Beltline to Broadway

In this episode, Lauren Van Hemert sits down with Eric Woodall, Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh and former Tony Awards voter, for an insider's look at Broadway's biggest night. Drawing on his eight years as a Tony voter, Eric demystifies the nomination and voting process, explains how winners are selected, and shares what really goes on behind the scenes during the final weeks leadi...

How does an aspiring doctor make the leap to the stage and step into the role of the Michael Jackson alternate in the national tour of MJ the Musical? In this episode, we sit down with Melvin Gray Jr., who shares what it takes to embody one of history's most iconic performers. It’s a conversation about pivots, purpose, and what happens when you allow your path to evolve beyond the original plan. A...

Kennedy Caughell—currently starring as Jersey in the national tour of Hell’s Kitchen— joins the pod squad to share her journey from growing up on a small Oklahoma farm to building a career on Broadway, reflecting on the faith, visualization, and relentless discipline that fueled her dreams. Kennedy also discusses the profound influence of Carole King and Alicia Keys on her artistry, leadership, an...

This episode is a powerful, joy-filled conversation about saying yes to yourself—no matter your age, body, or past doubts. First, Christina Wells, who shares how discovering confidence later in life transformed her career, her sense of worth, and her mission to inspire others. From her breakout moment on America’s Got Talent to championing community, Christina reflects on resilience, representatio...

This episode of Beltline to Broadway features a thoughtful conversation with director and artist N.J. Agwuna, exploring her journey through Broadway, off-Broadway, and regional theater, including her work on Moulin Rouge, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and the Pulitzer Prize–winning play Primary Trust. Agwuna reflects on lessons in leadership, collaboration, and community, particularl...

Raised on the music of Sinatra and Frankie Valli, Dominic Scaglione Jr. reflects on Sinatra’s torch songs, the magic of playing Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys and returning to the stage with Amanda Kloots in The Sarafinas, My Way at Theatre Raleigh. About The Guest Dominic Scaglione Jr. played the role of Four Seasons frontman Frankie Valli in the Chicago and Las Vegas companies of the Tony Award-wi...

Gerianne Perez (Operation Mincemeat) joins the pod squad to talk about her journey from singing in her high school's show choir to Broadway. Hear what she has to say about the importance of representation in theater, the quiet confidence learned from working with powerhouse women, and the performer mindset that helps overcome nerves. Gerianne Perez is a powerhouse performer known for her soaring v...

This episode dives into the play Native and the independent film adaptation The Problem of the Hero, both of which explore the relationship and ideological conflict between literary figures Richard Wright and Paul Green. The conversation delves into themes of racism, patriotism, artistic integrity, censorship, and the role of art in driving social change. David zum Brunnen is a seasoned actor, dir...

This episode of the Beltline to Broadway podcast, hosted by Lauren Van Hemert, spotlights a new production of Hairspray at Thalian Hall in Wilmington, NC. What makes this production unique is its powerful blend of Broadway alumni, live TV experience, and hair-raising (literally) design, brought together by the Opera House Theatre Company. Melissa VanPelt is a native of Memphis TN and a graduate of...

Eric Woodall joins the pod squad to discuss the 2025 Tony Awards season, with reflections on Broadway trends, productions, performers, and predictions across various categories. Eric Woodall is a nationally respected theater director, casting professional, and arts leader with deep roots in both Broadway and regional theater. Currently serving as the Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh,...

In this thoughtful and heartfelt episode, host Lauren Van Hemert sits down with acclaimed actor, producer, and musician Brandon Victor Dixon to discuss his artistic journey, advocacy, and newly released single, "Maybe." Known for roles in Hamilton and The Color Purple, Dixon opens up about the soulfulness behind his music, the importance of civic engagement, and the power of storytelling in creati...

Ali Stroker joins the pod squad for an honest, inspiring conversation about breaking barriers on Broadway and beyond. From her historic win for Oklahoma! to navigating an industry not always built for inclusivity, Ali shares how she turned challenges into opportunities. Ali Stroker is a Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and advocate who has made history as a trailblazer for performers with disab...

The incomparable Carmen Cusack—Tony-nominated star of Bright Star, Wicked, and Flying Over Sunset joins the pod squad. She shares the fascinating arc of her career, from training as an opera singer to finding her authentic voice in roles that defy genre conventions. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her artistic process as she prepares for an immersive concert at Theatre Raleigh. With hu...

