There are some Broadway plays that seem impossible to describe, and Oh, Mary! is absolutely one of those shows. While it is most definitely a historical comedy, this show uses history more as a guiding aspiration than a hard-and-fast rule to operate by. It relishes the wicked delight of looking at the life and times of Mary Todd Lincoln through a lens that isn't often used in history: comedy. There's more bounce in this show than Mary's bratty curls, as creator Cole Escola has created something that not only explores a historical figure but also reinvents what it means to be a part of American history. By exaggerating the past to the point of collapse, the production exposes the fragile myths we cling to, proving that sometimes the fastest way to understand history is to drag it into the spotlight and let it misbehave, making it the perfect show to kick off our podcast coverage from our 2026 New York City trip!

In this episode of the BSB podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko explore the absurdity of Oh, Mary! and the genius behind this one-of-a-kind Broadway play! From staging and direction to casting (which largely shapes the audience's experience), nothing is off-limits in this discussion. Which performances outshone the others on stage? How does this Broadway play not only embrace the farcical nature but also expand upon it? Listen to this podcast to find out all those answers and more!

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The Algonquin senior living facility is in desperate need of some fun, and there are a few individuals living in the walls who have a plan to achieve that. A jukebox would definitely liven up the place, so a plan develops that ultimately explores themes of friendship, loneliness, and finding your tribe regardless of what stage of life you're in. St. Dunstan's Theatre's production of A Jukebox for the Algonquin explores the beauty within through tons of laughs and plenty of heart, something the cast understands intimately. We spoke with three of the cast members, Sandra Deering, Terie Spencer, and Denise Kallas, about their time in A Jukebox for the Algonquin.

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Deering, Spencer, and Kallas discuss what drew them to this project and why a story such as A Jukebox for the Algonquin is so important. The cast discusses what it's like to step into these characters and how they bring them to life. While this show is said to be a dramedy, these three breakdown if A Jukebox for the Algonquin is more comedy than drama or vice versa.

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It's time to grab your ultra clutch and get ready to make your hair as big as possible, as Hairspray is coming to Rose Above Theatre! For one weekend only, the cast and crew of Rose Above are looking to bring the fun-loving and free-wheeling musical to the Village Theatre at Cherry Hill! Hairspray delivers some incredibly important messages; however, it is packaged in one of the grooviest, most fun shows ever to grace Broadway. Director and actor Em Rose Miller, along with two other cast members, Krypton Adams and Ian Campbell, took some time out of their rehearsals to talk about their time on this production!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Miller discusses why it was the right time to bring Hairspray to the theater as their fourth main stage show! Cast members Adams and Campbell talk about what drew them to the show and how it's been to bring some of the nicest kids (and one of the sweetest moms for that matter) in town to life on stage! What messages from Hairspray really stand out to them, and which songs have proven to be the most difficult? Check out this interview to learn all these answers and more!

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It's never an easy decision to decide when and how to bring a baby into the world, especially when the world feels like it's falling apart around you. With the changing global landscape constantly in flux, there is never a perfect time to take the plunge and have a child. That pressure has to feel insurmountable at times, and is at the center of Tipping Point Theatre's latest production, Lungs, which arrives at the Northville theater this evening! Billed as a two-person show, Lungs is an intimate look at the dynamics between a couple as they discuss embarking on one of life's most extraordinary journeys. Ahead of its arrival, we sat down and spoke with the director of Lungs, Julia Glander, as well as the two stars of the show, Connor Allston and Kristin Shields!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babe interview, Julia Glander discusses why this show feels incredibly important given the state of the world and how it fits into the overarching theme of family, which has been the connective tissue from this season at Tipping Point. Allston and Shields also discuss what drew them to this project and the pressure that comes from a two-person show such as Lungs! In which aspects do these two characters reflect the actors? How has this show challenged all three parties? All these answers and more lie within this exciting interview showcasing the final show of Tipping Point's season!

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We've all heard the story of Harold Hill before, right? A charming, young con man who travels across America from one small town to another, creating unnecessary panic in hopes of stealing everyone's money. Classic Harold, giving false promises of bringing music to citizens through a marching band, and disappearing into the night with their hard-earned cash. However, as audiences discover in Meredith Wilson's musical, The Music Man, Harold is about to meet his match and perhaps have a change of heart. The Music Man is a gold standard Broadway show, bringing a classic feel to the stage with both its music and structure. Having found life in many adaptations and even a recent Broadway revival, the Birmingham Village Players are now bringing it locally here to Michigan, as the final show of their 102nd season! To celebrate the arrival of The Music Man, we sat down to talk with Harold Hill himself, or at least the man behind him, Adam Grey, and the delightful Kristen Dittus, who plays Marian in the musical!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Dittus and Grey discuss their rich history with Wilson's show, from previous performances to a deep appreciation for the music and story. Discover how these two have worked diligently to bring these characters to life and how they've developed the chemistry between these two iconic characters. What is their favorite song to perform in the show? What challenges does having such a large cast for this production of The Music Man pose? All those answers and more lie in store in this exciting interview!

