Explore every episode of the podcast The BSB Podcast

Love may be written in ink, but onstage, it comes alive in music, memory, and the passage of time. The Notebook takes a story already etched into popular culture and gives it a heartbeat of its own, turning the sweeping romance of Allie and Noah into an intimate, visually rich theatrical experience. The Notebook is arriving in Detroit as ATG Detroit's season opener, and we had the pleasure of speaking with Angela Birchett, who's playing Older Allie in this production!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Angela Birchett talks about what it's like to join a production like this one and how Allie compares to previous roles she's played. What is it like to play a character who doesn't remember who she is? How does sharing the role of Allie with two other actresses change how she approaches it? Find out in this exciting interview!

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Before Al Pacino brought Sonny Wortzik to the screen, before Dog Day Afternoon became one of cinema’s most unforgettable crime dramas, a real bank robbery in Brooklyn unfolded, and a story far stranger than anything Hollywood could have invented. In Dog's Day, author Matthew J. Prigge revisits the events of that infamous 1972 standoff, peeling back the layers of a crime that became a cultural phenomenon and examining the people whose lives it forever changed. With a sharp eye for the overlooked corners of history, Prigge goes beyond the movie to explore the complicated relationship between John Wojtowicz and Liz Eden, the desperate circumstances surrounding the robbery, and the social upheaval of New York’s early 1970s. The result is a fascinating portrait of love, identity, desperation, and the uneasy line between a real-life tragedy and the legend it became.

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Matthew J. Prigge discusses what initially drew him to John Wojtowicz's story and how he sifted through conflicting accounts to find the truth within the fiction. Is there any truth to the tales that Wojtowicz is spinning, and how exactly does that make him a face of the gay liberation movement? Prigge explores it all, and nothing is off the table in this exciting interview!

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Few musicals understand the assignment quite like MAMMA MIA! It arrives with ABBA hits blazing, sequins practically within arm’s reach, and enough infectious energy to make even the most dignified theatergoer consider dancing in their seat. But beneath the glitter, sunshine, and gloriously tangled romantic escapades is a remarkably well-crafted piece of musical theater, one that knows exactly when to embrace its silliness and when to let its emotional moments land. From its buoyant choreography to its clever use of ABBA’s timeless catalog, MAMMA MIA! is less interested in restraint than in giving audiences an unapologetically good time. And honestly, theater could use more of that. This is musical theater with its hair down, its dancing shoes on, and a very good reason to sing along. And that feel-good music and dancing vibe is what we're exploring in today's podcast!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the disco music and 90's stagecraft that come together to make MAMMA MIA! the Broadway staple that it is. What songs from this touring production caught their attention? Which made them feel like a dancing queen? Did the set inspire Greek dreams, or did it leave us feeling like Sophie in her nightmare sequence? Listen to this episode to find out!

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Broadway has seen plenty of stories about growing up, but few hit quite as hard as The Outsiders. This musical has a rawness that refuses to stay neatly inside the lines. It’s bruising, beautiful, rebellious, and unexpectedly tender, all at once. Set against the rough-and-tumble world of 1960s Tulsa, The Outsiders follows Ponyboy Curtis and his fellow Greasers as they navigate a world divided by class, loyalty, violence, and the unshakable bonds of friendship. What makes the Broadway production so thrilling is how it transforms S. E. Hinton’s classic story into something intensely theatrical. The stage becomes a battleground, a playground, and a place where teenage dreams collide with harsh reality. We recently spoke with Sutton James Kaylor, who is currently playing Sodapop on Broadway, about what it's like to join a show in its third year and the pressure that comes with telling a story such as this one

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Sutton James Kaylor takes us back to where his love for performing began and how it eventually led him to the bright lights of Broadway. With The Outsiders being his first Broadway show, what was it like to join a production already in motion? Where does he draw from to bring his version of Sodapop alive on stage? Check out this fun interview to find out!

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Forget the glittering castles and predictable fairy tales. Once on This Island finds its magic somewhere far more unexpected: on a tropical island, beneath a sky ruled by temperamental gods, where love can rival the forces of nature and a simple story can become something breathtaking. With its infectious Caribbean-inspired score, vibrant characters, and storytelling that feels almost as if it is being conjured right before the audience’s eyes, the musical invites us into a world where anything feels possible. Yet Once on This Island is more than a beautiful love story set against an idyllic backdrop. At its heart is a tale about hope, sacrifice, social class, fate, and the stubborn human desire to believe that love can change everything. We had the pleasure of chatting with Daniel Valentine, director of Birmingham Village Players' production of Once On This Island, and two cast members, Valencia Morgan and Kodie Allen, who explore what audiences can expect from this musical!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Valentine, Morgan, and Allen discuss what drew them to Once On This Island and how BVP has been working to make this production extra special! With some roles double-cast, has that added an extra challenge to bringing it to life? And what message from this show speaks to them? Find out in this interview!

