In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we return to Boop! The Musical and discuss its place in the Broadway landscape. We share our experience at Broadway Bares, a cornerstone fundraising event for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and reflect on the inspiring performances at the 2025 Jimmy Awards. Our conversation highlights the importance of community, support, and the ongoing celebration of Pride Month in the theater world. We also discuss the impact of these events on performe...
Jun 27, 2025•32 min•Ep. 297
On this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we discuss the latest theater headlines, including new productions like Oedipus starring Mark Strong and Lesley Manville, Jeff Ross’s solo show, and the return of Chess. We cover which shows are closing, highlight cast changes, and break down the Broadway grosses and ticket prices for the week. Join the conversation in the comments, tell us your take on the week’s news, and don’t forget to leave a review if you’re enjoying the podcast. Follow ...
Jun 25, 2025•11 min•Ep. 296
In this episode, we review the Broadway play Call Me Izzy at Studio 54, starring Jean Smart. We discuss the play’s themes, Smart’s performance, and the challenges of the one-woman show format. Our conversation covers the playwriting, direction, and how the production design shapes the audience experience. We also examine audience etiquette and share our thoughts on the show’s Tony Awards potential. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, ...
Jun 20, 2025•32 min•Ep. 295
This week on Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we break down the latest theatre news, including the Dog Day Afternoon announcement, Beetlejuice’s limited return, and the abrupt closing of Smash. We cover Off-Broadway updates from Classic Stage Company and the new Encores! Season at New York City Center. Plus, we discuss box office trends following the Tony Awards and share which shows are making headlines for ticket sales. Listen for our take on new productions, musical adaptations, and what’s c...
Jun 16, 2025•19 min•Ep. 294
In this episode, we discuss the New York City Center production of My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?) by Rob Madge. We break down the show’s celebration of identity and creativity, and why parental support matters for self-expression. We also talk about the music, the emotional audience reactions, and how Rob’s childhood videos add a personal touch. Join us as we reflect on the impact of the production and what it could mean for the future of musical theater. Follow and connect with all thi...
Jun 13, 2025•36 min•Ep. 293
In this episode, we recap the 78th Annual Tony Awards, sharing our take on the standout performances, nominees, and winners that defined the night. We talk about Cynthia Erivo’s hosting, memorable numbers from Nicole Scherzinger and Audra McDonald, and the emotional in memoriam segment. We also discuss what it was like to attend the dress rehearsal and ceremony live, the impact of the awards on Broadway, and why catching shows before the Tony bump matters. Follow and connect with all things @Ha...
Jun 11, 2025•38 min•Ep. 292
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we break down our predictions for the 2025 Tony Awards, focusing only on the musical categories. We cover everything from Best Orchestrations to Best Choreography and the Best Performances, sharing our thoughts on the nominees, the standout shows on Broadway, and what makes this season unique. We discuss the impact of original scores, direction, and design, and our favorites and hopes for the awards. Join us as we debate who could take home a ...
Jun 06, 2025•31 min•Ep. 291
In this episode, Jeff and Richie dig into their predictions for the 2025 Tony Awards, focusing on the plays. They cover the nominees for best direction, sound and lighting design, and all the major performance categories. The conversation highlights frontrunners like Kip Williams for The Picture of Dorian Gray and Cole Escola for Oh, Mary!, as well as strong contenders including Jessica Hecht and the cast of Eureka Day. They also discuss which shows could surprise, their thoughts on notable snub...
Jun 04, 2025•24 min•Ep. 290
In this episode, Jeff and Richie chat with Kip Williams, the creative force behind the current New York production of The Picture of Dorian Gray starring Sarah Snook. Kip shares his journey into theatre, how he developed the concept of Cine-Theatre, and why blending live performance with cinematic technology is changing the way we experience theatre. He talks about working with Sarah Snook, the challenges of adapting Oscar Wilde for today’s audiences, and what excites him about his upcoming Drac...
Jun 02, 2025•33 min•Ep. 289
This week on Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we’re talking about the highly anticipated revival of Chess with Lea Michele, cast news for Ragtime, and the latest on the Tony Awards. We also discuss Patti LuPone’s recent comments and her public apology, and analyze the record-breaking Broadway grosses for the 2024-25 season. We wrap up with our weekly Broadway grosses and a conversation about accessibility, accountability, and what’s next for the theater industry. Follow and connect with all thi...
