Episodes

4d ago

Edward Albee’s final play to open on Broadway remains one of the most controversial: The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia? In this Deep Dive, Matt and guest Robert W. Schneider unpack its infamous premise and explore why a play so boldly bonkers can be so shockingly rewarding. The two also explore how Albee weaponizes language, social taboos, and why the play’s legacy is still undefined. Robert W. Schneider—director, educator, author, and longtime theater historian—is the perfect sparring partner for this conversation. A deep lover of Albee’s work with firsthand experience teaching and contextualizing The Goat , Rob brings historical perspective, production insight, and a fearless willingness to argue the play’s moral, emotional, and theatrical implications. Broadway Breakdown Links Broadway Breakdown: Discord Channel Broadway Breakdown: Substack Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 06:45 – Plot overview and the play’s infamous reveal 15:30 – Original Broadway production and cultural reaction in 2002 20:00 – Mercedes Ruehl’s performance and the physical toll of Stevie 38:30 – Tony Awards context and critical reception 52:00 – Revivals, casting fantasies, and what it would take to bring it back 1:15:00 – Legacy: is The Goat a masterpiece, a provocation, or both? 1:27:00 – Final thoughts on Albee, tragedy, and modern audiences Key People: Edward Albee (Playwright), Mercedes Ruehl, Bill Pullman, Sally Field, Bill Irwin, Lindsay Duncan, Sarah Paulson, Eddie Redmayne Listener Discussion Questions: Does The Goat still shock modern audiences—or has the culture caught up to it? Is Albee’s language indulgent by design, or does it undermine the play’s momentum? What kind of casting would make a Broadway revival of The Goat viable today? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 11

Our Deep Dive of Great Comet comes to its conclusion. Actor/singer/diva/Great Comet superfan Natalie Walker remains to dig into the show’s electrifying soundscape, its roots in War and Peace , and how Dave Malloy explodes character, form, and musical vocabulary. Matt and Natalie break down what makes Comet such a singular theatrical experience—structurally, emotionally, and spiritually—and why its legacy continues to glow long after the comet’s tail faded from Broadway. Guest introduction Natalie Walker is an actor, singer, and comedic force known for her singular interpretations of musical theater material. She’s been nominated for a Drama Desk and Lucille Lortel Award and recently brought her sold out show Mad Scenes to Joe’s Pub. Her extensive history with Great Comet across multiple productions—including Kazino, A.R.T., and Broadway—brings insight as both a performer and longtime fan makes her the ideal partner for this deep-dive analysis. Broadway Breakdown Links: Broadway Breakdown Discord Broadway Breakdown Substack Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & why Great Comet still matters Why Comet remains one of the most daring Broadway productions of the 2010s. 04:30 – Translating Kazino’s immersive chaos to a proscenium Matt and Natalie break down the production design on Broadway. 11:50 – “Charming” and the weaponization of flattery A textual and musical unpacking of Hélène’s manipulation and why “such a shame to bury pearls in the country” is one of song’s great lines. 34:20 – The Abduction: pacing, spectacle, and the Broadway-length debate Matt’s case for trimming the sequence and why certain Broadway changes improved storytelling. 42:30 – Pierre, Natasha & the power of perceived monstrosity Pierre’s meeting with Natasha and how online behavior mirrors the novel’s themes. 59:00 – Pierre’s emotional repression & the final confession A breakdown of Pierre’s “you should be with the brightest, handsomest, best person” scene and why people who seem emotionally constrained often feel the most. 1:24:45 – Social media, discourse & the collapse of the Broadway run How the “Great Comet discourse” spiraled, why it fed into Malloy’s Octet , and what the show reveals about online culture and human empathy. Key people mentioned Creators * Dave Malloy (composer, lyricist, book), Rachel Chavkin (director), Sam Pinkleton (choreography), Mimi Lien (set design), Paloma Young (costumes), Bradley King (lighting) Original Broadway cast * Josh Groban (Pierre), Denée Benton (Natasha), Lucas Steele (Anatole), Amber Gray (Hélène), Grace McLean (Marya D.), Brittain Ashford (Sonya), Nick Choksi (Doléhov) Other notable performers mentioned * Heath Saunders, Shaina Taub, Kuhu Verma ( Octet ) Resources: * Original Broadway Cast Recording – Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812 * Tolstoy’s War and Peace (Volume 2, Part 5) — source text for the musical * Dave Malloy’s website & notes on Comet * Ars Nova production materials / archival info * A.R.T. production history * Broadway run timeline & Tony Awards overview * Octet (Dave Malloy) – background and cast information Listener discussion questions * Great Comet blends musical genres with character psychology—what musical shift in the show hits you the hardest, and why? * Which version of Great Comet (Kazino, ART, Broadway) do you think best suits the material—and what would your dream version look like? * Pierre and Natasha’s final scene is deceptively simple—what do you think the moment reveals about each of them that the rest of the show doesn’t? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 4

Episode Summary Matt dives into two major musical events: Broadway’s divisive, new bio-musical The Queen of Versailles and its two different leading ladies, as well as the long-awaited revival of Ragtime . He breaks down the productions’ strengths, stumbles, creative choices, and star performances before welcoming Broadway content creator and author Teale Dvornik for a candid conversation about audience culture, the changing ecosystem around modern theater and her new book History Hiding Around Broadway . Timestamps 00:00 – Opening & Episode Setup Matt tees up the week’s reviews and previews what’s ahead. 02:10 – The Queen of Versailles A breakdown of the musical’s glossy aesthetic, technical elements, score, staging, and script; Matt’s take on Kristin Chenoweth’s performance; questions about tone, satire, and emotional center; comparisons to other wealth-focused musicals. 23:00 – Ragtime Initial expectations vs. what the production delivers; performances, orchestrations, pacing, and the challenge of modernizing a massive period musical; where this revival succeeds, where it pulls back, and how it reframes the material for 2025 audiences. 45:00 – Interview: Teale Dvornik A thoughtful, candid conversation about Broadway marketing, social-media influence, community behavior, and how digital audiences impact ticket sales, show reputation, and performer well-being. Teale offers insight from inside the industry — and clears up several misconceptions about influencers, access, and online discourse. Key People Mentioned The Queen of Versailles * Kristin Chenoweth , Sherie Rene Scott, Stephen Schwartz , Lindsey Ferrentino , Michael Arden Ragtime * Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty , Terrence McNally , E.L. Doctorow Interview * Teale Dvornik Resources & Links Broadway Breakdown: Discord Broadway Breakdown: Substack Buy History Hiding Around Broadway Listener Discussion Questions * What do you think would make The Queen of Versailles work? And could time be kinder to it down the line? * How should a modern revival approach a large, politically charged musical like Ragtime ? * Has an individual performance changed your opinion on a show? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 27

Matt Reviews: Wicked: For Good with Andrew Chappelle Matt is joined by Broadway actor and podcast host Andrew Chappelle for a theater-nerdy breakdown of the hotly anticipated Wicked: For Good . Together, they dig into how Part Two stacks up against Part One, what the film gets right (and very right), and where it stumbles on its way down the Yellow Brick Road. From pacing to performances to the Wizard of Oz tie-ins, this episode explores why Wicked remains one of the most passionately debated properties in modern musical theater. Resources & Links Broadway Breakdown Discord Broadway Breakdown Substack Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Oz… Again Matt and Andrew introduce the episode and their shared history with the Wicked universe. 08:45 – Revisiting Part One & the Big Pacing Debate Matt’s qualms with Part One resurface and why movie musicals today struggle with airflow and pacing. Andrew counters with why he loves the “epic fantasy” pacing of the films. 10:40 – Comparing Film vs. Stage Energy Andrew describes seeing Wicked live again and realizing how fast the Broadway version moves — and how intentionally the films do not . 14:20 – No Good Deed Andrew declares No Good Deed the film’s peak — a visceral, intermission-style gut punch. Matt shares his own favorite moments, especially Ariana Grande’s performance. 22:40 – Can Art Be Too Safe? A conversation about modern creative fear, audience reactions, and why art that tries not to offend often loses its punch. 25:20 – The Wizard of Oz Problem (or Feature?) The backlash to Act Two’s deeper Wizard of Oz connections — and why fans remain divided. 56:50 – New Songs: Going for the Oscar Original songs in movie musicals: the pressure, the pitfalls, and why audiences scrutinize additions to iconic scores. Key People Mentioned Film Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum Creative Team: Stephen Schwartz, Winnie Holzman, Jon M. Chu Other Titles Referenced: Chicago , Dreamgirls , Hamilton , The Wizard of Oz , Suffs Listener Discussion Questions Did Wicked: For Good capture the emotional high of the stage version for you — or did the cinematic scope change it? How do you feel about the additional Wizard of Oz tie-ins? Did they enhance the story or distract from it? What makes a movie musical adaptation succeed — pacing, performance, fidelity to the stage show, or something else entirely? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 25

Episode Summary In this bonus review episode, Matt tackles four very different productions— Oedipus , The Baker’s Wife , Prince F*ggot , and Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York . From classics, revivals, new works, and small downtown gems, he breaks down what sings, what stumbles, and what you might want to spend your money (or not spend your money) on this season. He also addresses audience questions about ticket pricing, press seats, and the realities of covering an entire Broadway season as a critic and podcaster. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Season Updates Live-show successes, upcoming cabaret dates for Broadway Breakdown , and how bonus review episodes will fit into the schedule. 02:30 – On Ticket Pricing, Press Seats & “Cringe” Feedback Matt clarifies misconceptions about requesting press tickets and discusses the financial/logistical realities of reviewing an entire season. 10:20 – Oedipus Overview of the production, standout performances, and early-season Tony nomination predictions—particularly in featured actor/actress categories. 18:10 – The Baker’s Wife A full dive into the show’s infamously chaotic production history, the new Classic Stage Company staging, Schwartz’s revisions over the years, and performances that make (or don’t make) the revival sing. 33:00 – Prince Faggot A nuanced review of the play’s thematic ambition, its monologue structure, moments that soar, moments that miss, and why the final monologue feels disconnected from the whole. Plus praise for the cast and a shout-out to excellent house staff. 45:55 – Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York A discussion of structure, pace, tone, and how well (or not) the piece handles its ideas about connection and modern loneliness. (Transcript references structural critique connected to this section.) Key People Mentioned * Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, Robert Icke - Stars and Director/Adapter of Oedipus * Stephen Schwartz – composer/lyricist of The Baker’s Wife * Carol Demas, Patti LuPone, Paul Sorvino – original Baker’s Wife figures in the show’s rocky history * Ariana DeBose, Scott Bakula, Nathan Lee Graham, Judy Kuhn - members of the CSC production of The Baker’s Wife * David Greenspan – praised in Prince F*ggot * Kuhnsie – featured Diva of the Week, singing “Meadowlark” * Sam Tutty, Christiana Pitts - Stars of Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York Resources & Links * Telecharge – tickets for shows mentioned: https://www.telecharge.com/ * Broadway Breakdown Discord * Broadway Breakdown Substack Listener Discussion Questions * Which of the four shows reviewed would you prioritize seeing, and why? * How do you balance ticket prices with the desire to keep up with a Broadway season—what makes a show “worth it” to you? * For revivals like The Baker’s Wife , do you prefer faithfulness to the original vision or bold reinvention? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 20

Matt and guest Natalie Walker ( The Big Gay Jamboree, Last Bimbo of the Apocalypse ) blast off into the glittering, vodka-drenched universe of Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 —Dave Malloy and Rachel Chavkin’s electro-pop opera spun from a 70-page slice of War and Peace . Together they trace the show’s evolution from Ars Nova experiment to Broadway spectacle, unpack why the score still fries their nervous systems (in the best way), and revisit the tent-era intimacy that made audiences feel complicit, overwhelmed, and fully alive. Guest introduction Natalie Walker —actor, comedian, vocalist, and longtime Great Comet superfan—joins the Deep Dive with the passion of someone who quite literally rushed the show “a million times.” Known for her sharp wit, impeccable musical instincts, and encyclopedic knowledge of chaotic theatrical women, she’s the ideal guide for unpacking the show’s origins, its cult-devoted audience, and its singular place in the Broadway ecosystem. Timestamps 00:00 – 04:00 Cold open chaos; setting the stage in Moscow, 1812. 06:00 – 12:00 Natalie’s fan origin story ie when she realized New Musical Theatre Can Still Be Good™ . 10:00 – 14:00 Matt’s first Comet experience, hype culture, and Phillipa Soo’s star-making performance. 13:45 – 24:00 Origins at Ars Nova/Off-Broadway 30:00 – 33:30 Natasha’s arc and teenage intensity. 31:30 – 33:30 War & Peace 101 48:00 – 52:00 Scaling the show up: What was gained, what was lost. 56:00 – 1:01:30 The complexities of Pierre’s backstory, depression, inherited wealth, and moral arc; why the finale belongs to him. 1:10:30 – 1:15:30 Egg shakers, Chavkin’s visual metaphors, and Natasha’s unraveling. 1:22:40 – 1:25:20 Casting possibilities: why Comet works best with unpredictable talents. Key people mentioned Creators * Dave Malloy — book, music, lyrics; original Pierre * Rachel Chavkin, director; Or Matias, music director; Bradley King, lighting designer (“King indeed”); Mimi Lien, scenic designer; Paloma Young, costume designer * Original/Notable Cast: Phillipa Soo, Dave Malloy, Amber Grey, Grace McLean, Lucas Steele, Nicholas Belton, Gelsey Bell, Josh Groban, Denée Benton, Scott Stangland, David Abeles, Shaina Taub Resources & Links * Rachel Chavkin & Dave Malloy: Interview at The Strand * NY Times reviews ( Ars Nova , Kazino , Broadway ) * Great Comet Wikipedia page * “ What Is The Great Comet ? ” * “ How Great Comet Burned Out ” Listener discussion questions * Do you prefer the show intimate or epic? Why? * Which qualities define Natasha or Pierre for you? * How does Great Comet ’s musical style deepen its small slice of War and Peace ? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 13

Matt returns with a packed roundup of New York’s latest plays and musicals — from existential despair to gay country catharsis. In this marathon of opinions, he weighs in on everything from Keanu Reeves’ Beckett turn to Matt Rodin’s star power and whether Bat Boy might finally fly again. Resources & Links Broadway Breakdown, A Cabaret Now: Tix Broadway Breakdown: Discord Broadway Breakdown: Substack 🎟️ Telecharge – Broadway Tickets Timestamps 00:00 – Intro and theater-season chaos check-in 03:30 – Punch 17:00 – Beau 35:00 – Waiting for Godot 51:00 – Seat of Our Pants 1:08:00 – ART 1:25:00 – Little Bear Ridge Road 1:43:00 – Bat Boy Key People Mentioned * Punch: James Graham (playwright), Victoria Clark, Sam Robards, Will Harrison * Beau: Matt Rodin, Jeb Brown, Douglas Lyons (writer), Josh Rhodes (director) * Waiting for Godot: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, Brandon J. Dirden, Michael Patrick Thornton, Jamie Lloyd (director) * Seat of Our Pants: Ethan Lipton (writer), Leigh Silverman (director), Micaela Diamond, Ruthie Ann Miles, Shuler Hensley, Damon Daunno * ART: Yasmina Reza (playwright), Scott Ellis (director), Bobby Cannavale, Neil Patrick Harris, James Corden * Little Bear Ridge Road: Laurie Metcalf, Micah Stock, John Drea, Joe Mantello (director), Samuel D. Harris (playwright) * Bat Boy: Lawrence O’Keefe (composer), Keythe Farley & Brian Flemming (book/lyrics), Kerry Butler, Taylor Trensch Listener Discussion Questions * Did listening give you incentive to see any of these shows? * Is it better to have a mess of a show with some great highs or a show that’s consistently fine? * Should Bat Boy finally make the leap to Broadway, or stay a cult favorite? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 6

Cinema in the Cell Block In this episode, Matt and returning Pod Mother Ali Gordon dive into the latest movie musical: Kiss of the Spider Woman . Adapted from the Tony-winning musical, Spiderwoman follows homosexual window dresser, Molina, and revolutionary Valentin. The two are cellmates in an Argentinian prison at the height of the country’s military controlled government. The two bond as Molina recites his favorite movie musical starring his favorite actress, La Luna, to help distract the two from the perils of their everyday lives. Matt and Ali untangle the stage show’s campy contradictions, while also highlighting what makes it so magnetic. The two also discuss the story’s origins as a novel and the Oscar-winning 1980’s film that preceded even the stage musical. And what exactly happens to a story about repression when it gets the glossy movie-musical treatment? Ali Gordon, writer, comedian, and longtime Broadway Breakdown favorite, joins to celebrate her debut novel We Have Reached the End of Our Show and to unpack a show she adores, flaws and all. A theater obsessive with razor-sharp insight (and the patience to debate Bill Condon), Ali brings her trademark mix of heart, humor, and “I know this is messy but I love it anyway” energy to the conversation. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 02:30 – Kiss of the Spider Woman : Ali Gordon’s “favorite wreck” 08:00 – From novel to stage: Manuel Puig’s wild narrative form 11:00 – Queerness and censorship in the musical’s early years 18:00 – The 1985 film vs. the 1993 musical: tone, transness, and tension 23:00 – Valentin and Molina: machismo, fantasy, and the politics of sex 27:00 – Bill Condon’s movie musical: ambition or adaptation confusion? 31:00 – Chicago, Dreamgirls, and the “Godfather of the Movie Musical” myth 45:00 – Gimme Love and the problem with pretty choreography 56:00 – The legacy of Chita Rivera’s Aurora and “Where You Are” 1:00:00 – How Spider Woman fits into the lineage of queer musical theater 1:30:00 – Ali plugs her novel (and her huge thesaurus) Key People Mentioned Creators: Manuel Puig (novel), John Kander & Fred Ebb (music & lyrics), Terrence McNally (book) Original Cast: Chita Rivera, Brent Carver, Anthony Crivello Film Team: William Hurt, Raúl Juliá, Bill Condon (director), Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna, Tonatiuh Elizarraraz Related Mentions: Rob Marshall, Tony Kushner Broadway Breakdown Links Broadway Breakdown Discord Broadway Breakdown, A Cabaret Now: Tix We Have Reached the End of Our Show by Ali Gordon — bookshop.org Kiss of the Spider Woman (1993 Broadway Cast Recording) Kiss of the Spider Woman (1985 film) Broadway Breakdown Substack Listener Discussion Questions What do you think are the rules a movie musical needs to adhere to in order to “work”? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 30

