing this music to fans everywhere.

From classic sounds that shaped generations to unexpected mashups that surprise and delight, The Doo Wop Project proves that this music isn’t just nostalgia—it’s alive, evolving, and more exciting than ever. In our chat, we dive into the making of the album, the energy of their live shows, and why audiences from coast to coast are falling in love with their sound. If you’ve ever snapped along to “In the Still of the Night” or found yourself grooving to a modern hit with vintage flair, this is an episode you can’t miss.

🎙️ The Roundtable with Robert Bannon streams on BroadwayWorld, the Broadway Podcast Network, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, and YouTube.

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Today on The Roundtable, we welcome singer-songwriter and rapper Nadim Azzam. Known for blending hip hop, folk, and soul into a fresh, genre-bending sound, Nadim has been making waves with music that speaks to identity, resilience, and connection. From his roots in Ann Arbor to stages across the country, Nadim has built a loyal following with his heartfelt lyrics, electric energy, and the unique way he bridges cultures and sounds.

In our chat, Nadim opens up about his journey as an artist, the stories behind his songs, and the inspiration that keeps him pushing boundaries. With humor, honesty, and passion, he reminds us why independent artists like him are vital voices in music today. It’s an inspiring and soulful conversation you won’t want to miss.

📺 Watch now on Broadway World & YouTube

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On this episode of The Roundtable with Robert Bannon, we welcome Grammy-nominated entertainer Clint Holmes, one of the most dynamic voices in music today. Known for his electrifying stage presence and ability to cross genres from jazz to pop to Broadway, Clint has spent decades captivating audiences around the world. With new tour dates ahead — including a highly anticipated return to 54 Below in New York City — he joins us to share what fans can expect from his latest shows, his process of crafting unforgettable concerts, and how he keeps the music fresh and personal every single night.

In our chat, Clint opens up about the joy of live performance, his favorite stories from the road, and the deep connection he finds with audiences everywhere he goes. From the intimacy of 54 Below to stages across the country, his artistry reminds us that music isn’t just heard — it’s felt. Get ready for a conversation that celebrates not only a career of iconic performances, but also the magic that happens when a true entertainer takes the stage.

#️⃣ #ClintHolmes #54Below #OnTour #TheRoundtableWithRobertBannon #LiveMusic #JazzPopSoul

🎙️ The Roundtable with Robert Bannon streams on Broadway World, Broadway Podcast Network, iHeart, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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