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In this episode of the BSB Insider Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko can't wait to discuss the story and characters of the most recent North American touring production of MAMMA MIA! There was something special about this production that they've never seen before, so what was it that stood out about this version of MAMMA MIA!? Whose acting knocked their socks off? Tune in to this exciting episode of the BSB Insider podcast to find out!

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There are musicals that entertain you, musicals that move you, and then there’s Come From Away, the rare show that manages to do both while leaving you with an embarrassingly large smile on your face. After one of the darkest days in modern history, a small Newfoundland town opened its doors to thousands of strangers, and what happened next became a story about generosity, friendship, community, and the extraordinary things people can do when they choose to help one another. Onstage, that story comes alive with a thrilling combination of rapid-fire storytelling, infectious music, sharp humor, and an ensemble that seems to transform before your eyes. We had the privilege of talking with two of the cast members from Stagecrafters' production of this musical, Lyndsie Kerr and Jamie Altman, about what audiences can expect from their take on Come From Away!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Kerr and Altman discuss what it's like to step into roles based on real people and the impact that musicals such as this one have on them as actors, and on storytelling in general. Is there an added challenge in bringing a story like this to life on the 25th anniversary of the tragedy? Does Come From Away prove that love and hope can conquer all? Check out this exciting interview to find out!

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What happens when a murder mystery goes spectacularly off the rails? If you’re watching The Play That Goes Wrong, the answer is simple: absolutely everything. With collapsing scenery, misplaced props, questionable detective work, and enough theatrical disasters to make any stage manager reach for a paper bag, this wildly entertaining comedy turns Murphy’s Law into a full-blown art form. At the center of all that glorious mayhem is Brent Bateman, bringing his own brand of comic timing, energy, and theatrical precision to a show where just about anything can, and usually does, go wrong. But beneath the chaos is an extraordinary amount of skill, because making a disaster look this effortless takes a performer who knows exactly how to embrace the madness. We caught up with Bateman to discuss what it's like to be a part of this long-running NYC staple!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Bateman talks about life inside one of theater’s most delightfully dysfunctional productions, the challenges of keeping a straight face, and why sometimes the biggest laughs come from things going completely wrong. What level of precision does it take to get a play that's going incredibly wrong, right? More than you can even begin to imagine, which Bateman breaks down in this exciting interview!

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60 years of providing quality theater to the Metro Detroit area is no easy feat, and Meadow Brook Theatre is celebrating the monumental occasion spectacularly, with an incredible season of shows! On this episode of the BSB Podcast, artistic director for the theater, Travis Walter, joins host Brian Kitson to break down what it means for both the theater itself and the community at large to celebrate 60 years of storytelling! How exactly are they honoring their past while continuing to build something new and fresh for younger audiences? And what shows are coming in the 2026/2027 theater season? Give this podcast a listen to find out!

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What happens when Shakespeare’s most famous heroine decides she’s had quite enough of Romeo? In & Juliet, the answer comes with a killer pop playlist, dazzling choreography, and enough theatrical sparkle to make the Bard himself reach for a pair of sunglasses. Built around the infectious catalog of songwriter Max Martin, & Juliet takes the familiar tragedy of star-crossed lovers and gleefully throws it out the window, along with practically every expectation of what a jukebox musical can be. From its pulsating musical numbers and powerhouse vocals to its inventive staging, vibrant costumes, and choreography that seems determined to never let the audience sit still, the production is a masterclass in turning pop music into theatrical spectacle. And it's the true spectacle of this musical that has us coming together to chat!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, host Brian Kitson is joined by a special guest, Kylie Wieand, to break down the bold, colorful, ridiculously fun that is & Juliet! Blending that classic Shakespearean story with a vibrant pop world isn't an easy task. So does this musical pull it off?

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In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Wickson and Mullaly share what it was about this show that made them want to be a part of Come From Away and what audiences can expect from this production! From the challenges of bringing the show to life to the honor of stepping into a real story like this one, these two stars break it all down!

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, host Brian Kitson is joined by a special guest, Kylie Wieand, who has been waiting not so patiently for her Romeo to arrive! And by Romeo, we mean for this Broadway musical to arrive in Detroit! Our guest has been so excited to see this story where Juliet isn’t waiting around for Romeo to figure things out. What about this show really stood out to these two? Listen in to find out!

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko explore what the music and stagecraft of the North American touring production of Kinky Boots add to the show. While the story itself has an easily digestible message of acceptance for all, how does that message speak visually on stage? From colorful costumes to the kinky boots the show is named after, and the music that carries the show, how does it all work together? Or more importantly, does it all work together? You'll have to give our part 2 discussion of Kinky Boots to see just exactly what we think!

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts RJ Miller-Zelinko and Brian Kitson dive into the story to see what about this musical stands the test of time and what could use a serious upgrade. While the North American touring production of Kinky Boots is largely intact, some liberties have been taken to bring it into the new decade! Overall, does the story still work in the world we currently live in? Which aspects and characters resonated the most with our hosts? Check out this episode to find out!