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There's that saying that history repeats itself, which seems to be one of the only constants in life. Trends fade, only to return decades later, reminding us that everything in life is cyclical. Both the good and the bad find their way back as the tides of life change over and over, whether we like it or not. That's what makes shows such as Perfect Arrangement so crucial to the theatre landscape, highlighting past injustices and reminding people what can return if we bury our heads in the sand. Opening soon at Stagecrafters in Royal Oak, we spoke with director Leta Chrisman and cast member Lisa Hanes about their time with this production.

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Leta Chrisman and Lisa Hanes discuss what drew them to this project and what it's like to tell a queer story such as this one. Why is this play so important to Chrisman, who championed a local production? Who is Hanes playing in the show, and how does she factor into the overall narrative? And just what exactly are they hoping audiences walk away from Perfect Arrangement with? Give this interview a listen to discover all that and more!

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Audra McDonald is a Broadway Legend in every sense of the title, from her incredible acting to even more impressive singing. So when we heard that she was starring in a revival of Stephen Sondheim's Gypsy, we knew that we had to see it in person on our next trip to New York City. This classic musical based on the story of real life burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee debuted back in 1959 and has continued to stun audiences with each revival. This time, the creatvies behind Gypsy are looking to put a new spin on the decades old show, exploring typics that make for a more dynamic experience for all involved!

In this episode of the Box Seat Babes podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko continue their discussion of Broadway's Gypsy, with a focus on the songs and dance numbers, staging, and lighting. What from this production wowed them? Which performance blew them away? Is Audra McDonald in the running for a Tony Award for Rose's Turn? There's so much to appreciate from this latest Sondheim revival, and The Box Seat Babes do their best to give the listeners the highlights from this production! You can catch Gypsy at the the Majestic Theatre in New York City, currently running through August, so get your tickets now and witness Broadway royalty give a fresh talk on this classic musical!

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There's something timeless about the works of Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin, collectively known as The Rat Pack. All stars in their own right, these men, amongst others, shared the silver screen and the stages of Vegas together. Even though they reached their height almost three-quarters of a century ago, their films and music are still enjoyed by so many, reaching immortality through their lasting legacy, a legacy that is at the center of Meadow Brook Theatre's latest production, The Rat Pack Lounge!

Ahead of its premiere at the long-running Rochester, Michigan, playhouse, we spoke with the playwrights of The Rat Pack Lounge, James Hindman and Ray Roderick! In this exclusive interview, Hindman and Roderick discuss how they developed this show, from concept to song choice, how they get into the mindset of these musical legends when writing the scenes, and what themes from the show mean the most to them. Listeners also get a glimpse into the role audiences play early in the development of a show, such as The Rat Pack Lounge, and how testing the show is integral to getting everything just right! Thank you so much for listening to this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview. Enjoy!

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Hello! Do you have a minute to talk about our lord and savior, The Book of Mormon? No, not the actual book, but the wildly successful Broadway musical that has been a staple in the New York theatre scene since 2011! The Book of Mormon continues to delight audiences of all walks of life, with a satirical look at the power of religion and the community that stems from it. The national touring production recently stopped at The Fisher Theatre as the penultimate show of the 2024-2025 Broadway in Detroit season, bringing down the house with roarious laughter.

In this second episode of our The Book of Mormon discussion, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko move on from the story and characters to talk about their highlights from the music and technical side of the show. With songs that pay homage to Broadway shows of decades past, each wit

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h a distinct sound, which ones stood out to them? How did they feel the staging and costumes helped to deliver the story? There's so much to break down, all of which you can find in this most recent Box Seat Babes podcast episode! You can catch this musical comedy when it stops in a city near you! Stay tuned for part two, where we discuss the musical and technical side of the show!

It feels like Broadway is rediscovering the incredible work of Stephen Sondheim over the past few years, as one musical after another finds a home in New York City once again. From the gender-swapped Company and the more recent revival of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Sondheim's easily identifiable music and lyrics are being experienced by a new generation of theater lovers. This Broadway season sees the return of the classic Gypsy, a musical retelling of burlesque dancer Gypy Rose Lee's life, starring Audra McDonald and Joy Woods. Gypsy has that quintessential classical Broadway feel, however this revival features a few crucial changes that fundamentally shift the story in interesting ways for modern audiences. We caught Gypsy on our most recent trip to NYC and couldn't wait to share our thoughts!

In this episode of the Box Seat Babes podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the story and characters that drive the narrative of this Broadway revival of Gypsy. Which storylines meant the most to both of them? Were there any characters that stood out amongst the rest? How well has Gypsy translated from early Stephen Sondheim to now? You can find all those answers and so much more in this episode of our podcast! You can catch Gypsy at the the Majestic Theatre, currently running through August, so get your tickets now and witness theatrical magic!

The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical The Book of Mormon arrived on Detroit's doorstep last week, ringing the bell of The Fisher Theatre, hoping to spread the word of how incredible this show is. There's truly nothing like this comedy on there, as The Book of Mormon explores the power of community and relationships through unbelievable satire from the minds of Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of South Park. As the penultimate show of the 2024-2025 Broadway in Detroit season, this show was a must-see for us here at Box Seat Babes!

