This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas sits down with Rachel Christopher, the incredible actress redefining magic on Broadway as Hermione Granger in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child." Rachel shares stories about her creative journey, her experiences stepping into iconic roles, and the impact of representation in the wizarding world. From her time in groundbreaking productions like "For Colored Girls" and "Jaja's African Hair Braiding" to her current Broadway success, Rachel opens up about the artistry and challenges behind her performances. Recorded as part of the Gotham Network, this episode celebrates the magic of storytelling, resilience, and diverse perspectives in theater. Special thanks to Gotham Network NYC, TyNia Brandon, and Big Red Studios for their continued support in bringing these conversations to life. Don’t miss this inspiring and heartfelt episode!

#harrypotterrepresentation #diversityincasting #blackhermionebroadway #rachelchristopher #musicaltheaterinterviews

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
01:40 - Welcoming Rachel Christopher
03:50 - Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
08:40 - Hermione Granger Character Analysis
14:04 - Hermione’s Hair Journey and Evolution
16:34 - Finding Depth in Character Development
21:03 - British Accent Lesson Tips
23:05 - Motivation and What Keeps You Going
27:28 - Managing Multiple Responsibilities Effectively
31:50 - Importance of Diversifying Your Income Streams
32:40 - The Power of Saying No
33:40 - Building Self-Faith and Confidence
34:20 - Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas opens up about one of the most personal and transformative chapters of her life: her decision to wait until marriage and what that long journey taught her about patience, purpose, and trusting divine timing. From growing up in a strict and faith-filled household to navigating college, touring, dating, and the pressures and teasing of others, Salisha shares the emotional reality behind choosing to wait and the strength it took to honor her own values.

In this vulnerable and deeply human solo episode, she reflects on
• What waiting actually looked like through her teens, college years, dating seasons, and touring life
• The misconceptions and judgments she faced from others
• What it meant to stay true to herself even when the world told her she was behind
• The moment she had a powerful vision that shifted everything
• How meeting her husband Andrew confirmed what alignment really feels like
• Why timing, energy, and self-respect matter more than timelines

She also shares encouragement for anyone waiting for love, career breakthroughs, self-growth, or clarity. Her message is that waiting is not weakness. Waiting is alignment. Waiting is trust. And what is meant for you will not miss you.

00:22 What waiting really means
00:57 Growing up in a strict and faith-centered household
02:29 Purity, promise rings, and early beliefs
03:42 College, independence, and questioning old rules
05:16 Touring, dating, and the teasing she endured
07:27 Why the choice still mattered to her
07:59 The vision that changed everything
09:08 Meeting Andrew and knowing instantly
10:14 What alignment feels like
11:09 Lessons on patience, timelines, and self-worth
13:00 The loneliness and strength behind choosing to wait
14:07 Why waiting sometimes means not settling
15:33 You are not behind
16:00 Final encouragement and closing

Episode Recorded at: Gotham Production Studios

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week, Salisha reflects on what it means to live and create in the space between acts. As a Broadway performer, life is often defined by auditions, rehearsals, and curtain calls. But there are moments when the show pauses and something quieter begins to unfold.

Salisha shares how stepping back from auditions, honoring her body, and navigating her new pregnancy journey opened the door to opportunities she never could have planned. What began as a season of rest became a reminder that when artists listen closely, life has a way of placing them exactly where they are meant to be.

She reflects on
• What it means to honor an intermission without fearing the end
• How stepping back can create room for unexpected opportunities
• Trusting timing even when the path looks different
• Balancing ambition, artistry, and real life
• Recognizing when a moment arrives that feels both surprising and familiar

This episode is a reminder that some of the most meaningful moments in an artist’s life do not come from chasing the stage, but from being ready when the stage appears again.

CHAPTERS

01:37 Gratitude and listening to the pause
03:32 Stepping away from auditions and Broadway burnout
05:20 Trusting timing during a new season of life
09:07 An unexpected opportunity appears
16:29 Returning to the stage in a way she never planned

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas reflects on a season of pause that ultimately expanded her understanding of what was possible for her life and career. After years of performing in Beautiful on tour and on Broadway, followed by preparing for a new show, the world slowed down and so did the industry she had built her identity around.

Rather than seeing that moment as something being taken away, Salisha shares how it became an invitation to look beyond a single dream and recognize new ways of creating stability, fulfillment, and creative expression. From building a sound studio in her apartment to exploring voiceover work and creating a podcast rooted in connection and storytelling, she walks through how this chapter allowed her to redefine success on her own terms.

In this solo episode, she reflects on
• How a pause can reveal opportunities you may not have seen otherwise
• The importance of building a life that supports your whole self
• Why diversifying your skills and income creates freedom rather than limitation
• How creativity can evolve without losing its core
• What it means to build a life that feels aligned, sustainable, and expansive

This episode is an honest reminder that sometimes life does not take something away. Sometimes it simply widens the path.

CHAPTERS

01:12 Life on Broadway and preparing for the next chapter
02:24 When everything slowed down and perspective shifted
04:14 Discovering new creative outlets and building a home studio
06:21 Expanding income, skills, and possibilities
09:27 Redefining success and building a fuller life

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

In this episode, Salisha shares a story from her time in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical that still makes her heart race! A costume pin in the wrong place. A set malfunction. A forgotten line. A voice that suddenly refuses to phonate. And thousands of people in the audience watching everything happen in real time.

In this solo episode, Salisha reflects on
• Why performers often have to smile through chaos to keep the show alive
• How unexpected moments reveal a performer’s strength and presence
• What losing her voice onstage taught her about recovery and resilience
• The power of slowing down before burnout takes over
• Why giving yourself grace is essential in any high-pressure environment

Her story offers an honest look at what it means to be a working performer and how even the roughest nights can become the moments that teach you the most about who you are and what you are capable of handling.

CHAPTERS

00:22 A minor accident turns into a major moment
00:50 When the set breaks and the show goes off script
02:24 Improvising onstage in front of thousands
03:48 Losing her voice and finding a way through
07:00 Lessons on burnout, healing, and slowing down

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas shares the powerful and often humorous story of how she booked her first dream Broadway show without being the best singer in the room.

From arriving in New York City with nothing but a suitcase and ambition, Salisha takes listeners through the unexpected turns, the callbacks, and the moments that ultimately led her to Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

In this episode, she opens up about:
• Why talent is not the deciding factor in many auditions
• The timing, alignment, and surprising moments that shaped her Broadway break
• The role authenticity plays in being remembered in a room
• How nerves, humor, and honesty all became part of her journey
• The deeper truth behind what casting directors often respond to

For anyone who has ever doubted their abilities or questioned their place, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and insight into how doors open when you remain true to yourself.

00:39 – The Big Move to New York
01:36 – Landing the Beautiful Audition
03:52 – The Unexpected Callback Moment
05:34 – Getting the Job
07:00 – Final Takeaways

Episode Recorded at: Gotham Production Studios

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas sits down with Broadway star Taurean Everett to explore his incredible creative journey and discuss the importance of dreams and representation in the world of theater. Known for his roles in productions like Moulin Rouge! The Musical, Miss Saigon, and Death Becomes Her, Taurean shares stories about his rise to Broadway stardom, his unique perspective on authenticity, and the discipline required to succeed in the performing arts. From touring with Priscilla Queen of the Desert to working with legendary designers like Bob Mackie, Taurean offers an inspiring look at the drive and intention behind his success. Recorded as part of the Broadway Podcast Network, this episode celebrates the power of resilience and the impact of representation. Special thanks to Gotham Network NYC, TyNia Brandon, and Big Red Studios for their support in bringing this heartfelt conversation to life. Tune in for a captivating discussion filled with positivity, insight, and motivation to chase your dreams!

#queerrepresentationbroadway #broadwaybehindthescenes #broadwayrepresentation #authenticityinperformance #performingartsjourney

#taureaneverett #broadwayactors #successstories #broadwaydreams #queerrepresentationintheater

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
00:40 - Introducing Tori
03:05 - Tori’s Essence
09:56 - Defining Success
18:33 - The Superficial Aspects
19:41 - Body Image and Physique
22:19 - Reflections on Your Dad
25:36 - Playing a Superhero Role
27:42 - Fashion Interests
32:24 - Broadway Dreams
34:05 - Auditioning Insights
36:09 - Destiny and Opportunities
37:56 - Pursuing Your Desires
39:54 - Michelle Williams Influence
45:13 - Insights on Motherhood
46:20 - Advice to Your Younger Self
47:55 - Final Questions
50:08 - Salisha’s Outro