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts RJ Miller-Zelinko and Brian Kitson are once again joined by fellow theater lover, Emily Brown, to continue their conversation about the North American Touring Production of The Outsiders! With music from Jamestown Revival that captures the vibes of Tulsa, 1967, do these songs work well with the story presented? What did they add to the overall feel of the show? Paired with the stage design and the craft that brings The Outsiders to life, does everything work in unison? Does everything add up to exceeding our great expectations for this Tony Award-winning musical? Find out how our hosts and their guest rank the songs of The Outsiders and which aspects of the stagecraft really stood out to them! Discover their final ranking of the show and if they'd catch The Outsiders the next time it rolls into town! 

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko are joined by fellow theater lover and honoree Box Seat Babe, Emily Brown! While the two hosts might have seen The Outsiders previously, Brown entered the show with a basic knowledge of what to expect from the Tony Award-winning musical! Having read the book in high school, how did the story transfer to the stage? Comparatively, were there any changes our hosts noticed compared to when they saw it on Broadway? Which characters and performances really spoke to our hosts and their guest? And what about the plot really stood out to them, and why was it SodaPop? You'll have to give this exciting episode a listen to find out those answers and more!

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Whether he’s stepping onto the stage or taking on a new creative challenge, Ryan James Monroe brings an infectious energy and an unmistakable enthusiasm to his work. His connection to the legendary 54 Below adds another exciting chapter to his journey, giving him the opportunity to perform in one of New York City’s most celebrated spaces for musical theater and cabaret. It’s a setting where big personalities, incredible talent, and a genuine love of performance come together, and Monroe fits right in. We recently caught up with Ryan James Monroe to discuss his career, his upcoming performance at 54 Below, the joys and challenges of performing, and what he hopes to tackle next. Along the way, he offered plenty of insight, enthusiasm, and a few stories that give us a closer look at the person behind the performer.

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In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Emmy-nominated Christopher Gomez discusses what he hoped to achieve sonically in season 2 of Beef. While it is connected in theme, Beef season two is vastly different from the first outing, with a story that needed its own identity. So where do you begin with a story such as this one? Gomez talks about the collaborative approach that the season began with, and how the use of sound, or should we say silence, plays such an important role in delivering the message at hand. You can feel the love and care that Gomez put into his project throughout this interview, which makes the Emmy nomination even sweeter for the sound editor!

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In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Luke Gibleon from Formosa Group talks about what it's like to bring a show such as Avatar: The Last Airbender to live action and how the animated show serves as the blueprint for much of the work he and his team do. Discover how each element came to have its own distinct sound, and how the journey of individual characters shapes the sonic imprint of those elements. Which scenes or sounds proved the most difficult to develop across both season one and two? Are there moments where the sonic identity changed the visuals or dictated the direction of a scene? All those questions are answered in this exciting interview!

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We here at BSB Insider are beyond excited for the upcoming 2026-2027 Broadway in Detroit series from ATG Detroit! With a season that's promising glitz and glam, there's so much to appreciate about the six incredible shows coming as part of the main season, and even more to love about the bonus shows arriving in the 313! To share in that excitement, we're joined by ATG Detroit's Amber Rasho, who helps break down all the exciting musicals and plays coming to both The Fisher Theatre and The Detroit Opera House! Which shows are you most excited for? Let us know!

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In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Riley Chu talks about her history with Stagecrafters youth theater and what it's like to step off the stage and behind the scenes! What was her vision for The Wizard of Oz, and how did she and the other directors execute that vision? What pieces of the story did they really want to highlight? What stands out about this story to her? Check out this interview to find out!

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In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Ricky Rojas discusses what it's like to continue returning to Moulin Rouge and how his journey with Santiago has changed since its inception. While using the film as a blueprint, Rojas chats about where he pulls inspiration from to bring Santiago to life on stage. What is it about this character that perhaps general audiences don't know? And if Santiago were living in today's world, what does he think would be his anthem? The possibilities are endless when you're talking about a jukebox musical, and everything is on the table when Ricky Rojas is joining us!

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I couldn't imagine making my Broadway debut at any point in my life, but there's something extra special and nerve-wracking to do so while still in high school. However, today's guest has made it look so easy with a professionalism that speaks to her incredible talent. Lillian Tang took East Lansing by storm with her performance from her high school production of Hello Girls, which won her the Sutton Foster Awards and made her a finalist at the 2026 Jimmy Awards. We had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Lillian Tang about what this experience was like and where she wants to go with her love for the arts!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Lillian Tang talks about her personal journey into the arts and what it was like competing in both the Sutton Foster Awards and The Jimmy Awards! With the help of her biggest supporter, her mother, Tang has become quite the triple threat, which helped her secure a win at The Sutton Foster Awards! Tang discusses the SFA process and what it was like to advance to finalist status at The Jimmy's in NYC. What was it like to learn from some of the leading minds on Broadway? How exciting was it to make her Broadway debut? Check out this exciting interview to find out all these answers and more!

