Episode list

Hosts David Rigano and Mark-Eugene Garcia introduce themselves and discuss their favorite Stephen Sondheim shows. Later they feature an enlightening interview with Rick Pender, the author of "The Stephen Sondheim Encyclopedia," conducted at the Drama Book Shop.

David and Mark-Eugene introduce the latest work of a favorite playwright and friend, Matthew McLachlan. Matthew's newest publication, "Another Collection of One Acts and More Things You May or May Not Enjoy," explores a wide range of tones and topics, from the lighthearted to the profound. The anthology presents candid theater material that delves into issues like toxic masculinity, explores the anxieties of the mind, and humorously tackles themes of love and friendships. Whether evoking tears or laughter, these brief one-acts and monologues capture the things we often hesitate to express but must confront.

David and Mark-Eugene share insights into their musical theatre writing backgrounds and the significance of the theatre family. Later they have an in-store interview with Joe Tracz and Rob Rokicki, creators of "The Lightning Thief The Percy Jackson Musical." The hosts conclude by paying tribute to the recent passing of theatre legends Chita Rivera and Hinton Battle.

Mark-Eugene and David explore the significance of Patrick Dennis and his literary works in shaping the history of Broadway musicals such as "Mame" and "Little Me." Mark leads a captivating interview with Bernie Ardia, who discovered and facilitated the publication of the book "At Sea with Patrick Dennis: My Madcap Mexican Adventure with the Author of Auntie Mame."

Mark-Eugene and David open up about stage fright, anxiety, rejection and possible ways to cope. Meanwhile, guest moderator Patrick Page guides us through the profound insights provided by Elma Linz Kanefield, LCSW. Elma, a distinguished expert in the psychology of the performing artist, shares her rich experiences gleaned from working with countless artists. Through her narrative titled "Hamlet's Mirror," she eloquently chronicles her life's dedication to this field, highlighting invaluable lessons learned from performers across different ages and stages of their careers.

Mark-Eugene and David bring in Paul Rigano to talk about the creation of the opening and closing music of the podcast, and later, Eddie Shapiro introduces a star-studded panel of leading ladies, including Faith Prince, Mary Beth Peil, and Tonya Pinkins, who dish out insights on the challenges and triumphs of working as leading ladies on Broadway. The conversation is so captivating that neither Mark-Eugene nor David wanted to interrupt, resulting in an extended discussion that spans two parts.

The Mystery Guest of the Drama Book Shop is finally unveiled. Eddie Shapiro resumes his engaging discussions with prominent Broadway actresses, extending the conversation to include input from the Drama Book Shop attendees. Later, David and Mark-Eugene delve into their collaborative works, sharing insights and treating listeners to a captivating song from one of their productions- The Holy Cows of Credence, South Dakota.

David and Mark-Eugene continue honoring Women's History Month with an insightful interview featuring Emily Mann and Alexis Greene. Emily Mann shares her journey as a distinguished playwright, director, and artistic director, inspiring our audience with her remarkable achievements.

David and Mark-Eugene delve into a lively discussion about playwright and cherished friend of the store, Bambi Everson. Following that, our guest Moderator Jay Michaels joins Playwright Bambi Everson to explore her illustrious career-a delightful blend of wry wit, sardonic humor, and a hint of darkness. Featuring an excerpt from SINCERELY HELD BELIEFS, this gripping tale unfolds in present-day New York City, offering a poignant blend of heartache and suspense. Centered around three friends-Mandy, Marsha, and Hilary-each coping with the tragic loss of Hilary's daughter, the play delves into the complexities of grief, friendship, and reality. Marsha, a fervent clairvoyant, claims to communicate with the departed child, challenging the group's bonds and perceptions. With a narrative that blurs the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural, SINCERELY HELD BELIEFS captivates audiences, reminiscent of the enigmatic allure of 'The Innocents,' leaving truth tantalizingly elusive. Later, Mark-Eugene and David discuss David's newest performance, The 10th Annual Ides of March Extravaganza.

Broadway composer Joe Iconis visits the shop to perform a few songs and share insights about his career. David and Mark-Eugene also bring in their coworker Aaron Clark Burstein to discuss Joe's work.

Mark-Eugene And David present the second half of our concert/interview with Broadway composer Joe Iconis. He performs a few songs and shares insights into his career. David and Mark-Eugene also welcome their coworker Aaron Clark Burstein to discuss Joe's work. Later on, we dive into Aaron's recent endeavors and get to know him better.

