The Roundtable with Robert Bannon

With a career spanning decades, Fred Mollin's prolific work producing iconic music and composing for film and television makes him a natural storyteller. In his book, Unplugged, Mollin draws upon his rich experiences, including producing the hit 'Sometimes When We Touch' and composing for 'Beverly Hills, 90210,' to offer readers a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. Unplugged delves into his creative process, his collaborations with renowned artists, and his unique perspective on the evolution of music and entertainment. This memoir is a must-read for music enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the inner workings of the industry, providing an insightful and compelling journey through Mollin's remarkable career.

He Gained early recognition for co-producing Dan Hill's international hit "Sometimes When We Touch" in 1977. Produced albums for a wide range of artists, including Kristin Chenoweth, Jimmy Webb, Johnny Mathis, Billy Ray Cyrus, and America. He has also found great success producing children's music, especially with the Disney Lullaby Album series.

In essence, Fred Mollin is a multifaceted talent who has made significant contributions to the music and entertainment industry as a producer, composer, and musician.

His new book is a must read for music fans everywhere! The book is now out and available wherever books are sold.

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Most pop stars don’t start out singing for tips at ColdStone Creamery—or end up serving on copyright boards alongside entertainment execs and policy leaders. But NYC via Atlanta artist Lana Love is far from ordinary.

A classically trained powerhouse with roots in opera, jazz, musical theatre, and piano, Love fuses her music with a fierce, theatrical pop-rock sensibility—think Lady Gaga meets Phantom of the Opera, with Broadway drama and a punk-pop bite.

Lana’s story reads like a fever dream — from performing as a Disney princess in 40+ countries, to joining Team John Legend on The Voice, and opening for artists like Snoop Dogg, Cold War Kids, Cheat Codes, and Wu-Tang Clan. She first made waves in 2021, with breakout single “American Love” (Apple Music’s SHAZAM Top 40). That same year, she headlined a one-hour solo live PBS special before an audience of 6k at Redlands Bowl Amphitheater, in tribute to her late mentor Frank Fetta. 

Since then, she’s contributed as a lyricist and assistant director on Making Malinche —Netflix’s musical collaboration with Nacho Cano and Hans Zimmer—and her track “Lion Heart” was featured in the national tour of American Girl Live – a live-action feature film based on the American Girl doll line. 

Offstage, Lana is a fierce advocate for artists' rights – currently serving on the boards of USIPA (Entertainment & Sports) and Copyright Alliance (alongside Peggy Still Johnson). She’s also a 1-on-1 coach at NYC Vocals, and leads masterclasses at institutions like Kent State, American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) and Florida Gulf Coast University.

She is here with a new single called "ANTIDOTE" that you need to check out! Do not miss a second!

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The Roundtable hits the movies! We fell in love with the film "Things Like This" now out in theatres! It is perfect for a rom-com, a date night, or a pre-pride night out!

Zack Anthony, a struggling writer, and Zack Mandel, a talent agent assistant trapped in a failing relationship, meet by chance at a showcase. Their connection begins with a small act of kindness and grows after a disastrous but comedic first date. As they spend more time together, they uncover a surprising shared past that feels like fate. Despite personal challenges, misunderstandings, and life’s twists, their bond deepens as they navigate what could be the start of something special.

The film stars Max Talisamn & Joey Pallari and is a must see film for the week!

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Check out "The Roundtable with Robert Bannon" here on BPN on the daily, on YouTube, Broadway World, and on social media! Like, comment, share, & subscribe!

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Dez Duron is a singer/songwriter from Shreveport, LA. He is on Broadway as one of the stars of the Tony Nominated Smash "Maybe Happy Ending!"

Before his famed debut on NBC's The Voice, Dez grew up singing in the church where his parents pastored. Upon graduating high school, Dez left singing behind, albeit temporarily, to pursue his love of football after being recruited by Yale to play quarterback. But, with his roots grounded in music, he left college after his sophomore year to try out for The Voice. His natural on-camera presence, undeniable likeability, charm, looks, and voice swooned viewers, pushing him all the way to the Top 8.

As an actor, he starred in the world premiere of the new musical Maybe Happy Ending at the Alliance Theatre, directed by Tony nominee Michael Arden.

He also starred in the world premiere of the musical Music City at Cape Fear Regional Theatre. On screen, he starred in the Freevee pilot Open Book (created by Jessica Simpson). In addition to singing, Dez has seen success in modeling, being featured in the influential American Eagle Outfitters "Live Your Life" campaign.

The cast recording of "Maybe Happy Ending" is now out! Stream and get tickets at www.MaybeHappyEnding.com

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Check out "The Roundtable with Robert Bannon" here on BPN on the daily, on YouTube, Broadway World, and on social media! Like, comment, share, & subscribe!