Jun 02, 2025•23 min•Ep. 288
In this episode, we discuss the Broadway production of Good Night, and Good Luck at the Winter Garden Theatre. We look at how the show tackles McCarthyism, the role of media, and the challenges of adapting a story rooted in journalism. We analyze George Clooney’s performance, the direction by David Cromer, and the design that brings 1950s America to life. We also talk about the Tony nominations, audience reactions, and what the ending montage means for today’s media landscape. Follow and connect...
May 30, 2025•31 min•Ep. 287
This week, we tackle the 2025 Broadway revival of Glengarry Glen Ross at the Palace Theatre. We break down the cast’s performances, especially Bob Odenkirk’s Tony-nominated turn, and discuss the production’s approach to Mamet’s sharp dialogue and controversial themes. We question the creative choices behind the direction and design, and consider whether the play’s portrayal of toxic masculinity and cutthroat sales culture still lands with modern audiences. Follow and connect with all things @Hal...
May 28, 2025•34 min•Ep. 286
In this episode, we discuss the 2025 Broadway revival of Pirates! the Penzance Musical at the Todd Haimes Theatre. We look at how this new production updates the classic Gilbert and Sullivan piece, with standout performances from David Hyde Pierce, Ramin Karimloo, and Jinx Monsoon. We cover the show’s direction, production design, and choreography, and talk about how it fits into the current Broadway season and the Tony Awards race. We also share our thoughts on the show’s comedy, its family-fri...
May 26, 2025•34 min•Ep. 285
In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Buena Vista Social Club at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. We discuss the show’s cultural impact, the role of Cuban music, and standout performances from the cast, including Natalie Venetia Belcon. We also talk about the production’s design, audience reactions, and its chances at the Tony Awards. Tune in for our review and why we think this musical is a must-see. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, Tik...
May 21, 2025•32 min•Ep. 284
This week, we’re joined by Shannon Lewis, the choreographer behind the new musical Just In Time. Shannon talks about her early days as a dancer, how she developed her style, and what it’s like working with Alex Timbers and Jonathan Groff. We get into the unique aspects of immersive theater and how choreography changes when the audience is part of the action. Shannon also shares what she learned from Susan Stroman and offers advice for performers. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodca...
May 20, 2025•34 min•Ep. 283
In this episode of “Half Hour”, we dive into the latest Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Regional Theatre news. We cover upcoming musicals, exciting revivals like Ragtime at Lincoln Center, and live telecast announcements of Good Night and Good Luck on CNN. We also discuss the impact of star power on ticket sales, casting news such as Titus Burgess’s return to Oh Mary, and the latest trends in attendance and grosses. Plus, we share our thoughts on a musical we first saw Off-Broadway and announced for...
May 19, 2025•27 min•Ep. 282
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway production of Dead Outlaw at the Longacre Theatre. After seeing the show off Broadway, we revisit Elmer McCurdy’s strange journey from outlaw to posthumous celebrity. We discuss the musical’s folk-rock score by David Yazbek and Erik Della Penna, direction by David Cromer, and performances from Andrew Durand, Jeb Brown, and Julia Knitel. We also talk about the show’s seven Tony nominations, design elements, and the mix...
May 16, 2025•34 min•Ep. 281
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we discuss the new Broadway musical Real Women Have Curves at the James Earl Jones Theatre. We break down the show’s themes of cultural representation, community, and ambition, and talk about how the music by Joy Huerta and the direction by Sergio Trujillo shape the production. We also look at the performances, including Tatianna Córdoba as Ana García and Justina Machado as Carmen García and consider what the show’s Tony nominations mean for i...
May 14, 2025•33 min•Ep. 280
In the episode, Jeff and Richie are joined by Jerry Mitchell to discuss the journey of Boop! The Musical from concept to stage. Jerry reflects on his career highlights, the creative process with the Boop team, and the impact of community initiatives like Broadway Bares. The episode explores the casting of Jasmine Amy Rogers, the lessons from the Chicago run, and the show’s ongoing evolution as it made it to Broadway. Join us for a conversation about passion, collaboration, and the art of making ...
May 12, 2025•33 min•Ep. 279
In this episode, we discuss the Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. We break down the show’s production design, direction, and standout performances from Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. We also talk about Sondheim’s legacy, the orchestra’s role, and the emotional impact of the music. Tune in for our full thoughts on the show and what Old Friends means for the future of musical theater. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on ...