In this episode of The Box Seat Babes podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko break down what audiences can expect from the story and characters of the North American touring production of The Book of Mormon! What are their general thoughts on the narrative of the show? Which characters and actors stand out to them? How do they feel the show balances the approach to comedy and religion? All those answers and more are in this first part of their The Book of Mormon discussion!

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Growing older is just an aspect of life that everyone has to come to terms with; however, growing up is something entirely different. Maturity can come with age, but other factors force adolescents to grow up faster than they should have to, trading their innocence for the reality of whatever situation they're living through. We see this all too often today with the state of the world, and it's a significant influence in Simon Henriques and Skylar Fox's play The Grown Ups. Developed during the most recent global pandemic, The Grown Ups explores a group of camp counselors who are forced to mature rapidly as the world falls apart. This thought-provoking show is arriving soon at the University of Detroit Mercy's Theatre Company, closing out their season with yet another incredible performance. Ahead of its premiere, we spoke with the show's director, Andrew Papa, and one of the cast members, Gavin Rapuzzi.

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Papa and Rapuzzi discuss the importance of a show such as The Grown Ups, especially in a world with mounting strife and tension. Papa explores some of the creative choices made to remain faithful to the original play, which was made to be performed around a campfire outside. At the same time, Rapuzzi speaks on what drew him to this role and how he's developed the character of Lukas from the page to the rehearsal room. Together, these two paint a picture of why this was the right time to tell this story and how UofD Mercy is working hard to provide a unique theatrical experience!

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What would you do if you were face to face with your mortality? It's an interesting concept that most don't like to think about, as facing the possibility of your death is terrifying. However, if you're anything like Kimberly Levaco, you will squeeze as much joy as possible out of whatever time is left on this Earth. In the Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo, audiences follow the story of a 16-year-old who's aging four times as rapidly due to a disorder, confronting a variety of uncomfortable realities in life. The story is rich, but there's so much to appreciate about this musical, which has recently made its way into Michigan as a part of the current Broadway in Detroit season! So, of course, we had to explore the other aspects of Kimberly Akimbo in our most recent discussion!

In this episode of the Box Seat Babes podcast, host Brian Kitson and special guest Ryann Ferguson move on from breaking down the story within this story to focus on the music and technical side of this exciting musical! Which songs did they get stuck in their heads? How would they describe the genre of the music, and did it add any intrinsic value to the show? How exactly did the costumes and sets capture that '90s feel? All those answers and more lie within this exciting podcast episode! And don't miss Kimberly Akimbo, which is currently touring across North America!

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There's no better way to kick off a new year than with a musical, and so many local theaters are gearing up for an exciting second half of their current season! Birmingham Village Players is ready to hit the ground running in 2026 with another classic musical, Once Upon A Mattress. This 1959 musical is based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale The Princess and the Pea, though with a healthy dose of humor and a twist. With the show opening soon, we recently spoke with two of the cast members, Valenica Morgan and Noah Hanahan, about their time on this production!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Valenica Morgan and Noah Hanahan talk about what led them to Birmingham Village Players' Once Upon A Mattress and what it's like to bring their character Princess Winnifred and Prince Dauntless, respectively. What about Princess Winnifred makes her a good role model? What aspects of Once Upon A Mattress were the most challenging? What songs are Morgan and Hanahan's favorite to perform? There is so much to appreciate about this show, making it one of the best ways to begin a new year!

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Stephen Sondheim is a household name for theater nerds like us, giving audiences some of Broadway's most recognizable and prolific pieces. Works, such as Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Company, Gypsy, Sunset Blouvard, have stood the test of time, returning to Broadway many times over for audiences to enjoy. However, it's an earlier piece in Sondheim's collection, although still well known in its own right, that Stagecrafters is bringing to their stages, with a production of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum! Classified as a musical farce, this show has something for everyone, from hysterical laughs to impressive musical numbers. Ahead of its premiere on Stagecrafters' main stage, we spoke with two cast members of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Jeff Weiner and Edmond Guay!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, these two hilarious actors talk about their time on this production and why they were drawn to it. One of the actors has a long history with this show, while the other is relatively new to it, and both approaches provide particular challenges. How does the show come together from early rehearsals to days before the production? How do Weiner and Guay bring these characters to life? Listen in to this exciting interview to find out!

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Friends, family, community —in whatever form it comes—is one of the most important things a person can develop in their life. It is having a group of people who are there for you through thick and thin, giving their unconditional support regardless of your choices. The sisterhood that sits at the center of Birmingham Village Players' production of Steel Magnolias is a bond that can't be broken, although it's tested through acts of loss and life. There's only one final weekend of performances of this show, so to close out our production coverage, we have one final interview with Bridget Hillyer, who plays Shelby!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Bridget Hillyer explores what drew her to Steel Magnolias, what it was like bringing this character to life (hint: it takes a lot of homework to learn the accent), and why it's important to tell stories like this. What has been the most challenging part of starring in a show like this? Where does she draw inspiration for Shelby and her health issues from and how does she translate the struggle on stage? Listen to this interview to find out all those answers and more!

