Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Business of Theater, A Working Title
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| TBOT_S03E20 - SPRING AWAKENS | 07 Apr 2025 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the multifaceted nature of the theater industry, focusing on the financial aspects, the challenges of accessibility, and the importance of creativity and entrepreneurship. They explore the changing landscape of Broadway, the struggles of theater management, and the journey of actors navigating their careers. The discussion emphasizes the value of experience, mentorship, and the need for a proactive approach in the theater world. In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch Weiss explore the complexities of the theater industry, focusing on the value of internships, the financial landscape of Broadway, and the challenges of ticket pricing. They discuss the impact of nonprofit versus for-profit theater, the importance of community engagement, and the need for a balance between artistic integrity and financial sustainability. The conversation highlights the evolving expectations of audiences and the necessity for theaters to adapt to changing economic conditions while maintaining accessibility. Chapters 00:00 The Business of Theater: Money Matters 03:12 The Changing Landscape of Broadway 05:46 The Importance of Accessibility in Theater 08:50 Navigating the Challenges of Theater Management 12:05 The Role of Creativity in Theater 15:11 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Theater 18:00 The Journey of Actors and Their Challenges 20:58 The Value of Experience and Mentorship 24:07 The Future of Theater and Its Opportunities 34:26 The Value of Internships in Theater 36:23 The Financial Landscape of Broadway 38:55 The Impact of Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Theater 41:12 The Challenge of Ticket Pricing 44:53 The Role of Community in Theater 51:12 Audience Engagement and Expectations 58:32 The Future of Theater Pricing and Accessibility | |||
| TBOT_S03E19 - MARCH OUT | 31 Mar 2025 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the challenges facing the theater industry, particularly in attracting audiences post-pandemic. They explore the importance of community engagement, the impact of Broadway on regional theaters, and the need for theaters to establish their unique identities. The discussion also touches on the effectiveness of membership and subscription models in fostering audience loyalty and the necessity of creating enriching experiences for theatergoers. In this conversation, Mitch and Darnelle explore the challenges faced by theater companies in engaging audiences, the importance of community connections, and the balance between work and passion in the theater industry. They discuss the changing landscape of employment in theater, the financial dynamics of Broadway, and the need for community support to ensure the future of the arts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Business of Theater 02:02 The Challenge of Attracting Audiences 06:05 Post-Pandemic Theater Landscape 10:00 Community Engagement and Theater Identity 13:57 The Impact of Broadway on Regional Theater 18:01 Creating a Unique Theater Experience 21:54 Engaging New Audiences 26:09 Membership vs. Subscription Models 30:05 The Future of Theater Audiences 36:52 The Challenge of Audience Engagement 39:11 Creating Community Connections 41:38 Balancing Work and Passion in Theater 46:29 The Changing Landscape of Theater Employment 52:53 The Financial Dynamics of Broadway 01:05:57 The Future of Theater and Community Support Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E10 - Starting Out…Again | 28 Oct 2024 | ||
LINKS: THE FARM - https://wegrowtheater.com Donna McKechnie - https://www.donnamckechnie.com/ How To be A Working Actor - https://www.amazon.com/How-Working-Actor-5th-Television/dp/0823088952 __ WORKING TITLE: Ready for my close up! What the hell is going on? Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E09 - Scene Change 2 - Alan Harrison | 22 Oct 2024 | ||
In this episode, Darnelle Radford and Mitch engage with author Alan Harrison to discuss the evolving responsibilities of nonprofit arts organizations. They explore the impact of these organizations on communities, the implications of 501(c)(3) status, and the often-overlooked realities of fundraising and supporting artists. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in focus from merely producing art to creating meaningful community impact. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of support for artists, emphasizing the inadequacies of traditional nonprofit structures and the need for community-centric approaches. They explore the potential of commercial ventures in the arts as a viable alternative to nonprofit models, advocating for a shift in focus towards community needs and sustainable practices. ABOUT SCENE CHANGE 2 Release Date: January 1, 2025 In SCENE CHANGE 2, we offer specific board responsibilities in order to create the space for the kind of charity for which communities are clamoring. This is a targeted list of the ways in which today's nonprofit arts organizations (theaters, symphonies, ballets, museums, operas, and all the rest) will have to significantly change their whole structure and the prism in which they do work. Companies that make these changes will be giving themselves the best chance to succeed in 2024 and beyond. Those that don't, won't. LINKS: What’s Next, Fair Harvard? The Alois Hitler Theaterzentrum? (09/10/2024) Continuing relationships with toxic donors. Tha Sacklers Nonprofit Arts Organizations: What’s a “Community?” (09/17/2024) https://www.artsjournal.com/scenechange/2024/09/17/nonprofit-arts-organizations-whats-a-community/ The definition of Community What nonprofits miss about Community Nonprofit Arts Organizations Don’t Support Artists; They Employ Them (09/24/2024) Nonprofits do not support artists, they employ them. How Does Your Nonprofit Arts Organization Use History to Tangibly Make Things Better? (10/01/2024) Historical perspective seem to fall into four categories, in descending order of reliable empirical data: experienced history, consumed history, learned history, and third-person history. Is Pay-What-You-Can a Real Community Issue for Arts Organizations to Solve? (10/08/2024) What about companies whose model is PWYC? Not just one-offs SIDEQUEST THEATER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ALAN HARRISON AND SCENE CHANGE: Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Face | |||
| TBOT_S03E08 - The Circle Of Life | 07 Oct 2024 | ||
On today’s podcast, we return from summer break to catch on the changes in the business and the lives lost over the summer. BROADWAY FLEA MARKET FOR GOOD: Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction raised a record-breaking $1,421,675 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. LOTTERIES (Eating TKTS’ lunch) Any updated theater books? OFF-BROADWAY is Booming - https://www.fox5ny.com/news/off-broadway-week-is-back-heres-what-shows-participating THE FARM - We Grow Theater - https://www.wegrowtheater.com/ SUMMER STOCK - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Summer_stock_theater Supreme Court - Ownership of Artistic Carol Burnett - https://playbill.com/article/what-happened-when-carol-burnett-fell-asleep-onstage-in-once-upon-a-mattress ALL THINGS WE EVER DID ARE LEFT BEHIND ___________________________________________ Gavin Creel - https://playbill.com/article/tony-winning-actor-gavin-creel-passes-away-at-48 “Gavin Creel, Beloved Tony-Winning Star of Hello, Dolly!, Thoroughly Modern Millie and More, Dies at 48” by Broadway.com’s Hayley Levitt - “Tony Award winner Gavin Creel, who launched his celebrated Broadway career as Jimmy Smith in Thoroughly Modern Millie and whose stage credits include She Loves Me, Hello, Dolly! and Into the Woods, died at home in Manhattan on September 30. His death was confirmed by his partner, Alex Temple Ward. He had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of sarcoma in July, receiving treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering before moving to hospice care at home. He was 48.” https://bway.ly/4husdd INTO THE WOODS, THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, SHE LOVES ME Ken Page - https://playbill.com/article/beloved-baritone-ken-page-dies-at-70 CATS, THE WIZ, THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS Adrian Bailey - https://playbill.com/person/adrian-bailey-vault-0000031982 THE LITTLE MERMAID Maggie Smith - https://playbill.com/person/maggie-smith-vault-0000066955 LETTICE AND LOVAGE __ WORKING TITLE: THE CIRCLE OF LIFE | |||
| TBOT_S03E07 - Jimmies or Sprinkles | 25 Jun 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle and Mitch discuss the 15th annual Jimmy Awards, a high school level Tony Awards. They also talk about the reinterpretation of musicals, such as Cats and Company, and the value of learning the history of musical theater. They explore the idea of infusing different styles, like ballroom culture, into musicals and the importance of advancing the art form. They also touch on the challenges of updating classic musicals and the impact of gentrification on storytelling. The conversation covers various topics related to the arts, including the impact of remakes and new versions of movies, the significance of costume design in films, the erasure of certain actors in marketing campaigns, the challenges faced by artists in the theater industry, the importance of arts education, and the power of storytelling in theater. The hosts also discuss the closure of a college in Philadelphia and the implications for arts and culture in the city. They touch on the role of politics in funding for the arts and the need for a well-rounded education that includes the arts. The conversation concludes with a mention of the upcoming production of Disney's Hercules on the West End and the historical trend of shows starting in London before coming to Broadway. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Naming 03:32 The Talent and Level of Performance at the Jimmy Awards 07:44 Reinterpreting Musicals: Bringing New Life to Familiar Stories 13:03 Infusing Ballroom Culture into Musicals 16:11 Challenges of Updating Classic Musicals 24:18 The Impact of Remakes and New Versions of Movies 26:09 Challenges in the Theater Industry 29:17 The Importance of Arts Education 32:28 The Closure of a College and its Implications 35:09 The Role of Politics in Arts Funding 37:25 The Need for a Well-Rounded Education 46:37 The West End as a Tryout Venue for Broadway Shows Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E06 - TONY TONY TONY - 2024 | 18 Jun 2024 | ||