Deep Dive: HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (Part 2) The Gospel of Glam Rock In Part 2 of this Deep Dive, Matt continues to unpack the gender-bending punk musical confessional that is Hedwig and the Angry Inch . Continuing the journey with Matt is writer and composer Preston Max Allen ( We Are the Tigers , Caroline ). Broadway Breakdown Links: Broadway Breakdown: Substack Broadway Breakdown: Discord Community “Broadway Breakdown, A Cabaret Now”: Tix Preston Max Allen’s Caroline at MCC Theater: Tix Timestamps 7:20 – Origins : John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask’s downtown beginnings, from Squeezebox to Jane Street 14:50 – Defining “genderpunk” : queerness, camp, and creation from trauma 30:45 – The music of Hedwig : glam rock, Bowie, and heartbreak 44:25 – “Origin of Love” : the myth that made a musical 51:00 – The film (2001) : cult hit, critical darling, and indie landmark 59:20 – Broadway revival (2014) : Neil Patrick Harris, Lena Hall, and the mainstreaming of queer theater 1:08:10 – The gender debate : casting controversies and the show’s evolving identity politics 1:16:45 – Hedwig’s legacy : postmodern mythmaking and queer catharsis 1:23:00 – Closing thoughts : what Hedwig still teaches us about self-invention Key People Mentioned Creators : John Cameron Mitchell (creator, original Hedwig), Stephen Trask (music & lyrics) Original cast & creative team : Miriam Shor (Yitzhak), Peter Askin (director), Mike Potter (wig & makeup design) Film (2001) : John Cameron Mitchell (writer/director/star), Andrea Martin, Michael Pitt Broadway revival (2014) : Neil Patrick Harris, Lena Hall, Michael C. Hall, Darren Criss, Taye Diggs Listener Discussion Questions - When is Hedwig performing and when is she confessing? Are the two interchangeable? - How does the character of Hedwig’s identity resonate in the broader conversation around gender today? - Would you say that Hedwig found love with Tommy? Is Yitzhak’s care for Hedwig requited? And how can love influence even the smartest of us to make unhealthy choices? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 23

HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH (Part 1): Gender, Glam, and the Birth of a Cult Classic Broadway Breakdown kicks off its latest deep dive with Hedwig and the Angry Inch —the downtown rock musical that redefined what Broadway could be. Host Matt Koplik and guest Preston Max Allen unpack how John Cameron Mitchell and Stephen Trask’s creation blurred the lines between concert, confession, and theater, tracing its journey from gritty queer clubs to Tony-winning phenomenon. Together, they explore why Hedwig still resonates as a story of gender, artistry, and transformation. Guest Introduction Preston Max Allen is a writer and composer whose work includes the musical We Are the Tigers and the new play Caroline (MCC Theater). Their sharp insight into queer storytelling and character-driven songwriting makes them the perfect guest to dissect Hedwig —a show that’s as emotionally raw as it is musically electric. Broadway Breakdown Links: Broadway Breakdown Substack Broadway Breakdown Discord Broadway Breakdown (A Cabaret, Now): Tix Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and why Hedwig still matters03:30 – The East Village scene and queer club origins 07:45 – Building Hedwig’s persona: camp, pain, and performance 12:00 – Stephen Trask’s music and the sound of identity 18:00 – Off-Broadway breakthrough at the Jane Street Theatre 28:30 – Rock opera vs. traditional musical theater 39:00 – Hedwig ’s influence on shows like Rent , Spring Awakening , and Six 44:15 – The film adaptation: intimacy through the lens 48:00 – Teasing Part 2: Broadway, Neil Patrick Harris, and beyond Key People Mentioned Creators: John Cameron Mitchell (book, original Hedwig), Stephen Trask (music & lyrics) Original Cast: John Cameron Mitchell, Miriam Shor (Yitzhak) Broadway Cast: Neil Patrick Harris, Lena Hall, Michael C. Hall, Darren Criss, Taye Diggs Resources & Links 🎥 Whether You Like It or Not: The Story of Hedwig (Documentary) 🎭 Off-Broadway Production (Jane Street Theatre) 🎤 Broadway Production – John Cameron Mitchell 🎤 Broadway Production – Neil Patrick Harris 📘 Hedwig Wikipedia Page 📰 Criterion Collection Essay: “She Sings the Body Electric” 🗞️ Rolling Stone Oral History: “Gender Bender: The Story of Hedwig” 🗞️ New York Times 1998 Review (Off-Broadway) 🗞️ New York Times 2014 Review (Broadway Revival) 🎬 New York Times 2001 Film Review Listener Discussion Questions How does Hedwig challenge traditional ideas of gender, identity, and storytelling in musical theater? What makes Hedwig timeless, even as queer narratives evolve? Which version of Hedwig —downtown club, Broadway revival, or film—feels most authentic to you? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 16

This episode dives into the unlikely rise of The Drowsy Chaperone —a show that started as a wedding gag and became one of Broadway’s most beloved meta-musicals. Matt traces its origins, Tony-winning triumph, and enduring legacy, before sitting down with writer and cultural commentator Eli Rallo to unpack why this fizzy 1920s spoof still resonates (and where it might stumble with modern audiences). Eli Rallo is a writer, podcast host, and social media force whose sharp wit and cultural savvy have made her a leading voice on how we consume art, media, and nostalgia. With her background in theater and her talent for cutting through the noise of internet discourse, Eli brings fresh perspective to what makes Drowsy both a love letter to musical comedy and a sly critique of it. Important Links * Broadway Breakdown Substack – extended essays, reviews, and extras * Discord community – join the Breakdown conversation * Tickets : Broadway Breakdown Cabaret – Nov 14 at Green Room 42 * Eli Rallo’s book Does Anyone Else Feel This Wa y? Timestamps * 0:00 – Intro & listener shoutouts * 6:15 – Origins : how a goofy wedding present became a full musical * 12:30 – Toronto Fringe to Broadway : David Mirvish’s backing, the expanded book, and early buzz 18:50 – Broadway production : Sutton Foster, Beth Leavel, Danny Burstein, and Bob Martin step into the spotlight * 33:22 – Conversation with Eli Rallo begins * 35:00 – Why Drowsy feels so post-9/11 : silliness as healing, optimism as defiance * 44:00 – Cracks in nostalgia : racism, sexism, and the show’s deliberate discomfort * 1:06:00 – Man in Chair & fandom : the ultimate “theater kid” surrogate and the perils of loving flawed art * 1:12:00 – Today’s Broadway climate : Eli and Matt on rushed shows, weaker new musicals, and audience expectations * 1:22:00 – Closing thoughts & legacy : how Drowsy crystallizes the love/hate paradox of musical theater Key People Mentioned * Creative team : Bob Martin & Don McKellar (book), Lisa Lambert & Greg Morrison (music & lyrics), Casey Nicholaw (director/choreographer) * Original Broadway cast : Sutton Foster (Janet Van de Graaff), Beth Leavel (The Drowsy Chaperone), Danny Burstein (Aldolpho), Bob Martin (Man in Chair) * Notable names & revivals : Elaine Paige (West End), Jeffrey Rush (Australia), Ariana Grande (film rumor) * Critics & figures : Ben Brantley, David Mirvish Listener Discussion Questions * The Drowsy Chaperone is both a satire and a love letter—do you think audiences today can embrace its mix of nostalgia and critique? * Which performance stands out most to you from the original cast—Sutton Foster, Beth Leavel, Danny Burstein, or Bob Martin—and why? Would a Broadway revival of Drowsy thrive in today’s climate, or would the discourse swallow it whole? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 9

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? – Broadway’s Darkest Comedy of Marriage Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? isn’t just a play — it’s a three-act battlefield where truth, illusion, and liquor collide. In this episode, host Matt Koplik and returning guest Kevin Zak ( Ginger Twinsies ) unpack the razor-sharp brilliance of Albee’s 1962 masterpiece, from its iconic opening line (“What a dump!”) to its Pulitzer Prize controversy, unforgettable revivals, and enduring queer resonance. ​​ Guest: Kevin Zak Kevin Zak is an actor, writer, and director currently represented Off-Broadway with his camp send-up Ginger Twinsies , a twisted love letter to The Parent Trap . A Lucille Lortel Award nominee, Kevin brings a mix of pop-culture fluency, theatrical insight, and unapologetic humor that makes him the perfect co-pilot for dissecting Albee’s darkly comic masterpiece. Broadway Breakdown Links: Broadway Breakdown Discord Broadway Breakdown Substack Broadway Breakdown (A Cabaret, Now): Tix Timestamps 0:00 – Intro and Kevin Zak returns 2:00 – First encounters with Virginia Woolf (Elizabeth Taylor, “What a dump”) 10:00 – Plot breakdown and themes: truth, illusion, and emotional warfare 17:00 – Queer subtext, Albee’s glass closet, and The Boys in the Band 24:00 – Dream casting: Laurie Metcalf, Catherine O’Hara, Betty White? 32:00 – The “games” as comedy rooted in pain 40:00 – Honey’s secret backstory and why Albee cut it 52:00 – Why the play feels timeless (and why it should always be running) 1:00:00 – Comedy actors breaking our hearts: from Elaine May to Melissa McCarthy 1:03:00 – Legacy: Pulitzer drama, the 1966 film, and the Hays Code 1:06:00 – Virginia Woolf’s Legacy Key People Mentioned Playwright : Edward Albee Original Broadway Cast : Uta Hagen, Arthur Hill, George Grizzard, Melinda Dillon Notable Revivals : Kathleen Turner & Bill Irwin (2005), Tracy Letts & Amy Morton (2012), Laurie Metcalf & Rupert Everett (2020, cut short by COVID) Film Adaptation (1966) : Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, George Segal, Sandy Dennis Other Names Dropped : Elaine Stritch, Imelda Staunton, Carrie Coon, Catherine O’Hara, Betty White Resources & Links Wikipedia: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Play) Wikipedia: Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (Film) Original Broadway Cast Recording (Act I) Original Broadway Cast Recording (Act II) Original Broadway Cast Recording (Act III) 1966 Film – Full on YouTube NY Times 1962 Review Pulitzer Controversy Coverage The Politics of Virginia Woolf – Steppenwolf Listener Discussion Questions Do you see George and Martha as tragic lovers, villains, or both? What performance of Virginia Woolf has left the biggest impression on you? If you could dream-cast a new Broadway revival, who would play George and Martha? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 2

Dreamgirls, Part 2: Revivals, the Film, and the Divas Who Define It Broadway Breakdown Links: Broadway Breakdown Substack Broadway Breakdown Discord A Cabaret Now: Tix Broadway Breakdown continues its deep dive into Dreamgirls , the musical that reshaped Broadway with its relentless staging, powerhouse vocals, and thinly veiled Motown parallels. In this second installment, host Matt Koplik and returning guest Jason Veasey dig into the show’s complicated afterlife: the Tony Award revival confusion of 1987, the iconic (and inconsistent) 2006 film adaptation, why Broadway hasn’t dared mount a full revival since, and the deeper legacy of Effie, Deena, and Lorrell beyond diva worship. Guest Introduction Jason Veasey (@veaseyville) is an actor, singer, and thoughtful theater observer whose stage experience and love of Broadway history make him the perfect partner in unpacking Dreamgirls —from its racial politics to its impossible vocal demands to its cultural staying power. Timestamps 00:00 – Cadillac Car, crossover politics, and race onstage 06:30 – Jennifer Holliday’s Effie and the impossible standard for Black women on Broadway 13:00 – The 1987–88 revival confusion and Tony Awards history 18:30 – Why Dreamgirls hasn’t returned to Broadway 20:30 – The West End production and the shadow of Michael Bennett’s staging 23:00 – Film musicals: Chicago vs. Dreamgirls , and what went wrong on screen 35:00 – “Listen” and the challenges of Act Two 46:00 – Michelle: the forgotten Dream, or feminist hero in disguise? 52:00 – Effie’s journey in Act Two and why casting is crucial 57:00 – Jennifer Hudson’s Oscar, Effie as an “award-bait” role, and the legacy of diva archetypes Key People Mentioned Creators : Tom Eyen (book/lyrics), Henry Krieger (music), Michael Bennett (director/choreographer) Original Cast : Jennifer Holliday (Effie), Sheryl Lee Ralph (Deena), Loretta Devine (Lorrell), Ben Harney (Curtis), Cleavant Derricks (Jimmy), Obba Babatundé (C.C.) Later Stars & Film : Lillias White, Audra McDonald, Heather Headley, Kerry Butler, Anika Noni Rose, Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson Directors/Choreographers : Michael Bennett, Casey Nicholaw, Rob Marshall ( Chicago movie), Bill Condon ( Dreamgirls movie) Listener Discussion Questions With a new Broadway revival of Dreamgirls just announced, do you think this one will finally make it—or will it go the way of past “almosts”? Do you see Effie’s Act One or Deena’s Act Two as the true emotional center of the show? What works better for you: the relentless theatricality of Bennett’s staging or the glossy Hollywood adaptation? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 25

Dreamgirls: Broadway’s Motown Epic and the Tony Race of 1982 In this two-part deep dive, host Matt Koplik and guest Jason Veasey (Broadway’s A Strange Loop , Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building ) revisit Dreamgirls , the groundbreaking 1981 musical that blended Motown-inspired storytelling with Michael Bennett’s cinematic staging. Part One explores the show’s tumultuous development, its powerhouse original cast, and the infamous Tony Awards face-off with Nine . Broadway Breakdown Links to Join: Broadway Broadway Discord: Here Broadway Breakdown Substack: Here Tickets to Broadway Breakdown: A Cabaret Now Here Guest: Jason Veasey Jason Veasey (@veaseyville) is a Broadway and television actor best known for originating roles in the Pulitzer Prize-winning A Strange Loop . His screen credits include Only Murders in the Building and the upcoming series Best Medicine . With deep roots in musical theater history and lived experience as a Black performer navigating Broadway, Jason brings sharp insight and heartfelt perspective to this Dreamgirls deep dive Timestamps 00:01 – Welcome 02:14 – A brisk plot rundown: Effie, Deena, Lorrell, and Curtis Taylor Jr. 05:12 – Jason’s first encounters with Dreamgirls in Black cultural memory 12:16 – The Actor’s Fund concert: Audra, Lillias, Heather, and the power of divas 16:22 – Michael Bennett’s original staging: spectacle, storytelling, and critical pushback 27:41 – Early development: Nell Carter, Loretta Devine, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and endless workshops 43:36 – The 1982 Tony Awards: Dreamgirls vs. Nine , Bennett vs. Tune 53:17 – The politics of race, spectacle, and creative control on Broadway Key People Mentioned Creators : Michael Bennett (director/choreographer), Tom Eyen (book/lyrics), Henry Krieger (music) Original Cast : Jennifer Holliday, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Loretta Devine, Cleavant Derricks, Ben Harney, Obba Babatundé Notable Later Performers : Audra McDonald, Heather Headley, Lillias White, Beyoncé, Anika Noni Rose, Jennifer Hudson Industry Figures: Joseph Papp, Bob Avian, Mark Shaiman, Frank Rich Resources & Links 1982 Tony Awards Performance – Jennifer Holliday 2001 Actor’s Fund Concert Album “The Story of Dreamgirls” Documentary Vanity Fair: Dreamgirls, Nine, and the Greatest Face-Off in Tony Award History Frank Rich’s Original NYT Review (1981) Sheryl Lee Ralph Interview Clip Listener Discussion Questions What do you think makes Dreamgirls resonate across generations—even for people who never saw it on stage? How do you feel about Michael Bennett’s use of spectacle: brilliant storytelling or overcompensation? Which Dreamgirls performance (on stage, in concert, or on film) stands out most to you, and why? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 18

Broadway Breakdown Announcements, Heathers Off-Broadway Return + Ron Fassler on Broadway’s Juiciest Replacement Stories This episode kicks off a new season of Broadway Breakdown with some big announcements, followed by a double feature: Matt’s in-depth review of the Heathers revival at New World Stages, followed by a conversation with actor, writer, and historian Ron Fassler about his new book The Show Goes On: Broadway, Hirings, Firings, and Replacements . From high school cliques and camp satire to Broadway’s backstage legends, it’s a jam-packed return. Ron Fassler is a longtime Broadway insider whose fifty years of theatergoing have made him a walking encyclopedia of stage history. An actor turned author, he’s written extensively about the greats (and near-misses) of Broadway past. His latest book dives into the wild, heartbreaking, and often hilarious realities of replacement casting, making him the perfect guest to unpack the lore of Broadway survival stories. Resources & Links Broadway Breakdown Substack – essays, reviews, and extras from the pod Discord community – join the conversation with other BreakdownersTickets to Broadway Breakdown Cabaret – Nov 14 at Green Room 42 Ron Fassler’s The Show Goes On (available directly from the author, not Amazon) Timestamps 0:00 – Announcements & Updates19:04 – Heathers Review54:20 – Ron Fassler Interview Key People Mentioned Heathers creative team : Laurence O’Keefe & Kevin Murphy (music & lyrics), Andy Fickman (director) Original film cast : Winona Ryder, Christian Slater Heathers Off-Broadway revival cast : McKenzie Kurtz, Elizabeth Teeter, Erin Morton, Casey Likes, Lorna Courtney Ron Fassler’s book subjects : Beanie Feldstein, Lea Michele, Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, Henry Goodman, Richard Dreyfuss, Hugh Jackman, Patti LuPone, Glenn Close, Liza Minnelli, Richard Burton, Anne Miller, Robert Goulet, Cliff Gorman Listener Discussion Questions "Do you think Heathers works better as a biting teen satire film or as a campy, optimistic musical?" "What’s the most surprising or memorable replacement casting you’ve ever seen (or wish you had)?" "For theater adaptations: should musicals lean into optimism, or stay true to a darker original source?" This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 15

Broadway Breakdown is back to cut through the surface-level theater chit chat with a new season and some podcast updates! Each week brings something new—reviews of the latest shows, sharp Tony Award predictions, or deep dives into the musicals and plays that shaped Broadway history. This season features explorations of Dreamgirls, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, and more—complete with behind-the-scenes drama, cultural context, and plenty of diva energy. Subscribe and join Matt every week as he and his guests celebrate, question, and occasionally roast the art form they love most. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 10

"Behold, the hills of tomorrow..." Get a taste of what's to come with this pilot episode of a new series "I Was There" talking with Broadway artists with long and rich careers, telling us their stories. First up! Conductor/Music Director/Supervisor David Loud! David has worked on such incredible productions as She Loves Me (1993), Ragtime, Master Class as well as having been in the original production of Merrily We Roll Along!! Incredible! Order David Loud's book "Facing the Music" here! https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Facing-the-Music/David-Loud/9781682451915 Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/Wf8fguRH Join the Broadway Breakdown Substack Here! https://bwaybreakdown.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 3

SURPRISE! Bonus ep! Matt talks with David Hovey about the work happening at Covenant House, as well as the starry event on August 10th Sleep Out: Stage and Screen event. Learn more about Covenant House Here! https://www.covenanthouse.org/ Donate to Matt's Fundraising Page Here! https://www.sleepout.org/participants/61110 Learn more about Sleep Out: Stage and Screen Here! https://www.sleepout.org/pages/2509?eventID=1152 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 17

"Blue..." The 2025-2026 Broadway season kicks off with icon Jean Smart's one woman show CALL ME IZZY. Plus a production of MACHINAL, which launches the first season of the brand new New York Theatre Company. What did Matt think? Well...take a listen... Join the Broadway Breakdown Substack here! https://bwaybreakdown.substack.com/ Or the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/EhRe3dVr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 12

"And what did YOU think of that performance...?" The 2024-2025 Broadway season has come to a close and with it, the Tony Awards. Daddy of the pod Robert W. Schneider returns to Breakdown to discuss with Matt the highs of the ceremony, debate some winners, and some tea Matt got from the Maybe Happy Ending after party! KICK IT! Wanna join the Broadway Breakdown Substack? The Discord? Links below! https://bwaybreakdown.substack.com/ https://discord.gg/EhRe3dVr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 5

"What I expect...what I want...and what I dream..." The 2025 Tony Awards are ALMOST HERE! This means it's time for a final, FINAL prediction episode with Awards Expert Sam Eckmann (GoldDerby). Unfortunately this has been a chaotic race and thus, Matt and Sam find themselves talking in circles convincing each other of what might happen and what they want to happen. It's fun. It's mess. It's Broadway. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/RDs2Bz47 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 29

"Ever hear about...?" Matt goes through the last couple of decades of winners to debunk and clarify some ol' Tony Awards myths...as well as discover some trends! Take a listen and win your Tony pool! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/RDs2Bz47 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 22

BIG NEWS! MATT GOT A NEW MIC! But he isn't quite sure if he's figured it out yet. So be patient this episode. Oh! And Matt went to London again with his mom and sister! Matt's mom joins for the first half to discuss their London adventures as well as the 5 shows they took in while staying in Fitzrovia for the week: -The Comedy About Spies, Oliver!, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, My Neighbour Totoro, and Dear England. It's a fun time! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 15

And episode so long...we have to split it in two! Matt saw Every. Single. Broadway. Show. This. Season. And my God is he gonna do the Lord's work and rank it all for you. Because why the F**K NOT?! Enjoy Part 1! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 15

And just like that...we finished! Matt wraps up his *unofficial* ranking of every Broadway show for the 2024-2025 Broadway Season. Was it worth it??? Join the fun at the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here! https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 8

And a few other shows, actually... Matt saw a whole bunch of stuff. Not just what's in the title. He also saw WONDERFUL TOWN at Encores, the final performance of ZORBA at J2 Spotlight and had a second viewing of DEATH BECOMES HER. It's a lot! Maybe he said some coherent things? Let's see! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!: https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr TIME STAMPS (give or take, based on commercials): Wonderful Town/Zorba: 6:00 Real Women Have Curves: 34:00 Death Becomes Her 2.0/Old Friends/Dead Outlaw: 1:04:00 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 1

"Where's the pudding at?!" The 2025 Tony nominations have arrived! And boy are there THOUGHTS. Joining Matt is Breakdown friends Rachael and Will Anderson aka The Theater Lovers!! Listen to their thoughts on the whole slew of nominations, Taylor Swift lore, and a new series of movies Matt plans to make. Enjoy! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/UTGVBprYtr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 29

'Cause why the f**k not?! Let's be bold and brave with the Tony nominations before the big announcement day! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/bbcbvZau Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 28

"This is IT!" Matt saw SOOOO much Broadway this week, he couldn't fit it all into one episode. So, he's chosen to cover LCT's revival of FLOYD COLLINS, Roundabout's revisal of PIRATES and 54 Below's...sorry, Broadway's JUST IN TIME. Listen! Discuss! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!!! https://discord.gg/bbcbvZau Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 24

"And what do YOU think of pudding?" Matt scans the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel to get a sense of what listeners feel are likely to get nominated at the 2025 Tony Awards. And the responses are something!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/FqnJwJrr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 19

...were they worth it? Matt went and saw GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS, STRANGER THINGS, GOOD NIGHT AND GOOD LUCK and OTHELLO and talks briefly about all of them, but more importantly what their very existence means for Broadway. Plus! Two Off-Broadway musicals that might've restored his faith. *Might* have. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 15

"To quote Taylor Swift..." Matt sees the latest work by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins, PURPOSE, as well as the Broadway premiere of JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN. Was JOHN *actually* Matt's nightmare? Which actor in PURPOSE gave Matt life? Find out!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 11

"Fade in on a girl..." Matt has returned from SMASH and is here to talk about what he thought did and didn't work about the new Comedy about a Musical! Enjoy! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 8

"I can do better than that..." Matt goes to see the new comic musical BOOP and has a *lot* of suggestions, plus the first Broadway production of THE LAST 5 YEARS and...well, has thoughts on that as well. Take a listen! (L5Y review starts around 40:00 ) Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel (and the Tony fun) Here: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 3

"OK, now we know..." It's been two months since Matt made some bold predictions for the 2025 Tony nominations. So it's time to make some new ones!! Matt is joined by Richie Grasso and Jeff Maline (Half Hour) to discuss the latest of the season and where everyone sees nominations heading this year. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 30

"I would give my soul for that..." Matt took a trip back to Encores to see the little-known LOVE LIFE and saw one of the final previews for THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY! What did Matt think of the weird Lerner/Weill show often cited as the "first concept musical"? And did Matt agree or disagree with Jesse Green abut DORIAN GRAY's screens? Let's find out! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 27

It's Matt's birthday! 35! And now that he's old enough to play Bobby in COMPANY, he's celebrating by doing a Good Ol' Fashioned Q&A. Make sure to join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 21

"We do what we can..." Matt had a nice week of theatre before flying to judge the Florida State Thespian Festival. First: BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB and the Tony chances of Natalie Venetia Belcon. Next: OPERATION MINCEMEAT and whether it's "Too British" or if Matt liked it better on Broadway. For those who don't want spoilers: BUENA VISTA review starts at the top and OPERATION MINCEMEAT review starts around the 35:00/36:00 minute mark! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord and submit questions and corrections: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 20

Matt took to social media to try something out...what IS the legacy of a Tony winner? Find out! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 13

"I wish I was an octopus..." We've come to the end of ANGELS IN AMERICA and, as it happens, Grab Bag!! Friend of the pod Robert W. Schneider (Broadway Bound) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his history with the play, the weirdness of the 1993 Tony Awards, and which character Matt's ex could play. REJOICE! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 9

"You can build me up, you can tear me down..." Oooohhh It's a March BONUS episode! SIX's new Jane Seymour, Kelsie Watts, stops by the Breakdown to do a mini-deep dive on the British pop sensation that's still rocking it on Broadway. Matt and Kelsie talk about the complexity of 16th century womanhood, navigating vocal challenges, and re-introducing yourself to musical theatre. Take a listen! AND JOIN THE BROADWAY BREAKDOWN DISCORD CHANNEL!! Right Here: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 6

"Nothing's lost forever..." We're back with some more ANGELS! Podmother Ali Gordon returns to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt why Joe Pitt is her favorite character, her undying friendship with Matt, and why love needs to be in all dramatic scenes. LET'S DO IT! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 27

"F**k you, I'm a Prophet!" We're wrapping up GRAB BAG with the Big One. A play so big we can't possibly contain it to one episode. So friend Alex Weisman (HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD) comes back to the Breakdown to talk all things ANGELS IN AMERICA. The two also discuss the repetition of history, the privilege of self-preservation and being sexy enough to be cast-able. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 20

"Don't nobody bring me No. Bad. News." We're starting to close out Grab Bag and so we're bringing on a new friend, Kaisha Huguley (@kaishacreates) to come on and discuss the last musical selected: THE WIZ. The Movie, that is. Matt and Kaisha discuss their ties to the movie as well as to The Wizard of Oz lore, plus what makes a movie musical work and why you can't just rely on the talent of your cast. Everybody Rejoice! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/Ef9QkAas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 14

"Just me...and the trees." Idina Menzel is BACK on BROADWAY baby! In a musical about a tree! And trauma! And stuff. So what did Matt think of it? Find out! TRIGGER WARNING: This musical discusses difficult subject matter like mental health, substance abuse and s*icide. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/VRdR4bvZ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 13

"It's live!!!" Broadway Breakdown was at BroadwayCon and did another Grab Bag with Miss Sally Bowl. Grey Henson (ELF, MEAN GIRLS) comes along to pick a musical and gab for a whole hour. Which musical? Find out!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/VRdR4bvZ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 10

"I see a river..." OH MARY has a new leading lady! Encores has begun its latest season! How do they fare? Matt is here to talk about it. And what makes acting ridiculous so hard. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/VRdR4bvZ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 6

"Welcome to the Rock..." GRAB BAG continues with the Tony winning Canadian Feel Good Musical COME FROM AWAY. Good friend and gal Lauren Nicole Chapman (FROZEN, KINKY BOOTS) joins the Breakdown to discuss the wonderfulness of intermissionless shows, married life, and the controversial play Matt saw on a second date. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/VRdR4bvZ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 24

"Expand what you think you know..." Matt sees the first new Broadway show of 2025: ENGLISH and discusses how the Pulitzer winning play fares at Roundabout. Plus, a post-mortem on TEETH, a look back on ALL IN and a fascinating one man show that's still in development... Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/96eFupmY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 16

"Think of the Pudding" Producer and friend of the Breakdown David Lynch is back to do WAY too early predictions for the 2025 Tony Awards. Matt and David discuss what can make a Featured Actor/Actress break through, who you don't bet against, and what musicals are rising to the top. Follow the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 9

"What did I do it for...?" Matt went back to see how GYPSY has changed since the reviews all came out. And the answer might surprise you...or maybe it won't. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord HERE: https://discord.gg/WZQsq2vq Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 26, 2024

"Goodbye 2024, Hello 2025...you're the same season." Matt recaps the Broadway season so far as well as some of his thoughts on productions this past year and what he's looking forward to in 2025. Plus Matt goes into what he'd personally nominate for Tony Awards! And there are SHOCKERS! You can still watch Matt's play YOURS, TRULY here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x23enXtcNHY (Starts at the 8:00 min mark) Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here: https://discord.gg/QssGH9KE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 23, 2024

"She's very open minded. We met her at Burning Man..." Matt saw CULT OF LOVE and EUREKA DAY and has now seen EVERY production of the 2024-2025 season so far! Matt talks about how both shows are quite alike and what they can also learn from each other. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here!: https://discord.gg/5NBMyymB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 20, 2024

"Be Italian..." The music...the fashion...the women...the plot...? We're talking NINE! Kevin Duda (BOOK OF MORMON, BEAUTIFUL) returns after a long absence to discuss with Matt all things Maury Yeston, Tommy Tune and Anita Morris. The two discuss why the movie adaptation failed, being too seduced by the musical's glamour, and some tumultuousness with the revival...get into it!!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/dbwMZjTb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 19, 2024

"I had a dream..." Matt has wanted this to happen for years. And now it's finally here: GYPSY. Directed by George C. Wolfe. Choreographed by one of his favorite current choreographers, Camille A. Brown. Starring the one and only AUDRA. But...is it what he dreamed it would be? Hoped it would be? Or is it...something else? Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here: https://discord.gg/dbwMZjTb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 12, 2024

"JUNGLE RED!!!!" Ooooooohhh it's a juicy catfight at the Breakdown as Guncle of the Pod Adam Elsberry returns to discuss the 30's hit THE WOMEN. Matt and Adam discuss the legacy of a play that is both quotable, iconic...and not very good? And a movie version that is even more quotable, more iconic...and actually QUITE good? The two also discuss drag queen artistry, Jennifer Simard and Roald Dahl sexual innuendos. Let's hear them out! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/dbwMZjTb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 2, 2024

"It just says 'Road' to me..." I don't know if you heard...but the WICKED movie came out! And after much discussion on the Discord Channel, Matt has agreed to cover it. But not without his trusty friend: Joel Guerrero-Sparks! Matt and Joel tackle all the questions from the Broadway Breakdown Discord, as well as share their origins with the stage musical, Oscar chances and what they hope to see in Part 2. We could melt!! Join the Broadway Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/PNXRwynp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 28, 2024

"I wish I could forget you..." Podmother Ali Gordon is back to talk about one of the most divisive shows from a divisive artist: PASSION. Matt and Ali talk about the difference between love and passion, the drag queen elements of Fosca, and why a show shouldn't have to tell you what it's saying. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/qtN5AqNp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 24, 2024

"Enjoy...the ground." Matt did a reading of his play, then immediately went and saw some shows! He also reads some new reviews of the podcast and discusses when it's appropriate to give people feedback on their work. REVIEW TIME STAMPS (depending on commercial length): Elf: 10:10 Tammy Faye: 26:00 Swept Away: 45:50 Death Becomes Her: 1:01:30 Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!: https://discord.gg/TzqNUKPm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 21, 2024

"I am standing here with poison in my pocket..." INDUBITABLY! Calling all Anglophiles: it's the GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE episode! Producing team and brothers Elliot and Harry White (Foster Cat Productions) stop by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the extraordinarily British musicale. The group also discusses the benefits of slow-burn comedy, what makes a great musical theatre score, and the 2014 Tony Awards. Join in the fun! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 14, 2024

"Ay, there's the rub." What if HAMLET...wasn't a tragedy? But...a celebration?!?! New friend of the Breakdown Jayson Kerr stops by to talk about the Pulitzer winning play FAT HAM, plus the benefits of choosing joy, the dangers of repressing, and the line of dialogue that broke Matt. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord!: https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 13, 2024

Matt saw some shows! And read some of your reviews! Matt talks about seeing MAYBE HAPPY ENDING from two different angles, the MEMENTO-ness of MCNEAL and the Tony winning musical that A WONDERFUL WORLD could learn from. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here! https://discord.gg/dauswSEN Donate to Matt's Play Here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=8JAJ724MGR8LW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 7, 2024

"Feed Me..." A perfect musical needs the perfect guest to have the perfect discussion. Friend of the pod Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss all things parody, pathos and talent aliens. Join in the fun!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here: https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR Donate to Matt's fundraiser Here: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 3, 2024

"The people called it..." Matt saw a play! And an Encores! And another play! What did he think of RAGTIME at Encores? SH*T. MEET. FAN? LEFT ON TENTH? Find out! Donate to Matt's Fundraiser Here! https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/qtN5AqNp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 31, 2024

"Hey STELLAAAAA!!!!!" Friend and Zaddy of the Pod Juan A. Ramírez returns to discuss the sexy play that's actually not all that sexy: A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. Juan and Matt discuss sexual tension, method acting, what makes a good Blanche Dubois and how STREETCAR birthed the Jessica Lange we know now. Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR Fundraiser for Matt's Play: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly If you wanna see the NYC Gay Men's Chorus holiday concert, use the code BREAKDOWN10 to get 10% off!: https://nyuskirball.org/events/nyc-gay-mens-chorus-spirits-bright/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 27, 2024

"O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou...line?" Matt saw ROMEO + JULIET, THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA (with a new third act), and 3 Off-Broadway shows! And he's gonna TALK about 'em DAMMIT! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR or Help Donate to Matt's Fundraise Here! https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 24, 2024

"A boy like that..." Who doesn't love the chance to talk about a Spielberg musical? Friend of the pod Margaret Hall is back to talk about the 2021 remake of WEST SIDE STORY. Together, Margaret and Matt discuss and debate what works, what doesn't, what the movie's legacy is and if it's possible for financially stable people to fall in love at first sight. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord: https://discord.gg/VQWSrW5b Contribute to Matt's Play before it gets broadcast!: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=8JAJ724MGR8LW Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 17, 2024

"This is the moment..." It's all a facade. It's all in his eyes. It's all a dangerous game. It's all JEKYLL & HYDE, babyyyyyy. Cooper Howell (CATS: JELLICLE BALL) joins the Breakdown to discuss all the ways the murderous cult musical fails and yet...succeeds? Cooper and Matt can't make up their minds. Can you? Donate to Matt's Play: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord: https://discord.gg/VQWSrW5b Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 16, 2024

"Silent music starts to play..." Matt saw 3 Broadway shows. And even though it's late, he's gonna talk about them. YOURS, TRULY fundraiser: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/VQWSrW5b Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 10, 2024

"Oh my God, Patrick, COLLEGE?!" Char the Mahi Mahi and rent some videotapes because we're talking AMERICAN PYSCHO. Fellow BPN'ers Richie Grasso and Jeff Malone (Half Hour) join the Breakdown to discuss the concepts of success, goodness, and what it means to be human. They also go on for a LONG time about defining your personality over the love of one show...does Matt know anything about that? Make sure to donate to Matt's fundraiser, so his play can get performed in November: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=8JAJ724MGR8LW Join the Discord to submit your questions for future episodes: https://discord.gg/n5GtVR8K Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 5, 2024