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When the global pandemic hit just a few years ago, the world came to a standstill. Everything stopped, leaving people frozen in place through necessity and fear. Broadway was no exception, with theaters closing and remaining empty month after month. When society began to open again, people flocked to the theater, welcomed by fan-favorite shows and newcomers, such as the newest kid on the block, Kimberly Akimbo. This musical tells the story of a young girl who is aging four times as fast as her classmates, exploring topics of morality and what kind of life someone should lead, arriving at the perfect time with a message that many needed to hear. While Kimberly Akimbo has moved on from Broadway, it's currently touring North America and arrived last week on Broadway in Detroit.

In this episode of the Box Seat Babes podcast, host Brian Kitson is joined by a special guest, Ryann Ferguson, to discuss the story and characters within Kimberly Akimbo. There are so many threads weaving through this musical, with characters you love and love to hate. Does Kimberly ever get her family vacation? How does she get involved in her Aunt Debra's crazy schemes? And most importantly, how does someone faced with their own mortality come to terms with what little life they have left? Listen as these two break down what stood out about the narrative in this show, as well as which characters they were drawn to!

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Friendship is one of the most important bonds we can form throughout our lives. Whether we find our people at a young age or not until later in life, it's the family we develop along the way that provides so many of us with the strength we need to face difficulties. This bond is front and center in Vanities the Musical, which is making its Michigan Premiere at Meadow Brook Theatre! Before its previews, we sat down to talk to the cast, Caroline Moulios, Em Hadick, and Katherine Alexis Thomas, about their experience in Vanities the Musical!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, all three cast members talk about what drew them to this musical and how it has challenged them as actors. From a show that only features three people to a story that spans decades and life experiences, there are plenty of ways Vanities has pushed Moulios, Hadick, and Thomas in their craft, although all of them are up to the task! Also, discover which themes speak to each one of them the most and how they feel the musical enhances the show. The chemistry amongst these three is intoxicating, making us even more excited to see Meadow Brook Theatre's production of Vanities The Musical! Watch and discover that energy for yourself!

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Our time in Bikini Bottom is almost over, as the Bloomfield Players are in the closing weekend of their production of The Spongebob Musical. As the saying goes, don't be sad that it's over, smile because it happened! It's difficult not to smile profusely when you see a musical such as this one, as it's brimming with laughter, hope, and good vibes...even if there is impending doom looming over Spongebob and his friends. Wrapping up our coverage of the current show from Bloomfield Players, we have one more interview, this time with the yellow sponge himself, Adam Wager!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Adam Wager talks about his time on this production of The Spongebob Musical! Wager discusses what drew him to this project, how working with his children has been exciting and enriching in so many ways, how his role has challenged him as an actor, and what themes speak to him. What are his thoughts on the music of the show? Listen to this interview to find out!

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Some things that might seem incredibly mundane are truly religious experiences. For some, it's taking that first sip of their morning coffee, letting it walk over them, melting away every worry. For others, it's a long drive on a nice summer day, blaring their music and letting the sun shine on their skin. However, for others, it's the act of gathering together with their community, gaining peace from being surrounded by others. This last experience is at the core of Steel Magnolias, about a group of women who work at a beauty salon and the relationships between them. This stunning play written by Robert Harling arrives this weekend at Birmingham Village Players in Birmingham, MI, and just ahead of its arrival, we sat down to talk to one of the cast members from this production, Leah Louis-Ferdinand.

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Louis-Ferdinand discusses what drew her to Steel Magnolias, how she's made Annelle her own while remaining faithful to the source material, and how this role has challenged her as an actor. The themes of community, family, and the beauty within the struggles of loss ring loudly in this play, and also speak to Louis-Ferdinand, drawing her even more into her role. Find out more about her experience in the play and what you can expect from this production of Steel Magnolias! Thank you so much for listening and enjoy!

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For as long as the cartoon has been around, Patrick Star has been Spongebob's best friend. They are inseparable in almost every aspect of their lives, staying besties through thick and thin (well, give or take a few episodes). So it only makes sense that when Bikini Bottom is under fire (literally) from the impending explosion of Mount Humongous, Patrick will be by Spongebob's side to save the day. At least, that's the basis for The Spongebob Musical, as the cast member personifying the talking starfish, Ian Campbell, told us when we spoke about his time on the Bloomfield Players production of this Broadway musical!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Campbell spoke about how his love for the Nickelodeon show has spanned decades, even being a formative part of some of his friendships, and how playing Patrick on stage is his dream role. He also spoke about Patrick's journey through the story, what it's like to bring joy to everyone in the audience, and how the music comes together for this stage production! Thanks for listening to this exciting interview and we hope you enjoy!

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While Parade might have left Detroit and moved on with its North American tour, this musical's impact will live in our minds forever. This timely story about the conviction and unjust murder of Leo Frank couldn't have come at a better time, as injustices in our country are becoming increasingly more apparent. It serves of a reminder of the treatment of others not that long ago in American history and the dangerous patterns we're bound to face if we don't take a moment to reflect and attempt to do better, collectively. Parade has so much power in its story, as we discussed in the first episode, however, there is just as much to break down with the music, staging, and direction this incredible show has taken. 

In this second part of our Parade Discussion, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss all the additional wow factors that this touring stage musical was able to pack into its two and a half hours of run time. What was so striking about the stage and how the actors used it? What did the visibility of the conductor signal to both of the hosts? Listen to this episode of The Box Seat Babes podcast to find all those answers!

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Sandy the squirrel is truly a fish out of water in the world of Spongebob and the rest of his aquatic friends. A mammal from the warm land of Texas, Sandy ends up in Bikini Bottom, living in a space suit to protect her from drowning as well as the crushing pressure of the water. In the cartoon, she's built herself a beautiful life and seems relatively accepted by those around her. However, as we've learned from talking with Danielle Cover, who plays Sandy in the Bloomfield Players' production of The Spongebob Musical, that isn't the case in the stage show.

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Danielle Cover discusses some of the deeper messages and commentary in The Spongebob Musical, such as discrimination and hatred toward those who are viewed as different. As a squirrel living under the sea, Sandy finds herself blamed for some of the impending doom that is threatening to destroy Bikini Bottom! Cover also talks about what drew her to this role, how her son has helped her to develop her character, and the joy it is working with her daughter on this production. What's her favorite moment from The Spongebob Musical? Listen to this exciting interview to find out!

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Broadway in Detroit has been a staple of the southwest Michigan theater community for decades, bringing the best touring Broadway shows to The Fisher Theatre and The Detroit Opera House. While we're still working our way through the current season, with shows such as The Book of Mormon and The Wiz still upcoming, those behind the scenes always think about the future and the next series of shows to grace these Detroit theaters. Recently, Broadway in Detroit announced their 2025-2026 season with a fun guessing game, revealing eight shows to their core season and three additional add-ons that patrons can witness on stage! The Box Seat Babes are absolutely thrilled with the incredible shows coming in the 2025-2026 season and we couldn't wait to break down the announcement on the podcast!

Hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko are joined by Amber Rasho, the public relationships specialist for Broadway in Detroit as they discuss all the Broadway shows coming to Detroit next season! Which ones are they all most excited for? How many of them have they seen already? You'll have to listen into this exciting episode of The Box Seat Babes podcast to find out for sure! You can get tickets for the final few shows of Broadway in Detroit's 2024-2025 season on their website, so grab them soon before they are gone! Keep your eyes peeled as well for the upcoming season passes, which will be going on sale soon!

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Even in moments of sadness, it's important that we highlight the happiness that comes from the aftermath. For every storm, there is a rainbow, as the saying goes, meaning that even when something doesn't work out, we want to make sure we appreciate all the positives we can. So while the holiday season is over and we're firmly moving into 2026, we want to take a moment to look back at the incredible work that went into Grosse Pointe Theatre's production of White Christmas! While the production was unfortunately canceled, there was so much heart and soul infused into the musical, including the wonderful work Mary Magyari put into designing the costumes for this holiday staple.

In this exclusive BSB podcast, Magyari discusses her process of taking her designs from drawings to reality. While paying homage to the film and Broadway show that came before, Magyari puts her own personal flair on many of the iconic costumes. Making or assembling over 200 costumes is no easy feat, and this costume designer chronicles her journey to making the season bright! Find out more about her process in his exciting interview!

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The show must go on, no matter what...At least that's what must be going on in Pearl's head throughout the course of The Spongebob Musical. Set against the backdrop of impending disaster, this musical sees the star in the making, Mr. Krab's cheerleader daughter, decide to save Bikini Bottom from the exploding Mount Humongous in the only way possible. A Benefit concert of course! And so begins her journey through The Spongebob Musical, to bring her favorite band to Bikini Bottom, and maybe make a name for herself as well. Bloomfield Players' production of this wacky musical is currently entering its second week, and just before their premiere, we sat down and spoke with Kylie Wieand, who is bringing Pearl to life on stage!

In this exclusive interview, Kylie Wieand talks about her time in this production of The Spongebob Musical. She discusses what drew her to the role, how she's made the Pearl her own, what it's like slipping into the costume of such an icon, and what she's hoping audiences take away from the production. What is so special about the music of this show according to Wieand? How familiar was she with the musical before being cast in it? You'll have to give this interview a listen to find out!

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The Ringwald Theatre over in Ferndale, MI, has never shied away from the stories they tell, and their latest show, Cock, is no exception. An intimate look into sexuality and how attraction and love change over time, Cock shines a light on relationships of all kinds and how complicated they can be. Director Joe Bailey has created something special for The Ringwald, as this show is something unlike you've never seen before. Prior to the opening night, we spoke with one of the cast members of the show, Stebert Davenport, about his time on this production!

In this exclusive Box Seat Babes interview, Stebert Davenport talks about what drew him to Cock (because how to do you turn away a script with a title like that!), how he has built his character of John, and how his journey with sexuality has changed in reflection with his character. Listen as Brian Kitson and Davenport explore gender, sexuality, and the debate between nature and nurture in the development with the former two. Which themes from Cock resonate the most with the actor? What is he hoping audiences walk away from this production with? Listen to this thoughtful interview to hear all these answers and more about this current Ringwald Theatre show!