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For generations of readers, the Harry Potter series has been a place to escape into a world of magic, unforgettable friendships, and epic battles between good and evil. So when Harry Potter and the Cursed Child arrived, fans eagerly returned to Platform Nine and Three-Quarters, ready for another adventure. And arrived they did, as Cursed Child has continued to entertain audiences on Broadway for eight years, bringing the magic to life in a way you've never quite seen before. While we grew up with the boy who lived, this play shines the spotlight on the next generation of young wizards, as they navigate the world of magic and perhaps the darkest adventure to date! We had the pleasure of speaking to Daniel Fredrick, who plays Ron Weasley, about what audiences can expect when they arrive at the Lyric Theatre in NYC!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Daniel Fredrick talks about what it's been like to be a part of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child over the past two and a half years and how his interpretation of Ron Weasley has changed over that time. It's not every day that an actor gets to sit with a role for an extended period of time, so how has that pushed him with Ron? What themes and stage magic still speak to him? Check out this interview to find out all these answers and more!

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As a critic, I know that sometimes the most difficult part of writing is getting started. That initial hurdle has proven time and time again to be a challenge that can absolutely stop a project in its tracks. However, it's not the only problem we writers encounter when trying to put our words to the page. Writer's block, developing a character, and finding your hero's journey are all things that can derail your writing process before it even begins. However, Abbie Emmons is here to revolutionize the process, both through her YouTube channel and her latest novel, Make Your Story Matter: An Interactive Guide to Unlocking Your Brain's Storytelling Power and Writing a Book Readers Love! In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Abbie Emmons discusses her own journey into writing and how what she discovered about the process pushed her to create Make Your Story Matter! Using psychology as the basis for her guide, Emmons asks writers to look for those universal emotions and truths in which every story can be told. What tricks of the trade does she suggest writers throw out, and which ones does she think they should embrace? And how does her book make the writing process as easy and simple as possible?

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What happens when your biggest competition is also the person who knows you best? In Athena, Gracie Gardner turns the fast-paced world of competitive fencing into something much bigger than a sport. Every lunge, parry, and point becomes part of a battle over friendship, identity, ambition, and the pressure to be the best. At first glance, the play seems to revolve around two talented teenage fencers chasing victory, but beneath the masks and blades lies a story about growing up, navigating complicated relationships, and discovering who you are when winning is no longer enough. Filled with sharp humor, quick dialogue, and moments of surprising vulnerability, Athena keeps audiences engaged from the opening scene to the final bout. It challenges viewers to consider how competition can both strengthen and damage relationships, making it as emotionally compelling as it is entertaining. That is why it needs a strong cast and crew to bring it to life, including director Shelby Seeley, fight director Joe Wright, and cast member Amanda Buchalter!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Seeley, Wright, and Buchalter discuss what it's like to step into the world of Athena and bring it to Theatre Nova's stage! What is it about this story that spoke to each one of them? How has Athena challenged them in their respective roles? And why is this show unlike anything else they've ever worked on? Check out this interview to find out those answers and more!

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Our time at the Paris Opera House is almost over; however, we're not quite ready to leave the story of Christine Daaé and her Angel of Music behind. The love story in The Phantom of the Opera has captured audiences' hearts for decades, but there's so much more to appreciate in this Andrew Lloyd Webber musical than just the story itself! There's a brilliance to the magic happening in this production, as the staging is brilliant and the songs elevate it to a performance, not just a show. So before we say goodbye to this classic Broadway show, join us one more time as we dive into the music and stagecraft of The Phantom of the Opera!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the stunning stagecraft and enchanting music from the North American touring production of The Phantom of the Opera! This is one of the most impressive shows currently on tour, with sets that dazzle just as much as the Broadway production. Which songs were just as amazing as the first time we saw them? And would we see this show again? Check out this podcast episode to find out!

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I'm sure there's a time when we've all felt different or out of place because of something beyond our control. Something we would love to change about ourselves, if only we had the chance, and yet the real healing comes not just from learning to live with that difference, but from embracing it fully. It's this universal message that lies at the heart of Robert Montano's autobiographical one-man play, Small! We had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Robert Montano about the journey he's gone on to bring this show to the stage, and what it's like to share his story in such an intimate way!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Montano discusses where the idea for Small originated from and how the story wouldn't have been possible without the support and encouragement from some very important people in his life. From some kind words from his late father to a story that came to be because of his mother, and even the integral work with people such as Chita Rivera, there are elements and influences that run throughout his work to make it what it is today. Exploring aspects of his adolescence, Small truly explores his time as a horse jockey and how that period of his life had a gigantic impact on the rest of his decisions. This is a story for the underdogs, and Robert Montano isn't afraid to share it!

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The stage is set and the actors in place for another wonderful performance; however, there's something afoot at the Paris Opera House. Strange things have been happening for a while, and at the center of it all is the young Christine Daaé and her Angel of Music!  The mystery of The Phantom of the Opera has entertained audiences for decades and has recently begun to tour North America once again! Recently stopping at the Detroit Opera House as a bonus show to ATG Detroit's Broadway series this past season!

In this episode of the BSB podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko journey to the Paris Opera House to explore the story and characters that inhabit the sacred halls. What secrets might they uncover within the catacombs below? Perhaps a favorite performance or two that wowed them, unlike anything they've ever seen before? Or a storyline that they've never quite resonated with as much as they have this time around? And just which side of the Phantom vs. Raoul debate do our two hosts reside? Those answers and more lie within this exciting (and perhaps haunted) podcast!

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We live in an age of media where those shows we loved growing up are making a comeback in monumental ways. Nostalgia is real, and the desire to return to a world that was vibrant and comfortable is not only desired but absolutely needed. We don't crave a reboot; we want a sequel that brings together those who made the original project so special, much like The Guild film, which is finally in the works from creator Felicia Day! As we approach the 20th anniversary, the cast and creatives behind the series are excited to return to The Guild once again, but they need your help to do so!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, we sat down with Felicia Day to talk about her time with the original The Guild series and what it's like to step back into the world two decades later! Has her relationship with these characters changed since her initial run with them? What are her dreams for this particular project, for both the film itself and what it represents to the fans? Listen to this interview to find out!

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What's theater without a little magic? There's nothing quite like the stage magic that brings the musicals and plays to life each and every day on Broadway. However, in the heart of Times Square, there's another kind of magic happening that you may not even be aware of! No, it's not the magic of the Big Apple (although that is a special kind of magic if I do say so myself), but instead that of Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio at their show, The Broadway Magic Hour! Every weekend, these two magicians are charming audiences with a show full of magic and wonder, and we had the pleasure of chatting with Jim Vines!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko are joined by the one-of-a-kind performer Jim Vines to discuss not only his show in New York City but also his extensive career as a magician. What was the first magic trick that changed his life forever and pushed him to pursue magic as a career? Having produced quite a few shows, as well as winning championships and competing on Penn and Teller's show, what was a career highlight for Vines? The magician also talks about how this current show, The Broadway Magic Hour, came to be. What is his and Mercurio's process for developing a show like this one, and how did they adapt to society's changing times? Find out all those answers and more in this exciting episode of the BSB podcast!

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While many of us may have heard the name Oliver Twist, how many are familiar with his story? Originally published as a serial in the mid-19th century by Charles Dickens, Oliver Twist tells the tale of a young orphan who joins a gang of juvenile pickpockets and ultimately finds his family. It's a dark tale brimming with light that has found life outside the pages of a book, as in the musical Oliver! The stage production debuted in the early 1960's, winning three Tony Awards and eventually spawning a film that earned similar accolades. It's this incredible show and the just-as-impactful story that are coming to the Berman Center of the Performing Arts with Nicely Theatre Group's production of Oliver! We had the pleasure of speaking with two of the cast members, Sara Grice and Kevin Starnes, about what audiences can expect when the curtains come up!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Grice and Starnes talk about their previous relationship with the show material prior to the show and what it's like to be a part of the latest production from Nicely Theatre Group! How does Oliver! differ from some of the other productions they've been a part of? What's their favorite song from the production? And how exactly are they embodying these characters? Give this exciting interview a listen to find out!

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Do you hear that sound coming down the road? Faint at first but gaining volume with each passing moment, as something comes into focus. A parade of red plumes and shiny brass, indicating the approach of a marching band! It must be the North American touring production of The Music Man, coming to a city near you! This classic show recently came to the Fox Theatre in Detroit, MI, with a production that captured what makes this show iconic. However, how do the music and stagecraft hold up against the story of The Music Man? Well, that's just what we're about to explore in this part two discussion of The Music Man!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko explore the soaring ballads and impressive choreography of this touring production! Which of the songs really captured their attention, while others fell flat? What about the stagecraft really captured their hearts, and what made them wish for the show to end? Which of the performers stood out amongst the crowd? And most importantly, why does Brian love a funky horn solo so much? We'll get to the bottom of all these questions and more in this exciting new podcast episode!

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When's the last time you hitched a ride on the Wells Fargo wagon and hightailed it out of the big city for life in a small town? No, we're not talking literally, but more so about when the last time you've seen The Music Man! With the recent Broadway revival a few seasons ago, there's been renewed interest in the show, with a North American touring production kicking off recently! The tale of Harold Hill arrived at The Fox Theatre here in Detroit, MI, recently, and we had the pleasure of reacquainting ourselves with the iconic story of yesteryear!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko are deep-diving into the story and characters of The Music Man, exploring how their relationship with the material has changed over the years! While Brian's real adventure with The Music Man was with the Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster-led Broadway production, RJ has had a much longer history with the show. What do these two remember of their past experiences, and what was it like to see it on a stage here in Detroit? Were there any characters that stood out to them or any stories that resonated differently now that they're both adults? Give this episode a listen to find out!