May 09, 2025•37 min•Ep. 278
In this episode, we discuss the Broadway revival of Floyd Collins at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. We cover the show's historical background, Jeremy Jordan's performance, Adam Guettel's musical score, and the production design. We also share our thoughts on the Tony nominations and how the show connects with audiences. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on Floyd Collins on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn mor...
May 07, 2025•37 min•Ep. 277
This week, we dive into the latest theater award nominations, including the Tony Awards, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk. We share our reactions to the nominees, discuss surprises and snubs, and look at what these nominations mean for Broadway’s best plays and musicals. We also talk about standout performances, the competition in each category, and how nominations can shape a show’s future. Join us for a candid theater chat and let us know your thoughts on this year’s awards season. Follow ...
May 05, 2025•24 min•Ep. 276
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the 2025 City Center Encores! production of Wonderful Town in New York City. We break down what worked-and what didn’t-in this revival of Leonard Bernstein’s musical about two sisters chasing their dreams in 1930s Greenwich Village. From the standout Encores! Orchestra and impressive choreography to the modernized costumes and a book that left us wanting more, we share our honest takes on the show’s direction, design, and overall ...
May 02, 2025•31 min•Ep. 275
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway musical Just In Time at Circle in the Square. We break down how the show reimagines the biopic musical, focusing on Bobby Darin’s rise from East Harlem to stardom, and explore what makes this production stand out on Broadway right now. We talk about Jonathan Groff’s dynamic, Tony-worthy performance as Darin, Gracie Lawrence’s scene-stealing turn as Connie Francis, and how the immersive nightclub design puts you right ...
Apr 30, 2025•38 min•Ep. 274
In this episode, Jeff and Richie break down the Broadway production of Smash at the Imperial Theatre. Inspired by the cult TV series, Smash takes audiences behind the scenes of a new musical about Marilyn Monroe. We share our first impressions, dig into the plot, and debate whether the show’s backstage antics and meta-comedy work on stage. We talk standout performances from Brooks Ashmanskas and Robyn Hurder, energetic choreography, and the show’s Tony potential. But we also question the show’s ...
Apr 25, 2025•36 min•Ep. 273
In this episode, we break down the Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s OTHELLO at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. We tackle the impact of casting Hollywood stars in classic roles, the curious omission of Shakespeare’s name from the playbill, and the puzzling decision to set the story in 2028. We share our honest reactions to Kenny Leon’s direction, the production design, and how strict audience policies affected the overall experience. Plus, we debate t...
Apr 23, 2025•36 min•Ep. 272
In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Marquis Theatre. We break down how the play brings 1959 Hawkins to life, its ties to the original Netflix series, and what makes this prequel stand out on stage. We talk about the show’s jaw-dropping special effects, standout performances, and why the design team deserves a Tony nod. Plus, we share our own experiences in the audience and debate whether the play works for both die-hard fans and newco...
Apr 18, 2025•36 min•Ep. 271
In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN at the Booth Theatre. We break down how Kimberly Belflower’s play reimagines The Crucible for a new generation, exploring themes of youth, identity, and power. We talk about standout performances—especially Sadie Sink’s—plus the direction by Danya Taymor and how the show’s music and staging set it apart. We also debate the play’s take on gender dynamics and why it’s connecting with high school audiences. Join us...
Apr 16, 2025•39 min•Ep. 270
In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway revival of The Last Five Years at the Hudson Theatre. From its innovative concept to its missteps in execution, we discuss the direction, performances by Nick Jonas and Adrienne Warren, and how the production compares to Jason Robert Brown's original masterpiece. Tune in as we unpack the challenges of this revival, share our thoughts on its Tony Award potential, and explore whether it lives up to Broadway standards. F...
Apr 11, 2025•35 min•Ep. 269
In this episode, we dive into Boop! The Musical, now playing at the Broadhurst Theatre on Broadway. We break down the show's nostalgic yet modern take on the iconic Betty Boop, exploring its themes of identity and self-discovery. From standout performances, including Jasmine Amy Rogers as Betty, to the vibrant choreography and stunning production design, we share our thoughts on what makes this musical a must-see. Plus, we discuss its Tony nomination potential and how it resonates with both long...
Apr 09, 2025•33 min•Ep. 268