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It’s not every day that something from our childhood crosses over with our passion of Broadway, but every once in a while we find a show that mixes those two things together, creating a special night out at the theater. Those over at the Bloomfield Players Community Theater are looking to do just that with their upcoming production of Spongebob the Musical! Ahead of its opening night at the local theater, we spoke with Elijah Lang, who stars as Mr. Krabs in this musical adaptation of this Nickelodeon property!

In this exclusive interview, Lang shares his excitement about taking on this more adult role in this hilarious stage musical. He discusses what drew him to the show, how he feels the music enhances The Spongebob Musical, and what he hopes audiences take away from this production. With 23 productions under his belt since 2019, Elijah Lang excels at his craft, and we can’t wait to see him in Bloomfield Players’ production of The Spongebob Musical!

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There’s nothing on the Broadway scene quite like Parade, as this marries the concept of theater and art perfectly. There’s so much beauty in the tragic story of Leo Frank and the heinous acts of the Georgia government to wrongly convict him of murder. This isn’t escapism theater, but instead a musical that pushes those in attendance to think about the world at large and how an act such as what happened to Leo Frank could happen to anyone. We were absolutely blown away by the story and production quality of this show, making this episode of The Box Seat Babes podcasts one we couldn’t wait to record.

Journey with co-hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko as they explore the story and characters within Parade. From their confusion with the opening scene, to the story of Leo Frank and his wife, and most importantly the strength and conviction this innocent man had throughout his trial, there’s so much to explore. Which aspects of the story spoke the most to them? Which characters did they feel a connection with? Listen to the Parade: Story and Characters episode of The Box Seat Babes Podcast to find out!

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Life is short, there's no denying that. Time is forever slipping through our fingers as we grow older, each day feeling like it's passing faster than the one before it. As we grow older, many of us attempt to squeeze every drop we can out of life, desperate for more time for all the things we want to do. However, for someone like Kim, time is even more fleeting and, therefore, more beautiful. The Tony-Award Winning show, Kimberly Akimbo, is coming soon to Broadway in Detroit, and before its arrival we were able to speak with one of the cast members, Sarah Lynn Marion, about her time on the production.

In this exclusive interview with Box Seat Babes, Sarah Lynn Marion shares what it's like to be an off-stage understudy with the touring production of Kimberly Akimbo. Always waiting in the wings in case she needs to go on, Marion is prepared to cover two vastly different roles at any given time. How does she prepare for both Pattie and Debra? What does she do to get into their different mindsets? What themes from the show speak to her as an actor? How does she prioritize her mental health while on a national tour? All those answers are within this exciting interview!

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What would our childhoods have been like without board games such as Clue? Nothing quite brings families together like solving a murder and accusing one of your loved ones of doing it! We frequently visited Boddy Mansion in hopes of discovering the culprit before anyone else, bringing with it a healthy dose of suspicion and even more laughter. The concept of this classic Parker Bros. game lends itself well to other media, such as the equally fun and even more hilarious Clue Live on Stage! The stage adaptation recently visited the Metro Detroit area as a bonus show in Broadway in Detroit's current season, and The Box Seat Babes were invited to the mansion, along with some other familiar guests, on the night of Mr. Boddy's murder!

Following the first part of our Clue discussion, which focused on the story within this show, we will discuss some of the technical aspects of what you can expect when you catch this play on its North American tour in part 2! In this episode, listen as hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the humor in Clue, which ranges from slapstick to physical humor, the aspects of the set that caught their attention, and their final verdict of the show. Think they'll go and see it again? Listen to this episode of The Box Seat Babes Podcast to find out!

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Tipping Point Theatre is in its 17th season of bringing remarkable stories to Northville, MI, emphasizing family and how that can look different for so many people. What constitutes a family? Is it the blood bonds between people or are they unbreakable connections we build throughout life? In their upcoming show, English from playwright Sanaz Toossi, addresses these bonds through the themes of identity, and how culture and language are such an important part of that. Ahead of its Michigan Premiere, we spoke with Sarab Kamoo, who plays Marjan, an English Teacher preparing a class for their Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

In this exclusive interview, Sarab Kamoo discusses how deeply she appreciates and relates to the story within English. She speaks on her work as a social worker, which blends with her acting in this show, allowing her to have a stronger connection to the story and its characters, and if there is any pressure to bring English to Michigan for the first time. There's no denying the love that Kamoo has for this play, which is only made better by acting in it with her daughter. This dynamic duo is ready to take Tipping Point Theatre by storm with English, bringing this timely story to Michigan just when it's needed most. 

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With such a rich lore and vibrant board, the beloved game Clue is prime for adaptations, such as the stage play Clue Live on Stage! This show recently visited Michigan as a bonus show for Broadway in Detroit's 2024-2025 season, and we had a blast solving the murder of Mr. Boddy along with his distinguished dinner guests on stage!

In this episode of The Cosmic Curtain, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko share their thoughts on the story and characters in this hilarious stage play! Have you seen Clue Live on Stage! before? Which characters were they drawn to? What type of comedy is their favorite? Whose performance stuck with them? All the answers to those questions and more lie in this spooky-funny podcast episode! 

Clue: Live on Stage! is currently touring across North America! Catch this hilarious stage show when it arrives in a city near you!