The hosts discuss the recent Tony Awards and the challenges faced by the theater industry. They highlight the importance of supporting artists and the need for infrastructure to sustain their careers. They also explore the idea of universal theater that can resonate with diverse audiences. The conversation touches on the financial struggles of artists and the need for funding and mentorship. They discuss the impact of social media and the Tony Awards on ticket sales and the perception of theater. The hosts propose ideas for supporting emerging talent and creating a more sustainable theater industry. The conversation explores the importance of connecting with potential theater supporters through their creative interests and finding ways to be inviting without constantly asking for money. They discuss the need for transparency in the theater industry and the value of sharing behind-the-scenes information with audiences. They also touch on the high costs of producing theater and the challenges of fundraising. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the need for theaters to rethink their foundation and structure in order to move forward. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Naming the Podcast 03:13 The Importance of Supporting Artists 08:08 Financial Struggles and the Need for Funding 14:49 Universal Theater and Resonating with Audiences 28:46 Funding and Mentorship for Emerging Talent 34:04 Creating a Sustainable Theater Industry 38:28 Connecting with Supporters Through Creative Interests 40:45 Inviting Without Constantly Asking for Money 45:05 The Importance of Transparency in Theater 48:36 Sharing Behind-the-Scenes Information with Audiences 51:23 The High Costs of Producing Theater 56:51 Rethinking Theater Foundation and Structure Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E05 - Art School…BUST | 10 Jun 2024 | ||
The conversation discusses the financial challenges and communication issues faced by arts organizations, particularly in the theater industry. It highlights the impact of funding delays, lack of transparency, and the struggle to sustain operations. The conversation also delves into the need for better financial planning, realistic budgeting, and improved communication with donors and supporters. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to the challenges and opportunities in the theater industry, including financial planning, grant funding, infrastructure, diversity, and the impact of the pandemic. It also delves into the role of nonprofit organizations, the need for support, and the changing landscape of theater production. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Arts Industry and Financial Challenges 03:02 Impact of Funding Delays and Lack of Transparency 07:59 Prioritizing Financial Stability and Effective Communication 15:27 Sustainability and Advanced Financial Planning 36:04 Challenges of Infrastructure and Business Management in Theater 45:42 Diversity and Inclusivity in Storytelling and Audience Engagement 48:48 The Impact of the Pandemic on the Theater Industry 57:28 The Role of Nonprofit Organizations in the Changing Theater Landscape | |||
| TBOT_S03E04 - Mid-May | 20 May 2024 | ||
The conversation revolves around the challenges and complexities of fundraising galas in the theater industry. The hosts discuss the high costs of attending galas and the aggressive marketing campaigns used to solicit donations. They also explore the elitism and exclusivity associated with these events, as well as the struggle for nonprofits to balance financial goals with artistic integrity. The conversation touches on the impact of the pandemic on theater funding and the need for subsidies and support from the government and successful theater companies. The hosts also discuss the importance of creating sustainable models for theater funding and the role of grassroots campaigns and community involvement. The conversation explores the challenges faced by the theater industry, including funding, tax credits, and the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). It highlights the lack of financial support for theaters, the lengthy process of receiving tax credits, and the limitations of grant programs. The conversation also delves into the need for new leadership in nonprofit theaters and the importance of addressing DEI issues. The hosts share their thoughts on recent theater productions and discuss the impact of the pandemic on the industry. | |||
| TBOT_S03E03 - TONY TONY TONY 2024 | 06 May 2024 | ||
LINKS: The Lucille Lortel Awards https://lortelaward.com/2024-nominees/ 68th Annual Drama Desk Awards https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/2024-Drama-Desk-Awards-Nominations--The-Full-List-20240429 Outer Critics Circle Awards 2024 Tony Awards (June 16th on CBS) https://www.tonyawards.com/nominees/ Forbidden Broadway on Broadway (Postpones Run) https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/26/theater/forbidden-broadway.html Theatre Exile on Tick Tock https://www.tiktok.com/@theatreexile Disney Bets $60B Its Parks Will Power the Future BEST MUSICAL NOMINEES https://www.waterforelephantsthemusical.com/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E02 - Alan Harrison - SCENE CHANGE | 22 Apr 2024 | ||
The conversation explores the idea of nonprofit arts organizations shifting their focus from producing art to producing impact. The guest, Alan Harrison, shares his experience working in the nonprofit arts industry and discusses the need for arts organizations to align their work with the needs of the community. He emphasizes the importance of demonstrating measurable results and social value to justify the nonprofit status. The conversation also touches on the challenges of fundraising and the role of money in producing art. The guest's book, 'Scene Change: Why Today's Nonprofit Arts Organizations Have to Stop Producing Art and Start Producing Impact,' serves as a foundation for the discussion. LINKS: Alan Harrison - The Arts Journal https://www.artsjournal.com/author/alan-harrison Alan Harrison - On Medium The Fourth Turning Is Here - Neil Howe https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Fourth-Turning-Is-Here/Neil-Howe/9781982173739 BUY THE BOOK - Scene Change - Why Nonprofit Arts Organizations Have To Stop Producing Art And Start Producing Impact. Scene Change 2: The Five Real Responsibilities of Nonprofit Arts Boards __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E01 - Season 3 | 15 Apr 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle and Mitch discuss various topics related to theater, including the challenges of naming their podcast, the quality of certain movies, the history of their podcast, the importance of preparation, the state of the theater industry, audience behavior, and upcoming shows on Broadway. In this conversation, Darnelle and Mitch discuss the importance of reviving shows with new perspectives and changes. They emphasize the need for theater to evolve and speak to the current times. They also touch on the challenges of promoting shows in the digital age and the changing landscape of journalism. They mention the impact of music videos and YouTube in promoting musicals. They also mention their upcoming guest, Alan Harrison, who discusses the nonprofit arts sector. They conclude by promoting their own projects and the need for new voices and perspectives in the theater industry. | |||
| TBOT_S03E18 - IT HAPPENS | 10 Mar 2025 | ||
In this engaging conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch Weiss explore the intricate world of theater, touching on the recent Oscars, the impact of Broadway shows like Wicked, and the challenges faced by the industry in terms of pricing, audience engagement, and the evolution of live performances in the age of streaming. They discuss the disconnect between award shows and the general public, the rising costs of theater productions, and the prevalence of adaptations in musical theater, all while emphasizing the unique experience that live performances offer. In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the evolution of musical theater, the challenges of adaptations, and the unexpected hurdles faced in theater production. They explore the importance of understudies, the changing role of directors, and the courage required to take risks in theater. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the theater landscape and the ongoing issues of accessibility and inclusivity within the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Business of Theater 03:03 Oscars and Broadway Performances 06:03 The Impact of Wicked on Broadway 09:00 The Disconnect Between Award Shows and Audience Engagement 11:46 Theater Pricing and Accessibility Issues 14:48 The Challenges of Production Costs 18:01 The Evolution of Theater and Audience Expectations 20:55 The Future of Live Theater vs. Streaming Platforms 23:58 Adaptations in Musical Theater 26:33 Evolution of Musical Theater 27:54 Adaptations and Their Interpretations 30:45 Unexpected Challenges in Theater Production 36:17 The Role of Understudies in Theater 40:31 The Changing Role of Directors 45:09 The Courage to Take Risks in Theater 49:40 Navigating Post-COVID Theater Landscape 54:22 Accessibility and Inclusivity in Theater Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E17 - EP.50 - 50/50! | 08 Apr 2024 | ||
Nonprofit theaters face challenges in terms of funding and sustainability. There is a need for a new funding system that supports the arts. Artists often struggle to make a living in theater and need to be creative and adaptable. Effective marketing and promotion are crucial for generating interest in new shows. Long-running shows can impact the success of new productions. Finding innovative ways to market live theater is essential. Prioritize your own shows and find creative satisfaction. Plan for the lack of audience and be prepared for the challenges of funding. Utilize social media platforms like TikTok, but be aware of their limitations. Consider the impact of nudity in theater and the reactions of different communities. Celebrate milestones and continue supporting organizations like We Grow Theater. | |||
| TBOT_S02E16 - EP.49 - Pollen Is In The Air | 01 Apr 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Mitch Weiss and Darnelle Radford discuss various topics related to theater. They share their theater experiences, including seeing the national tour of Frozen and Dreamgirls at the McCarter Theater. They also talk about the importance of opening nights and creating a special experience for the audience. Additionally, they discuss the lack of diversity in theater schools and the representation of black men in leading roles. This conversation explores the challenges of diversity and accessibility in the theater industry. It discusses the lack of diversity in theater showcases and the financial barriers that prevent marginalized individuals from accessing opportunities. The conversation also highlights the issue of unpaid internships and the need for more inclusive internship programs. It emphasizes the importance of networking and making connections in the theater community, as well as the value of translating theater skills to other industries. The conversation concludes with discussions on the role of Theater Philadelphia in connecting theater companies and the future of Broadway. | |||