Matt reviews YELLOW FACE, THE BIG GAY JAMBOREE and GROUNDED at the Met (most of it). And a conversation about loss and remembrance within the theatre community. Some Mentioned Links: Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/7wkJpY3P Yours, Truly (Matt's play) Fundraising Page: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 3, 2024

"ALL THE BALDWINS ARE DEAD?!" It's the launch of the new Grab Bag series and we're starting off with a bang: SOUTH PARK: BIGGER, LONGER AND UNCUT. Frequent Breakdown guest Marcus Scott comes back to talk with Matt about all the ways this movie is a perfect musical masterpiece. The two also talk about the dangers of censorship, the need for accountability and how this movie has one of the best depictions of a toxic relationship. It's long, it's meandering, it's filthy. Get into it! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel here: https://discord.gg/7wkJpY3P Donate to help Matt's play: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 29, 2024

It's time... Matt makes a MAJOR announcement about the development of his play and 6-Time-Tony-Nominee Chad Beguelin (ALADDIN, THE PROM, ELF) stops by to discuss his new book SHOWMANCE...and other Broadway things. Link to YOURS, TRULY fundraising page: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly Link to YOURS, TRULY Pitch Deck: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGQdXq6weA/TxCLeAIqtkKDdLDaSwzC1w/view?utm_content=DAGQdXq6weA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor Link to Broadway Breakdown Discord: https://discord.gg/7wkJpY3P Link to Chad Beguelin's Website: https://www.chadbeguelin.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 19, 2024

"Numbers are so HARD..." The week before a big announcement, and two weeks before the start of GRAB BAG, Matt takes a look at the Broadway grosses for the week ending 9/15 and tries to help you and himself understand them. Let's gab! To join the Discord Channel, Click: https://discord.gg/7wkJpY3P Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 12, 2024

"Who's it gonna be...?" The 2024-2025 Season has BEGUN. And friend of the pod Robbie Rozelle is HERE to discuss it! In a few weeks, we begin "Grab Bag"! Make sure to join the DIscord in order to submit your questions and concerns for future episodes: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 1, 2024

You submitted the shows and movie musicals you wanted Broadway Breakdown to discuss and now the winners are here and ready to be announced!! Find out what the rest of 2024 has in store for the pod! AND AFTER YOU DO: subscribe to the BB Discord Channel to keep making your voice heard on the podcast! https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 19, 2024

Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph. Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre. This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 15, 2024

JOIN THE BROADWAY BREAKDOWN DISCORD CHANNEL and talk about all your feelings on theatre, the podcast and random life stuff. It's a fun community! https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB "Sensitivity..." ONCE UPON A MATTRESS has transferred to Broadway from Encores! Is it different? The same? Better? Worse? Well...Matt went and he can tell you what he felt. For what it's worth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 13, 2024

"The Great American B*tch..." SUFFS Music Director, Arranger and Supervisor Andrea Grody stops by the podcast to talk about all things SUFFS as well as her other major musical contributions to the theatre (including her work on the Tony winning musical THE BAND'S VISIT). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 8, 2024

"Oh Mary! Your job is too much!" Matt saw two one-act plays about gals and guns and both transferred this year from Off Broadway: OH, MARY and JOB. Matt talks at length about both. Their pros, their cons, and their spoilers. WARNING: Some sensitive subject matter is discussed in JOB. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel and get in on the d*mn fun!! https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 1, 2024

"There is nothing like LIVE THEATAH!" Make sure to join the Broadway Breakdown Discord and chat with other listeners about this week's episode! Link: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Broadway Breakdown made its Broadway Con debut with longtime friends The Theatre Lovers!!! Matt, Rachael and Will sat down and picked a musical at random out of a bowl and then broke it down for a full hour. Get in on the fun! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 25, 2024

"Who is she? Who was she? Who does she hope to be?" It's the finale of PROBLEMATIC(?) and we're going out with the Big Bang of Queer Theatre: THE BOYS IN THE BAND. And in order to talk about this momentous and still hotly-debated play, we had to bring out the big guns: John Wascavage!!! John and Matt talk about shared trauma, the glories of being mean to your friends, and Renée Zellweger. JOIN IN! Then join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 18, 2024

"Bless your beautiful hide..." It's a return of "Problematic(?)" but with a surprise twist! Broadway Breakdown is covering a MOVIE MUSICAL. And one that is TRICKY. Alum Jon Reilly (Life's But a Song) stops by to discuss this sexy, sexist, sexual movie and all the rough and tumble dancing and gender politics that go along with it. GRAB YOUR BIBLE KIDS! Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 11, 2024

Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel and get in on the fun! Link: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB This week Matt is joined by author and historian Ben West to talk about his new must-have book: The American Musical, Evolution of an Art Form! The two discuss the variety of genres in which the musical theatre has its origins, deep-cut songs, and that time Hal Prince accidentally created a new category at the Tony Awards. DIVE IN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 4, 2024

"Hal...it's no longer about CATS." Oooohhh boy! Matt went and saw CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL, the wild, crazy and invigorating new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Feline Fantasia! Listen up for Matt's chaotic thoughts as well as his time sitting with Cynthia Erivo! PLUS!!! An invite to Broadway Breakdown's Discord Channel! Invite Link: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB Join in on the Broadway Breakdown fun!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 27, 2024

Matt saw FOLLIES! TITANIC! HOME! HERE THERE ARE BLUEBERRIES! And he's gonna talk about all 4! Plus a glorious 1-star review he got Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 20, 2024

"Stop texting me..." The 2024 Tony Awards occurred. Some shows won and some lost. People performed and the TV cameras got waaayyy to close for comfort. And Matt's royally annoyed at Alicia Keys. So let's talk about it! Friend of the pod James Seol (KPOP, COME FROM AWAY) is back to discuss the WHOLE Get Down and to wade through some of your comments. Let's get into it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 13, 2024

"Oi!" Hello again! Matt went to London! With his mom! And they saw some shows and did some things! Listen as the two discuss their London outings, plus their takes on OPERATION MINCEMEAT, GUYS AND DOLLS, STANDING AT SKY'S EDGE, and THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 4, 2024

The Tony Awards: A Celebration in Excellence by Eila Mell is out in bookstores now! Find out more about Broadway's biggest night with an order! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 30, 2024

Everyone is a winner. Except for those who aren't. It's almost June, which means it's almost Tony month, which means we have to get off our butts and start predicting some WINNERS! Friends of the pod Rachael Joyce and Will Anderson aka The Theater Lovers are BACK! And together, the Lovers and Matt try to figure out who exactly is gonna win this f*cker and why. PLUS Matt reads a whole bunch more of your reviews! Yay! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 23, 2024

It was supposed to be a discussion about Tony Award Snubs...oops, "omissions." But leave it to BROADWAY BOUND'S Robert W. Schneider to keep Matt distracted with tons of Broadway gossip and a foray into Matt's past trauma. Enjoy the shortest episode in weeks :) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 16, 2024

"It's an art..." Goldderby's Sam Eckmann stops by the Breakdown to discuss Tony trends, myths and what you need to take into account when making your predictions! DOLL OUT THE PUDDING! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 9, 2024

Oh look...it's the longest episode in Broadway Breakdown history. Matt saw every show of the 2023-2024 Broadway season. Now he wants to rank them. Because what else is there to do now? Feel free to listen to this episode while crossing Atlantic. Or while stuck in a 12 hour traffic jam. Or waiting for your souffle to rise. And feel free to yell at Matt for his ramblings and his opinions. It's what he's there for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 6, 2024

Motherhood...Sisterhood...and Silent Broadway Contracts... We've got another lovely surprise for you! Award-winning actress Susan Pourfar stops by the Breakdown to discuss her journey with MTC's MARY JANE, from its production at NYTW to its Broadway premier with Rachel McAdams. Matt and Susan also discuss the performance Matt attended when an audience member decided it was their moment to shine...LISTEN IN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 2, 2024

Well...they're here. After much speculating, predicting and dreaming...the 2024 Tony Nominations have ARRIVED. And there were CHOICES made. Matt takes to instagram to read what y'all had to say about the new crop of nominations...and what a few of you had to say about HIM. It's a fun journey!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 28, 2024

Two more days... Recorded Sunday April 21, before Matt saw MOTHER PLAY, CABARET and others...and before the final Tony eligibility rulings...Slant critic Dan Rubins stops by the Breakdown to discuss what they both think the Tony nominees will be and what they WANT them to be. Take a listen! Dan's podcast, The Present Stage: https://www.thepresentstage.com/ Hear Your Song website: https://www.hearyoursong.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 25, 2024

"OK, who do you have?" The TONY nominations are in 5 days, y'all!! That means we gotta start making some new PREDICTIONS. Recorded a mere 2 hours before the Tony Committee released their second round of Eligibility Rulings, Broadway producer David Lynch stops by the Breakdown to share possible nominations. The two also discuss Matt's actions when they saw SUFFS, the trickiness of "well liked" and "good," and try to make sense of who will go where before the Tonys told us! STICK AROUND! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 23, 2024

"Find your light..." Y'all have been so good that we're treating you to a BONUS episode! An interview with lighting designer extraordinaire Cory Pattak! Cory made his Broadway debut this season with not one, but TWO musicals: SPAMALOT and THE GREAT GATSBY! Cory stops by the Breakdown to discuss the thrill and stress of putting together two very sudden Broadway transfers, how you make lighting "funny," and Cory throws a "gotcha" at Matt. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 18, 2024

"Everyone's a critic..." We're wrapping up the season very soon!!!! And before we do, we got some more shows for you: THE GREAT GATSBY, PATRIOTS and SUFFS! Matt discusses his opinions on all three. Plus some talk about some of the crazy that's been happening online this week in the community. Let's have fun. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 11, 2024

"Woman is...or is she?" It's a bonanza!! Matt starts off with his reviews on seeing MERRILY a second time (now *with* Lindsay Mendez), LEMPICKA, THE HEART OF ROCK AND ROLL and STEREOPHONIC! Plus a new review that has notes for Matt. Plus after all of THAT is an interview with Broadway legend and Jack of All Trades: Jack Viertel. Jack talks with Matt about his new book: "Broadway Melody" as well as his extensive career working for Jujamcyn Theatres, being a critic, a dramaturg, a writer, and watching Tommy Tune fix GRAND HOTEL firsthand. GET INTO IT KIDS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 4, 2024

"See Me...and Stay Gold." It's April!!! Which means Tony season has sprung! Matt sees TOMMY and THE OUTSIDERS and gives you his thoughts...and then reads YOUR thoughts on upcoming results for the 2024 Tony Awards. And some of you are BOLD. Let's get some hardware!!! Tix for NYC Gay Men's Chorus concert "Bubblegum Pop" available here: https://nyuskirball.org/events/new-york-city-gay-mens-chorus-bubblegum-pop/ Discount Code: BREAKDOWN10 (10% off) Expires April 8 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 21, 2024

"There is nothing like New York in the SPRING!" A *lot* has changed since our first Tonys episode so Matt has come on to talk through some of it. First Matt gives thoughts after having seen WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NOTEBOOK. Plus what it was like being at the infamous performance of AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE attended by protestors! Matt then goes to see TOMMY (or does he?) and offers some clarity on what ILLINOISE will be considered for after it transfers to the St. James. LET'S GET PUMPED! Link for tix to My First Sondheim at 54 Below: https://54below.org/events/my-first-sondheim/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 14, 2024

"He has a story to tell..." It came to Broadway touted as the next ANGELS IN AMERICA. And yet...not every gay man was into it. Then it won the Tony...and some people still weren't into it. But does that make something "Problematic"?? Friend of the pod Robbie Rozelle comes back to the Breakdown to discuss THE INHERITANCE. Matt and Robbie spend an epic amount of time on this epic two-parter and converse over mouthfeels, community support, and the danger of vilifying sex. And hot men. THE GREAT WORK BEGINS!! Wait...wrong play... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 7, 2024

"We all lead such elaborate lives..." It's sexy! It's dangerous! It's Disney! It's AIDA!!! Broadway music director Will Van Dyke (Pretty Woman, The Heart of Rock n Roll) comes on the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the first Broadway Disney musical "for adults." The two also discuss casting, fashion shows, and duty. TAKE ME IN!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 29, 2024

"Thank you, baby. Thank you for listening..." Welcome back to Problematic(?)! And ooooh boy do we have a DOOZY! Alum of the pod, Marcus Scott, returns to discuss SLAVE PLAY. The show that angered, excited and confused many theatergoers. Matt and Marcus get into the weeds of SLAVE PLAY's 12 Tony nominations and 0 wins, what intimacy is, and whether your truth is *the* truth. Also AMERICAN FICTION. HERE WE GO! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 22, 2024

Confident and Uninformed. That's the way to make predictions for Tony nominations THIS early. Breakdown alum Dylan MacDowell (DRAMA) returns to go through every possible candidate for this year's Tony Awards. And Matt spills some tea about exactly *what* Broadway thinks about some of its offerings... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 15, 2024

"This bird is singing..." Sally Mayes has been there and back and she can sing all about it to you! A Tony nominee for SHE LOVES ME with multiple awards under her belt, Sally stop by the pod to talk about her upcoming concert series (link for tix below), as well as how her Broadway debut as a swing lead to her winning a Theatre World Award, the 1994 Tonys, and naked actors getting reprimanded by police! Buy tix to Sally's new concert at Green Room 42 here: https://thegreenroom42.venuetix.com/show/details/5WWifjgRHSGE8kpHSzZS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 18, 2024

"Turn it off..." Hello! Our name is Broadway Breakdown. And we would like to share with you a Tony winning show. It has so many awesome parts. You simply won't believe how much this show has angered crowds. That's right...it's THE BOOK OF MORMON. The Broadway phenomenon from the creators of SOUTH PARK and AVENUE Q that swept the world, wowed critics...and has come back around for a reckoning from many. Does it deserve it? Who's to say? Kyle Marshall (PUTTING IT TOGETHER) is here, though, to help Matt figure out what to do. Together, the two talk about optimism, shock value, and how a musical bop can carry you through. Take a listen! Check out Kyle's podcast PUTTING IT TOGETHER: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/putting-it-together/id1435108436 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 11, 2024

"The heat is on..." To cover a giant show with giant controversy...you need a giant episode. Yup: it's MISS SAIGON. James Seol (COME FROM AWAY, KPOP) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss the last of the British mega-musicals with Matt. The two discuss a LOT: a mutual belief that Chris is the show's villain, how Kim is actually a survivalist genius and how for a show with so much sex, MISS SAIGON might be one of the least sexy musicals of all time. Come along on the helicopter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 4, 2024

"What's your damage?" CONTENT WARNING: This episode covers a show that contains and discusses suicide, sexual assault, and mental illness. Please listen with caution. We're venturing back to Off-Broadway with the musical that launched a thousand nodes and a million TikTok accounts...we're talking HEATHERS, y'all. The musical based on the classic cult 80's film has a dedicated fanbase...and plenty of ruffled feathers. Longtime friend and icon Chelsea Williams (MAMMA MIA, IN TRANSIT) makes her Breakdown debut and discusses all things mini-skirts and croquet with Matt. The two also discuss the show's outrageously difficult score, the trouble with trying to satirizing a satire, and whether a person is interesting or just hot... COLOR US STOKED GIRL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 28, 2023

"If I loved you..." Oh Boy. It's the one listeners of BREAKDOWN have been waiting for. It's Matt's favorite musical. It's perhaps the most famous "problematic" musical. That's right...it's CAROUSEL, BABY!! Theatre critic Juan A. Ramirez (Theatrely, The New York Times) joins the pod to discuss all things Rodgers and Hammerstein. Juan and Matt discuss the show's horniness, debate the merits of the 2018 revival (Juan is pro, Matt is con), and what exactly that infamous line of dialogue means. Join the clambake!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 21, 2023

"All we see is sky for forever..." STORY TIME! Due to reasons, Broadway Breakdown is covering DEAR EVAN HANSEN in two parts...with the second part coming sometime between now and later. Journalist and podcaster Ruthie Fierberg (Why We Theater) joins the Breakdown to lay out her reasonings as to why DEAR EVAN HANSEN is NOT problematic (with no question mark!) The two also discuss grief, depression, and an updated look at the current Broadway season!! Strap in your cast and let's get to it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 14, 2023

"I'll never fall in love again..." It's turkey lurkey TIME, people! Guncle of the Pod Adam Elsberry returns to talk about one of the hottest shows of the 1960's: PROMISES, PROMISES. Based on the Oscar-winning film THE APARTMENT, it's a show that got HAMILTON level reviews...and wasn't heard from again for a very long time. Matt and Adam discuss the difference between 1962 and 1968, being in love and it being terrible, and the double edged sword of sexual agency. Join in!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 7, 2023

"...you are a fundamentally evil person..." CONTENT WARNING: Before listening, be advised that this episode discusses a play that deals with troubling subject matter (primarily sexual abuse and suicide). The Breakdown is discussing perhaps the most complex and troubling play NYC has seen in years: DOWNSTATE, by Pulizter Prize winning playwright Bruce Norris (CLYBOURNE PARK). Joined by Etai Benson (COMPANY, THE BAND'S VISIT), Matt discusses his own difficult past with abuse, the limitations of empathy and, of course, Matt and Etai's summers at The Manor. Video content available on the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 30, 2023

"Shall I tell you what I think of you...?" It's the first Rodgers and Hammerstein on Broadway Breakdown! And NOT the one you think! Corey Lubowich (Team Starkid) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss the much loved and much debated R&H classic THE KING AND I. Matt and Corey discuss the joint gumption and prejudice of the show's main characters, the sloppiness of Tuptim, and the Tesori/Hwang inverse piece SOFT POWER. Shall we dance inDEED? Watch and listen to more content on the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 23, 2023