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Parade is a dramatization of the real-life trial and death of Jewish American Leo Frank in the early 20th century. This classic Jason Robert Brown musical revival just began its national tour and before its arrival in Detroit, we were able to speak with actor Griffin Binnicker, who plays Tom Watson.

In this exclusive interview, Griffin Binnicker discusses what drew him to Parade and how his character, Tom Watson, factors into the musical's narrative. Binnicker also shares his thoughts about the timeliness of Parade, why sharing stories like this one is so important, and what he hopes audiences walk away from. Interested in how this show has pushed him as an actor? Want to know that he looks for on each stop on the tour? Listen in to this interview and learn about this moving musical and actor, Griffin Binnicker, who is helping to bring it to life! 

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As the premiere of Meadow Brook Theatre's romantic comedy The Angel Next Door quickly approaches, we sat down with the stars of the show, Chris Stinson and Olivia Ursu, who play Oliver Williams and Margot Bell. In this interview, Stinson and Ursu discuss their current and previous experiences working with Meadow Brook Theatre, what drew them to The Angel Next Door, and how the rehearsal process is going. Do they have specific things they do to get into the mindset of their characters? How has this production challenged them in their craft? Do they ever ham it up for the crowd with the delivery of their jokes? All those answers and more lie inside this entertaining interview!

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The World of Oz has exploded since L. Frank Baum's original novel, The Wizard of Oz, was published back in 1900, as the franchise continues to find new life across all forms of media. From a plethora of novels to quite a few films, from MGM's Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz to the more recent Broadway musical (and subsequent films from Universal), Wicked, there seems to be a never-ending journey through Oz for audiences and fans alike. With so many different Ozian entries, where does one begin? However, thanks to our special guest Tori Calamito, known as The Oz Vlog on social media, we're ready to set off down the Yellow Brick Road!

On this episode of The BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko are joined by Calamito to learn more about her journey into content creation and where her love of The Wizard of Oz began. Covering the original MGM film and Baum's novels, and how the land of OZ has always been a LGBTQ+ friendly world, Tori Calamito shares her extensive knowledge and passion for this powerhouse franchise.

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Come From Away is one of those musicals that celebrates a bright spot in one of the darkest days in American history. It tells the true story of the little town of Gander in Newfoundland, which took in about 7000 passengers grounded during the September 11th attacks. While exploring such a heavy topic, the story and cast of Come From Away also wish to discuss the hope and levity that can be found when everything feels lost.

In this exclusive interview, cast member Kristen Litzenberg discusses what drew her to this musical and what her time on tour has been like. She explores how a changeover within the cast can impact the show, such as keeping her in the moment instead of going into autopilot, the inspiration she gains from telling a true story such as this, and what challenges a one-act musical presents. Is there pressure to bring this story based on real people to life on stage each night? Listen to the interview for the answers to all these questions and more! 

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The Glass Menagerie, the University of Detroit Mercy Theatre Company's adaptation of the Tennessee Williams play, arrives at the Marlene Boll Theatre on February 7th and runs through the 16th.

Ahead of its debut at the Marlene Boll Theatre in Downtown Detroit, we spoke with director Joe Bailey, who is also the Art Director of The Ringwald Theatre in Ferndale, Michigan! In this exclusive interview, Bailey discusses the themes of The Glass Menagerie that were called to him and what drew him to want to direct this Tennessee Williams play. How did he approach this piece, and how did his directing change with a smaller cast of collegiate actors? Give this interview a listen to find out more about the incredible work Joe Bailey is producing for the local theater scene in Michigan and how The Glass Menagerie is another work of art for both the director and UofD Mercy.

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In the joint interview, Graham Stevens and Jeff Skowron discuss the pressure of playing such iconic and recognizable characters from CLUE, how they can put their own spins on the characters, and how they keep up the intensely funny energy for 90 minutes! Thanks for checking out the interview, don't forget to like, comment and subscribe to be alerted when we have more interviews and podcasts about stage plays, musicals and other shows! 

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In this episode of The Cosmic Curtain, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko share their thoughts on the global phenomenon of Six The Musical. Having journeyed outside of New York City, this musical is traversing North America and recently came to our neck of the woods, thanks to Broadway in Detroit, as a bonus show in their 2024-2025 season!

Having both seen this show quite a few times, what stood out about this production of this show? What changes to the show did they notice? Which queen and song were their favorite? All the answers to those questions and more lie in this exciting podcast episode! 

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In this episode of The Cosmic Curtain, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko share their thoughts on A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical. What is their exposure to Neil Diamond before A Beautiful Noise? Did they enjoy the use of frame storytelling to move along the narrative? What did they think about the exploration of mental health? And why was the music so loud? Listen to this episode to have all these questions and more answered!

A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical is currently touring across North America! Catch this jukebox musical when it arrives in a city near you! If you enjoy this podcast, please consider sharing it with friends and following us on social media. 