| TBOT_S02E15 - EP.48 - Are You Not Entertained? | 19 Mar 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Mitch Weiss and Darnelle Radford discuss the relevance of award shows in the theater industry and the challenges faced by the theater community. They explore the need for subsidization in theater and the impact of ticket prices on accessibility. They also touch on the widening gap between the rich and the poor and its effect on the arts. The conversation delves into the challenges of auditions and casting, as well as the importance of connection in the audition process. They conclude by discussing the benefits and challenges of digital auditions. This conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in the theater industry, focusing on auditions, the lack of feedback, and the need for change. The hosts share their personal audition experiences and discuss the differences between theater and TV acting. They also discuss the importance of supporting playwrights and new work, as well as expanding theater beyond major cities. The conversation highlights the need for theaters to engage with their local communities and find new ways to subsidize their work. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for new conversations and ideas to shape the future of the theater industry. | |||
| TBOT_S02E14 - EP.47 - BLACK OUT NIGHTS | 11 Mar 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle and Mitch discuss potential working titles for their podcast and the challenges of finding the right one. They also talk about the production of Little Shop of Horrors and the practice of replacing leads in long-running shows. The conversation then shifts to the different endings in theater and film adaptations. They discuss the opportunities for ensemble members in shows like Little Shop of Horrors and the casting choices for the production. The conversation also touches on Kit Harrington starring in Slave Play and the concept of blackout nights in theater. They conclude by discussing the comfort of theater seating and their experiences at theaters in Philadelphia. In this conversation, Mitch Weiss and Darnelle Radford discuss the future of theater, the impact of the pandemic on the industry, and the challenges faced by Broadway. They explore the need for change in the theater model, including the role of nonprofit organizations and the high cost of producing new shows. They also touch on the success of long-running shows and the importance of variety in theater. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of critics and influencers in the theater industry and the cost of theater experiences for audiences. | |||
| TBOT_S02E13 - EP.46 - Another 100 People | 04 Mar 2024 | ||
In this conversation, Mitch Weiss and Darnelle Radford discuss various topics related to the business of theater. They talk about the high cost of Broadway tickets and the challenges of opening new productions. They also explore the changing audience for theater and the decline in Broadway theaters. The conversation touches on the importance of location for theaters and the challenges of managing costs. Overall, they provide insights into the complexities of the theater industry and the need for innovative approaches to sustain it. This conversation explores the struggles and challenges faced by theaters and the need for change in the industry. It discusses the closure of theaters and the impact of capitalism, as well as the challenges of producing in New York. The conversation also highlights the shift in priorities in nonprofit theater and the need for operational changes. It explores different approaches to regional theater and the importance of realism in theater operations. The conversation delves into the role of marketing and the board of directors in theater success, and the need for transparency and communication in theater leadership. It also discusses new production models, the importance of effective marketing, and the need for collaboration and rethinking the theater industry. The conversation emphasizes the importance of budgeting and making choices in theater productions, as well as the need for substance and originality in theater. It concludes by highlighting the importance of new play development and finding new ways to navigate the changing landscape of the theater industry. | |||
| TBOT_S02E12 - EP.45 - WINTER BREAK | 26 Feb 2024 | ||
Takeaways The theater industry is facing challenges and resistance to change. Work conditions in the theater industry need improvement. Budgeting and financial challenges are a major concern for theater companies. The theater industry needs to adapt to changing audience expectations and preferences. The development of new works is crucial for the growth and sustainability of the theater industry. Nonprofit theaters need to rethink their structures and staffing. Fundraising and planning are essential for the success of theater companies. Preparation for auditions and staffing is a complex process that requires careful planning and coordination. Finding housing for out-of-town talent can be a challenge and requires building relationships with local communities. Financial challenges and high ticket prices are issues that need to be addressed in order to make theater more accessible. Theater companies need to adapt to changing audience preferences and provide unique and immersive experiences. Innovation and open discussions are necessary to address the challenges and opportunities in the theater industry. Engaging younger generations in theater requires understanding their preferences and creating experiences that resonate with them. Theater companies should create opportunities for community engagement and involve local residents in their productions. Participation and collaboration are key to fostering creativity and creating a sense of community in the theater industry. Making theater more accessible and affordable is important to attract a wider audience and ensure its sustainability. Theaters should play a larger role in the community by offering their spaces for various events and activities. Offering discounts and membership programs can help attract and retain patrons, while also supporting the financial sustainability of theater companies. The theater industry needs to embrace change and collaborate with other organizations to address the challenges it faces. Art and grant funding should be more accessible and supportive of the diverse needs of the theater industry. | |||
| TBOT_S02E11 - EP.44 - In 2024, We’ll All Be Kings | 02 Jan 2024 | ||
SHOWNOTES: Do musicals have a sell by date? This and other questions we explore in the New Year of “The Business…” __ WORKING TITLE: In 2024, we’ll all be kings! __ REJECTED TITLES: In 2024, we’ll all be knights! Not days but Knights LINKS: Merrily We Roll Along https://merrilyonbroadway.com/#home Broadway Shows in 2024 https://www.broadway.com/shows/tickets/?category=broadway&view_all=true __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E10 - EP.43 - End of 2023 | 29 Dec 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: The World As We Know It Has Changed __ REJECTED TITLES: May Your Days Be Merry An Bright American Theatre - On reason theatre is in crisis, the slow death of criticism. Manchester's Contact to reduce output and scrap artistic director model https://www.thestage.co.uk/news/manchesters-contact-to-reduce-output-and-scrap-artistic-director-model?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The%20Stage%20daily%20newsletter BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS https://broadwaycares.org/ Here’s to us. Who’s like us? Damn Few. __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E09 - EP.42 - WE DO ART? | 13 Nov 2023 | ||
This conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in the theater industry, focusing on the urgency of theater, the role of nonprofit arts organizations, and the need for supportive spaces for artists. The conversation also delves into the importance of knowing the purpose and vision of an organization, the pitfalls of foundation grants, and the impact of the pandemic on theaters. The speakers discuss the need for collaboration and sharing resources, as well as the need for change in the theater industry. | |||
| TBOT_S02E08 - EP.41 - FANDOM | 20 Oct 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: I’M YOUR BIGGEST FAN! __ REJECTED TITLES: Will You Sign My Body! LINKS: The success of our teams compromises our stages! Merrily We Roll Along - https://merrilyonbroadway.com/ Here We Are, Sondheim’s Final Work, Extends Off-Broadway https://www.playbill.com/article/here-we-are-sondheims-final-work-extends-off-broadway Here Lies Love - https://herelieslovebroadway.com/ And Juliet - https://andjulietbroadway.com/ Suzanne Summers - https://apnews.com/article/obituary-suzanne-somers-2b97c5362eab6709f594b30280dc79c3 Demanded to be paid what the male roles were paid. Playbill Goes To New York Comic Con https://www.playbill.com/comiccon THE TOP-EARNING SUMMER CONCERT TOURS OF 2023 BroadwayCon - https://www.broadwaycon.com/ July 26-28, 2024 - New York Hilton Midtown Phantom Of The Opera https://us.thephantomoftheopera.com/ NICOLE KIDMAN - AMC SPEECH https://nofilmschool.com/kidman-amc-speech Grauman's Chinese Theatre https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grauman%27s_Chinese_Theatre The First, Musical - David Allan Grier https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_First_(musical) New York Theatre Reviews: By Fans, For Fans Broadway is for fans! __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E17 - IT GETS HARDER | 24 Feb 2025 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the challenges facing the theater industry, particularly in light of funding cuts and the impact of government policies on the arts. They explore the cultural landscape of Buenos Aires, the importance of arts in society, and the ongoing protests against political decisions affecting theater. The discussion highlights the need for community support and the role of artists in advocating for their craft. In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the complexities of the theater industry, focusing on the challenges of funding, the importance of resilience, and the need for trust within the arts community. They explore the balance between commercial and nonprofit theater, the impact of funding cuts, and the necessity of taking risks in artistic production. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of accessibility in the arts and the lessons learned from failures, ultimately advocating for a more supportive environment for artists. Chapters 00:00 The Business of Theater: An Introduction 01:23 Art in Crisis: The Impact of Funding Cuts 03:55 Cultural Experiences: Theater in Buenos Aires 08:57 The Role of Arts in Society 12:40 Government Support for the Arts 17:02 Protests and the Future of Theater 22:01 The Intersection of Politics and Art 23:38 The Broken System and Outrage 25:20 Discerning Trust in the Arts 27:46 Resilience in Theater and Unionization 29:35 Frustrations with Arts Organizations 31:02 Funding Cuts and Community Impact 32:43 The Balance of Commercial and Nonprofit Theater 34:56 Accessibility in the Arts 36:52 The Importance of Risk in Theater 39:20 The Role of Nonprofit Organizations 42:37 Learning from Failure in the Arts 45:30 The Challenges of Nonprofit Funding 48:41 Finding New Paths in Art Production Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E07 - EP.40 - How Did We Get Here | 16 Oct 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: How Did We Get Here? REJECTED TITLES: Writers Keep Writing _________________________________________ LINKS: Manhattan Theater Club https://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/ Roundabout Theatre Company https://www.roundabouttheatre.org/ Orbiter 3 Fractured Atlas https://www.fracturedatlas.org/ Gail Papp QUESTIONS: Are leaders draining the bank before leaving? Should they leave sooner? I don’t need a seat at your table, I’m building my own table. Should there be a term limit in Artistic Leadership? The mindset that you will never fully achieve your mission…this is why the organization goes on and on and on. Supporters want to support certain things and those things become projects in the organization. Should you dissolve the organization and start a new one once your mission/purpose has been served? Is that why some companies are becoming more lean as of late? __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E06 - EP.39 - It's A Calling? | 10 Oct 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: IT’S A CALLING? REJECTED TITLES: Bit by the Bug! LINKS: The Good Enough Job - The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work: Stolzoff, Simone: 9780593538968: Amazon.com: Books 2024 Tony Awards - June 16, 2024 at Lincoln Center https://playbill.com/article/the-2024-tony-awards-will-be-hosted-at-lincoln-center New Home: The David H. Koch Theater Date: June 16, 2024 Last Year (2023) at The United Palace Theater (OMITB) The Drama! Unions and such. The Review of Death, Rattle Dazzle, the Broadway show that never opened. “Broadway Licensing Group” becomes “Broadway Licensing Global” https://www.broadwaynews.com/exclusive-broadway-licensing-group-becomes-broadway-licensing-global/ SPAMALOT Musical - Revival https://spamalotthemusical.com/ Previews begin October 31st. "Actors’ Equity files with National Labor Relations Board to unionize Broadway production assistants" The 2023 Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction Raised a Record-Breaking $1.2 Million (10/1/2023) Purlie Victorious Central Park - Apple TV | |||
| TBOT_S02E05 - EP.38 - AUGUST | 25 Aug 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Life’s A Beach? REJECTED TITLES: Nomadic Theater Is the Rainbow enuf? Links: The Public - https://publictheater.org/ Theatre Exile - https://theatreexile.org For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When The Rainbow IS Enuf - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/For_Colored_Girls_Who_Have_Considered_Suicide_/_When_the_Rainbow_Is_Enuf Long Wharf Theatre - https://longwharf.org/ LuEsther Mertz - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LuEsther_Mertz Rock & Roll Man - https://rockandrollmanthemusical.com/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E04 - EP.37 - The Nanny | 19 Jul 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: That’s how she became The Nanny __ REJECTED TITLES: Barbenheimer LINKS: SAG-AFTRA Declares Double Strike as Actors Join Writers on Picket Lines https://variety.com/2023/biz/news/sag-aftra-double-strike-wga-amptp-1235669492/ SAG-AFTRA ON STRIKE https://www.sagaftrastrike.org/ WGA ON STRIKE https://www.wgacontract2023.org/announcements/sag-aftra-strike AMPTP https://www.amptp.org/index.html BARBIE MOVIE - https://www.barbie-themovie.com/ OPPENHEIMER - https://www.oppenheimermovie.com/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E03 - EP. 36 - End Of Fiscal Year | 20 Jun 2023 | ||
SHOWNOTES: The end of fiscal year __ WORKING TITLE: Spare some change? __ Links: The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts https://www.nypl.org/locations/lpa Joan Rivers was a gifted comedian and she was extremely organized Donate to Theatre Exile - https://theatreexile.org/donate/ Lizard Boy - http://www.lizardmusical.com/ Here Lies Love - https://herelieslovebroadway.com/ Alan Harrison - LinkedIn (Nonprofits a career, writing a specialty https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanharrisonseattle/ Just a Reminder: No One Cares About Your Nonprofit’s Fiscal Year-End Except You - Alan Harrison https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/just-reminder-one-cares-your-nonprofits-fiscal-except-alan-harrison/ Mentorship - https://www.risetheatre.org/ Lin-Manuel Miranda Our Town - in Old City https://ardentheatre.org/productions/past-productions/ Theatre Communications Group https://circle.tcg.org/home?ssopc=1 REJECTED TITLES: No Amount is too small/large __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E02 - Ep. 35 - TONY TONY TONY | 14 Jun 2023 | ||
Tony Award Winners - https://www.tonyawards.com/winners/ __ WORKING TITLE: I betcha you would have done the same? __ REJECTED TITLES: Asshat-In-Chief __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S02E01 - Ep. 34 - Museum Of Broadway | 14 Apr 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Attend the tale of Sweeney Todd REJECTED TITLES: When the front row just isn’t close enough. Where’s the Ghostlight? No Legacy Robe? The Museum of Broadway https://www.themuseumofbroadway.com/ How broadway inspired other media… Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E33 - Water Water Everywhere | 29 Mar 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: World Theatre Day Not A Drop To Drink? REJECTED TITLES: Return to Work From Home Spring Into Step Philly Theatre Week Theatre Philadelphia hosts Philly Theatre Week: a celebration of the artists, organizations, and audiences that have made Greater Philadelphia one of the most vibrant theatre regions in the nation. Audiences will have an opportunity to try something new from our theatre community through a series of productions, readings, interactive events, and much more! This year, experience over 50 events with Pay What You Can tickets! https://theatrephiladelphia.org/whats-on-stage/2023-philly-theatre-week "‘Smash’ musical to open on Broadway in 2024-2025 season" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "A stage musical adaptation of the NBC television series “Smash” will arrive on Broadway during the 2024-2025 season. Robert Greenblatt, Neil Meron and Steven Spielberg will produce. The musical will feature a book co-written by … Rick Elice and … Bob Martin. … Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman … will pen the musical’s score, which will feature numbers from the TV show. … Susan Stroman will direct the “Smash” musical. … Joshua Bergasse … will choreograph. … Official dates, theater, creative team and casting for the “Smash” stage musical will be announced." https://bway.ly/1mw99z "Broadway’s ‘SIX’ recoups ahead of its 600th performance" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "In advance of its 600th Broadway performance on March 26, the Tony Award-nominated musical “SIX” has recouped its investment. According to a release from the production, the new musical about the six wives of King Henry VIII made back its investment in December of 2022. (Its initial capitalization in 2020 was reportedly $5 million.) The show is the first Main Stem production to share news of its recoupment since the industry’s reopening in September 2021." https://bway.ly/a9dbvx "National Black Theatre to host special ‘Fat Ham’ performance; additional community nights announced" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "National Black Theatre has announced a special performance of “Fat Ham” on Friday, March 31. ... The evening will feature a post-show discussion and specifically welcomes members of Black theater institutions, artists and creatives to attend. ... The “Fat Ham” producing team also announced subsequent community nights: Queer Youth Night on March 24; Women’s History Night on March 30; Philly Phat Ham Night on the April 2 matinée performance and a Community Night on April 14." https://bway.ly/vel4rf "Actors’ Equity Launches Political Action Committee Ahead of 2024 Election" by The Hollywood Reporter's Caitlin Huston - "Actors’ Equity Association is forming its own political action committee. The union for more than 51,000 stage managers and actors will be launching the PAC in the first week of April, with the goal of contributing money to federal candidates who support Actors’ Equity priorities. These include more arts funding, expanded health care coverage, protecting the right to organize, and specific entertainment legislation, such as the Performing Artists Tax Parity Act. The PAC will be a separate organization from the union." https://bway.ly/u39un0 WORLD PREMIERE - ABANDON https://theatreexile.org/shows/abandon/ Philadelphia rescinds bottled-water alert after chemical spill in the Delaware River Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E32 - All At Once | 14 Mar 2023 | ||
SHOWNOTES: Let’s recap The Oscars as they relate to theater. Along with current events. Show closings and openings. __ WORKING TITLE: Everything Everywhere All At Once __ REJECTED TITLES: Every Drink Everywhere All At Once Stay for the Sippy Cup __ Theatre Development Fund Brendan Fraser Wins Academy Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role; See Which Stage Artists Won Big at the 95th Annual Oscars Stage and screen star Brendan Fraser has won big at the 95th Annual Academy Awards, receiving the Best Actor in a Leading Role award for his performance in The Whale. Samuel D. Hunter's The Whale — adapted from his 2012 play of the same name — received several nominations this evening. It took home the Best Makeup and Hairstyling award, in addition to Fraser's win. Many other stars of the stage were nominated at the Oscars, such as Stephanie Hsu, Angela Bassett, Cate Blanchett, Michelle Williams, and Austin Butler, to name just a few. The biggest prize of the night, Best Picture, went to Everything Everywhere All At Once—which won seven Oscars. Though she didn't win, Broadway alum Hsu did perform the Oscar-nominated song "This Is a Life," with David Byrne during the ceremony. Oscar Winners - https://abc.com/shows/oscars/news/winners/oscar-winners-2023-list Breaking News: The Atlanta Lyric Theatre closes its doors after 42 years NPR: "Adults complained about a teen theater production and the show's creators stepped in" by NPR's Elizabeth Blair - "Spelling Bee creators Rebecca Feldman and Rachel Sheinkin called Vanessa Allen in Middlefield. "They found my contact information and offered to make changes," Allen says incredulously. "It's heartbreaking for the kids if you cancel it in the middle of rehearsals and construction and the rest," says librettist Sheinkin BAD BEHAVIOR AT THE THEATRE Marketing for popular