Whether in soap operas or stage work, it’s all about honoring the craft, respecting the audience, and telling stories that matter. Hear what John Wesley Shipp and David A. Gregory say about their journey from meeting on One Life to Live to facing off in the courtroom drama, Caine Mutiny Court-Martial. John Wesley Shipp is a veteran actor best known for his dynamic range across television and stage...

Robert Ariza (Hamilton, Spring Awakening) and Maya Jacobson (Fiddler on the Roof) join the podsquad to discuss how even quirky cult musicals like Little Shop carry deeper critiques of capitalism and power. While early in their careers, both actors bring insight into how the stage can be a space for healing, rebellion, and storytelling that transcends language and background. Robert Ariza is a dyna...

In this heartfelt episode of Beltline to Broadway, host Lauren Van Hemert sits down with four-time Emmy Award-winning actress Kim Zimmer to discuss her latest role in The Trip to Bountiful at Theater Raleigh. Kim also opens up about her personal journey with breast cancer, the resilience required to work in daytime television, and what it's like to portray complex women on stage and screen. Kim Zi...

Dana Costello joins the pod squad to discuss how performing in Suffs built her confidence on and off the stage, the importance of regional theater, and her long-running involvement with the upcoming musical Joy. Dana is performing in the Theatre Raleigh production of The Trip to Bountiful alongside four-time Emmy Award-winner Kim Zimmer. Dana Costello is a talented actress and vocalist known for h...

Megan McGinnis joins the pod squad to reflect on her dual career as an actor and director, her experience touring, and the challenges of performing opposite a demon with issues on the national tour of Beetlejuice. Whether you're a longtime Beetlejuice fan or new to the musical, this conversation offers a heartfelt and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes. Megan McGinnis is a talented actress and...

Miki Abraham joins the pod squadd to share their journey with Shucked, from its early days as The Hee Haw Musical to Broadway and beyond. They discuss the evolution of the production, the creative team's commitment to adapting the show to its performers, and the empowering experience of playing Lulu. We also explore deeper themes of identity, representation, and the importance of showing up authen...

Norbert Leo Butz and Lauren Kennedy reunite to reflect on their journey as the original Cathy and Jamie in The Last Five Years. They share behind-the-scenes stories about the show's development, including how Jason Robert Brown shaped the music around their performances. The conversation explores the challenges of performing such an emotionally intense two-person musical, the struggles of engaging...

Author Carol de Giere (Defying Gravity) joins the podcast to explore the fascinating history and unsung stories behind Pippin. Hear how Stephen Schwartz developed the show as a student at Carnegie Mellon, about his creative clashes with legendary director Bob Fosse, and how the 2013 revival reimagined the production (and ending) for a new generation. Carol also shares insights into Schwartz’s song...

Jason Robert Brown joins the podcast to discuss the complexities of adapting books and movies into musicals, the differences between stage and screen storytelling, and the evolving landscape of Broadway. He also reflects on his musical influences, his collaboration with Theatre Raleigh's Lauren Kennedy, and the creative process behind his eclectic body of work. Jason Robert Brown is an acclaimed c...

Multihyphenate Erin Sullivan joins the podcast to discuss the historical weight of Marilyn Monroe, the challenges of portraying such a beloved and complex figure, and the personal and artistic risks taken to keep her one-woman show, With Love, Marilyn, fresh for international audiences. Erin Sullivan is a seasoned actress, singer, and writer with a career spanning over 30 years in theater. Origina...

Nik Waker joins the pod squad to discuss the importance of representation in theater, the impact of ADHD on his creative process, and the power of storytelling as a grounding force. From his early days finding solace in the stage to starring in Broadway hits like Hamilton and Spamalot, Walker shares candid insights into his experiences. He also discusses his latest role in Theatre Raleigh's Bull D...

Julie Benko joins the pod squad to discuss her career trajectory from understudy to Broadway star and her take on Jane Eyre. From being overlooked at her showcase to starring on Broadway, she highlights the unpredictable nature of success in theater. Julie Benko is an award-winning actress, singer, and writer known for her breakout role as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl and her work in Harmony, Les Mis...