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Romeo, Romeo, Wherefore Art Thou Romeo? A simple question some might be asking themselves, as we just found the young man from Verona on Broadway with his beautiful Juliet, in the recent revival of Romeo + Juliet. While the story itself is largely intact, as is the language in which it is spoken, there's a new life in this classic William Shakespeare tale of love and woe. Featuring music from Jack Antonoff and directed by Sam Gold, Romeo + Juliet arrived at Circle in the Square Theatre in what might be the wildest reimagination that we've seen so far. So what exactly did you think of the Rachel Zegler and Kit Connor-led Romeo + Juliet?

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the story and characters within this revival of Romeo + Juliet. Having read this play back in high school, did our favorite characters remain the same from our adolescence, or did we find ourselves aligned with others? Is there anything about the story that spoke to us in a different way, almost a decade after it was originally introduced to us? And are Romeo and Juliet just theater kids way before their time? That last one is a given, as the drama is impeccable. Check out this fun episode to discover just what was going on in the latest take on Shakespeare's most well-known love story...we mean tragedy.

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In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko break down all the excitement (and perhaps a bit of disappointment) from the 79th Tony Awards! From the shows that swept their categories to the wins that shocked everyone, there's so much to discuss from this year's Tony Awards! Did your favorite show take home the gold? Which of the shows had devastating losses? Which performances were showstoppers, and which had us scratching our heads? How many arial flips did Pink! do while hosting at Radio City Music Hall? And what's coming next in the world of theater here in Michigan, as well as on Broadway proper? We're sharing what's coming in the 2026-2027 theater season! We have all that and more in the exciting podcast episode!

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There's nothing quite like standing on a theater stage, or at least I would assume so. The bright lights blaze down on you, as a shadowed audience is waiting with bated breath, hanging on your every word. And so you begin your number, giving it everything you got, making those present in the auditorium gasp with every impressive high note you hit, making it look as easy as saying hello. Now imagine doing that as a high schooler, but not just in front of your friends and family during the spring musical, but instead inside a crowded Wharton Center on the eve of the Sutton Foster Awards. Personally, my nerves would be through the roof; however, SFA winner AJ Denomme looked at ease up there on stage.

In this exclusive BSB Interview, we spoke with AJ Denomme about what it was like to participate and win the Sutton Foster Awards, and how his journey in the arts has brought him to this stage on Michigan State University's campus, in East Lansing. Where did that passion for acting and performing begin? How have his parents supported him on this journey? And what's next now that he's headed to New York City for the 2026 Jimmy Awards? Give this interview a listen to find out!

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Nashville: a city where every street corner seems to echo with the promise of a hit song. The Off-Broadway show, Music City, brings the heart and soul of Nashville to St. Luke's Theatre in the heart of NYC. Blending original country music with a story of ambition, love, and resilience, the play (with music) follows a group of aspiring artists as they chase their dreams in one of the world's most competitive music scenes. Beneath the catchy melodies and energetic performances lies a deeper exploration of the sacrifices required for success and the relationships tested along the way. We had the absolute pleasure of talking with two of the cast members from Music City, Stephen Michael Spencer and Casey Shuler!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Stephen Michael Spencer and Casey Shuler discuss what it is about Music City that continuously brings them back. With both actors having been with this production for quite some time, how have they grown with their characters? Has their insight into TJ and 23, respectively, changed over the years? And what is it about their two characters that keeps pulling them towards each other? With a strong message of hope, there's plenty of light in Music City, so find out how that prevails in this exciting interview!

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In an era crowded with crime dramas and police procedurals, Scarpetta distinguishes itself through its unique atmosphere and psychological complexity. Rather than treating forensic science as a collection of laboratory tricks, this Prime Video series presents it as a meticulous search for truth, where every detail has the potential to unlock a mystery. Visually, Scarpetta embraces a dark, polished aesthetic that mirrors the unsettling nature of the cases at its center, but how does the series come together sonically? Sound is so important to every film and series that comes across our screens, but there's something special and essential to this particular Nicole Kidman-led series, so what exactly does it take to bring the soundscape of Kay Scarpetta's world to life? We recently spoke to Bryan Parker from the Formosa Group, who worked extensively on season one to capture the sound of Scarpetta!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Bryan Parker discusses the general idea behind Scarpetta's soundscape and dives into how he and his team captured it for the show. With two distinct times come two vastly different environments, so how exactly do they build those two different worlds? A lot of time and effort go into discovering what Kay Scarpetta's past and present world is, all of which you might not even think about in the moment. Explore how Parker and the rest of his team at Formosa have added these sound elements and more in this exciting interview!

