Half Hour with Jeff & Richie (Post-Show Broadway Discussions and Interviews)

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on Broadway's latest tech-driven play, "McNeal," starring the incomparable Robert Downey Jr. in his Great White Way debut. Join us as we explore how this innovative production blends artificial intelligence with traditional storytelling, challenging audiences to question the future of creativity. We'll dissect Downey Jr.'s performance, the play's direction...

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on Broadway's latest, "The Roommate," starring the legendary Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone. Join us as we unpack this intriguing tale of reinvention and identity, exploring the unexpected chemistry between two powerhouse performers. We'll dive deep into the plot's twists and turns, analyze the production's strengths and weaknesses, and debate whether the pla...

In this episode, we dive into the Off-Broadway sensation 'Forbidden Broadway: Merrily We Stole A Song,' currently playing at THEATRE 555. This long-running parody series takes aim at the current Broadway season with its signature wit and musical flair. We explore the show's evolution since its 1982 debut, discuss standout performances, and debate whether the production could benefit from additiona...

In this episode, Jeff & Richie dive into the exciting lineup of Off-Broadway shows for the fall 2024 season. They discuss the differences between Broadway and Off-Broadway, highlight various productions including 'Table 17', 'Forbidden Broadway', and 'The Ghost of John McCain', and explore themes of comedy, politics, and social issues in theater. The conversation also touches on the significance o...

Join Jeff and Richie as they dive into the delightful off-Broadway production of Table 17. Discover how this refreshing play brings the magic of 90s black romantic comedies to the stage with its clever writing, spot-on direction, and perfect balance of humor and heart. Jeff and Richie discuss the show's standout comedic moments, use of music, and potential for future success. Plus, get a teaser of...

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Award winner Cady Huffman. Cady takes us on a journey through her career, from her early days in youth theater to her Tony-winning performances on Broadway. She shares fascinating insights into working with legendary directors like Bob Fosse and collaborating with comedy genius Mel Brooks on "The Producers." Cady opens up about her current role as director of...

In this episode, we sit down with Heather Hitchens, the President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing, to explore her journey into the theater world. Heather shares insights on the crucial role of arts education in nurturing young talent and the delicate balance between tradition and innovation in arts organizations. We dive into the American Theatre Wing's commitment to diversity and inclusion,...

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Koplik, Host of the BROADWAY BREAKDOWN to dive into the Fall 2024 Broadway season. We discuss a diverse lineup of musicals including MAYBE HAPPY ENDING, SUNSET BOULEVARD, A WONDERFUL WORLD, TAMMY FAYE, DEATH BECOMES HER, SWEPT AWAY, and GYPSY. With an honorable summer season mention ONCE UPON A MATTRESS. Join us as we explore the casting choices, directors, a...

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Koplik, Host of the BROADWAY BREAKDOWN to dive into the fall 2024 Broadway season. We discuss a diverse lineup of plays including THE ROOMMATE, MCNEAL, THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA, YELLOW FACE, OUR TOWN, LEFT ON TENTH, ROMEO + JULIET, CULT OF LOVE, and EUREKA DAY. With honorable summer season mentions of HOME, OH, MARY! and JOB. Join us as we explore the casting...

In this episode, we discuss Broadway's Once Upon a Mattress, currently playing at the Hudson Theatre. This zany musical comedy stars Sutton Foster as Princess Winnifred and Michael Urie as Prince Dauntless in a hilarious retelling of "The Princess and the Pea." We dive into the show's golden age charm, standout performances, and debate whether the concert-style production fully translates to Broad...

In this episode, we sit down with Michael Herwitz, the visionary director of Broadway’s JOB. Join us as we delve into Michael's fascinating journey from child actor to director, uncover the creative process behind the success of JOB, and explore the themes that resonate with audiences across generations. Michael shares insights on the role of lighting and staging, the challenges of directing a two...

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-de...

In this episode, we delve into Broadway's "Job," currently playing at the Hayes Theatre. We share our thoughts on the gripping performances by Tony Award nominee Peter Friedman and Sydney Lemon, and the provocative storyline that kept us on the edge of our seats. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or curious about this daring production, this episode is for you. Follow and connect with all things...

In this episode, we sit down with Sophie Carmen-Jones to discuss her role in the Broadway production of Moulin Rouge! Please note that this episode may contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the musical yet, you can catch Moulin Rouge! playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on M...

In this episode, we discuss Broadway’s MOULIN ROUGE, the musical playing at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. We had a great time going back and revisiting the show for its 5th Anniversary on Broadway. We dive into the plot and explore the intriguing changes from the film version. The new music added a fresh twist that had us captivated, and we couldn't get enough of Aaron Tveit and JoJo’s incredible per...

In this episode, we sit down with Bianca Leigh to discuss her role in the Broadway production of "Oh, Mary!". Please note that this episode may contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the musical yet, you can catch "Oh, Mary!" playing at Lyceum Theatre.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on "Oh, Mary!" on our pod...

In this episode, we discuss Broadway’s “OH, MARY!" the new dark comedy playing at the Lyceum Theatre. We had a great time going back and revisiting the show from the Off-Broadway to the Broadway transfer. We delve into how funny the show is and why it is working so well. Plus, we launched a new section in this episode featuring announcements in the Broadway/Off-Broadway space, so make sure you che...

In this episode, we sit down with Nora Schell and Garnet Williams to discuss their roles in the off-broadway production of CATS: "The Jellicle Ball". Please note that this episode may contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the musical yet, you can catch CATS: "The Jellicle Ball" playing at PAC NYC.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share...

Celebrate the 200th episode milestone of "Half Hour with Jeff & Richie" as we pull back the curtain on our own theatrical adventures! In this special edition, we're turning the spotlight on ourselves to share: - Our paths into the world of theater - Unforgettable moments we've witnessed in theater history - Hilarious stories from our years in the industry - Our vision and hopes for the future of B...

In this episode, we sit down with Ana Villafañe to discuss her new role in the play N/A. Please note that this episode may contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the play yet, you can catch N/A playing at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theatre.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on N/A on our podcast cover post. ANA VILL...

In this episode, we discuss the Off-Broadway production of FROM HERE. Please note that this episode will contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the show yet, you can catch FROM HERE playing at The Pershing Square Signature Center. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Please share your thoughts on FROM HERE on our podcast cover post. Learn mor...

In this episode, we discuss the Off-Broadway production of CATS: “THE JELLICLE BALL”. Please note that this episode will contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the show yet, you can catch CATS playing at the Perelman Performing Arts Center.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Please share your thoughts on CATS on our podcast cover post. Lea...

In this episode, we discuss the Off-Broadway production of N/A featuring Holland Taylor and Ana Villafañe. Please note that this episode will contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the show yet, you can catch N/A playing at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Please share your thoughts on N/A on our podcast co...

In this episode, we discuss the 2024 Broadway revival of HOME. Please note that this episode will contain spoilers about the show. If you haven't seen the show yet, you can catch HOME playing at the Todd Haimes Theatre.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Please share your thoughts on HOME on our podcast cover post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visi...

This episode discusses the 77th Annual Tony Awards of the 2023/2024 Broadway Season.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Please share your thoughts on your predictions in our podcast cover post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices