Our next guest is Lisa Marie Rollins, a freelance director, writer and new play developer. She has been a writing fellow with Hedgebrok, Djerassi, SF Writers Grotto, CALLALOO London, VONA, Just Theatre Play Lab and Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency. Her last featured work was Kara, directed by Elizabeth Carter, back in 2023. Jake and I talk about Lisa’s upbringing, her playwrighting work and where she sees herself in the future.

You can contact Lisa Marie directly via Instagram: @lisamarie_9

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-jenny-peter-and-sally-after-toms-passing?utm_id=97758_v0_s00_e227_tv2_tp1_a1dennhbg3mj0m

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Ray Archie is our next guest on this Wednesday Yay – Ray is the Chief Executive Officer of Music Is My First Language (MiMFL) – it’s an international lifestyle brand and musical collaborative dedicated to inspire positive social change through sustainable music education. Ray is also the Principal Sound Alchemist of Brooklyn Sound Lab. Jake and I talk to Ray about his upbringing, more about MiMFL and why he created it, and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Ray directly via his Instagram: @rayarchie

You can also learn more about the Brooklyn Sound Lab via their website: https://brooklynsoundlab.com

If you had ever went to a Douglas Morrison Production, you would have seen amazingly built sets, created by the resident set designer, Tom Earlywine. Most of the staff was let go immediately after COVID, but all of us remember the excellent work of Tom. I’m sad to report that Tom passed away June 16, after a heart attack – he leaves behind his wife and two children. They have a Go Fund Me page to help them with funeral bills and other financial demands – if you ever cared for the great work of Tom Earlywine, I invite you to give – whatever you have. The link to the page is here: Tom Earlywine’s GoFundMe Page

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/hairspray/

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

We bring in another member of Felonious to the Yay podcast – Tommy Soulati Shepherd is an actor, rapper and teacher at Oakland School for the Arts. Jake and I talk about Tommy’s upbringing, his work with Felonious, and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Tommy directly via Instagram: @emceesoulati

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Jameelah Rose has her own business selling healthy drinks - MelanA☥D is a black owned business that specializes in alkaline elixirs used to heal the mind and body. It's currently being sold at the Mandela Shopping Mart and you can find more info on MelanA☥D on this Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/melanaid

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Present Laughter (Orinda Starlight Players)

July 24 – August 15

Max Chang (Episode 247) is in the show

https://www.orsvp.org/present-laughter

The Gull (Shotgun Players)

Staged Reading: June 22, 23 & 24

Fred Pitts (Episode 256) is in the show

https://shotgunplayers.org/show/gull/

Staged Reading: Sisters Matsumoto, by Phillip Kan Gotanda

Contemporary Asian Theatre Scene

June 19 & 20

https://www.catsasiantheaterscene.org

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Tara Blau Smollen is our next guest on this special Wednesday Yay. Ms. Smollen is an actress, director and playwright - her new play The Gull will be featured by Shotgun Players on June 22, 23 and 24 – this is a special, modernized retelling of Anton Chekov’s classic play. We talk about Tara’s upbringing, her playwrighting career and where she sees herself in the future.

You can learn more about Tara via her website: http://tarablausmollen.com

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

The Gull (Shotgun Players)

Staged Reading: June 22, 23 & 24

Fred Pitts (Episode 256) is in the show

https://shotgunplayers.org/show/gull/

Staged Reading: Sisters Matsumoto, by Phillip Kan Gotanda

Contemporary Asian Theatre Scene

June 19 & 20

https://www.catsasiantheaterscene.org

As You Like It (Marin Shakespeare Company)

June 19 – July 19

David Maier (Episode 301) is in the show

Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) is in the show

https://www.marinshakespeare.org/

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

Hairspray (SF Playhouse)

July 10 – Sept 12

Adam Kuveniemann is in the show

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

We continue with our interviews with the rappers from the Tenacious Group. Our next guest is Keith Pinto, who is currently in CenterRep’s Jagged Little Pill, running now until June 28. Jake and I talk about Keith’s background, his work in bay area theatre and where he sees himself in the future.

You can reach Keith directly via his Instagram: @kpfcrew

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health. It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self. As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too. Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical (Center Rep)

May 31 – June 28

Keith Pinto (Episode 362) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is the associate director

https://www.centerrep.org/what-s-on/25-26-season/alanis-morissette-s-jagged-little-pill-the-musical

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

We haven’t had him on since 2017 (Episode 16), but he’s back – veteran playwright Conrad Panganiban comes back on the Yay! Conrad comes back on to talk about his book Welga: A Filipino American Playwright’s Journey – a Collection of Filipino American Plays. We also talk about Conrad’s upbringing, his journey as a playwright in the bay area, and what’s up in his future.