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Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) was an unexpected hit from our most recent trip to New York City. There's just something about the story of Dougal and Robin discovering fundamental truths about themselves because of their adventures together. Two Strangers is deeply moving and unbelievably real in almost every way, giving Broadway the heart that it desperately needs at this time. While the story itself spoke volumes to our hosts, there was also something to be said about the music and stagecraft of Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York).

In this episode of the BSB podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko break down those aspects of Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). With catchy music that gets stuck in your head, is there a certain song that caught their attention? Did having the band on stage add to the overall feel of the show or distract from the world of Robin and Dougal? With a simplistic stage design, how well does Two Strangers transport audiences into this bright and colorful world? And most importantly...will Brian ever get the name of the show right????

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Head Over Heels is one of the most delightfully unconventional musicals to reach Broadway in recent years. Set to the infectious hits of The Go-Go’s, the show transforms a 16th-century pastoral romance into a vibrant, contemporary celebration of love, identity, and self-discovery. What could have been a simple jukebox musical becomes something far more inventive: a witty, fast-paced comedy that embraces absurdity while delivering a surprisingly heartfelt message. What truly distinguishes Head Over Heels is its fearless commitment to inclusivity and joy. A joy that was radiating off of the director of St. Dunstan Theatre's production of Head Over Heels, Jerry Haines, and cast member, Angela VanKempen, when we spoke to them about this musical!   In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Haines and VanKempen discuss what drives them about this product and their excitement about bringing it to life. While VanKempen wasn't too familiar with the musical prior to auditioning, Haines has had a deep love for the project since seeing the original Broadway cast in New York City! From a colorful design to the challenges of performing a show like Head Over Heels in an outdoor Greek theatre, there's nothing off-limits in this exciting interview!  

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When was the last time you revisited a theatrical classic? A story that is timeless and continues to live on long past its time on stage. Since we've begun our journey here at BSB Insider, we've seen quite a few revivals come across the stages of Broadway, but none so striking as the most recent take on the William Shakespeare classic, Romeo + Juliet!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko visit the fair city of Verona once again as we dissect the most recent Broadway revival of Romeo + Juliet! While we broke down the story and the characters in part one, we're now looking at the magic that happened at the Circle in the Square Theatre! From the design of the stage to the use of the entire theater in such a unique way, what about the stagecraft really stood out in this production? Did the addition of some original music from Jack Antonoff add anything magical to the show, or did it distract from the prose of William Shakespeare? And just what is the deal with the large teddy bears that adorned both the stage and the lobby outside? Don't worry, we're here to help figure it out and get to the bottom of all these questions in this exciting podcast episode!

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Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) is a sparkling, sharply observed musical that proves how much emotional weight can be carried by the lightest of premises. What begins as a whimsical mission to transport a wedding cake across Manhattan unfolds into a richly textured exploration of identity, family, and the unexpected connections that shape our lives. Set against the restless energy of New York City, the show pairs quick-witted dialogue with an infectious score that balances contemporary pop influences and genuine emotional depth. While it was the wild card going into our most recent trip to New York City, it quickly became a BSB Broadway favorite that we still haven't been able to shut up about.

In this episode of the BSB podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko break down the story and characters in Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). As this show only has two actors on stage, unless you count the band, how does Two Strangers build emotional depth? What was it about the story that made Brian cry so profusely? And perhaps, most importantly, do the characters actually manage to successfully carry a cake across New York? Found out those answers and more in this episode!

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They Will Kill You is the kind of horror-action film that kicks down the door, splashes blood across the walls, and dares you not to have fun. Director Kirill Sokolov's vision is crystal clear, as audiences follow Asia Reaves, a former convict who takes a housekeeping job in a creepy New York apartment building. However, it isn't long until she discovers that its residents are hiding a deadly secret.  The film thrives on its chaotic energy, blending outrageous violence with sharp humor and a fast-moving plot. And perhaps, most importantly, a certain kind of sound...

We had a chance to sit down with two of the sound geniuses from Formosa Group, who worked on They Will Kill You, Duncan McRae (re-recording mixer) and Jeff Pitts (supervising sound editor)! In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, McRae and Pitts discuss the art of sound design and what it took to bring this particular project to life. Using genres such as anime and 1970s Kung Fu films, these explore how sound not only delivers a narrative but also becomes an integral part of the story. Which scenes and elements proved to be a particularly difficult aspect of They Will Kill You? And just what is it about the film that drew these two in right away? Check out this exciting interview to learn all these answers and more!

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There are friendships, there are wedding parties, and then there are the women of Always a Bridesmaid, a group so committed to their friendship that they seem permanently trapped in a cycle of bouquets, bridesmaid dresses, and wedding cake. This show from Jones Hope Wooten proves that while fashions change, hairstyles evolve, and romantic relationships come and go, true friends will always be there to stand beside you at the altar, whether you like it or not. Always a Bridesmaid recently arrived at Meadow Brook Theatre, and we had the absolute pleasure of chatting with two of the cast members from this show, Milika Cheree and Stephanie Wahl!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Stephanie Wahl and Milika Cheree discuss what it's like to return to Meadow Brook Theater for the closing show of this current season! As a straight show brimming with comedy, these two talk about what it's like switching it up from a musical to being on stage with a stellar cast of women. What has been the best part of being a part of this production? Give this interview a listen to find out!