"It's time to dance..." Welcome back to Broadway Breakdown!! And our new series Problematic(?) covering shows that at some point in their legacy have been met with controversy or backlash. Matt is joined by Breakdown legend Ali Gordon to talk about a lighthearted musical that somehow made a few people angry...THE PROM. And no, not because of the on-air kiss. The two discuss the show's tone, question how quickly someone can go from bigoted to tolerant, and Matt's major gripe with a major character. Tune in!!! For the video of this episode, check out the Patreon for Broadway Breakdown: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 16, 2023

"But first: let's stretch." Before launching into our new season of "Problematic(?)" Broadway Breakdown returns with a warm up episode. Rob Schneider (Behind the Curtain) joins the pod to talk with Matt about the upcoming Broadway season, shows that are rumored to come in, Matt's thoughts on HELL'S KITCHEN and how sweetness is killing creativity. Let's DISH! New episodes of "Problematic (?)" begin Thursday 11/23 :) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 14, 2023

"Are you *actually* calling Gloria Steinem a skank?" Hey Kids!! Broadway Breakdown isn't TOTALLY back yet. BUT! To tide you over: here's an amazing conversation with Tony nominee Heather Hach, book writer for LEGALLY BLONDE and co-screenwriter of the 2003 FREAKY FRIDAY. Matt and Heather discuss how Heather got into writing, the challenges of adapting a beloved movie into a musical, and Heather's new book "The Trouble with Drowning." You can Pre-Order "The Trouble With Drowning" here: https://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Drowning-Heather-Hach/dp/B0C6LCNFK4 Or join Matt's Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 20, 2023

"You're in a tough chapter...but the book is long." Whoo boy. It's the big one. The play that we've been waiting for: SIGNIFICANT OTHER. Guncle of the Pod Adam Elsberry returns to dive deep into one of the most painfully personal plays Matt has ever witnessed. The two discuss the complex friendships between gay men and straight women, plus the magnificence of Gideon Glick's performance and unloading some tough personal stories of their own. Plus that time Matt and Adam saw the MATILDA movie and Matt ugly cried. Break out the tissues, it's a doozy! You can subscribe to the Patreon here (if you want more video content): https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 13, 2023

"96,000..." Lights up on the Broadway debut of one of musical theatre's biggest names: Lin-Manuel Miranda. Yup, we're talking IN THE HEIGHTS baby!!!! After Matt *just* said he couldn't find anyone to cover this show, along comes Broadway's Philippe Arroyo (& JULIET, ALADDIN) swopping in and making an iconic episode with Matt. The two discuss Lin's score that's almost entirely "no skips," questions about character's backstories and what role from the movie can be added to the show so Matt can have a silent walk on role. The two also discuss the ever evolving discussion of diversity in theatre, honesty in critical analysis, and Barbie. CARNAVAL!! For video of this episode (uploaded later this weekend), subscribe to the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 6, 2023

"Die, Vampire..." It's two guys on a podcast talking about a musical about two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical...it's a snake, it's a vortex, it's a Full Tilt Original Musical! It's TITLE OF SHOW! Social Media Icon Tyler Joseph Ellis stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Theatre Nerdom, Gay Friendships and Full Throated Belting. Plus, Matt drags a whole bunch of things. Let's find our way back to then, dudes! If ya like the episode, enjoy our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 29, 2023

"Life is pandemonium..." THE BIG MOVE IS BACK! With a brand new episode covering the musical that brought William Finn back to the Broadway and held the longest run at the Circle in the Square Theatre. That's right: SPELLING BEE! Broadway cast member Todd Buonopone (also CINDERELLA and GREASE) stop by the Breakdown to spill with Matt secrets from the Broadway production, how he got the job and what happened when an audience member misspelled a word they needed to get right. Matt talks about the difference between wanting the best for your child, and wanting your child to be "the best" and his own love for this quirky musical. MAGIC FOOT!!! Link to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 26, 2023

"I want it that way..." A special treat for our Breakdown-ers!! & JULIET's Tony nominated orchestrator/arranger/music director Dominic Fallacaro stops by the pod to chat with Matt about the secrets and insights of Broadway's latest hit. The two also discuss Dominic's instant crash course on Broadway and the benefits of having time when creating. Take a listen!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 22, 2023

"For the mothers, the fathers, and the children of the world..." Surprise, Girlfriend!! It's a special episode! Matt gets to talk about his *other* favorite musical this season: TITANIQUE! Songstress and Celine lover Courtney Bassett (TITANIQUE, GREAT COMET) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the joys of performing the most ingeniously silly show in NYC as well as the tricks to being Celine Dion and why we want the Weirdos to Win. SHALL WE GO FOR IT?! Patreon Link: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 15, 2023

And Just like That...Pudding Season was over. The Tonys happened!! And they...weren't a sh*t show?? Matt is tired, y'all but he's still gonna go through all of your Hot Takes (and some weird personal questions) about this year's Tony Awards. The winners, the performances, the DIVAS. It's a moment! And the moment is us. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 8, 2023

"And the award goes to..." We're coming to the end of Pudding Season y'all!! Good Judy Jonathan Hoover (aka Inappropriate Patti) stops by to make some final Tony Award predictions with Matt. Matt also spills some tea after having attended the Drama Desk, Theatre World and Drama League Awards. Who's hot, who's tepid and who doesn't understand when to stop the running joke. Take a listen! For more Matt content, check out the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 1, 2023

"It's an honor just to be ignored..." Friend of the pod and Network Ben Rimalower (Giants in the Sky) comes back to discuss with Matt their most egregious snubs in Tony history. Everyone knows two big ones for Matt...but there are a few that Matt and Ben disagree on!!!! Plus they discuss Forbidden Broadway, Patti Lupone's thoughts on women and which Tony nominated star left us too soon. JOIN IN! Link to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 25, 2023

"And I am telling you..." The 2023 Tony Awards are fast approaching! And so friend of the pod Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss with Matt all the amazing performances that have been on the telecast. The two bond over obvious historical turns (Dreamgirls, Evita, Promises Promises) and shock each other with some deeper dives (Sutton did *not* expect one of Matt's picks). The two also discuss what was happening to Barbara Harris the night she won for The Apple Tree, the glory of big orchestras playing small shows, and what's become popular at Musical Mondays at your local gay bar. Obsess with Us!!!! Link to Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 18, 2023

"Let's talk about it." Famous Broadway ally PJ Adzima (BOOK OF MORMON) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the latest on the Tonys vs. the WGA Strike, the Broadway Ecosystem, what needs to change and how we all can be smarter audiences. For the video of the full, unedited episode (released this weekend): Subscribe to the Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 11, 2023

"I chose right..." Matt takes a break from predictions and analysis to look back fondly on the times when the Tony Awards got it right! Writer Peter Duchan (DOGFIGHT) stops by the Breakdown to share some of his favorite choices as well as the first ceremony to make an impression on him. The two also discuss category fraud, Divas, and the b*tchy thing Gwen Verdon said about Donna Mckechnie. To quote Jean Stapleton: "DAAAAAMN YAAANKEES!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 4, 2023

It's time. To compare. Apples and Bacon. The 2023 Tony nominations are HERE and Matt has some egg on his face, some dreams that became realities, and some realizations after seeing CAMELOT the night before. Friend of the pod Kyle Marshall (Putting it Together) returns to the Breakdown to discuss this year's crop of nominees: who we're happy about, sad about, and confused about. And! The status of Matt's shoe. Did he throw it? HAPPY PUDDING SEASON!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 28, 2023

It's Pudding Season!! The Theatre Lovers are BACK to make one last big swing for Tony nomination predictions before the big day: May 2. Matt and the duo also discuss some opinions on newly seen shows and Matt reads Rachel and Will for filth on some of their predictions (and vice versa). Happy Tonys, Everyone!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 20, 2023

It's Pudding Season!! Matt goes solo and reads your Tony Predictions! Well...mostly your Tony predictions. A couple of personal questions snuck in there somehow... What do YOU think is making it in this year?? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 6, 2023

It's Pudding Season! And Matt's seen more stuff!! Guncle Adam Elsberry returns to shake up some predictions with Matt. Matt also gives some takes after having seen SWEENEY TODD, SHUCKED, FAT HAM and LIFE OF PI. And also spills a little tea about the current reputation of a Broadway director!! Let's have fun!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 30, 2023

"It's an honor just to be *pretend* nominated..." Pudding Season is almost upon us! That's right, it's time to start talking TONY AWARDS!!! Will and Rachael Anderson aka The Theater Lovers stop by the Breakdown to do some wild Tony nomination predictions. The three also discuss Bad Cinderella, being an ally, Feminism and which major stars could find themselves shut out! Let's get WILD y'all!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 23, 2023

"When life gives you lemons..." It's a special episode y'all!! Breakdown is taking a rest from the planned lineup to do a bonus cross over episode from Tesori Hour. That's right: it's KIMBERLY AKIMBO!! Returning guest Peter Koplik aka MATT'S DAD sits down to discuss the two's thoughts on the musical and all things family. The two also talk about the glory of Victoria Clark, the rudeness of adolescents, and the phrase Matt says that leaves his father gobsmacked. Tune in! No one gets a second time around!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 16, 2023

"It's the bitch of living..." Are you ready for some drama? Connor and Dylan MacDowell of the hit podcast DRAMA stop by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Spring Awakening. The three also discuss toxic fandom, the importance of transparency, what "Purple Summer" is, and the majesty of Jonathan Groff's butt. Touch me!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 9, 2023

"I will DO what needs to be DONE!" Do you have doubts? Do you have parables? Do you have DOUBT: A PARABLE?! 'Cause Godmother of the Pod Ali Gordon is back to discuss all things nuns, priests, Catholic school and having no real life experience with any of it. Matt and Ali also discuss failing in acting class, the importance of casting weirdos in your plays, and why mothers tend to be right. Cut your fingernails, kids, it's DOUBT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 2, 2023

"God, I Hope I Get It!" It's a big one, kids...a huge one...a one...singular sensation, if you will! That's right, it's A CHORUS LINE!!! The mother of all Broadway transfers. Fellow BPN'er Robert Peterpaul (The Art of Kindness) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the Pulitzer Prize winning, Tony sweeping musical that defined the 70's. The two also discuss the beauty of not-pretty singing, sh*tty teachers, and how Zach would be on the Equity "Do Not Work For" list. Don't pop the head, Cassie!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 23, 2023

"Everything in life is only for now..." Sex! Racism! PUPPETS! It's Avenue Q kids!!!!! Friend of the Breakdown Sam Simahk (INTO THE WOODS, CAROUSEL) stops by to discuss the controversial, deceptively complex musical that deals with existentialism, hopelessness and porn. The two also discuss a person's sexuality, the trickiness of Christmas Eve and why Christine Daae is dumb. It's a FINE LINE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 16, 2023

"One never knows...DO one?" This week we're covering the jukebox musical to end all jukebox musicals. The golden musical revue that launched a dozen careers: Ain't Misbehavin'!!! Matt is joined by André Jordan (DIANA: THE MUSICAL) to discuss the show's origins, dangerous choreography, and the glory of celebrating Black artistry. This joint is JUMPIN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 9, 2023

"This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius..." Good morning, Starshine! Broadway says "Hello"! Friend of the Breakdown Robbie Rozelle returns to discuss the American Tribal Musical that defined a generation and begrudgingly brought Broadway to the rock era...if only it stayed. It's HAIR!!! Robbie and Matt talk about an album with almost No Skips, the infamous nudity of the show, and how the show's classic status had a rough journey. BE IN!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 2, 2023

"I am sick to death of straight people. Tell the truth, aren't you?" Broadway Breakdown is BACK!!! After our hiatus, we return with the Tony winning Terrence McNally play LOVE, VALOUR, COMPASSION! Breakdown Friend James Crichton comes back to talk with Matt about the beauty of Joe Mantello's direction and the magnificence of the original cast. The two also talk about toxic relationships, the double edged sword of gratitude and being a ghost. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 22, 2022

"And THAT is Feminism." Breakdown alum Jessie Field is BACK to discuss the Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning hit play that gave Wendy Wasserstein her Broadway debut and made a slew of Boomers go "It Me." It's THE HEIDI CHRONICLES!! Believe it or not, this pay was a big deal and very groundbreaking in its time and, luckily, still holds up today! Matt and Jessie discuss equality, humor, and why no one will ever have it all. Choose happiness, kids! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 15, 2022

"History has its eyes on you..." HAMILTON! Ever heard of her? In case ya haven't we go in deep and niche for this week's take on the blockbuster phenomenon that made history cool again. Music Director Extraordinaire and good Judy Brian Nash stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the show's origins, its influence, and why Matt has a major problem with the Ham4Ham lotto. Don't throw away your shot!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 8, 2022

"Helen is always willing..." What has sex, wall to wall music, and a golden apple? Why, THE GOLDEN APPLE! Alex Weisman (HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, SESAME STREET) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the first Off-Broadway musical to transfer to the Great White Way. Alex also introduces Matt to a new Broadway game and the two talk about musical theatre tropes, Sally Murphy, and what makes something FEEL like an Off-Broadway musical. GET INTO IT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 1, 2022

"I've always been shy!" Broadway Breakdown goes into the 1950's with the Golden Age wunderkind Charles Kirsch (host of Backstage Babble)! Matt and Charles discuss the rowdy "not your typical fairy tale" musical ONCE UPON A MATTRESS. Both wholesome and rowdy, the musical has been popular for decades but has only had one Broadway revival...and Matt thinks for a good reason! The two also discuss the importance of casting, Mary Rodgers, and why attractive people are rarely funny. NORMANDY, KIDZ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 24, 2022

"It's a privilege to pee..." What is URINETOWN? Is it the end? A lie? Or a brilliant musical that spawned a generation of meta-spoof musicals? All the above! Breakdown alum Marc Tumminelli (Little Me, Broadway Workshop) returns to the pod to discuss with Matt the power of the ingenue, the importance of timing your Broadway opening, and illegal productions. FOLLOW YOUR HEART!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 17, 2022

"Yeah, it's alright..." It's nonstop to the REAL!! Returning guest Marcus Scott comes back to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the unclassifiable masterpiece that is PASSING STRANGE. The two discuss Rock n Roll on Broadway, BIPOC narratives in theatre, the show's connections to a Pulitzer Prize winning musical and perhaps why 2008 audiences chose IN THE HEIGHTS over PASSING STRANGE. Can you deal with the real?? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 10, 2022

"I care a great deal. But not enough..." The 4 hour epic that launched Harvey Fierstein and finally made gay men palatable to many Americans...it's Torch Song Trilogy. Matt's mom, the iconic Dani Ticktin Koplik, stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the relationship between a mother and gay son, the humiliations of love...and Matt divulges some personal details that mirror some of the play's storylines. Now we're dancing!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 3, 2022

"Viva La Vie Boheme..." Broadway Breakdown is BACK with the new series "The Big Move," covering select Off-Broadway to Broadway transfers. First up and in no particular order...RENT! Guncle of the pod Adam Elsberry (@adamels) is back to discuss with Matt all things Bohemia. The two also discuss toxic fandoms, the power of musical theatre, and a reappraisal of the character Benny. WELCOME BACK! Got a light? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 2, 2022

"A pretty, pretty girl..." We're finishing "Underestimated" with the musical that gave the series its namesake...DIANA!!!!! A massive flop that is quickly turning around into becoming a cult classic. And Matt has brought back Breakdown's very own John Wascavage to come and discuss the brilliantly bonkers show in all of its glory! Snap, Click INDEED! PLUS! Broadway Breakdown has now launched a Patreon!!!! To help support the pod you can subscribe via the link: https://www.patreon.com/BroadwayBreakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 20, 2022

"What you want is ME!" Omigod you guys! We're talking LEGALLY BLONDE! The musical that was doubted, praised, maligned, then praised again! Breakdown alum Abby Goldfarb (HARMONY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF) comes back to discuss with Matt all things Law school, high belting, and female power! It's fun, funny and Matt NEVER shuts up. BEND AND SNAP KIDS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 14, 2022

"Just THINK!" Oh the thinks you can think....and the flops that can flop...and come back again and again! We're talking about SEUSSICAL! The costly Broadway embarrassment that was plagued by creative overhauls and bad press, but would go on to become one of the most produces musicals in the COUNTRY! Fellow Broadway podcaster Jeffrey Scott Parsons (A Musical Theatre Podcast) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Seuss, bad press and childhood nightmares. YOP!!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 7, 2022

"All the wasted time..." The sadness, the drama, the MUSIC! It's PARADE! Friend and listener Jonathan Chisolm stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the sad, yet moving Tony-winning musical. The two also discuss the downside of grandeur, the allure of obtuseness and Carolee Carmello's belt. REAL BIG NEWS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 30, 2022

"Come look at the freaks..." The shock! The wonder! The BELTING! We're talking SIDE SHOW, kids! Guncle of the pod Adam Elsberry returns to discuss with Matt the cult classic musical about conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton on the longest episode yet. The two also discuss the importance of stagecraft, the combination of camp and greatness, and why the show's revival was bad. I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 23, 2022

"And Eve was weak..." It was once known as the flop to end all flops...and it just won't DIE. That's right! We're heading to the prom with CARRIE! Returning guest Preston Max Allen (We Are the Tigers, The Rage: Carrie 2) is back on the Breakdown to discuss with Matt what makes a monster, camp theatre, and why the revised version of CARRIE should just be called "Sue." WE'RE OUT FOR BLOOD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 16, 2022

"I will live in Disneyland..." IT'S. FINALLY. HAPPENING. We're talking about SMILE, baby!!!!!!!! Listeners rejoice!!! Godmother of the Breakdown Ali Gordon returns to discuss with Matt one of his favorite musicals. The two also discuss Drop Dead Gorgeous, Howard Ashman, and the importance of specificity. SHINE, BITCH!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 9, 2022

"I hear America singing..." Critics hated it. It nearly ruined Stephen Schwartz's Broadway career. It...had a TV movie? It...gets done all the time across the country? It...is the only Broadway musical Patti Lupone ever did where she DIDN'T sing?? Crazy, we know, but that's WORKING. The Broadway musical that tried to be A CHORUS LINE for blue-collar audiences and failed miserably. Fellow podcaster Jon Reilly (Life's But a Song) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the danger of directing something you wrote, annoying child actors, and what happens when you add songs to a show 30 years later. SEE THAT BUILDING! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 2, 2022