musicals is to be tempered to avoid phrases such as "best party in town" and "dancing in the aisles" in a bid to tackle poor audience behaviour. Ambassador Theatre Group, the largest theatre operator in the UK, is working with producers to tone down marketing that might encourage bad behaviour ... FAT HAM by Pulitzer Prize Winner, James Ijames https://www.fathambroadway.com/ Updates to Equity Audition Protocols https://actorsequity.org/resources/Producers/casting-call-how-to/ Meet the Black Women Reshaping American Theater https://www.shondaland.com/live/money/a43028502/meet-the-black-women-reshaping-american-theater/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E31 - Tell Me More, Tell Me More | 15 Feb 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Lift Every Voice and Sing __ REJECTED TITLES: Rihanna’s Baby Bump __ Watch Sheryl Lee Ralph Sing 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at the 2023 Super Bowl John Travolta, Donald Faison and Zach Braff Might Take Their T-Mobile Super Bowl Show On The Road "Actors’ Equity’s open membership program becomes permanent" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "In a Feb. 8 email to members, Actors’ Equity Association declared that the union’s open membership initiative, Open Access, will go from a temporary program to permanent policy. When it began in July of 2021, Open Access allowed any actors and stage managers who are paid for work in those roles within Equity’s jurisdiction to be considered eligible for union membership. The rule was set to expire on May 1, 2023 but will instead continue indefinitely. … Equity will “phase out” the EMC program over the next three years. Effective May 8, the union will not accept new EMC applicants. Current membership candidates will retain EMC status between now and May — which means these members will still receive priority access to Equity auditions. However, these EMC members will not accrue additional points towards Equity status as anyone can join the union through Open Access." https://bway.ly/3y0hkj What is the Edinburgh Fringe and Why Is It So Big? Playbill explores the history of the legendary arts festival, and how outsiders became the most popular people in town. https://playbill.com/article/what-is-the-edinburgh-fringe-and-why-is-it-so-big __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E16 - GRAMMYS | 10 Feb 2025 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch discuss the current state of theater funding, the impact of the Grammy Awards, the challenges faced by artists, the importance of communication in the arts, and the stressful moments that arise in theater production. They also explore the resilience of theater artists, the role of general managers, and the chaos that can ensue during productions. The conversation highlights the complexities of the theater industry and the need for effective communication and decision-making. In this conversation, Mitch and Darnelle explore the multifaceted challenges of theater production, from attracting audiences to the impact of streaming services and the importance of star power. They discuss the evolution of marketing strategies, the chaos of production, and the future of funding in the arts. The conversation highlights the stress and complexities faced by theater professionals while also celebrating the joy and excitement of successful productions. Chapters 00:00 The State of Theater Funding 03:03 The Impact of the Grammy Awards 05:58 Challenges Faced by Artists 09:12 Communication in the Arts 11:56 Stressful Moments in Theater 14:48 Unexpected Challenges and Resilience 17:59 The Role of General Managers 20:59 The Ghosts of Theater 24:02 The Chaos of Production 26:58 The Importance of Communication and Decision-Making 30:28 The Challenge of Attracting Audiences 33:55 The Evolution of Theater Marketing 37:44 Navigating the Chaos of Production 39:54 The Impact of Streaming on Theater 44:50 The Role of Star Power in Theater 50:31 The Future of Theater Funding 55:47 The Business of Theater Today Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E30 - 30th | 09 Feb 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: We were also producers on Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark __ REJECTED TITLES: Quiet Hiring is a No No GRAMMYS "‘Into the Woods’ wins Best Musical Theater Album — plus more Broadway Grammy wins" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "The Grammy in that category went to “Into the Woods,” honoring producers Rob Berman and Sean Patrick Flahaven and principal vocalists Sara Bareilles, Brian d’Arcy James, Patina Miller and Phillipa Soo. … [Lin-Manuel Miranda], along with vocalists Carolina Gaitán — La Gaita, Mauro Castillo, Adassa, Rhenzy Feliz, Diane Guerrero, Stephanie Beatriz and the cast of animated movie “Encanto” won for the film’s viral hit “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.” “Encanto” also walked away with statues for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media and Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media. Tony nominee Renée Fleming won the Grammy for Best Classical Solo Vocal Album for her “Voice of Nature — The Anthropocene.”" https://bway.ly/4fe6k4 "Viola Davis earns coveted EGOT status with Grammy win" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "At the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 5, actor Viola Davis won in the category Best Audio Book, Narration and Storytelling Recording for the audiobook of her memoir “Finding Me.”" https://bway.ly/pzl5hd CONGRESS-MAN: "George Santos Produced Broadway’s Ill-Fated Spider-Man Musical. At Least, He Claims He Did" by Bloomberg's Laura Davison - "Add Broadway producer to the long list of George Santos’s fabrications. While running for Congress in 2021, Santos told some potential donors he was a producer on the musical Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark, according to people familiar with the discussions. ... The lead producer, Michael Cohl, denied Santos’s involvement, saying through an assistant that he wasn’t a producer on the musical. Santos’s name also never appeared in the playbills for the show. A spokeswoman for Santos referred questions to his lawyer, Joseph W. Murray, who didn’t immediately respond to a voicemail seeking comment." https://bway.ly/nelxfc NPR: "Theater never recovered from COVID — and now change is no longer a choice" by NPR's Chloe Veltman - "Many of the problems facing the nonprofit theater industry in the U.S. right now — from scant resources to the lack of diversity — have been around for ages. But before the pandemic, performing arts groups were so focused on raising the curtain each night it was easier to ignore long-standing problems than fix them. Now, thanks to a combination of lackluster ticket sales and an end to government relief, they have no choice but to try out new things in order to secure a future." https://bway.ly/krxn75 More stocism, less drama. "Chicago announces $11 million in new support for the arts" by The Chicago Tribune's Doug George - https://bway.ly/mvlqwy CNBC: "Working 11-hour days backstage on Broadway: ‘You have to be a little bit crazy’ but ‘I love it’" by CNBC's Gili Malinsky - "[Annie] Schroeder’s main task every show is checking ticket sales and sending numbers up to the producers. But as assistant company manager, she has her hands in much of the behind-the-scenes logistics of the show as well. “She’s a sister girl,” says cast member Michael Ivan Carrier, and she’s “the mother that needs to stay out of my room.”" https://bway.ly/rqn77q Between Riverside and Crazy https://2st.com/shows/between-riverside-and-crazy Quiet Hiring - The other side to quiet quitting THE LIGHT by Loy A. Webb opens this week. https://theatreexile.org/shows/the-light/ Resources: https://www.theatricalindex.com/ https://entertainmentcommunity.org/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E29 - On The 45 | 25 Jan 2023 | 00:00:29 | |
WORKING TITLE: ON THE 45 __ REJECTED TITLES: HALP! "The Public Theater Names Alexa Smith Senior Director of Anti-Racism, Equity, and Belonging" by Playbill's Logan Culwell-Block - "The Public Theater has named Alexa Smith its new senior director of anti-racism, equity, and belonging, a newly created position that is part of the Off-Broadway company's anti-racism and Cultural Transformation Plan. Smith will officially join the company March 6, reporting to and working with Executive Director Patrick Willingham and Artistic Director Oskar Eustis." https://bway.ly/sq0ql0 "West End workers threaten strikes as pay talks begin" by The Stage's Giverny Masso - "West End performers and stage managers are demanding a 17% pay rise and five-day rehearsal weeks, as a survey by Equity reveals that two thirds have recently considered leaving the industry due to working conditions and pay." https://bway.ly/9w3w3f "How Do You Measure a Season on Broadway? In Cast Albums." by The New York Times' Jesse Green - "From “A Strange Loop” to “Funny Girl,” most Broadway musicals of 2022 were recorded, offering listeners a chance to love or hate them again." https://bway.ly/lsnfd9 Is theater’s traditional role of artistic director becoming obsolete? What color was the dress? The Business of Broadway - Mitch Weiss and Perri Gaffney Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E28 - It's Me...2023 | 19 Jan 2023 | ||
WORKING TITLE: It’s Me…2023 __ REJECTED TITLES: What Did I Miss? 2022 Was A Dumpster Fire Retire “The Show Must Go On” Since we last spoke…Darnelle experienced Charlotte’s Web - Arden Theatre Company, Blue Man Group - Kimmel Cultural Campus, One-man Nutcracker - Chris Davis at Theatre Exile, Jagged Little Pill - Kimmel Cultural Campus, Concert 4 Caleb - Arden Theatre Company. The Grapes of Wrath - 1990 https://playbill.com/production/the-grapes-of-wrath-cort-theatre-vault-0000003488 Over twenty of Philly’s favorite vocalists will perform with a special appearance by ComedySportz Philly. Performers include Broadway's Rob McClure, Maggie Lakis, Jake Blouch, Kim Carson, Rachel Brennan, Adam Hoyak, Ben Michael, Rob Tucker, Jenna Pinchbeck, Amanda Jill Robinson, Marissa Hines, Nancie Sanderson, and Brittany Wit Martin. Caleb O'Brien is an incredible six-year-old who has been diagnosed for a second time with Pre B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Caleb has had to endure demanding treatments and chemotherapy. His current treatment requires the O'Brien family, who normally reside in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to temporarily relocate to Wilmington, Delaware to be near Nemours DuPont Children’s Hospital. In addition to obtaining housing, Caleb’s parents, Colleen and Michael, have had to take a leave of absence from their jobs and acquire supplementary childcare for their one-year-old son Felix, in addition to other medical and living expenses. https://www.concert4caleb.com/ Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Sink or swim: are we putting too much pressure on producers? CLOSING: On Sunday, Broadway waves farewell to A Strange Loop, Death of a Salesman, Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man and the Pool, Ohio State Murders, The Music Man, and Topdog/ Underdog. https://strangeloopmusical.com/ https://salesmanonbroadway.com/ https://mikebirbigliabroadway.com/ https://ohiostatemurdersbroadway.com/ https://musicmanonbroadway.com/ TRANSFERS Merrily We Roll Along https://www.nytw.org/show/merrily-we-roll-along/ Into The Woods - National Tour https://www.nycitycenter.org/pdps/2021-2022/into-the-woods/ FAT HAM https://www.fathambroadway.com/ PARADE https://www.nycitycenter.org/pdps/2022-2023/parade/ The Business of Broadway - Mitch Weiss https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Business-of-Broadway/Mitch-Weiss/9781621535560 Between Riverside and Crazy - 2nd Stage https://2st.com/shows/between-riverside-and-crazy New York, New York - Broadway https://newyorknewyorkbroadway.com/ "Tony Award-winning writer Michael R. Jackson steps into his ‘Strange Loop’" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "At the Jan. 7 matinée performance of Broadway’s “A Strange Loop,” Tony Award-winning writer Michael R. Jackson stepped into the lead role of Usher in a special concert version of the musical. Jackson will take the stage again for another concert version of the show on Saturday night. The Thursday, Jan. 5, and Friday, Jan. 6 performances of “A Strange Loop” were canceled due to non-COVID-related illness within the company." https://bway.ly/ywhtvb -- A Strange Loop on Broadway (@StrangeLoopBway): "OUR STORY’S WRITER IS GOING ON FOR TODAY’S MATINEE (Sunday, Jan 8)" https://bway.ly/in5rtd "Broadway Box Office Drops Back To Earth After Holiday Week Highs; ‘Beetlejuice’ Goes Out With A Bang As Industry Crosses $1B Season Threshold" by Deadline's Greg Evans - "Broadway’s season-to-date gross crossed the $1 billion threshold. Thirty-three weeks into the 2022-23 season, Broadway box office tallied up to $1,003,018,654. ... During the (mostly) pre-pandemic 2019-20 season, Broadway hit $1,004,439,001 for the week ending December 22, 2019." https://bway.ly/ykkenp Dead End: Paranormal Park https://www.netflix.com/title/80994692 "Demand For Broadway’s ‘Parade’ With Ben Platt Temporarily Crashes Ticketing Site" by Deadline's Greg Evans - "Around noon ET, the site resumed sales after more than 30 minutes of being down – users attempting to purchase tickets during the down period were met with error messages. … By 1 p.m. ET, the wait time in the ticket queue was about one hour." https://bway.ly/jqy2tt "Paul Mescal Takes Over Blake Jenner Role in Richard Linklater’s Decades-Spanning ‘Merrily We Roll Along’" by Variety's Adam B. Vary - "Richard Linklater’s … “Merrily We Roll Along” is merrily rolling again, with “Aftersun” and “Normal People” star Paul Mescal stepping into the lead role of Broadway composer Franklin Shepard, replacing original star Blake Jenner. … Variety has confirmed that Mescal has already shot a segment for the film." https://bway.ly/vjek7v __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E27 - Hits and Flops | 13 Dec 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: You can make more with a flop than a hit. REJECTED TITLES: Join The Hamily Sleepy Reviews Broadway Slush Fund Throwing Money Down A Well FAT HAM: Broadway Bound https://playbill.com/article/pulitzer-winning-fat-ham-sets-2023-broadway-bow Join The Hamily https://www.fathambroadway.com/ KPOP Musical - NYTimes Review https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/27/theater/kpop-review-broadway.html KPOP: "KPOP Producers Request Apology From New York Times' Theatre Critic Jesse Green" by Playbill's Logan Culwell-Block - "KPOP producers Tim Forbes and Joey Parnes are formally requesting an apology from New York Times theatre critic Jesse Green following his review of the new musical, which opened November 27 at Broadway's Circle in the Square Theatre. In a letter to New York Times Chairman and Publisher A.G. Sulzberger and Theater Editor Nicole Herrington obtained by Playbill, Forbes and Parnes describe the review as "casual racism."" https://bway.ly/buq3h2 “KPOP” will make 200 free tickets available to AAPI community members and youth for the performance. The post-performance panel is supported by The Asian American Foundation in collaboration with Gold House, AAPAC and Ma-Yi Theater Company." https://bway.ly/l0inia Review: This Time, ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ Really Does Explode https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/25/theater/a-raisin-in-the-sun-review.html Theatre Exile - Best Local Theater Company https://metrophillysbest.com/best-local-theater-company-in-philadelphia/ https://theatreexile.org/on-stage-original/current-season/ One-man Nutcracker - Chris Davis https://www.realchrisdavis.com/ https://www.rockefellercenter.com/holidays/ https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com/ 1812 Productions - This Is The Week That Is https://www.1812productions.org/this-is-the-week-that-is-tw22 That Was The Week That Was https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/That_Was_the_Week_That_Was "‘The Wiz’ to return to Broadway following new national tour" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "Following a brand new national tour “The Wiz” will return to Broadway in 2024 for a limited engagement. The tour of this reimagined revival will launch from Baltimore, Maryland, in the fall of 2023 — the same city where the musical had its world premiere in 1974 — before landing on the Main Stem in the spring of 2024. The full touring schedule is yet to be announced. Dates and a theater for Broadway are to come, as well. The production will be directed by Schele Williams in her Broadway directorial debut and will feature choreography by JaQuel Knight, also making his Broadway debut. Additional material is by Amber Ruffin and music supervision, orchestrations and music arrangements are by Joseph Joubert." https://bway.ly/rdt1uw "Jay-Z’s Roc Nation Joins Times Square Casino Bid Opposed By Broadway Producers" by Deadline's Greg Evans - "In the announcement on the Roc Nation website, the partners say a Caesars Palace Times Square would bring in more than 7 million new visits to the district annually, and boost local businesses including the theater industry by tens of millions of dollars. In addition, the partners have included a membership award plan that would enable casino customers to use credits toward Broadway shows, local hotels, restaurants and other neighborhood businesses." https://bway.ly/ddvj8i Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Email us at tbot@em3ry.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E26 - We Work For Pennies and Cookies | 29 Nov 2022 | ||
Changes need to happen. We have to adjust. Change is hard but we must…we must! WORKING TITLE: We work for pennies and cookies… REJECTED TITLES: Bring Us Shubbery "‘The Piano Lesson’ extends limited Broadway run" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "The limited engagement of “The Piano Lesson” will run on Broadway for an additional two weeks. The revival of the August Wilson-penned play will now close on Jan. 29, 2023, instead of the previously announced Jan. 15. The production had been announced to run for 16 weeks only." https://bway.ly/6omheg DELAYED: "‘KPOP’ pushes Broadway opening to Nov. 27" by Broadway News' Ruthie Fierberg - "The new musical “KPOP,” which began previews on Oct. 13 at the Circle in the Square Theatre, will now open on Nov. 27. The production was originally slated to open on Nov. 20, but adjusted as one of the principal performers will be out due to COVID-19. ... Festivities will still be held on Nov. 20 to celebrate the opening of the show ... " https://bway.ly/x1obam New Study Measures the Sales Decline of the 2021-22 Season Fiorello! is a musical about New York City mayor Fiorello La Guardia, a reform Republican, which debuted on Broadway in 1959, and tells the story of how LaGuardia took on the Tammany Hall political machine. The book is by Jerome Weidman and George Abbott, drawn substantially from the 1955 volume Life with Fiorello by Ernest Cuneo,[1] with lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, and music by Jerry Bock. It won the three major theatre awards - Tony Award (shared with The Sound of Music), the New York Drama Critics Circle award, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.[2] It is one of only ten musicals to win the latter award. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiorello ! Oh! Calcutta! is an avant-garde, risque theatrical revue created by British drama critic Kenneth Tynan. The show, consisting of sketches on sex-related topics, debuted Off-Broadway in 1969 and then in the West End in 1970. It ran in London for over 3,900 performances, and in New York initially for 1,314. Revivals enjoyed even longer runs, including a Broadway revival that ran for 5,959 performances, making the show the longest-running revue in Broadway history at the time. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oh!_Calcutta ! Bye Bye Birdie...Playbill Leaves Twitter https://playbill.com/article/bye-bye-birdie-playbill-leaves-twitter New audiences over returning audiences. Taylor Swift Calls Ticketmaster Woes ‘Excruciating’ in Statement to Fans https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/18/arts/music/taylor-swift-era-tours-tickets.html Where the Mountain Meets the Sea https://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/shows/2022-23-season/where-the-mountain-meets-the-sea/ Camelot - Lincoln Center Theater https://www.lct.org/shows/camelot/ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E25 - Dumbing Down The Audience - 25th Episode | 01 Nov 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Move On REJECTED TITLES: Rotting Fish Stink at the Head Swagtastic LUPONE: "Patti LuPone Isn‘t Retiring but Broadway Has ‘Dumbed Down the Audience’ by Turning Into ‘Disneyland, a Circus and Las Vegas’" by Variety's Katie Reul and Marc Malkin - "“I just gave up my equity card, but that doesn’t mean that I can’t perform on-stage,” LuPone told Variety at Netflix’s “The School for Good and Evil” premiere Tuesday. “It’s 50 years that I’ve been a member of Actors Equity, and I think I need a break from the stage.” LuPone clarified that provisions in her former membership allow her to still make guest appearances on stage in the meantime, but without being a part of the labor union, she won’t be taking any major roles on Broadway any time soon." https://bway.ly/gl7z3h "Two years after COVID hit, D-FW arts groups are still struggling to rebuild audiences. Why?" by KERA News' Tim Diovanni, Elizabeth Myong, and Michael Granberry - "Audiences are being more selective, according to researchers and arts leaders across the region. Some are scared to gather in crowded indoor venues. Others have lost the habit of attending. Still others are avoiding the hassle of driving and parking, instead staying at home and watching Netflix, Hulu or a host of other streaming options." https://bway.ly/tws1kk "16th Street Theater