David and Mark-Eugene dive straight into Mark-Eugene's interview with Patti Hartigan, discussing her book August Wilson: A Life. Afterward, they catch up on their lingering excitement from the recent Tony Awards and discuss the recent season.

David and Mark-Eugene take center stage with a special guest: their multi-talented theater artist and colleague, Dylan Glick. Together, they reminisce about their most memorable Tony Awards moments. David then sits down for a captivating interview with Eila Mell, author of The Tony Awards: A Celebration of Excellence in Theatre, and is joined by Heather A. Hitchens, the President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. The trio explores the rich history of the Tonys, highlights favorite moments, discusses unexpected upsets, and looks ahead to the future of Broadway's greatest night. Afterward, we dive into some sizzling hot takes from this past season and uncover a few more intriguing details about Dylan.

David and Mark-Eugene delve into the book My Sister: How One Sibling's Transition Changed Us Both by Selenis Leyva and Marizol Leyva. During the interview, the sisters share their journey, reflecting on the challenges and victories they've faced together. They highlight the harsh realities of violence, abuse, and discrimination endured by transgender individuals, women of color, and particularly trans women of color. The conversation explores the complexity of self-discovery and the struggle to be fully understood and supported, even by those who love you most. It was a moving night and is a powerful story about love, growth, and acceptance.

David and Mark-Eugene sprinkle in some Sondheim puns as they gear up for Part One of their interview with the talented Melissa Errico, joined by pianist Tedd Firth and producer Rob Mathes. It's a blend of interview, concert, and pure entertainment. Afterward, Mark-Eugene shares the scoop on his latest show, Goat Blood, and we build anticipation for Part Two of the interview.

David and Mark-Eugene dive back into their captivating interview-concert with the immensely talented Melissa Errico, accompanied by pianist Tedd Firth and producer Rob Mathes.. Following the performance, David and Mark-Eugene continue their Sondheim deep-dive.

Mark-Eugene and David pass the mic to the incredible playwright and friend Nora Brigid Monahan who interviews the legendary Charles Busch. As the Tony Award-nominated writer behind "The Tale of the Allergist's Wife" and the long-running hit "Vampire Lesbians of Sodom," and a Sundance Festival award winner, Charles Busch has carved a unique place in the entertainment realm as a playwright, LGBT icon, drag actor, director, and cabaret performer. Charles dives into his journey from losing his mother at a young age to becoming an LGBT trailblazer. He shares hilarious and heartfelt stories about his career, including encounters with stars like Joan Rivers, Angela Lansbury, and Rosie O'Donnell. Afterward, David and Mark-Eugene chat about a slew of upcoming events from Drama After Dark- a cabaret featuring staff of the Drama Book Shop, David's multi hyphenated participation in an upcoming theatre festival, Mark's upcoming production of Goat Blood, and the next big events at the Drama Book Shop.

David and Mark-Eugene take a deep dive into the Hispanic Heritage Table at the Drama Book Shop, discussing standout works like Torerra, Canto Contigo, Fade, and Eight Tales of Pedro. Later, David interviews Cynthia Santos DeCure, Micha Espinosa, and a panel of contributing artists to explore Latinx Actor Training. This groundbreaking book features essays and innovative research from prominent Latinx practitioners and scholars in the U.S., offering insights into the history and future of Latino/a/x/e actor training practices and methodologies.

Mark and David return from the holidays, kicking off the year with Stephen Dolginoff and his book Thrill Maker: The Story of My Musical 'Thrill Me' alongside moderator Peter Filichia. Dolginoff's Off-Broadway musical Thrill Me: The Leopold and Loeb Story was hailed as "breathtaking" by The New York Times. His thirty-year journey with the show began in 1994, leading to unexpected twists-from self-produced NYC readings to international openings. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, secrets, and surprises from his incredible creative journey.

Mark-Eugene and David are joined by Academy Award winner Estelle Parsons and Abbie Britton, MA, for an inspiring conversation about Estelle's book Uncharted Territory: Life Lessons from the Theatre. Tune in for unforgettable stories and profound insights from a true legend of the stage.

Mark-Eugene and David celebrate the brilliance of Shaina Taub's As You Like It and Twelfth Night. They welcome an incredible lineup of guests, including Obie Award-winning, Emmy-nominated songwriter, and two-time Tony winner Shaina Taub, alongside Tony-nominated moderator Ato Blankson-Wood. The conversation explores Twelfth Night, a rousing contemporary musical adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy of mistaken identity and self-discovery, as well as As You Like It, a folk-pop, immersive dream-like tale of faithful friends, feuding families, and lovers in disguise. Later, Mark-Eugene and David dive into David's viral moment at Cabaret after his open letter to Adam Lambert.

