These Theater Podcasts Will Make You Yearn For Broadway
Spring is coming back around, and the ability to see theatre again is emerging on the horizon! As we all wake from our long winter, the possibility of seeing our community again is too exciting for words. In preparation of social events, old friends, and PERFORMANCE, I’ve been getting back into podcasts. The popularity of podcasts dwindled for many casual listeners as we didn’t go for drives or commutes anymore. But as the weather warms up and allows for long walks, I’ve found theater podcasts to be the perfect companion. Interested in listening to theater-related podcasts, but not sure where to start? Enjoy this menu of choices from shows that feel like hanging out with friends, even when they include broadway legends. If you have your own favorites, let us know. We will highlight them on Theaterhound’s social media!
Broadwaysted
This popular podcast is filled with camaraderie and laughs, enhanced by cocktails of course. Hosts and friends Bryan Plofsky, Kevin Jaeger and Kimberly Schmidt play games and chat with Broadway stars and insiders as they regale their craziest personal stories.
The Wrong Cat Died
This comedy podcast is a great premise, and it truly delivers. Each episode explores why a different jellicle cat (from Cats) deserved to be the jellicle choice. Guests bring their own opinions and experience with the show, whether good or bad, and hash out this decades-long mystery of… which Cat deserved to die?
It’s A Musical! Podcast
Drew guides her friend Danny through musicals “he really should have seen by now.” This charming podcast combines insight of a die-hard fan with the fresh eyes of a newcomer to the genre. As someone who often finds herself trying to convince her friends to see theatre, I find this subject very relatable. Listen to hear lighthearted reviews and breakdowns of movie musical history.
Guys Who Like Musicals
Hosts Dan Tracy and Joe Carroll perfectly straddle the line between superfans and Broadway insiders, having the insight to explore deep, informed conversations with their guests, but the humor and enthusiasm of people who just love theatre. My favorite episode was with Nick Blaemire, who spoke about his early success and what he’s learned from his career.
“You Can’t Say That” with Tonya Pinkins
Broadway veteran and founder of the hashtag #BlackPerspectivesMatter, Tonya Pinkins gets real with her guests about life on the stage. She uses her experiences and perspective to cover relevant topics such as institutional racism and classism. Her soothing, golden voice is perfect for podcasting, and she is never afraid to talk frankly about the reality of a life in the industry.
The Ladies Who Lunch
If you’re reminiscing about theatre pre-pandemic, this is the podcast for you. Donna McKechnie brings listeners a series of stories told from the perspective of Tony award winner and theatre icon. The Ladies who Lunch offers a wealth of insight from a host who has spent a full life in the spotlight. It includes guests from recent Broadway shows and seasoned pros. Each episode was recorded live at Sardi’s!
‘Women and Shakespeare’
Hosted by Shakespeare academic Dr. Varsha Panjwani, this podcast recontextualizes and redefines what Shakespeare means to women in the modern day. I actually had Dr. Panjwani as a professor on my semester abroad, and her class was one of my favorites I ever had. Her unique and passionate perspective enables listeners to broaden their ideas of what The Bard’s work could mean! Guests include women actors, directors, writers, and academics.
The Theatre History Podcast
Exactly what it says on the tin, this podcast explores not only Broadway, but the history of theatre around the world. Michael Lueger brings a variety of academics who are passionate about niche theatre taking place from Ancient Greece to Modern Indonesia. As a fan of classics, I find this content fascinating. Get your scholar glasses on and learn some world culture!
Twins Talk Theatre
This podcast interviews guests who have spent their careers behind the curtain. From community theaters to the Great White Way, these backstage & technical artists have seen it all. I love learning about what goes on behind the scenes to make theatre so magical!
Three on the Aisle
Theatre criticism is an art form I admire greatly, so this podcast was right up my alley. Acclaimed drama critics Terry Teachout, Elisabeth Vincentelli, and Peter Marks discuss the state of American theatre. Always timely and relevant, and supported by killer wit, listeners look into the minds of seasoned writers who carry significant sway in the theatre scene.
Downstage Center
This podcast by American Theatre Wing features interviews with big names and creative talents from around the world. It also has a big archive, running for over 300 episodes as a radio program before becoming a podcast. You can hear exclusive interviews with Stephen Sondheim and Angela Lansbury, which is just extremely cool.
Variety’s Stagecraft
Hosted by Gordon Cox, this is a fantastic interview podcast that stays current on the happenings in the theater industry. Recently, they have spoken with artistic directors who are looking to open in the next season, and discuss the realities of performance in the post-coronavirus world.
Thanks for reading this recap of theater podcasts, and be sure to check out Theaterhound’s own, Talk of the Hound!