in Berwyn is closing down; Raven artistic director announces exit" by The Chicago Tribune's Chris Jones - "The 16th Street Theater, a Berwyn-based Equity company with a 15-year history, has begun its last show. … Raven Theatre said Monday that its artistic director, Cody Estle, will exit his position as the long-standing North Side theater. Estle will next be artistic director of the larger Next Act Theatre in Milwaukee." https://bway.ly/mom9cj "Leslie Jordan Dies at 67 Following Car Crash" by TheaterMania's Zachary Stewart - "Actor and social media personality Leslie Jordan has died at the age of 67. … His first solo play was Hysterical Blindness and Other Southern Tragedies That Have Plagued My Life Thus Far, which ran for several months in 1994 at the Soho Playhouse. In 2010, he appeared off-Broadway in his autobiographical solo show, My Trip Down the Pink Carpet." https://bway.ly/gsl0kq "‘It’s really desperate’: cost of living crisis spells bleak times for British arts venues" by The Guardian's Esther Addley and Harriet Sherwood - "Theatres, meanwhile, are “verging on catastrophe” this winter according to one major operator, as a result of soaring energy bills and falling ticket sales due to the cost-of-living crisis, hard on the heels of two years of Covid closures." https://bway.ly/kplv3v "Covid Still Heckling Broadway With Canceled Performances And Cast Substitutions" by Deadline's Greg Evans - "Covid isn’t done with New York’s theater scene just yet. At least four Broadway and major Off Broadway productions have either canceled or postponed performances or temporarily replaced principal cast members in the last week due to the virus." https://bway.ly/jw3mlc Theater removes seat so 6-foot-9 Magic Johnson can attend Broadway show https://pagesix.com/2022/10/17/theater-removes-seat-so-magic-johnson-can-attend-broadway-show/ Broadway Briefing Into The Woods - Broadway What are organizations looking for in leadership? Local Equity Offices? __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E24 - What Did We Miss | 18 Oct 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: I Wanna Be A Producer __ REJECTED TITLES: The One of Us to Survive Save Your Programs — From Wikipedia: A Theatrical Producer is a person who oversees all aspects of mounting a theatre production. The producer is responsible for the overall financial and managerial functions of a production or venue, raises or provides financial backing, and hires personnel for creative positions (writer, director, designers, composer, choreographer—and in some cases, performers). The producer chooses the material and decides what we are working towards. __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E23 - Phantom, Sweeney and Beetlejuice | 03 Oct 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: The Phantom of the Opera is there, but not for long. REJECTED TITLES: Ham4Sweeney Critics who write nasty things about good shows and the power of the NY Times continues. The age-long question, what good are they? Clive Barnes, Antony and Cleopatra - https://www.nytimes.com/1976/06/12/archives/stage-cleopatra-and-earnest-in-canada.html Producer Stacey Mindich of "Dear Evan Hansen" recently told the Press the story about how Hansen found its way to a Bway stage. Fascinating, but who's making sure that we collect more stories about what it takes to create new theater? https://www.nytimes.com/2022/09/19/theater/dear-evan-hansen-broadway-close.html "‘The Phantom of the Opera’ to end history-making Broadway run" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "“The Phantom of the Opera,” the longest-running show in Broadway history, will end its run on Feb. 18, 2023 at the Majestic Theatre. By closing, the musical will have played a total of 13,925 performances. The musical will celebrate its 35th anniversary on Broadway on Jan. 26, 2023, just weeks before ending its run. Under the direction of Harold Prince and featuring choreography by Gillian Lynne, the musical began previews on Jan. 9, 1988 and opened on Jan. 26, 1988 at the Majestic Theatre. The show shut down temporarily along with all other Broadway shows on Mar. 12, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Phantom” reopened to audiences on Oct. 22, 2021. … “The Phantom of the Opera” is produced on Broadway by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group. “As a British producer who has been lucky enough to have been producing in New York for over 40 consecutive years, it has been an unparalleled honor to have presented the longest-running musical in Broadway’s history, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera,’” said Mackintosh. He added, “Gaston Leroux’s opera ghost may be disappearing for now, but there is no doubt that Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece will continue to enchant audiences in London and around the world — and one day will return to Broadway. Our gratitude to American audiences falling in love with The Phantom is infinite.”" https://bway.ly/791hxa "‘Phantom of the Opera’ sales explode after shock closing announcement" by New York Post's Johnny Oleksinski - "After The Post first reported on Friday that the composer’s “The Phantom of the Opera” would close on Broadway this winter after 35 years, the show took in $2 million in ticket sales by 8 p.m., producer Cameron Mackintosh told The Post." https://bway.ly/4zblec "After ‘Phantom,’ Which Shows Will Be the Longest-Running on Broadway?" by The New York Times' Michael Paulson - "And what will be the most-enduring-and-still-running shows on Broadway once “Phantom” closes? “Chicago” celebrated its 25th anniversary last fall; “The Lion King” is preparing to celebrate that same milestone this fall." https://bway.ly/55inbl "‘Beetlejuice’ to end Broadway run" by Broadway News' Caitlin Hornik - "“Beetlejuice” will play its final Broadway performance on Jan. 8, 2023. At the time of closing, the musical will have played 27 previews and a total of 679 performances. The musical, based on the Tim Burton film of the same name, originally opened at the Winter Garden Theatre on Apr. 25, 2019, shuttering along with the rest of Broadway on Mar. 10, 2020 due to the pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, a closing date of June 6, 2020 had been announced as the musical had to vacate the theater after the Shubert Organization invoked a stop clause in the production’s theater rental agreement. While it was initially announced that the musical would not reopen post-COVID, “Beetlejuice” found a new home at the Marquis Theatre and reopened on Apr. 8, 2022. A national tour will open at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Theatre on Dec. 6. “Beetlejuice” is produced on Broadway by Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures and Langley Park Productions." https://bway.ly/7t43gu COMPANY - https://companymusical.com/ The producers of Hamilton have an epic tale we think you’ll love: Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler’s Tony Award®-winning musical Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street returns to Broadway with Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford. Hamilton’s Thomas Kail and Alex Lacamoire reunite to bring the musical thriller to the stage with a 26-piece orchestra. Previews begin February 26th Pippin is a 1972 musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson. Bob Fosse, who directed the original Broadway production, also contributed to the libretto. The musical uses the premise of a mysterious performance troupe, led by the Leading Player, to tell the story of Pippin, a young prince on his search for meaning and significance. The 'fourth wall' is broken numerous times during most traditional productions. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pippin_(musical) Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E22 - 2 For 1 | 15 Sep 2022 | ||
In this episode, Broadway Week promotions, Extended Into The Woods, The Emmys are coming up, JASPER and more. WORKING TITLE: 2 For 1 REJECTED TITLES: 10 out of 12 - refers to an Equity mandate that says that when actors are called in for 12 hours of tech rehearsal, they can only work 10 of those hours. ________________________________________ Entertainment Community Fund https://entertainmentcommunity.org/ Coleman Domingo - DOT Won an Emmy https://www.concordtheatricals.com/p/60374/dot NYC BROADWAY WEEK - 9/6 - 9/25 An experience worthy of a standing ovation. Highly anticipated and back for another run, NYC Broadway Week makes its return engagement. Score 2-for-1 tickets with code BWAYWK. https://www.nycgo.com/broadway-week/ INTO THE WOODS - Extended through January 8th, 2023 FUNNY GIRL: "‘Funny Girl’: Lea Michele Gets Four Standing Ovations – By Intermission; Jonathan Groff, Ryan Murphy Among The Gleeful Crowd" by Deadline's Greg Evans - "More ovations followed throughout the evening, including an extended and rousing one at the final curtain, with a sobbing Michele and co-star Tovah Feldshuh, also making her debut, accepting large bouquets of white roses." https://bway.ly/vx7kfx NYT: "‘1776’ in 2022: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of a Dual Reality" by The New York Times' Jennifer Schuessler - "The revival, directed by Jeffrey L. Page and Diane Paulus, has the familiar rousing melodies (in new, rock-infused arrangements), star-spangled color scheme and corny dad jokes. But they’re delivered by a racially diverse cast of women, nonbinary and trans actors, whose embodiment, Paulus said, wakes the language up." https://bway.ly/xldkho EMMYS: "Schmigadoon!, Annie Live!, More Win Creative Arts Emmys" by Playbill's Margaret Hall - "Schmigadoon! won Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for the song "Corn Puddin'," and The Gilded Age, which is cast to the brim with Tony winners and nominees, won Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Period or Fantasy Program (One Hour or More). Additionally, Broadway favorite Nathan Lane took home the Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his appearance on Only Murders in the Building, and Tony winner Laurie Metcalf received the Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series for her appearance on Hacks. As previously announced, Annie Live! received the award for Outstanding Hairstyling for a Variety, Nonfiction, or Reality Program via a juried vote." https://bway.ly/x7cyzy JASPER - A New Play by Grant MacDermott Facing the reality of their son's illness, a couple manages to keep both their child and marriage alive. But when a chance encounter gives birth to an innocent lie it could unravel everything. JASPER begins September 8 at The Alice Griffin Jewel Box Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center. Through 10/6. https://yonderwindow.co/jasper ATPAM - Company Managers, House Managers and Press Agents List of the longest-running Broadway shows - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_longest-running_Broadway_shows Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E21 - Pre-Fall as Summer MUST CLOSE | 06 Sep 2022 | ||