Mark-Eugene and David explore some of the Drama Bookshop's picks for children and teens while sharing their first encounters with author and actress Mandy Gonzalez. Later, David sits down with Mandy Gonzalez and Brittany J. Thurman to discuss Fearless: The Takeover, the final installment in the Fearless middle-grade series, which follows a young performer and rising influencer whose social media gets hacked.

And Mark-Eugene dive into Torera by Monet Hurst-Mendoza, with David sharing insights into his friendship with the playwright. Later, Monet joins the podcast to discuss her work, accompanied by actors Jacqueline Guillén and Jesse Castellanos, who bring a scene from Torera to life.

Mark-Eugene and David explore INTAR Theatre and its highly anticipated new production, The Irrepressible Magic of the Tropics. Mark-Eugene also shares exciting news about his latest play, Goat Blood. Later, Julián Mesri and Kathleen Capdesuñer join Mark-Eugene for an in-depth conversation about the play's history and its upcoming staging. To wrap up,

David and Mark-Eugene explore the challenges and triumphs of creating art during the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, they are joined by playwright Hayley St. James, who discusses The Affair Plays and their unique approach to blending authentic representation with hyper-theatrical, surreal, and intimate storytelling.

David and Mark-Eugene dive into the beauty of storytelling's messiness, moving beyond simple notions of good vs. bad or right vs. wrong to explore the rich nuances of people and their stories. Later, they welcome playwright Jordan Beswick and actress Amelia Campbell to discuss Our Lady of Perpetual Donuts, a one-woman show inspired by a real person-complete with live excerpts from the piece.

Mark-Eugene and David explore Normal Broken: The Grief Companion for When It's Time to Heal but You're Not Sure You Want To by Kelly Cervantes, delving into its profound perspective on navigating grief. Later, Kelly Cervantes and Broadway's Miguel Cervantes (Hamilton) join the conversation, sharing their personal journey through loss and healing. Together, they guide the audience through an intimate, moving discussion, creating a space for reflection, understanding, and connection.

David and Mark-Eugene discuss the world of publishing and the unique feeling of truly finishing a show. Later, they welcome the brilliant Theresa Rebeck, who shares insights from her extraordinary and diverse writing career, filled with fascinating stories.

David and Mark-Eugene explore the vital role audiences play in theatre, and also bring up some ghost stories from the Drama Book Shop. Later, author Robert Viagas and moderator Jay Michaels join the conversation to discuss Right This Way: A History of the Audience, a fascinating look at how audiences have evolved-from ancient colosseums to the digital age-spanning arts, genres, and eras.

David and Mark-Eugene celebrate the incredible playwright-and their colleague-Nora Brigid Monahan. Later, Monahan and composer Alexander Sage Oyen join moderator Charles Kirsch to discuss DIVA: LIVE FROM HELL. and perform selections from the show. "DIVA: LIVE FROM HELL" tells the story of Desmond Channing, a dethroned high school Drama Club president, as he spirals into insanity and seeks revenge on his teen nemesis, Evan Harris. Set in the Seventh Circle, Hell's most squalid cabaret venue, Desmond must reenact the cursed events and play all the parts as his punishment.

Mark-Eugene and David celebrate women in musical theatre, sharing their favorite writers and their impact. Later, David chats with Jennifer Ashley Tepper-acclaimed theatre historian, producer, and author-about her upcoming book, Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That The History Books Left Out. Tepper, known for her work at 54 Below and productions like Be More Chill, highlights over 300 women who shaped Broadway, from Tin Pan Alley pioneers to today's trailblazers. She shares stories of icons like Betty Comden and Jeanine Tesori, as well as lesser-known but groundbreaking figures.

David and Mark-Eugene dive into their favorite works by playwrights Joshua Harmon and Rajiv Joseph. Later, guest moderator Samantha Tuozzolo (Survival Jobs Podcast) hosts a special behind-the-scenes discussion, presented by Manhattan Theatre Club (MTC) and the Drama Book Shop. Harmon and Joseph share insights into their creative process, their relationship with MTC, and how real-life events shape their storytelling. They also reflect on the excitement of having both of their shows running simultaneously at City Center.