Matching Minds with Sondheim: The Podcast

Host Barry Joseph explores the profound connection between Stephen Sondheim and jigsaw puzzles. Joined by guests Michael Mitnick, an ardent collector of Sondheim memorabilia, and David Spira, co-creator of roomescapeartists.com, the trio delves into Sondheim's metaphorical view of puzzles in relation to art. The discussion spans from the unique jigsaw puzzles in Sondheim's collection, including pr...

Barry is joined by Mark Eden Horowitz, a senior music specialist at the Library of Congress, to explore the lesser-known aspects of Sondheim's gaming legacy that can be found in their collections. The conversation spans the new Sondheim archives recently acquired by the Library, including his music and lyric sketches, manuscripts, and rare items like personal scrapbooks. Mark shares anecdotes abou...

Dive deep into how puzzles and games serve as leitmotifs throughout Stephen Sondheim's musical works with host Barry Joseph and co-host Gail Leondar-Wright in this second of two parts. Joined by a panel of Sondheim scholars and enthusiasts, including Doug Reside, Julie Klausner, Ben Rimalower, and Natalie Gerber, they explore key productions such as 'Into the Woods,' 'Putting It Together,' 'Road S...

Dive into Stephen Sondheim's love for escape rooms, examining the cultural intersections between theater and interactive games. Featuring immersive theater creator Kellian Adams Pletcher, escape room enthusiasts Lisa and David Spira, and game studies expert Nicholas Fortugno, the discussion centers on Sondheim's love for this new medium. The episode includes anecdotes from escape room designers (M...

Explore the recurring theme of games and puzzles within Stephen Sondheim's work. Barry Joseph is joined by guest producer Gail Leondar-Wright and experts Eric Henwood-Greer, Mark Halpin, and Natalie Gerber, as the discussion delves into how Sondheim's love for games influenced his musicals. The episode covers various shows including 'Evening Primrose,' 'Company,' 'Merrily We Roll Along,' 'Pacific...

Matching Minds with Sondheim: The Podcast in an open invitation into the puzzle-loving, game-designing mind of Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim. Based on the acclaimed book by Barry Joseph, each episode uncovers the hidden world of Sondheim’s lifelong passion for treasure hunts, cryptic crosswords, parlor games, and more. Join Barry and his guests—puzzle-makers, game designers, and Sondheim aficio...