"Time heals everything..." Movies! Cocaine! Murder! It's MACK AND MABEL! The Jerry Herman flop that won't die, yet probably should...? Fellow podcaster Kimberly Cooper-Schmidt (Broadwaysted, Broadway Baby) comes back to the Breakdown to discuss toxic romance, Bernadette Peters, and what no one will admit about this troubled musical. TAP YOUR TROUBLES AWAY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 27, 2022

*BONUS* Here’s a special preview of the Cautionary Tales podcast from Pushkin Industries. On Cautionary Tales, bestselling author Tim Harford shares stories of human error, natural disasters, and tragic catastrophes from history that contain valuable lessons for today. In this preview, you’ll hear about Movin Out', the 2002 Billy Joel-inspired Broadway show created by dance legend Twyla Tharp. When Billy Joel agreed to let dance legend Twyla Tharp turn his songs into a Broadway musical it seemed like a surefire hit. But in previews, Movin’ Out was panned by the critics. It was soon headed for Broadway and was set to be an expensive and embarrassing failure. So how could Twyla turn things around and avert disaster before opening night? Hear more from Cautionary Tales at https://podcasts.pushkin.fm/ctbroadway?sid=breakdown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 26, 2022

"We're neither good, nor wise, nor pure..." The show lasted 73 performances...and has now been performed all over the world. AND was revived on Broadway TWICE! It's CANDIDE! Breakdown alum Jessie Field (Charlotte Lucas is 27 and Not Dead) returns to discuss with Matt whether the show is an operetta or a musical, who did "Glitter and Be Gay" best, and why we keep going on...despite the tragedies. BON VOYAGE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 18, 2022

"I'm wild again, beguiled again..." WE BACK and with a whole new series! Starting off with PAL JOEY: the classy Rodgers/Hart musical that made Broadway go "...this character's kind of a dick, right?" New guest Ben RImalower (PATTI ISSUES, CAST OFFS) joins the Breakdown to discuss subtly sexy lyrics, Ben's obsession with Patti, and the origin of the word "Stereotype." ZIP, BABY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 10, 2022

"Welcome to our house on Maple Avenue..." It's the END of TESORI HOUR! And we're closing out with a big one...FUN HOME! The show that gets Jeanine her much deserved Tony and an official placement in the Broadway firmament. Composer Julia Meinwald (PREGNANCY PACT) comes by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt this exceptional work of musical theatre. The two also discuss the importance of finding the comedy in tragedy and Matt announces his official rankings of Tesori works and the topic for the next series! NOT TOO BAD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 3, 2022

"I am on my way..." Who doesn't want to look like a million different movie stars? It's VIOLET everyone! Writer Eli Cohen (THE CHOSEN ONE) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the musical that should've launched Jeanine Tesori into the Broadway stratosphere, but took 17 years to finally make it. The two also discuss crying in the theatre, parents, and how Matt intends to troll the Marvel fandom. LAY DOWN YOUR HEAD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 24, 2022

"I've always been a morning person..." It's big, it's green, it's gassy...it's SHREK! We continue Tesori Hour with Jeanine's biggest, crassest musical yet with frequent collaborator David Lindsay-Abaire. Musical theatre writer Timothy Huang (AMERICAN MORNING, THE VIEW FROM HERE) stops by the Breakdown to talk with Matt about finding love through flatulence, knowing what kind of show you are, and the dangers of going too spectacular. WHAT'S UP, DULOC?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 17, 2022

"There is only underwater..." It wouldn't be Breakdown without some twists and turns! Acclaimed playwright and journalist Marcus Scott (TUMBLEWEED, CHERRY BOMB, FIDELIO at the Metropolitan Museum of Art) stops by the Breakdown to discuss one of the dramatic masterpieces of the 21st Century: CAROLINE, OR CHANGE. However, due to timing, Marcus is only available for 2/3 of the episode, so Matt has to make up for the rest of the time by going solo (something he love/hates to do). The two discuss challenging stereotypes, the importance of specificity, and how such a complex score can have so many bops. NO SALTY TEARDROPS HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 10, 2022

"Only in New York..." WELCOME BACK!!!! It's a brand new year and we got a brand new series: TESORI HOUR, covering the 5 Broadway musicals of Tony winning composer Jeanine Tesori. First up: THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE. Writer Jessie Field (Charlotte Lucas is 27 and Not Dead) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the zany 20's comedy that's also Jeanine's Broadway musical theatre debut. The two also discuss the glory of counterpoint, the cost of independence, and how theatre camp can be a hot bed of racism. GIMME GIMME! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 26, 2021

"History's about to get overthrown..." Divorced, beheaded, LIVE!! It's the final episode of The British Invasion and we're covering the most recent British import to dominated Broadway: SIX. Katie Johantgen (@katiejoyofosho) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Tudors, marriage, and pop music! Plus, Matt's final ranking of the covered British shows and an announcement for the next series. DON'T LOSE YOUR HEAD!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 18, 2021

"We are REVOLTING!" It's Loud, it's Quiet, it's Naughty, it's the Smell of Rebellion...it's MATILDA! The musical critics loved and American audiences...didn't really. Fellow podcaster Marc Tumminelli (LITTLE ME) comes on the Breakdown to talk with Matt about the British antidote to ANNIE. The two also talk about the downside of falling in love with a show through a cast recording, having too many ideas, and being mean to children. "When I grow uppppp!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 11, 2021

"Like electricity..." Boys doing Ballet?! What's next, a British musical coming to Broadway and winning 10 Tony Awards? Yes ma''am because this week it's BILLY ELLIOT! Original cast member and one part of the Broadway Husbands Stephen Hanna (BILLY ELLIOT, HELLO DOLLY, ON THE TOWN) visits the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things dancing, dead mums, and Thatcherism. The two also discuss the weird costume change at Stephen's audition for the show, aging into Daddy-dom, and learn that their pasts share one big thing in common. SOLIDARITY FOREVER! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 4, 2021

"What have we learned this week...?" Things get pensive and classy get this week with the Tony-winning hit THE HISTORY BOYS. Podcast alum James Crichton (UNKNOWN SOLDIER, ACTORS: ON PROCESS) returns to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the '06 super-smash. The two also discuss the difference between being "intelligent" and being "clever," the purpose of Broadway Breakdown, and why gaining knowledge is a beautiful thing. Pass it on! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 28, 2021

"I don't wanna talk..." Spangles, jumpsuits and long-lost fathers...it's MAMMA MIA, henny! Casting director Kate Lumpkin comes aboard the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the jukebox musical that made ABBA cool again and Meryl Streep an international movie star! The two also discuss the power of being at the right place at the right time, gender norms and the power of owning your sexual past. DOES YOUR MOTHER KNOW??? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 21, 2021

"Eternal youth is worth a little suffering..." It's big, it's bold, it's BACK! The British Invasion comes to a crashing halt with the landing of the Desmond Mansion, bankrupting a billion dollar production company and causing multiple leading ladies to claw at Andrew Lloyd Webber's throat. That's right...it's SUNSET BOULEVARD. Friend of the Pod Justin Mendoza (BOOK OF MORMON, WICKED) comes back to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things belting, turbans, and dead monkeys. The two also discuss melodrama, camp, and the Judy Kuhn of it All. LET'S HAVE LUNCH, SQUIRREL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 14, 2021

"Did you hear the story of the Johnstone twins...?" It ran for over 20 years on the West End...and for 2 on Broadway. It's about class, murder, and...Marilyn Monroe? Just roll with it! Fellow podcaster Kyle Marshall (PUTTING IT TOGETHER) joins the Breakdown to talk about the British sensation that barely made a blip across the pond. The two also discuss overusing similes, avoiding your fate, and the double edged sword of adults playing children. SHOES ON THE TABLE!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 7, 2021

"Let your mind start a journey to a strange new world..." It's the longest running Broadway production. The ultimate "Mask4Mask" musical. The show that's kept classic sopranos employed for over 30 years. It's PHANTOM OF THE OPERA! That's right: the most enduring Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is here to be discussed and debated. Long-time friend Sofia Christensen joins the Breakdown to talk with Matt about reliving trauma, fangirling over Meg and Carlotta, and why it's best not to ask questions. SING FOR ME! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 30, 2021

"Do you hear the people sing?" C'est le gros chien: LES MISÉRABLES! Aka LES MIZ! The epic 3 hour pop-opera is given the epic Breakdown treatment with the grand return of our dearly loved Sutton Lee Seymour(@suttonleeseymour)!! Matt and Sutton get Parisian as they discuss the worldwide phenomenon and its impact on theatre kids everywhere. The two also discuss ruining your life over carbs, that time Matt sang in a recording of the show, and how LES MIZ uses repeated melodies correctly. BRING IT HOME, JEAN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 23, 2021

"The sun has got his hat on!" It's the revival NO ONE saw coming! Yes, we're talking about the smash musical comedy ME AND MY GIRL! Fellow Broadway podcasters Kristina Miller-Weston and Bobby Traversa (MY FAVORITE FLOP) come on the Breakdown to discuss the 30's West End musical that found a second, richer life in the 1980's and went up against some major heavyweights! The three also discuss the weird romances in British aristocracy, the trickiness of doing a star vehicle, and why this extremely fun musical is basically a murder-less Agatha Christie novel. Doing the Lambeth Walk! OI! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 16, 2021

"All these DOORS!" It's a gut-busting, pants-dropping, door-slamming night at the theatre! It has violence! It has alcohol! It has SARDINES! We're talking about the all-time classic farce NOISES OFF! Breakdown Friend Adam Elsberry (@adamels) returns to discuss with Matt the joys of British comedy, censorship on the London stage, and the kitty cat joke that's almost too risque for television. Join in the fun!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 9, 2021

"Jellicles can and Jellicles do." You know it, you hate it, you love it, you secretly know at least two songs from it...it's CATS! Good friend and Sastress Amanda Lee Hawkins (@imamandahawkins) comes on the Breakdown to explore with Matt this feline fever dream that somehow ran for decades around the world. The two also discuss how horniness overrides most emotions, the song in CATS that no one expected to cry at, and the time Matt shouted Kerry Butler's age at BEETLEJUICE. TOUCH ME!!!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 2, 2021

"What's On?" If we're talking British imports, then we gotta talk about the West End's ultimate incubator for Broadway transfers: The Royal National Theatre!! Specifically, 4 BIG, IMPORTANT, SEXY PLAYS from the National. Breakdown Regular Ali Gordon (@msalicenutting) helps Matt tackle the first National play to come to Broadway(ROSENCRANTZ & GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD), the first to become a sensation (EQUUS), one of the many unjustly overshadowed(THE PILLOWMAN), and the epic spectacle that made the Tonys question themselves (WAR HORSE). The two also discuss the importance of nonprofit theatre, casting celebrities to do Stoppard, and the Real Housewives. HEADS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 26, 2021

"What's new, Buenos Aires?" Things are HEATING UP with the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice Belt-A-Thon...EVITA! Even though the sung through "rock opera" is the team's follow up to their controversial SUPERSTAR, EVITA truly marks the team's arrival on the theatre scene...and their invasion of Broadway. Guest and Patti Lupone impressionist Jonathan Hoover (@inappropriatepatti ) joins Matt to discuss their favorite actresses who've played the fascist First Lady of Argentina Eva Peron, when Andrew Lloyd Webber used to get weird, and whether this classic musical is ACTUALLY good. DON'T CRY FOR US!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 19, 2021

"Please Sir, I want some more..." Welcome to the NEWEST series on Broadway Breakdown: The British Invasion, covering imports from the West End to our beloved Broadway! First up: OLIVER! Exclamation Point! The British Wave didn't start with this adaptation from the Charles Dickens novel, but it sure got its momentum from it. Guest Margaret Hall (GEMIGNANI) comes on to discuss with Matt the dark family entertainment plus its infamous sequel DODGER, the debate of whether the movie is better than the stage show, and why Matt is average. CONSIDER YOURSELF ONE OF US! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 17, 2021

"Look at it, LOOK AT IT!" Guest/Alum of the Pod Jimmy Larkin (@letshearitforthechoice) closes out the Sondheim Series with ROAD SHOW(aka BOUNCE, aka WISE GUYS)! The two discuss why it took almost 20 years for the show to make it to NYC, lawsuits, and why writing a musical about incest may NOT be a great idea Plus! Matt reveals his official ranking of all the Sondheim musicals AND an announcement on the subject of the next series. BET YOUR LITTLE, TITTY BOY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 15, 2021

IN THE HEIGHTS came out in theaters this week! What did Matt think? More importantly what did our resident movie musical critic, Matt's Mom, think?! Can a light entertainment be deep? Is it possible to have TOO many good ideas? And how are we all misusing hyperboles? FIND OUT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 10, 2021

"Brek-kek-kek-kek!" Stephen Sondheim, Susan Stroman, and Nathan Lane...how could it lose? Well, we're gonna find out EXACTLY how. Breakdown Legend Ali Gordon comes aboard the River Styx to discuss with Matt the last new Sondheim score to hit Broadway...THE FROGS! And Ali is our Frogs expert because the bitch has actually SEEN the damn show! What a treat! The two discuss their time at theatre camp, meeting Nathan Lane at the stage door, and whether a show that makes fart jokes has the right to try to teach you a lesson. ALL ABOARD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 3, 2021

"Everybody's got the right to be happy..." It took 13 years... but it got to Broadway and won some Tonys, to boot! That's right. We're talking ASSASSINS! This week, Matt is joined by musical artist Erin Markey to discuss the political-LSD-vaudeville and all the hang ups that go with it. The two also discuss Erin's experience performing as Squeaky Fromme at City Center, the importance of wigs, and why Matt is much more basic than originally thought. WE ARE UNWORTHY OF THIS EPISODE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 27, 2021

"This is nice, isn't it...?" Special guest Kevin Metzger-Timson (MT Trivia, Tara Rubin Casting) joins Matt to discuss the first fully formed musical Sondheim wrote: SATURDAY NIGHT! Despite being his first, it took almost 50 years to come to New York and even then...never got to Broadway. Matt and Kevin converse over the early mistakes of Sondheim, the insanely stacked cast of the show's NY premiere and SATURDAY NIGHT'S connection to an Oscar-winning actress that Matt has a signed movie poster from. What more do you NEED?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 24, 2021

BONUS EPISODE! On a very special Breakdown, Matt sits with triple threat and beautiful soul Natascia Diaz (EVERY LITTLE STEP, SEUSSICAL, CAROUSEL) and oooohhhh is it WONDERFUL! During their conversation, Natascia discusses the difficulties and pay off of playing Fosca in PASSION, Matt talks about the time he yelled at someone in public about CAROUSEL and what it means to have a legacy. We TOLD you it was SPECIAL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 20, 2021

"So much happiness..." If Stephen Sondheim wrote for Taylor Swift...it would turn out to be PASSION. That's right! It's here! The last Tony-winning Sondheim musical in the series. Matt is joined by his dear friend Nur Pratama to discuss all things love, sex and sickness with this sexy Sondheim chamber opera. Together, Nur and Matt discuss what it means to be loved, getting booed on stage, and being too hot to know any better. Let's get EMO y'all!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 13, 2021

"And I know things now..." Before SHREK, there was INTO THE WOODS! That's right, we've come to the classic fairy tale Sondheim musical that every high school in America has performed at one point in the last 30 years. But even though it's Sondheim's most produced musical, is it his best? Matt and guest Kevin Zak (CLINTON, WAITRESS) dive into all things witches, giants and beans and discuss the show's road to Broadway, its movie version and why the original production ruined everything. I WISH! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 6, 2021

"GOD, I am so HOT." It's SUNDAY on a Thursday! We're talking all things SUNDAY IN THE PARK with our Resident GEORGE expert Emily Maltby (EVITA, ANASTASIA)!!! YESSSSS, Emily has returned to discuss even further her favorite musical in the Sondheim canon. Emily and Matt discuss secrets storylines, being immortalized and why Kim Cattrall would've been a great asset to the show. MOVE OOOOOOOOONNNN!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 29, 2021

"Hey, Old Friend..." From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows...here go with MERRILY! The big Broadway flop that almost made Sondheim quit the business, gave Liz Callaway her debut, and despite running for 16 performances has continued to survive and become beloved in its own right. Guest Jane Bruce (JAGGED LITTLE PILL) comes on to discuss re-written material, what "selling out" means, and why sweatshirts were the original Broadway production's downfall. HERE'S TO US!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 22, 2021

"Attend the tale..." Ooooooooohhhh it's the BIG ONE!! Broadway music director Justin Mendoza (BOOK OF MORMON, WICKED) discusses with Matt just about every element of this grand ol' cannibalistic musical/opera including stupid lovers, sociopathic actresses and what SWEENEY TODD has in common with LES MIS. God, that's GOOD! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 15, 2021

"Have some tea, My Lord..." 1976, Broadway met Kabuki with PACIFIC OVERTURES, and Sondheim fans have been arguing over it ever since. Guest Sam Simahk (MY FAIR LADY, THE KIND AND I, CAROUSEL) chats with Matt about the historical Sondheim musical's virtues and shortcomings, as well as diversity in musicals, Japanese history and telling your story. Next!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 8, 2021

"RAISINS!!" The Sondheim Streak continues with one of the songwriter's biggest hits: A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC! Podcast alum Charlotte Maltby (THE SOUND OF MUSIC) returns to discuss all things delightful about the one Sondheim musical even your grandmother will love! Plus Matt and Charlotte get into how NIGHT MUSIC spawned Sondheim's biggest pop hit, Matt's personal connection to the original Broadway company, and what teen movie Matt thinks you should watch if you've been cast in NIGHT MUSIC. Hi Ho the Glamorous life!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 31, 2021

"I'm just a Broadway Baby" The Golden Age of Sondheim keeps going with the existential showbiz fever dream that is FOLLIES! Peter Koplik (aka MATT'S DAD) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss his longtime love for the musical. Plus the two discuss FOLLIES' connections to The Glass Menagerie, Fellini, and PADDINGTON 2! You'll love it, and we're not just being kiiiiiind! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 25, 2021