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Happy 500 Shows On BPN Roundtable Family! I am so honored and grateful to share my chats with you here! Thank you for all the love and support that has been shown to me! May the best be yet to come!

Speaking of the best, I love that Robbie Rozelle! It is his fault I even have a show! How? Well you will have to watch and find out!

Robbie is back at 54 Below and it is must see cabaret!

Robbie Rozelle has it all… almost. Known internationally as a cabaret icon, a cast album maven, and a devoted husband, the only thing he’s missing is seemingly the most crucial: his own Wikipedia entry. It has become clear that he has to take matters into his own hands. Hailed by BroadwayWorld as “a cabaret train that won’t be stopped”, and “a genius at crafting an evening” by StageBuddy, the celebrated creator of Songs From Inside My Locker will take you on a hilarious all-encompassing romp through everything from “Early Life” to “Career” to “Discography” and beyond with his new show, Citation Needed.

Featuring songs and stories from his nearly 30 years in show business, and his requisite razor-sharp wit, signature medleys, snazzy special guests and his merry band The Two Drink Minimum, led by Drama Desk nominee Yasuhiko Fukuoka. Be there as he hits “publish” on the most important Wikipedia entry of all time.

For Tickets: www.54Below.org

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Check out "The Roundtable with Robert Bannon" here on BPN on the daily, on YouTube, Broadway World, and on social media! Like, comment, share, & subscribe!

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The third-annual Janice Jam: Broadway For Breast Cancer returned to NYC benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) on Monday, May 5th, 2025.

Audience members were in for one of the most power-packed and exciting benefit concert events of the year, with 100% of net proceeds funding metastatic breast cancer research grants through BCRF, the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide.

The Roundtable was there! We talked to the stars like John Gallagher Jr., Brent Comer, and more Plus the organizer Matt D'Angelis talks why this was so personal!

This is always a fun special night not to be missed! Take a peek at all the action of Janice Jame!

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Check out "The Roundtable with Robert Bannon" here on BPN on the daily, on YouTube, Broadway World, and on social media! Like, comment, share, & subscribe!

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Three decades ago, an artist emerged who would redefine the sound of R&B for a generation—Jon B. His smooth vocals and romantic ballads quickly captivated audiences, and now, as he celebrates 30 years in the industry, he reclaims his place at the forefront of contemporary R&B with the release of his eighth studio album, Waiting on You, on March 21, 2025.

This significant milestone not only marks a celebration of his long-standing career but also indicates the artist's ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving musical landscape. In this article, we delve into Jon B's journey, the essence of his new album, and what this milestone means for fans and the R&B genre.

From the moment Jon B burst onto the music scene in 1995 with his debut album Bonafide, he showcased a blend of soulful melodies and rich lyrical storytelling that resonated with listeners. His collaboration with iconic artists, such as Babyface on "Someone to Love," and captivating hits like "They Don’t Know," have cemented his status as an R&B maestro. Throughout the years, Jon B has managed to maintain not only relevance but also an unwavering connection with his fans, who fondly remember the emotions his music evokes.

The persistence and evolution of his sound—coupled with an ability to embrace both classic and modern elements—has allowed Jon B to endure in an industry marked by rapid changes. He also remains a perennial influence, as evident in the music of contemporary artists who have sampled his work, including The Weeknd and Drake.

Stream the album and check him out live! All info over at www.JONBWORLD.com

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The Black Wolfe Tone is a thrilling new play about identity, raging against the machine, and how young men deal or don’t deal with the darkness. A fast-paced journey that interrogates our culture of silence, the mind, and growing up mixed race in Ireland. At its heart, it’s about a young boy seeking forgiveness: the inner child wanting only to be acknowledged, loved, and held.

May 1 — June 1, 2025

Kwaku Fortune is an Actor and Playwright. As a writer, he recently completed theThe Baptiste Programme with Smock Alley Theatre in Dublin and has had a reading of his first play: It’s Cool In The Shade in the Dublin Theatre Festival. The Black Wolftone, Kwaku’s second play, was performed in New York, LA, and San Francisco as part of the Transatlantic Commision with Irish Repertory Theatre in New York and Fishamble: The New Play Company, in Dublin. Kwaku is also a member of the Screen Writers Guild (WGI) and is working on his first feature film, Title Unknown.

Kwaku’s acting credits includes a recent appearance as Josh Ola alongside Angeline Ball, Peter Coonan and Simone Kirby in HIDDEN ASSETS directed by Thaddeus O’Sullivan; REDEMPTION directed by John Hayes for ITV; and BURN IT ALL opposite Toni O’Rourke, directed by Jack Hickey. He has most recently played the role of Gary in YOU BELONG TO ME, written by Rory Nolan and directed by Lynne Parker for Smock Alley Theatre; Ray in THE BEAUTY QUEEN OF LEENANE directed by Rachel O’Riordan for the Lyric Hammersmith & Chichester Festival Theatre, and as the voice of Gael in the Skydance/Apple+ animated feature LUCK.