You can find out more about Welga and about Conrad via his website: https://www.conradpanganiban.com

You can also directly contact Conrad via Instagram: @consplayspace

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Alexis Green (Episode 330) has a wonderful product that will improve your mental and spiritual health. It’s the Clarity Journal – it’s a journal, designed from lived experience - a compassionate tool for anyone seeking deeper emotional awareness. With daily check-ins, a mood wheel, and free-writing spaces, Alexis and her company has created a nurturing environment to help you connect with your true self. As a journal writer myself for many years, I can attest to how soothing it is for me to have a journal – I think it’ll work for you too. Check out the Clarity Journal at https://clarity-journals.com/

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Mean Girls (Ray of Light Theatre)

LAST SHOW TONIGHT (May 30)

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show

https://www.rayoflighttheatre.com/meangirls

Shakespeare Over My Shoulder (African American Shakespeare Company)\

May 12 – June 7

Gary Moore (Episode 278) is in the show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-over-my-shoulder-tickets-239794

anthropology (City Lights Theatre)

May 14 – June 7

Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show

https://cltc.org/event/anthropology/

The House of Bernarda Alba (Oakland Theatre Project)

May 22 – June 7

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/house

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

This is a special Friday Yay, and Jake and I welcome back Pete the Cat! Pete Fitzsimmons, veteran actor who has been in two of my plays (Four Men in Paris, Judicial Process) was last on the Yay in 2018 (Episode 65) and he brings Arleigh Prelow on as a special guest. Ms. Prelow is the writer and director of a new documentary, The Psalm of Howard Thurman. We talk about the documentary, what’s been going on with Pete and other topics about bay area theatre life.

You can learn more about the film via Arleigh’s website: https://www.howardthurmanfilm.com/

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Mean Girls (Ray of Light Theatre)

LAST SHOW TOMORROW (May 30)

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show

https://www.rayoflighttheatre.com/meangirls

Shakespeare Over My Shoulder (African American Shakespeare Company)\

May 12 – June 7

Gary Moore (Episode 278) is in the show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-over-my-shoulder-tickets-239794

anthropology (City Lights Theatre)

May 14 – June 7

Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show

https://cltc.org/event/anthropology/

The House of Bernarda Alba (Oakland Theatre Project)

May 22 – June 7

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/house

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Ada May is our next guest on The Yay – she’s been the stage manager for SF Playhouse for many years, who also works at Look Talent, a talent agency in SF. Jake and I talk to Ada about her upbringing, how they met, her work in stage managing and where she sees herself in the future.

You can reach Ada directly via Instagram: @y.i.ada

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

We also want to thank Charles Blades Barbershop for sponsoring The Yay! Charles Blades Barbershop is located at 180 Second Street in downtown Oakland. It’s a very cool, relaxing place where you can get your cuts and they’ll even serve you a complimentary drink.

Book an appointment online here: https://www.charlesblades.com

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

Mean Girls (Ray of Light Theatre)

May 1 – 30

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show

https://www.rayoflighttheatre.com/meangirls

God of Carnage (Pacifica Spendrift Players)

LAST SHOW TOMORROW

Aaron Seymour (Episode 317) is in the show

https://www.pacificaspindriftplayers.org/shows/2025-2026/god-of-carnage-2/

Shakespeare Over My Shoulder (African American Shakespeare Company)\

May 12 – June 7

Gary Moore (Episode 278) is in the show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-over-my-shoulder-tickets-239794

anthropology (City Lights Theatre)

May 14 – June 7

Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show

https://cltc.org/event/anthropology/

The House of Bernarda Alba (Oakland Theatre Project)

May 22 – June 7

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/house

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

POTUS, Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women To Keep Him Alive (Actor’s Ensemble)

June 11 – 27th

Tanika Baptiste is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/productions/upcoming-shows

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It’s been over a week but we’re back and our next guest is Dan Wolf, actor and artistic director of Sound In The Silence, a company that teaches history through art. Jake and I talk about Dan’s upbringing, his work in the bay area and where he sees himself in the future.

You can contact Dan directly via Instagram: @dannydmic

You can learn more about Dan via his webpage: https://www.dan-wolf.com

On the Yay, we often talk about mental and spiritual health, especially for us actors, because our emotions are our currency. My good friend Cary Ann Rosko (Episodes 77 and 296) is not only a great actress, but is a psychotherapist and she’s opening up her business to the online community. She’s offering virtual psychotherapy services to individual adults in California. Check out her website, https://www.caryannroskomft.com/what-i-offer, and take the first step in taking care of your personal health. Sometimes we need a hand to hold in healing, and Cary has her hand out, waiting to help you.