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas sits down with the extraordinary Natasha Yvette Williams currently in Wicked on Broadway to discuss her inspiring journey on Broadway, balancing family and faith, and her creative successes. Natasha, a Grammy and Tony-nominated powerhouse, shares stories about her incredible career, from starring in iconic shows like Chicago, The Color Purple, and Wicked as Madam Morble, to her role as a founding member of Black Theater United. Recorded at Gotham Production Studios in Midtown Manhattan as part of The Gotham Network, this episode dives into Natasha's resilience and the importance of representation in theater. Salisha and Natasha explore the challenges of longevity in the industry, her heartfelt experiences, and her vision for the future. With gratitude to contributors like TyNia Brandon and Big Red Studios, this conversation is a celebration of artistry, family, and faith. Tune in for an uplifting and candid episode that highlights Natasha’s brilliance and the magic of Broadway.

#wickedbroadway #theaterrepresentationdiversity #blacktheaterrepresentation #tonynominatedartists #familyandcareer

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:43 - Natasha's Work-Life Balance
07:01 - Secrets to a Long-Lasting Marriage
19:54 - Lessons from Personal Growth Shows
23:50 - Understanding Your Matters
26:00 - Black Theatre United Overview
29:23 - Future Plans and Aspirations
32:00 - Advice to Your Younger Self
34:03 - Impact of a Tony Nomination
39:00 - Closing Thoughts and Reflections

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas sits down with James Monroe Iglehart, Broadway’s Genie of Joy✨, to share stories about his incredible creative journey. From his Tony-winning role as Genie in Aladdin to unforgettable performances in Hamilton, Chicago, and Freestyle Love Supreme, James opens up about his path to the Broadway spotlight, his love for storytelling, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Hear him reflect on his experiences as a voiceover artist, director, and actor in hit TV shows like Kimmy Schmidt and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. James also talks about choosing joy, his dedication to authentic representation, and the importance of being true to yourself. Recorded as part of the Gotham Network, this episode captures an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Special thanks to Gotham Network NYC, TyNia Brandon, and Big Red Studios for their support in bringing this episode to life!

#aladdingenie #choosejoy #geniealaddin #theaterkid #voiceoverartist

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:39 - Broadway Success Without BFA
05:15 - James Monroe Iglehart's Joyful Choices
09:12 - Love and Support: James's Wife
19:51 - Insights I've Shared for Years
22:12 - Understanding the Tony Awards
26:59 - Diversifying Artistic Expression
30:40 - Career Changes for James
33:30 - Egotistical vs. Cocky Attitudes
40:00 - Exploring "And Juliet"
43:15 - The Musical "Beautiful"
45:45 - The Funkentine Rapture Overview
46:53 - Advice to Young James
48:19 - Outro

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!

This week on The Salisha Show, Salisha Thomas chats with the stars of Broadway's *The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee* for a hilarious test of spelling skills and behind-the-scenes stories! From understudies sharing their creative journeys to cast members laughing through tough words like "rhinoceros" and "entrepreneur," the episode is packed with humor and heart. Salisha dives into the cast's experiences in rehearsals, the history of this beloved show, and how the magic of Broadway comes to life.  

Featuring guests like Jabril Cook, Emily Rudolph, Autumn Best, Justin Kulie, and more, this lively episode captures the energy, camaraderie, and quirks of the theater world. Recorded as part of the Broadway Podcast Network, the show celebrates creative journeys and the joy of performing on stage. Special thanks to Gotham Network NYC for their support in making this episode happen. Don't miss this unforgettable Broadway moment!

#broadway #understudy #interview #comedy #improv

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - The Cast of The Spelling Bee
06:41 - The Director of The Spelling Bee
10:44 - Logan Schwartzandgrubenierre and Leaf Coneybear
15:45 - Vice Principal Panch and Mitch Mahoney
18:37 - Matt Hates Being the Villain
19:00 - Spelling Bee with the Cast
21:25 - Goodbye

@salishathomas @thesalishashow, www.thesalishashow.com; Many thanks to Gotham Network in NYC, TyNia Brandon for writing and laying vocals down for the updated theme song. and Big Red Studios for the intro video wherever you watch the latest season of The Salisha Show!