Today on the podcast, we talk artist housing and festivals. Edinburgh sales were down, What is “Festival of Brexit”, the value of Street Performers (Buskers). Let’s get to business! WORKING TITLE: Artists Should Be Carefully Housed __ REJECTED TITLES: Festival of Brexit Let the sun shine in. Pandemic woes still linger, companies look to IP for fresh ideas, The Actors Fund has a new name, Plimpton “Let the Sun Shine In”, A church in Texas must have been out of their GD mind to take a spin on “Hamilton” #dontchangethewords, all part of the updates to The Business of Broadway. https://em3ry.com/updates-augustseptember-2022 Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S03E15 - MARKETING | 20 Jan 2025 | ||
In this conversation, Darnelle Radford and Mitch Weiss explore the complexities of the theater industry, discussing the importance of recognizing excellence through awards, the challenges of engaging audiences, and the marketing strategies necessary for success. They delve into the role of nonprofit organizations, the impact of grant dependency, and the future of theater as a for-profit venture. The discussion highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the audience and the importance of promoting not just individual shows but the theater community as a whole. In this conversation, Mitch and Darnelle explore the complexities of branding and audience engagement in the theater industry, particularly for nonprofits. They discuss the importance of clear communication and visibility, the challenges of subscription models, and the unique branding needs of smaller theater companies. The conversation also touches on the evolution of Broadway, the impact of the pandemic on audience selectivity, and the necessity for theater companies to have a clear mission and purpose to thrive in the future. | |||
| TBOT_S01E20 - Are We Ready? | 29 Aug 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Are We Ready? - __ REJECTED TITLES: We’re So Broken The System Called Reciprocity Well, Ya Got Trouble My Friend _______________________________________________ Why the entire board of Seattle's ACT Theatre just stepped down https://www.kuow.org/stories/seattle-theatre-company-s-entire-board-steps-down Entertainment Community Fund https://entertainmentcommunity.org/ List of Broadway Theaters https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Broadway_theaters Texas Church To Pay Unspecified Damages For Altered ‘Hamilton’ New York Times Jerry Sadowitz Edinburgh Fringe: Jerry Sadowitz show cancelled by venue bosses - BBC News Broadway Journal http://broadwayjournal.com/will-a-new-sweeney-todd-make-its-investors-a-killing-exclusive/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E19 - Out of Town Tryouts | 24 Aug 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: Impossible Things Happen Everyday REJECTED TITLES: Everybody Rise A Hamilton Parody A Funny Thing __________________________ Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire History of Gmail https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Gmail A Chorus Line https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Chorus_Line Elaine Stritch - At Liberty https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaine_Stritch_at_Liberty Hamilton - Musical Sunset Boulevard - Musical https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunset_Boulevard_(musical) Come From Away https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/come-from-away/umc.cmc.262n0v53nmotkz7ulzuuco7rq 13 The Musical - Netflix https://www.netflix.com/title/80222822 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-show/a-funny-thing-happened-on-the-way-to-the-forum-1102 Disney Ultimate Movie Musical Collection - Annie, Cinderella and The Music Man. NEXT INSURANCE https://www.nextinsurance.com/ __ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||
| TBOT_S01E18 - Donkeys and Unicorns | 15 Aug 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: THE BEST DAY EVER REJECTED TITLES: Your salary could have funded several small companies. Unicorns and Butterflies Everywhere Squidward taps, SpongeBob Slaps PAID INTERNS? Two years on, several of these programs remain in limbo, suggesting that systemic change is easier dreamed than done. But other artistic directors are tackling the big questions head on and introducing new programs, offering glimpses into what might be. In conversation with these artistic directors, one trend seems abundantly clear: more equitable access to better opportunities for fewer people. The Hangar Theatre in Ithaca, N.Y.’s had a fellowship program for actors that was tuition-based. Now the theatre pays participants; whereas the tuition-based model saw a cohort of around 22 young people each summer, the salaried model will accommodate about 15. Meanwhile, at New York Stage and Film (a partner of Vassar’s Powerhouse Theatre), artistic director Chris Burney, has made dramatic changes after he witnessed the company’s pre-pandemic work culture. “I was shocked,” said Burney, who began at the job in spring 2019. “People were working seven days a week for two months straight. It’s not right, even if it’s fun. It’s not right.” Burney brought all positions at the festival into compliance with state minimum wage laws, which drastically raised intern stipends, and paid for overtime while discouraging workweeks that necessitated it. The company now employs about half of the interns it used to (though not all of the other half disappeared into the ether—some have been moved into staff positions). And Williamstown Theatre Festival, which as recently as 2019 paid its artistic director more than a quarter of a million dollars a year while employing several dozen unpaid interns and low-paid staff members, has entirely pivoted its operational model. It suspended its internship program and replaced it with smaller, more focused opportunities: in 2021, the Early Career BIPOC Theatre Makers Program, and in 2022, a similar program open to pre-professional theatre artists. Both programs pay stipends and offer room and board, and this years’ program emphasizes a well-rounded theatre education: It will operate “within various departments so participants get a more holistic sense of how theatre is made,” offered interim artistic director Jenny Gersten. Gersten seems genuinely interested in providing hands-on experiences that are of primary benefit to the intern; the new program, she said, “doesn’t require their labor but does allow them to get hands-on experience. And the program combines time in an experiential setting as well as classroom time.” These companies are leading the charge and walking the walk. But faced with the financial precarity inherent in the industry and exacerbated by the pandemic, it seems unlikely that most other theatre companies that put tuition-based, unpaid, or underpaid entry-level programs on hold will reopen their doors to new crops of well-paid young people. And many of those companies whose programs do revamp and reopen, like WTF and Hangar, plan to sustain their new models with smaller cohorts. All of this adds up to fewer entry-level opportunities in the theatre industry. DONKEY SALARIES The unicorn employee: someone with all the skills across a multitude of platforms, isn’t limited by job titles, and efficiently completes tasks at an awe-inspiring pace. They are willing, and even prefer, to wear different hats, inspire colleagues, and never lose empathy. Unicorns can make the difference between surviving and thriving and perhaps unsurprisingly, they are hard to catch even when you have the right bait. And this is why it never ceases to surprise me when I come across a job description from a nonprofit arts and culture org that is clearly looking for a unicorn but offering a donkey budget. Following the pandemic, this has become a bit more common, and I get it; staffs were gutted and the funds to rehire at previous levels doesn’t exist. All of this makes the temptation to offer a little more for unicorn level duties and responsibilities is strong. All of this is the latest byproduct of a system that has underpaid staffers for decades while expanding the pay gap between entry/middle management and executives at exponential rates. As such, I can’t say any of it is a surprise and while I wish there was a simple solution here, don’t expect much to change until the field begins to make pay equality a priority. In the meantime, you’ll be more likely to attract the best candidates possible by conducting an honest unicorn to donkey review before posting your next job OSKAR EUSTIS IS NONPROFIT THEATER’S PANDEMIC PAY CHAMP https://mailchi.mp/bwayjournal/sprecher-loses-rights-to-rebecca-15042585?e=c0d6480bcc EXCLUSIVE: In 2020, a year in which theaters were dark for nine and a half months, Public Theater Artistic Director Oskar Eustis earned $1.15 million in pay and benefits, more than any other nonprofit theater leader in New York. Eustis’ 10 percent jump in overall compensation — disclosed in the Public’s 2020-21 tax return filed with the New York Attorney General — runs counter to the company’s messaging about pandemic pay. In an April 2020 New York Times story about the cancellation of Shakespeare in the Park and planned staff furloughs, Michael Paulson reported that much of the remaining staff “will take up to a 25 percent pay cut. Eustis will take a 40 percent pay cut.” The tax return, which details compensation for calendar year 2020, tells a different story. Eustis, one of the highest-profile figures in nonprofit theater since assuming leadership of the storied organization in 2005, was paid $901,000, up from $807,000 in 2019. Benefits and deferred pay were valued at an additional $255,000. TO PONDER: Who is the most valuable in a nonprofit? When should the leader transition to allow for new leaders? How do you prep your artistic bench? Interns call your lapsed subscribers… Why does any of your staff matter? Every theater artist needs a ghost light! How do we catch a unicorn? If you don’t recruit diversity, you will not have diversity in your organization. | |||
| TBOT_S01E17 - The Old Ways of Work/Life Balance…Continued. | 03 Aug 2022 | ||
WORKING TITLE: FAT HAM SLAYS REJECTED TITLES: WORKING SHIT OUT FAT HAM - Is and Ain’ts THE FARM - Commissioned Writer, Grant MacDermott and his rising star! ______________________________________________ Too Big NOT to Fail: Nonprofit Arts Behemoths Pre-Post-Pandemic TICKETS AND LOTTERY Grant MacDermott - http://www.grantmacdermott.com/ Jasper, by Grant MacDermott, Sets Off-Broadway World Premiere https://www.theatermania.com/off-broadway/news/jasper-grant-macdermott-world-premiere_94105.html Theatre Exile - Best of Philly - 2022 Theater Subscription https://www.phillymag.com/best-of-philly-archive/theatre-exile-2/ Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Share the podcast with a friend, colleague or give us some social media love. This podcast is an Em3ry production. Visit us online at https://em3ry.com/tbot. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at “em3ryotm”. | |||