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Beginning on January 10, Footloose The Musical is looking to wow audiences in this incredible collaboration between professional playhouse Meadow Brook Theatre (Rochester, MI) and Oakland University's School of Music, Theatre, & Dance! Ahead of the show's premiere, we sat down and spoke with the director of Meadow Brook's production, Tyrick Wiltez Jones, and the stars of Footloose, Caleb Bermejo (Ren) and Nadia Ra'Shaun (Ariel)! In this exclusive interview, all three speak on what drew them to this project, how the rehearsal process has been so far, and how they've transitioned the story of Footloose to a modern age. You'll also learn about Jones' approach to directing a show such as this, and how Bermejo and Ra'Shaun get into the mindset of their respective characters.

Tickets available here: https://www.mbtheatre.com/footloose 

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Six the Musical is poised to return to Broadway in Detroit, and just ahead of its royal entry into the 313, we were able to sit down with Carlina Parker, an alternate on the North American Tour. In this exclusive interview, Carlina Parker talks about her time on SIX the Musical, how she prepares to take on any three of the queens at a moment's notice, what her favorite song to perform on stage, and how much of a dream it has been to be a part of a show such as Six the Musical. Parker also discusses what she hopes Six's lasting impact on the musical theater scene is and how she takes time to check on her mental health while on the road.

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In this episode of The Cosmic Curtain, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the North American tour of Les Misérables! They explore their relationships with the musical (and films) prior to seeing the Broadway in Detroit show at the Fisher Theatre in Michigan, what aspects of the musical they were drawn to, and which performances and actors were standouts, and whether or not they'd want to see Les Mis live again. Les Misérables is currently touring across North America!

Catch this inspiring musical when it arrives in a city near you! Don't miss other upcoming shows from Broadway in Detroit's 2024-2025 season, such as A Beautiful Noise, Hadestown, Six, and Clue! Grab your tickets for these shows and more!

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If you're in the Rochester, Michigan area and looking for some Christmas fun for the entire family, then be sure to check out Meadow Brook's 42nd annual production of A Christmas Carol, which runs from now until December 22! Beginning a few weeks back and running through December 22, A Christmas Carol is a staple holiday experience, one that we enjoy participating in year after year. Recently, we sat down with Phil Powers, who has taken over the role of Scrooge this year, and discussed his experience in A Christmas Carol.

Listen as he breaks down how the show has changed over the years, especially under the new guidance of director Travis Walter, what his approach to Scrooge is like, and how he attempts to find the humor in such a grumpy character. Thank you so much for listening, enjoy!

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Matt Crowle plays Thénardier in the North American touring production of Les Misérables, who serves as a bit of comedic relief within the serious and tragic tones of the musical. In this exclusive interview, Crowle talks about how his past in comedy helped influence some of his character choices, what it's like to be touring for two years in the same show, how his character of Thénardier has changed over time, and what he hopes audiences walk away from this show with. He also discusses how he prioritizes his mental health while on the road and what attractions he looks for in each city he visits. 

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Tina Turner is truly an icon in every meaning of the word. She paved a way in the music industry not only for herself, but for all women. She was the Queen of Rock and Roll, a title that she earned with both her music and her actions. She was a trailblazer whose life and legacy are now taking on a life of their own as a Broadway musical, TINA- The Tina Turner Musical. This show is rich with the wonderful music we've come to know and love, with some impressive stage magic that enriched the story of Tina Turner's life, all of which we break down in this TINA music and stagecraft discussion!

In this episode of the BSB podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss how Turner's music fits into the show's overall narrative and what it was like to witness the stage magic firsthand. What musical performances impressed them the most? How did this touring production capture the look and feel of this Rock and Roll legend? What stood out about the sets and design from TINA- The Tina Turner Musical? Listen to this exciting episode of the BSB podcast to find out all these answers and more!

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Join hosts RJ Miller-Zelinko and Brian Kitson as they talk about all things Wicked on this episode of The Cosmic Curtain! With both well-versed in the Broadway show, these two Box Seat Babes discuss how the film compares to the stage production, what they enjoyed about this film, changes that didn't sit well with them, and which moments stood out! 

Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, with Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz. Directed by Jon Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), the musical and film is based on a bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire.

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Join hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko aka The Box Seat Babes, as they discuss all their thoughts on Mean Girls the Musical. How do they feel like it compared to the original film starring Lindsay Lohan & Rachel McAdams? Did they like how it was updated for a new generation of fans? Which songs impressed them, and which ones didn't? You can find all those answers and even more from their experience at The Fisher Theater in Detroit, MI this episode of The Cosmic Curtain!

Mean Girls the Musical is currently touring across North America! Catch this incredible show when it arrives in a city near you!

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Mean Girls The Musical is currently on its North American Tour and playing at the Fisher Theater as part of the Broadway in Detroit series of shows from November 19 through the 24.

Before its arrival, we spoke with one of its stars, Joshua Morrisey, who plays Damian! In this exclusive Cosmic Circus Broadway interview, Morrisey talks about his time on Mean Girls The Musical so far! Joining the production a few months back during the musical's Toronto stop, Morrisey has been working hard to bring his own spin to Damian. He discusses how Mean Girls The Musical was his first foray into this story, how he has made this role unique to him, and what he looks forward to with each stop on tour! Morrisey also speaks about what resonates most with him about this musical and what he hopes audiences will take away from it.

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