Further screen credits include LINE OF DUTY for the BBC; NORMAL PEOPLE directed by Lenny Abrahamson and Hettie Macdonald for BBC 1, BBC 3 and HULU; and ANIMALS alongside Holliday Grainger and Alia Shawkat, directed by Sophie Hyde.

Stage credits include the role of Eli in ASKING FOR IT at Birmingham Repertory Theatre; PEAT directed by Tim Crouch; and the role of Dara Mood Caitríona McLaughlin’s acclaimed production of Marina Carr’s RAFTERY’S HILL directed for the main stage at the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s National Theatre. Kwaku trained at the Lír Academy, Dublin (in association with RADA).

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Jonathan Groff (Just In Time), Robyn Hurder (Smash), Josh Bergasse (Smash), Warren Carlyle (Pirates! The Penzance Musical), Jasmine Amy Rogers (Boop! The Musical),  Shannon Lewis (Just In Time), and more are nominees at this year's Chita Rivera Awards!

We had a chance to speak to some of the nominees in a special Bonus Red Carpet Chat on The Roundtable!

Carrying the name of one of the great dance icons of the American musical theater, the Chita Rivera Awards celebrate dance and choreographic excellence past, present and future. The mission of the Chita Rivera Awards is to celebrate dance and choreographic excellence, preserve notable dance history, recognize past, present, and future talents, while promoting high standards in dance education and investing in the next generation.

Nominators considered outstanding choreography, featured dancers, and ensembles in shows on Broadway as well as outstanding choreography in film, that opened in the 2024-2025 season. Nominations for the productions under consideration this season will be determined by the designated nominating committee. There are separate nominating committees for Broadway and Film. There is also an awarding committee for Broadway, which determines the final nominations that are received from the Broadway nominations committee.

The 2025 Chita Rivera Awards will be presented on May 19 at 7:30pm at NYU Skirball (566 LaGuardia Place off Washington Square Park), and produced by Joe Lanteri, Founder and Executive Director of the New York City Dance Alliance Foundation, Inc. in conjunction with Patricia Watt.

Tickets to the Chita Rivera Awards are available to the general public at www.ChitaRiveraAwards.com.

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We have a special inspiring chat for you today!

David Loud occupies a unique place in Broadway history: in addition to his distinguished body of work as a music director and vocal arranger, he also originated three roles as an actor. He served as music director for the Broadway premieres of Kander & Ebb’s The Visit, starring Chita Rivera and Roger Rees; Susan Stroman’s production of The Scottsboro Boys; James Lapine’s Sondheim on Sondheim, starring Barbara Cook; Kander & Ebb’s Curtains, starring David Hyde Pierce;  Ahrens & Flaherty’s Ragtime; Kander & Ebb’s Steel Pier; A Class Act; The Look of Love; as well as revivals of Porgy and Bess; She Loves Me; The Boys from Syracuse; Company; and Sweeney Todd. He originated the role of Manny in Terrence McNally’s Master Class (starring Zoe Caldwell), played Sasha (the Conductor) in Curtains, and made his Broadway debut in Harold Prince’s original 1981 production of Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along.

Off-Broadway, David created the vocal and dance arrangements for Kander & Ebb’s And the World Goes ‘Round. He was the vocal arranger for New York, New York, and he has created arrangements for Marin Mazzie, Jason Danieley, Audra MacDonald, Victoria Clark, Rebecca Luker, Paulo Szot, Liz Callaway, and Betty Buckley. He conducted the incidental music for Mike Nichols’ revival of Death of a Salesman and collaborated with Wynton Marsalis and John Doyle on A Bed and a Chair, a jazz interpretation of Sondheim’s music. Other projects include The Land Where the Good Songs Go, a concert of Jerome Kern songs at Merkin Concert Hall; First You Dream, a revue of Kander & Ebb songs that was broadcast on PBS; and five highly acclaimed programs in the 92nd Street Y’s Lyrics and Lyricists series: On A Clear Day: the Musical Vision of Burton Lane, Taking a Chance on Love: the Music of Vernon Duke, Let’s Misbehave: the sensational songs of Cole Porter, Frank Loesser: Lyricist, and A Good Thing Going: the Stephen Sondheim and Harold Prince Collaboration. 

David is a graduate of Yale University and has been on the faculty of the Yale School of Drama, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and Fordham University. His book, Facing the Music; a Broadway Memoir, was recently published by Regan Arts, a division of Simon & Schuster.

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Check out "The Roundtable with Robert Bannon" here on BPN on the daily, on YouTube, Broadway World, and on social media! Like, comment, share, & subscribe!

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