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If musical theatre is a game of strategy, then Chess is the intermezzo move. It is the rare musical whose score is so dazzling that it has survived productions that often struggled to match its energy. While directors, producers, and dramaturgs have spent decades trying to solve this puzzle, the music itself has never been the problem. From its thunderous opening chords to its soaring power ballads, the score combines pop sophistication with theatrical sweep in a way few musicals have managed before or since. Written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA fame, with lyrics by Tim Rice, Chess sounds as though the arena concert and the Broadway stage had been locked in a room together and somehow emerged as equals. 

In this episode of the BSB Podcasts, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko discuss the music and score, along with the set, of this recent Broadway revival. Staged as a concert in many ways, with the band right there on stage with the actors, how does this most recent staging of Chess work for the show? Which songs were standouts, and what performances fell a little flat? And perhaps most importantly, is Chess a checkmate? There's so much to talk about this Tony-nominated musical, so join us as we finish our conversation about this Broadway show!

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Few musicals have enjoyed a reputation as gloriously complicated as Chess. For decades, it has occupied a peculiar place in Broadway lore: too beloved to be forgotten, too messy to be universally embraced. Its long-awaited Broadway revival finally gives audiences another chance to witness a show that has spent nearly forty years trying to win a match against its own reputation. Set amid the geopolitical tensions of the Cold War, Chess transforms an international chess tournament into a battlefield of egos, ideologies, and romantic entanglements. In lesser hands, a musical about competitive chess might sound about as exciting as watching paint dry on a Soviet apartment block. And yet, there's something special happening eight times a week at the Imperial Theatre. The stage, or chessboard, is set, and this Broadway show is ready to check the king!

In this episode of the BSB Podcast, hosts Brian Kitson and RJ Miller-Zelinko talk about the story and characters of Chess, which is a feat unto itself. With the show being more of a staged musical concert, how does the story translate to this latest revival? When a Queen is stuck between two impossible Kings, who will come out on top? And when it comes to love, does anyone truly win? You'll have to give this episode a listen to find out all those answers and more!

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A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder proves that murder can be surprisingly charming when wrapped in wit, elegance, and a perfectly tailored Edwardian suit. The musical follows Monty Navarro, an ambitious young man who discovers he is ninth in line to a noble title and decides that waiting for fate to do its work is simply inefficient. What follows is a delightfully absurd parade of accidents, disguises, and increasingly creative murders as Monty works his way up the family tree. We had the pleasure of speaking with the fast-talking Monty, or at least the actor behind him, Adam Wager, and fellow cast member, Celeste Blanch, about their time in this Avon Players production!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Wager and Blanch talk about what drew them to A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder at Avon Players! How is this local Michigan playhouse bringing the world of Monty Navarro to life on stage? How has this show challenged these actors, and what is their favorite song from the production? Check out this interview to learn all these answers and more!

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Life seems full of What-ifs, which is something I think about constantly. Not in a way that I'm regretting the decisions I've made up to this moment, but looking more with a fascination of what could have been, if something small had been changed. I know I'm not alone in this, as the idea of what could be is enchanting to think about, since life could look vastly different because of a choice that feels perhaps insignificant at the time. The Last Wide Open, which is making its Michigan premiere at Theatre Nova, explores those possibilities across three different timelines and their impact on the power of love. We spoke with the two cast members from this production, Michael Alan Herman and Josie Herman, about what it's like to bring this show to Theatre Nova!

In this exclusive BSB Insider interview, Michael and Josie Herman discuss what it's like to tell this out-of-time love story, and how being married in real life influences the show unfolding on stage! With those three distinct timelines in The Last Wide Open, how do these two actors approach developing their characters? As a play, how does music factor into the show? And with this show utilizing fourth wall breaking, how does that dynamic impact The Last Wide Open? Find out these answers and more in this exciting interview!

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BSB Insider sat down with writer, director, and performer Cece King to discuss her new original play, Redemption Song, premiering at The Broadwater Second Stage as part of the Hollywood Fringe Festival. Set in rural Kentucky, the play follows Joe Malone, a gifted musician returning home after serving time in prison, as he attempts to reconnect with the family he left behind. Through emotionally driven storytelling and original music, Redemption Song explores addiction, family trauma, forgiveness, and the difficult road toward healing.

In our conversation, Cece King opens up about the inspiration behind the play, the choice to weave original music into the story, and what it means to create character-driven theatre that does not shy away from complicated people or painful truths. With original songs by Matt Pynn and Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Wes Hutchinson, Redemption Song brings together theatre, music, and deeply human storytelling in a way that feels intimate, honest, and timely. Learn more about this incredible show and the multi-talented performer behind it, in this exclusive interview!

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