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

How to Make An American Son (New Conservatory Theatre Center)

April 3 – May 10

Richard Perez (Episode 314) is in the show

https://nctcsf.org/event/americanson/

Mean Girls (Ray of Light Theatre)

May 1 – 30

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show

https://www.rayoflighttheatre.com/meangirls

God of Carnage (Pacifica Spendrift Players)

May 8 – 17

Aaron Seymour (Episode 317) is in the show

https://www.pacificaspindriftplayers.org/shows/2025-2026/god-of-carnage-2/

Lay My Burden Down (SF International Arts Festival)

May 9-10

Cat Brooks (Episode 283) is in the show

https://www.sfiaf.org/sfiaf2026_strange-angels-theater

Shakespeare Over My Shoulder (African American Shakespeare Company)\

May 12 – June 7

Gary Moore (Episode 278) is in the show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-over-my-shoulder-tickets-239794

anthropology (City Lights Theatre)

May 14 – June 7

Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show

https://cltc.org/event/anthropology/

The House of Bernarda Alba (Oakland Theatre Project)

May 22 – June 7

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/house

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

Arab Spring (Golden Thread Productions)

June 19 – July 12

Denmo Ibrahim (Episode 199) wrote the play

https://goldenthread.org

Scabmuggers (The Freight Theatre)

July 7, 14 & 21

Adam Kuveniemann (Episode 274) is in the show

Tanika Baptiste (Episode 253) is directing the show

https://secure.thefreight.org/15960/15961-scabmuggers-260707

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

POTUS, Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women To Keep Him Alive (Actor’s Ensemble)

June 11 – 27th

Tanika Baptiste is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/productions/upcoming-shows

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)

Kenny Scott is our next guest on The Yay – Kenny is a veteran actor, who has acted in various theatre companies in the bay area. Jake and I talk about Kenny’s upbringing, his training at Morgan State University and Laney College, his career in the bay area and where he sees himself in the future.

You can reach Kenny directly via Instagram: @kenny_scxtt

Kehinde Koyejo (Episodes 214 and 262) has been a friend of mine since 2005, when I stage managed her for the Ray of Light musical, Bat Boy. She’s an amazing actress, model and creative artist. She’s also an incredible entrepreneur – and I want to introduce you to her business, Kalm Korner. Kalm Korner is an online boutique that specializes in aromatherapy gifts – love rubs, moisturizers, sprays, tea blends and candles. Kalm Korner also sells Choc’late Mama cookies – she brought some over the last time we interviewed her and it was fantastic. Let’s support a black female-owned business, a local business and make your first order by going to this website: https://kalmkorner.com/

SHOWS:

The Goat or Who Is Sylvia? (Shotgun Players)

March 21 – May 3

Kevin Clarke (Episode 355) is in the show

https://shotgunplayers.org

Female, Ashkenazi with a Sewing Machine (Musical Café/Inferno Theatre)

April 25 only

Jamie Greenblatt & Richard Jennings (Episode 173) are the writers

Crystal Brown (Episodes 62 & 234) is in the show

https://infernotheatre.org/festival-2026

Julius Caesar (SF Shakes)

Feb 26 – April 29 (check website for details)

Brandon DiPaola (Episode 306), Evan Held (Episode 226) and Jeunee Simon (Episode 297) are in the show

https://www.sfshakes.org/performance/tour/

Flex (SF Playhouse)

March 26 – May 6

Margo Hall (Episode 166) is directing the show

Brittany Sims (Episode 328) and Champagne Hughes (Episode 335) are understudies

https://sfplayhouse.org/2025-2026-season/flex/

How to Make An American Son (New Conservatory Theatre Center)

April 3 – May 10

Richard Perez (Episode 314) is in the show

https://nctcsf.org/event/americanson/

Mean Girls (Ray of Light Theatre)

May 1 – 30

Marah Sotelo (Episode 124) is in the show

https://www.rayoflighttheatre.com/meangirls

Soulmates (3 Girls Theatre)

May 3 Reading

Kimberly Ridgeway (Episodes 155 & 251) wrote the piece

https://www.3girlstheatre.org/3gt-presents

God of Carnage (Pacifica Spendrift Players)

May 8 – 17

Aaron Seymour (Episode 317) is in the show

https://www.pacificaspindriftplayers.org/shows/2025-2026/god-of-carnage-2/

Lay My Burden Down (SF International Arts Festival)

May 9-10

Cat Brooks (Episode 283) is in the show

https://www.sfiaf.org/sfiaf2026_strange-angels-theater

Shakespeare Over My Shoulder (African American Shakespeare Company)\

May 12 – June 7

Gary Moore (Episode 278) is in the show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-over-my-shoulder-tickets-239794

anthropology (City Lights Theatre)

May 14 – June 7

Maria Marquis (Episode 331) is in the show

https://cltc.org/event/anthropology/

The House of Bernarda Alba (Oakland Theatre Project)

May 22 – June 7

Eiko Moon-Yamamoto (Episodes 120 & 225) is in the show

https://oaklandtheaterproject.org/house

The Laramie Project (Coastal Rep)

June 5 – 21

Danny Martin (Episode 71) is in the show

https://www.coastalrep.com/upcoming

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Actor’s Ensemble)

Aug 22 – Sept 7

Cynthia Lagodzinski (Episodes 96 & 266) is in the show

Bruce Kaplan (Episode 294) is in the show

https://www.aeofberkeley.org/94-news/latest-news/430-a-midsummer-night-s-dream-opens-august-22nd-2026

Follow us on Facebook and Bluesky (TheYayPodcast)