"I'd like to propose a toast..." A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC gets conceptual with the marital musical COMPANY! Yes, we're finally entering the TRUE Sondheim era!! And who better to discuss the landmark musical than a member of the most recent Broadway production, Britney Coleman (SUNSET BOULEVARD, TOOTSIE, BEAUTIFUL)!!! Britney and Matt discuss the complex music, Bobby's sexuality, and the joys of being vapid. You'l loooooooooooooooooooooooove iiiiiiiiiiiiiit!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 17, 2021

"We're gonna be alright..." Stephen Sondheim, Richard Rodgers and Arthur Laurents wrote a musical once and we ALL forgot about it!! Friend of the pod Adam Elsberry (THE WILD PARTY WARS PART 1 and 2)returns to Breakdown to discuss with Matt about what happens when your lead actors are TOO hot, how Sondheim missed the boat, and why the best characters in musicals are all essentially Samantha Jones from Sex & The City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 10, 2021

"I don't know, but it's BRILLIANT!" Things get weird w/ Daddy Sondheim's next musical about conformity, sanity and the power of a red wig: ANYONE CAN WHISTLE. Broadway historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper (author of the Untold Stories of Broadway Anthology) returns to the pod to discuss this truly whacky musical with Matt as well as the show's troubled process getting produced, including Angela Lansbury shouting in a stairwell, giving audiences the middle finger...and DEATH!!!! We and this pod...we just want to be LOOOOOVED! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 3, 2021

"INTERMISSION!" We barrel into the 60's with the first Broadway score ENTIRELY written by our boy Stephen Sondheim. Broadway music director and former guest of the pod Patrick Sulken (PRETTY WOMAN, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS)stops by to discuss with Matt how such a successful show had such a disastrous out of town tryout, a score that works even though it doesn't fit the show, and why this musical may not be as dated as some would have you believe. TRAGEDY TOMORROW, COMEDY TONIGHT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 28, 2021

Impossible? Things are happening EVERY day!! Alum of the pod Jimmy Larkin (@letshearitforthechoice)joins Matt to interview legendary/award winning music director Paul Bogaev on his illustrious career on Broadway (CHESS, AIDA, SUNSET BOULEVARD). film (CHICAGO, NINE, DREAMGIRLS) and TV (CINDERELLA, ANNIE) including the making of the iconic CINDERELLA starring Brandy, the Tony winning actresses that ALMOST starred in AIDA, and how he turned non-singing movie stars into Broadway Babies!! It's a JUICY and THRILLING bonus episode of the Breakdown!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 24, 2021

"Children, go play in the alley..." We close out the Golden Age of Broadway with the iconic GYPSY. Often thought of as the perfect musical, Preston Max Allen (WE ARE THE TIGERS, CARRIE 2) comes on to discuss with Matt the show's brilliant writing, homoerotic undertones and missed opportunities. And Matt goes on to explain why Arthur Laurents was the best and worst thing to happen to GYPSY. Have an egg roll!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 18, 2021

Welcome to Broadway Breakdown’s first mini-series “A Little Sondheim Music” where we go through the career of Stephen Sondheim. Friend of the Pod Andres Melendez comes back to dive into the show that gave our Broadway Daddy his Broadway debut...WEST SIDE STORY! The two discuss how the show has aged, if the movie version is ACTUALLY good, why "I Feel Pretty" is better than Sondheim will admit, and why most revivals fail. KEEP IT COOL, BOY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 14, 2021

THINGS ARE SHAKING UP HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 7, 2021

"There IS a contest...but she won." Tim Kov and Anna Hulkower (hosts of MY LITTLE TONYS) join Matt to dissect the numerous Tony wins of legend, icon and bubble bath taker Angela Lansbury! The group also discusses when the Tonys had Gays in the mezzanine, Elizabeth Taylor doing stand up, and that one telecast that had blackface...it's Angie's Turn! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 31, 2021

"The only thing hornier than Bridgerton is the 1982 ANNIE." Your favorite (or least favorite) redhead is front and center in a new episode of Breakdown! Fan favorite Dani Ticktin Koplik (aka MATT'S MOM) comes on to discuss with the opinionated host the origin, merits and flaws of the musical ANNIE and its subsequent movie versions. Is the the 1982 version too racist? Is the 1999 version too sweet? Is the 2014 version too ashamed it's ANNIE? And who the HECK thought it was a good idea to make all the orphans horny?! WE KNOW YOU'RE GONNA LIKE IT HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 23, 2021

"Was it chaos or was it fun?" Fellow podcaster Kimberly Cooper Schmidt (BROADWAYSTED, BROADWAY BABY) takes Matt back to his college years when musical theatre was alive and well in Youtube concerts. Matt and Kimberly discuss the Broadway stars who were once Youtube unknowns, drugs in Angela Lansbury's dressing room, and why a great song can never be in a musical. CLAP YOUR HANDS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 17, 2021

"If anyone could write a musical of WHEN HARRY MET SALLY, it's Maltby and Shire..." Broadway Producer and Historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper (BE MORE CHILL, The Untold Stories of Broadway Anthology) discusses with Matt her love for the iconic songwriting duo of Richard Maltby Jr and David Shire (BABY, BIG). The two gush over the amazing scores the two have written as well as high school hobbies, what it means to be a dated musical, and why the 80's wasn't as bad a time for Broadway as some think. STARTING HERE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 9, 2021

"RUTHLESS is the Gay SAT's" It's our longest episode yet, Henny! Breakdown alum Morgan Reynolds comes back to discuss Matt's newfound love for the Off-Broadway camp fest RUTHLESS, which leads to discussions on Bernadette Peters' career as a producer, the history of gay culture, and why Tina Denmark is the hardest role for a child actor. ARE WE ALL LIT?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 2, 2021

"It's not barbaric when you're a diva." Massive backstage drama, high belting arias, and MURDER! It's SUNSET BOULEVARD, baby! International ingenue Matt Leisy (PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, SWEENEY TODD) discusses his obsession with the noir Andrew Lloyd Webber musical and does battle with host Matt about who's a better Norma, when a principal role is actually the worst one in the show, and whether this musical is ACTUALLY good. Ready for you close up? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 26, 2020

"What the f*ck is WILL ROGERS FOLLIES about?" Got Milk?? Spencer Glass ("It's the Day of the Show Y'all!") drops by the Breakdown and reminisces with Matt about Broadway in the 90's, including the debut of Laura Benanti, why THE LIFE's Tony performance shows true diversity, and who is Broadway's secret MILF. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 21, 2020

"It's sort of the MAGNOLIA of Christmas movies." SURPRISE!!! Just in time for the holidays, Broadway Breakdown has gifted you a special bonus episode with recurring guest Ali Gordon ALL about the Netflix masterpiece/garbage fire that is "Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square." Matt and Ali get into EVERYTHING about this movie: the songs, the drama, and characters getting impregnated by Dolly Parton. FEEL THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 19, 2020

"All of his songs are bops" Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Devin Holloway (SOMETHING ROTTEN, MOTOWN, 42ND STREET) comes to the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with Disney tunesmith and purveyor of childhood dreams Alan Menken! Devin and Matt also discuss which recording of Little Shop is definitive, performing with legends, and the destruction of childhood imagination. ALLEY-OOP! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 12, 2020

"How do you silence a woman who's known for her belt?" THE PROM is now on Netflix! And audio issues can't stop Matt from voicing his opinions with his iconic mother by his side. The two discuss the pros and cons of Ryan Murphy's movie adaptation of the stage musical. They also talk about the original Broadway production's secret weapon, why James Corden isn't the enemy, and how a wig can ruin a scene. IT'S TIME TO DANCE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 5, 2020

"I'll eat some breakfast, then change the world." Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee're BACK! Broadway Encyclopedia and Perpetual Opinionated Gay Matt Koplik returns with special guest Jimmy Larkin (aka @letshearitforthechoice)!!! Jimmy stops by to discuss his obsession with the musical landmark HAIRSPRAY. The two also discuss Brandi in Cinderella, dressing up as Dorothy in homemade Wizard of Oz costumes, and why so many musical theatre actors don't like musicals. YOU CAN'T STOP THIS BEAT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 9, 2020

"The last thing you wanna think when someone is having a murderous breakdown is 'This is a bop.'" PART 2!!! Matt and Adam decide ONCE AND FOR ALL: Which is the Better WILD PARTY? And does "best" always mean "favorite"? Can music be enjoyable but not effective? All of these questions (and many more) are answered! Get into it, Toni Collette! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 8, 2020

"To quote Uma Thurman on SMASH, 'I'm here to Dig Deep." IT'S A FIRST!!! Broadway Breakdown is doing a Two-Parter Episode!! Matt invites his good Judy Adam Elsberry to figure out once and for all the question that has haunted Broadway chat rooms and frat boy keg parties for years: "Which is the better WILD PARTY?" And the answer is too complicated for just ONE episode! SO WE SPLIT IT INTO TWO!. Part 1 dives into the history of the two musicals and runs through how each version adapts the infamous 1920's poem for the stage. Part 2 compares and contrasts the two and DECISIVELY determines which is the better one. WHAT A PARTY! WHILE YOU LISTEN: Go to https://www.artsactionfund.org/ActionCenter and learn how you can help save the Arts!! More than ever, the world needs art and we want to make sure it comes back. Find out how you can donate, support or fight for the Arts!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 25, 2020

“There's a lot of Gossip Girl in AMADEUS…” The National Theatre just streamed their recent production of AMADEUS, so Matt brought back his close friend (and fellow nerd) Ali Gordon to talk about their deep love for the brilliant play and its even better Oscar-winning film adaptation. The two also discuss film editing that f*cks in the movie, how history's perception makes us see art and the Mozart aria that is SO fierce, even people who hate classical music HAVE to snap their fingers in appreciation. BRAVA! WHILE YOU LISTEN: Check Out the Netflix documentary “Disclosure” about Trans representation in the media, as well all of the herbal teas, sweeteners and various products at Ivy’s Tea ( https://www.ivystea.com ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 19, 2020

"Dancing and singing at the same time is really hard." The Broadway Gal Pal with a voice like velvet Lauren Nicole Chapman (FROZEN, KINKY BOOTS) joins the Breakdown to discuss her obsession with SWEET CHARITY. Specifically the 2005 revival w/ Christina Applegate, but also the show in general. She and Matt also discuss their days doing shows together in college, the stress of out-of-town tryouts, and how an open call landed Lauren on Broadway! Get into it, Big Spender! WHILE YOU LISTEN: EMAIL Attorney General Daniel Cameron: attorney.general@ag.ky.gov , Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer: greg.fischer@louisvilleky.gov , and Police Chief Robert Schroeder: robert.schroeder@louisvilleky.gov and demand justice for the murder of Breonna Taylor. ALSO: enjoy these two theatrical works that celebrate Black artistry: Ain't Misbehavin' ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE8_MxJCsqg&t=1276s ) and The Colored Museum ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhFlG3GzqH4 ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 4, 2020

"HAMILTON is aspiring for us to do exactly what we're doing right now." The hottest ticket on Broadway is in your living room! Matt is joined by his lovely friend Andrew to discuss their love and appreciation for the juggernaut musical HAMILTON, and touch on the difficulties of filming a stage show, Broadway's uneven relationship with race and why representation matters. WHILE YOU LISTEN: EMAIL these three men to demand justice for Breonna Taylor's Murder (Attorney General Daniel Cameron attorney.general@ag.ky.gov , Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer greg.fischer@louisvilleky.gov , Police Chief Robert Schroeder robert.schroeder@louisvilleky.gov ) And check out businesswoman Ashleigh Evans' website and products InBooze Cocktail Kits! ( https://www.dashofevans.com/aboutme/ , https://www.etsy.com/shop/InBooze ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 20, 2020

"Every single line I could pull out and deconstruct." Broadway Nice Guy Charlie Franklin (TINA, BOOK OF MORMON, BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the time travel divorce epic THE LAST 5 YEARS. Together, Matt and Charlie discuss relating to characters, how a performance can completely change a song's presentation, and why the musical is similar to THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 6, 2020

"It's so different when you're doing a show that you can relate to in such a deep, deep, deep way." Broadway powerhouse Antoine L. Smith (CAROUSEL, MISS SAIGON, THE COLOR PURPLE) comes on the Breakdown discuss with Matt his obsession with the Broadway revival of THE COLOR PURPLE. Having been in the production, Antoine shares the show’s creative process, why the 80’s movie version received backlash, and the distinctions between each award-winning actress who played Shug Avery. WHILE YOU LISTEN: Take the time to visit the following websites this week as allies of the Black Lives Matter movement: semicolonchi.com , transgenderlawcenter.org/programs , bwayforblm.org . Support, Donate, Educate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 31, 2020

JOHN'S BACK!! Yay...? Matt and John discuss how a bold production brings out the sexual toxicity of A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, what you should NEVER compare Broadway Bootlegs to, and how to celebrate birthdays in quarantine. WHILE YOU'RE LISTENING: Take the time to visit bailproject.org , naacp.org , and reclaimtheblock.org and donate. These organizations (and many more) need your attention and support. Stay Safe! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 24, 2020

"These girls are heroes and you're rooting for all 10 of them the whole time." Comedian and Professional Gay Tim Murray stops by the pod to discuss his obsession with the 2008 MTV reality show THE SEARCH FOR THE NEXT ELLE WOODS, which followed the casting for the new lead in LEGALLY BLONDE on Broadway. Having just hosted a Zoom reunion with the final contestants, Tim discusses with Matt revelations he learned from the reunion, plus getting cursed out by Leslie Kritzer and the stigma of wanting it too much. Bend and SNAP, Girl! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 16, 2020

"MEET ME IN ST LOUIS was the foreplay that lead to Liza Minnelli." Tony Award nominee Grey Henson (MEAN GIRLS, THE BOOK OF MORMON) comes onto the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the 1944 Judy Garland classic MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS. Matt and Grey *also* discuss the facets to queer conversations, the magnetism of vulnerability, and why Tammy Blanchard made a 100 Judy Garland impersonators quit drag (probably). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 10, 2020

"You are to show stops what Taylor Swift is to boyfriends." Perpetual juvenile Daniel Quadrino (NEWSIES, WICKED, BYE BYE BIRDIE) stops by the Breakdown just 'cause sometimes you need to gab! Some of the many topics he and Matt discuss are on-stage mishaps, when fans cross boundaries and the gender bent role of Daniel's dreams. Snap INTO it, Henny! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 3, 2020

"I'm a sucker for a good comedic song done well." Gabe Gibbs (BOOK OF MORMON and creator of the podcast MUSICALS THAT NEVER MADE IT) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the only musical that has onstage commentary THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. However, Gabe's never actually SEEN it! Together, Matt and Gabe discuss if someone can be obsessed with a show if they're not sure what it's about, why DROWSY has aged well but THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE has not, and Matt being dumped by someone after they listened to the podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 26, 2020

"This show has layers." Fancy Dance Man Joshua Burrage (NEWSIES, CATS, A BRONX TALE) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his deep love of the movie-turned musical-turned Netflix movie musical SHREK. Joshua and Matt also discuss character secrets in CATS, audio issues with Zoom and how to properly showcase Sutton Foster. Take it home, Stephen!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 19, 2020

"If I became a knight...I could STILL be in CATS." John Krause (HADESTOWN, FUN HOME, WICKED) stops by the pod to discuss his newfound fascination and obsession with the CATS movie. And Matt is MORE than happy to discuss all the horniness, uncanny valley-ness, and Judi Dench's leg extension-ness. Also, the two discuss how plot "fixes" can become plot "holes," why some musicals don't work on film and WHO exactly is the Dean of CATS School? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 8, 2020

"Who doesn't love a nose douche?" How's isolation going kiddies? We thought so. Matt and John discuss the numerous ways to pass the time while locked in your home plus the moral grey area of bootlegs, Broadway stars who left us for TV, the best series to binge these days and what happened when one of your beloved hosts contracted Corona!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 22, 2020

"We really underestimated the stupidity and the entitlement of the American people." Matt and John are on lockdown with the rest of NYC. Together, they discuss the Broadway shutdown, ways to pass the time while social distancing, and how to find the silver linings even when you're down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 15, 2020

"Don't. Trick. LANDON." Recorded on Wednesday 03/11, Matt and John discuss the sensual, steamy and Tig Ol' Bitties topic of "CONSENT." Plus a very long dissertation about a Mean Girls' actress's opinions of the stage door. Kisses! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 8, 2020

"They're all GAY." Matt and John bemoan the lack of specialty in Broadway these days. Plus the new season of Drag Race, Matt seeing MACK & MABEL, and what's exciting this Broadway season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 1, 2020

"So much beauty in the world." Director/Choreographer Emily Maltby (EVITA, LOLITA MY LOVE, FIRST DAUGHTER SUITE) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt her love of the Pulitzer Prize winning, sometimes confusing, always moving musical SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. Major topics include what makes a successful production of SUNDAY, which two minor characters Matt thinks are totally f*cking, and what the final scene means. HELLO GEORGE! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 23, 2020

"Usually I'm just like, 'You're boring and I hate you.'" TV/Film actor and Professional Gay Trey Gerrald (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, THE QUEENS PROJECT, YOU'RE THE WORST)stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the legacy, the history and the complete illegality of the world of Broadway Bootlegs. Plus the two discuss some Broadway gossip and make plenty of sexually crude jokes. SORRY ABOUT IT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 16, 2020

"I would like to reiterate how trash people are." An incident at JAGGED LITTLE PILL gets Matt and John talking about the downfall of audience etiquette. Plus, Matt revisits ALADDIN and THE LION KING on Broadway, the pod gets a brand new review and the two dissect the problems with a recent statement made by WEST SIDE STORY. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 2, 2020

"Am I creating things for art or for attention?" Matt and John discuss Cameron Dallas in Mean Girls, the TV show that's ruining everything, and even come up with a new word! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 12, 2020

"What a wonderful use of oxygen you are." IT'S 2020 AND WE'RE STILL HERE (barely)! Matt reviews MOULIN ROUGE, John reviews the new Disney/Musical Theatre/Life Evaluation Reality Show ENCORE and the two get into the nitty gritty of some Oscar potential flicks. Because we CAN CAN CAN, GIRL! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 29, 2019

"You know who's not in Amadeus? Mary-Louise Parker." It's the last episode of 2019!! So ring in the end of the year with one more obsession! Fellow theatre podcaster James Crichton ("Actors: On Process") swings by the pod to discuss his obsession with Tony Award and Emmy Award winner Mary-Louise Parker with Matt. The two also get into such hot topics as: How to get famous actors to do your projects, what Disney film defines you, and what Broadway star has changed their tune about social media. AULD LANG SYNE KIDZ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 22, 2019

"A hundred people had to sign off on all of these decisions that were made." Matt spills all the Jellicle T after seeing the CATS movie, John discusses the double edged sword of academic pushback and the two gays gush over a brand new, piping hot iTunes Review!! MEOW BITCH!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 15, 2019

"I don't think prostitutes sound like Linda Eder." Approachable Broadway ingenue Elena Ricardo (MAMMA MIA, BEAUTIFUL) stops by the Breakdown to share her obsession with vocal heavyweight (and semi-Broadway diva) Linda Eder. Elena and Matt discuss Eder's crazy vocal range as well as the difference between confidence and egotism and the ONE musical that gives Elena nightmares. BA-BAM! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 7, 2019

PRESENTING BROADWAY BREAKDOWN'S FIRST RADIO PLAY: An excerpt from Matt's series "YOURS, TRULY," specifically the scene in the season finale defending THE LITTLE MERMAID. This episode is brought to you by the "iTunes review challenge" Matt and guest Melanie Brook set for listeners in episode 56. Enjoy! And if you don't, at least it's short! CAST: Matt Koplik (Calvin), Nick Giedris (Narrator), Cassie Levine (Sophie), Nick Prior (Brent), Kate Forristall (Audrey), Tyler Milliron (Sean), Ali Gordon (Callie Mason), Jordan Puryear (Dee), Amanda Hawkins (Kelly), Sofia Christensen (Ann), and Josh Daniel (Neil). Music provided by Tri-Tachyon ("Little Lily Swing" and "Energy Fix") Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 23, 2019

"I can't tell you that it's ANY good. And if someone were to tell me that it was, I would perhaps think a little less of them." MILK!!!! John's back for a good ol' fashioned episode of the Breakdown! The two gays dissect the new CATS trailer, John re-joins the work force and Matt sees JAGGED LITTLE PILL, SLAVE PLAY and THE INHERITANCE. Also, the two ask the biggest question: Who the f*ck is Mike?!?! To avoid spoilers, time frame for discussion on each show is: Jagged Little Pill: 22:00-35:00 Slave Play: 36:00-41:00 The Inheritance: 43:00-65:00 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 17, 2019

"The Good, The Bad, and the Ridiculous. That is what I would call Broadwayworld." Internet Musical Theatre Diva Melanie Brook joins the Breakdown to talk with Matt about the infamous, glamorous, garbage fire beauty that is the message board Broadwayworld.com ; the two discuss their histories with the website, favorite posters and problematic threads. Also, Matt discusses THE INHERITANCE and Melanie tries to make "#JusticeForBakingItOnBroadway" trend. ALERT THE MODS!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 10, 2019

"I don't blame myself for not liking her." Broadway Breakdown alum and our favorite Broadway drag queen Sutton Lee Seymour steps in for John as co-host in this HIGHLY opinionated, DEEPLY passionate episode. Sutton reviews the Off-Broadway LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Matt calls out some Broadway bullsh*it and the two dissect the dead fish that is THE LITTLE MERMAID LIVE. These gays give opinions that can...what's the word...BURN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 2, 2019

John has thoughts on THE INHERITANCE, Matt has thoughts on the Yiddish FIDDLER, and with the casting announcement for COMPANY, both gays wonder if anyone on Broadway is even listening . HODGE PODGE, KIDZ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 27, 2019

"This story reveals to me that if you wanted to, you could probably murder me and get away with it." John was busy, so Matt scooped up tap dancing cutie pie Kaitlyn Frank (NEWSIES, MY FAIR LADY, WE ARE THE TIGERS)and the two discuss the amazing art of tap dance by deconstructing three amazing clips of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Ann Miller. And also how Kaitlyn's old tap teacher become Youtube famous only AFTER he hung up his dancing shoes. TAP INTO IT, GIRL! For reference: Gene Kelly SUMMER STOCK clip: ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0tnHNYpRG8&t=9s ) Fred Astaire EASTER PARADE ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emNOxALQlpo ) Ann Miller EASTER PARADE ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yS1e9zksJ8 ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 19, 2019

JOHN'S BACK!!! And we're *pretty* happy about it. Matt and John discuss an article about phone etiquette that gets them PISSED, express the joy they feel from Katrina Lenk GIFS, and the return of "Jukebox That Musical" with "SO EMOTIONAL: A Whitney Houston/Shonda Rhimes Extravangaza." Pas de deux it, bitch! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 28, 2019

"Musical theatre didn't start with Dear Evan Hansen, you know." Honorary theatre gay Charlotte Maltby (THE SOUND OF MUSIC) joins the Breakdown to discuss the amazingness of OKLAHOMA, specifically the legendary 1998 London staging w/ mind blowing choreography by Susan Stroman and a shirtless Hugh Jackman! Together, Matt and Charlotte discuss the show's historic legacy, how Hugh Jackman lead them both to a sexual awakening, and their plan to turn the musical into a 70's style sitcom called "Facets of Laurey." OK, BISH! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 21, 2019

"I don't think a blonde on Broadway has been that iconic until Taylor Louderman as Regina George." It's 90's Nostalgia Week at the Breakdown with BIG THE MUSICAL. Matt's childhood friend Michael Bello (SUMMER, DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, WE ARE THE TIGERS) drops by the pod and the two discuss all of the things they LOVE about this gigantic musical (Fierce dancing teens! Epic music! Slurpee cups!) as well as some plot points that might lead to psychological trauma for its characters(DID they sleep together??) CROSS THAT LINE, HUN! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 14, 2019

"It just encapsulates every part of what I love about the musical theatre." It's gay, it's crude, it's BROADWAY! Josh Daniel (THE BOOK OF MORMON) stops by to talk about his obsession with the 6 Tony Nominated/Winning Ladies in Red at Stephen Sondheim's 80th Birthday Concert. He and Matt discuss why no man's d*ck can throw Patti Lupone , why Marin Mazzie's performance makes Matt mad and, more importantly, which diva's performance is the perfect choice for your next "sexy time." GET INTO IT, FISH! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 8, 2019

"You can talk to birds?" Broadway drag queen and Breakdown vet Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss everyone's favorite Sondheim morality musical INTO THE WOODS. Matt and Sutton discuss the legendary original cast, deep themes, and why this amazing musical has had so many productions that suck. BEANS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 31, 2019

"F*ck the rest of GYPSY!" Lifelong friend and Comedic Bit-stress Abby Goldfarb (Fiddler on the Roof) joins the pod to talk about her obsession with the epic-ness of 11 O'Clock numbers. Matt and Abby also discuss the night that Ruth Bader Ginsburg came to FIDDLER, the quality of epic sung-through musicals and their new drag name "Patti LuPorn." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 25, 2019

"Yop, Queen, Yop!" Broadway Music Director Patrick Sulken (Pretty Woman, Kinky Boots)joins the Breakdown to chat his obsession with the Broadway flop/National Treasure SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL. Matt and Patrick dig deep and discuss the show's troubled history, what Broadway heavyweights can be found in the show's ensemble, and whose performance is CRIMINALLY underrated. Splash, bitch, Splash! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 18, 2019

John opens up about his continuous struggle with testicular cancer...and a sexual side effect after his upcoming surgery. PLUS, Matt shares thoughts on 2 recently closed Broadway musicals, describes to John the worst Winona Ryder movie EVER, and the two share the origin story for the podcast's newest running gag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 23, 2019

Musical theatre drag queen star Sutton Lee Seymour chats with Matt and John about drag inspiration, racism in old Hollywood movies, the great Broadway closings of 2019, and what the f*ck is ACTUALLY happening in the CATS movie trailer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 13, 2019

"I wish they gave Tonys for opinions, 'cause I would have 9." Broadway actor/influencer/husband and Special Guest Bret Shuford (The Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beauty and the Beast) talks his obsession with DISNEY on BROADWAY. Bret and Matt also discuss a new Disney trend Matt HATES, differentiating between Sierra Boggess' mix and belt, and inducting Matt into the gay mafia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 12, 2019

The 2019 Tony Awards left Matt and John with some OPINIONS. Will they share them? Damn right! Also, an old internet friend resurfaces and Matt and John freak out over the best new show on TV/The Internet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 1, 2019

"I don't know if I just want to BE you, Sutton, or if I just want to kiss Gavin Creel. Because she go to 8 times a week." In honor of Pride here is the gayest episode YET of Broadway Breakdown! Special Guest Morgan Reynolds (Broadway ASMR) comes on to discuss his Broadway obsession with SUTTON FOSTER (because who can't relate?) Morgan and Matt talk amazing belting, dropped in/realistic acting, and go off topic a LOT. Get into it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 18, 2019

Dealing with the 2019 Tony Nominees: Matt tells you why you shouldn't say "snub," John is worshipping at the altar of Christina Applegate, and MOVE OVER FINDING NEVERLAND...there is a new Broadway show Matt can NOT stand. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 28, 2019

It's Pudding Season! Matt and John make some wildly intelligent (and intelligently wild) predictions for this year's Tony nominations. Also, Matt sees TOOTSIE, John sees OKLAHOMA, and the two gays discuss the cost of selling your soul for the wrong jukebox musical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 14, 2019

Being sick won't keep Matt and John from exploring their truths! Matt reviews HADESTOWN and the new OKLAHOMA, John finally sees THE PROM, a brief discussion on FOSSE/VERDON, and the return of talking about DRAG RACE. Buckle up! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 31, 2019

John's back!!! And together, he and Matt compare thoughts on the Kiss Me Kate revival, Sutton Foster's casting in The Music Man and why it's important to listen to other people's gross opinions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 17, 2019

"If we're always trying to push boundaries, at some point the boundaries are gonna be broken but the device is gonna be the same." With John still absent, Matt calls on Kevin Duda (The Book of Mormon, Beautiful, CInderella) to share his Broadway obsession as well as laying down the law on "unofficial recordings," what makes an effective revival, and some more talk on "SMILE The Musical." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 10, 2019

"People in America were like 'What is this f*cking garbage? Get it out of my stage!'" Actress/Comedienne/Broadwayphile Ali Gordon comes in to launch "My Obsession," the new Broadway Breakdown mini-series! Matt and Ali discuss her Broadway obsession CORAM BOY, getting murdered by Alan Cumming, and why epic theatre is going extinct on Broadway. PLAY ALONG KIDS! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 24, 2019

It has been a WEEK, kids. Matt and John play therapy with each other as they discuss Laura Benanti in My Fair Lady, John almost meeting Stephen Sondheim and Matt's emotional breakdown at a friend's show. Strap in, it's a fun one!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 10, 2019

John discovers just how young some of the listeners of Broadway Breakdown are, Matt finally watches The Princess Switch, and producer Lucas McMahon (Something Rotten, Hand to God, The Play That Goes Wrong) pops in to correct some misconceptions about Broadway. It's REVELATORY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 2, 2019

Matt and John discuss Valentine's Day plans, John's intimate moment with Jake Gyllenhaal and why "Rent Live!" was doomed to fail. GET INTO IT! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 20, 2019

Audio troubles can't bring Matt and John down!!! They're gonna honor Carol Channing by sharing their favorite stories of the musical theatre legend, they're gonna share all the piping hot TEA Kelli O'Hara spilled at her latest concert, and Matt is going to PROVE to you that the most memorable performance in The Ferryman ISN'T from a human. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 29, 2018

2018 is almost over, bitch, and Matt and John are gonna close it out with some OPINIONS. Why is Mary Poppins Returns like a gayer Bohemian Rhapsody? What Broadway show has been ruined for John forever? And why should you NEVER make a New Year's Resolution? Find out and embrace 2019!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 12, 2018

Matt and John talk about the Broadway sh*tstorm that occurred on the internet this week....oh, and also some shows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 1, 2018

Matt and John discuss the onslaught of Broadway closings, what's wrong with modern movie writing, and effective ways to deal with sexism in old musicals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 13, 2018

If you're having a sh*tty day, curl up with John and Matt as they talk about what lessons you can learn from "The Little Mermaid," which Bible story playwrights can't seem to get enough of, and if "A Star is Born" is ACTUALLY good (spoiler: it is). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 3, 2018

Matt and John discuss "Frozen" on Broadway, the closing of "Kinky Boots" and some adult truths to help you *somewhat* make it through life on their latest episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 26, 2018

In what may be their gayest episode yet, Matt and John invite cabaret/kickstarter superstar Robbie Rozelle to discuss backstage Patti Lupone stories, the legacy of Marin Mazzie, and the downside of going viral. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 29, 2018

Can you have an opinion on a musical you haven't seen? Damn right! Matt and John dissect the "Sharp Objects" finale, Pretty Woman The Musical and the one Broadway musical Matt has NO time for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 1, 2018

Is Mamma Mia 2 Here We Go Again a masterpiece or a clusterf*ck? Who IS Taylor Swift playing the Cats movie? And how DO you say Amanda Seyfried's name? Matt and John will not rest until these questions are answered on a new Broadway Breakdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 23, 2018

Matt and John discuss "Head Over Heels," the announcement of Ivo van Hove's "West Side Story" and the new (entirely fictional) Kelly Clarkson jukebox musical!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 7, 2018

Matt and John discuss the newest writer for The Devil Wears Prada musical, John's loose bones and why Lauren Ambrose doesn't have to do Sunday shows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jun 16, 2018

Matt and John discuss this year's Tony telecast, the "My Fair Lady" revival, and why it's important to be good at improvisation at 2 AM. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

May 21, 2018

What movie did Lindsay Lohan star in opposite a porn star? Who will win at this year's Tony Awards? If you can't sit on Andy Karl's face, who is the next best option? Matt and John discuss ALL this and more in the latest Broadway Breakdown! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 27, 2018

Recorded 4 days before the announcement of the 2018 Tony Nominations, Matt and John give THEIR take on who and what will be given some Tony love and hate this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Apr 17, 2018

Matt finally sees Carousel and John takes in Frozen and they have OPINIONS HONEY!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Mar 21, 2018

BACK AGAIN! Matt explains why Sally Murphy is his definitive Julie Jordan in Carousel, John dissects the most recent winner of "Rupaul's Drag Race" and the two twinks further discuss the new main stream gay high school movie "Love, Simon" and where it succeeds, and slightly falters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 14, 2018

Buckle up, Buttercup 'cause opinions are flowing! Matt and John discuss the brilliant oddity that is Ellen Greene's Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, some theatre news that is both exhilarating and confusing, and why you shouldn't dream stupid. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Feb 7, 2018

Back and bitchier than ever, Matt and John discuss the gayest new show on TV, shocking diva confessions, and the one lost musical Matt will fight for Encores! to do. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jan 31, 2018

They're back! Or are they? After a mid-winter break, Matt and John come back in full force to discuss Broadway at the Grammys, new projects, and the excitement of a new Rupaul's Drag Race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 17, 2017

In their latest, Matt and John discuss their predictions for "A Christmas Story Live!," the recent "Once On This Island" revival, and the benefits of being young and dumb (but not in public). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Dec 3, 2017

Matt and John are back with an in depth discussion of sexual misconduct in theatre, gay characters in cinema, and how Katrina Lenk is showing up EVERYBODY in The Band's Visit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 11, 2017

Matt and John eat old Halloween candy with Caitlin Kinnunen (Spring Awakening, The Bridges of Madison County, The Prom) and discuss message board comments, sharing needles, and one strange Broadway TV commercial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Nov 5, 2017

Matt and John discuss the upcoming revival of "The Boys in the Band," the Kevin Spacey scandal, and fight over the "Beauty and the Beast" remake. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Oct 14, 2017

In their first late night recording, Matt and John drink whiskey, argue over successful Broadway revivals, and reveal the new jukebox musical "Sickening!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 29, 2017

Social media siren Natalie Walker sits down with Matt and John to discuss the drunken joys of "Cats the Musical," exciting up and coming musical theatre writers, and elementary school horror stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Sep 24, 2017

They're back! A new review leaves Matt and John pondering the quality of their tangents, while Matt teases an upcoming "Jukebox That Musical" and John goes undercover with the mysterious foot fetishist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 24, 2017

Matt and John discuss the Hal Prince revue "Prince of Broadway," the new replacements in "Dear Evan Hansen," and a surprise segment of "Jukebox That Musical" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 18, 2017

Matt and John discuss Broadway-themed lubricant, the upcoming 2017-2018 musicals, and offer a final reflection on the mysterious foot fetishist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Aug 4, 2017

Matt and John discuss casting controversy for "The Great Comet," delve deeper with the mysterious foot fetishist, and premiere their new Vanessa Carlton/Michelle Branch jukebox musical "Brunettes!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 21, 2017

Matt and John analyze the National Theatre's production of "Angels in America," discuss the benefits of a gender swapped "Company," and discover more information on the mysterious foot fetishist! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 17, 2017

In their very first episode, Matt and John discuss the recent production of "Assassins" at City Center, dissect a controversial review of Donna Murphy in "Hello Dolly," and discover a foot fetishist who's posting audition breakdowns online. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com

Jul 15, 2017

Matt Koplik is the most opinionated, foul-mouthed, and passionate theatre geek with access to a mic. Every week, Matt and a guest explore Broadway history by diving into the careers of the artists who shaped it. Whether discussing Sondheim and Sweeney or Herman and Dolly, Matt is sure to give you fun facts, deep analysis, and lots of four letter words. Tune in!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bwaybreakdown.substack.com