Jackie Burns steps into the Batter’s Box for Episode 32 with host Al Malafronte, Chris Katzmann (co-creator of Break a Bat!), and Alan Seales (producer). Jackie’s phenomenal career on Broadway now spans more than a decade, with credits including Wicked, Hair, and If/Then, and she’s also set to star in a stage adaptation of A Walk on the Moon next season.
Jackie holds the distinction of being the longest-tenured Elphaba in the storied Wicked franchise, playing the role in two separate stints — the baseball equivalent of “pulling an Andy Pettitte.” It was really interesting to hear her thoughts on a recovery path for Broadway upon its return, as well as what it was like getting to play her dream role of Elphaba for as long as she did – which was not without some hilarious behind the scenes stories, including what’s known as the Emerald City’s “No-Fly Days.”
She’s also a die-hard sports fan with an athletic background of her own, so we were sure to play some fun Baseball/Broadway crossover games, and even chatted about what would make a successful Broadway musical about our fanbase’s unofficial mascot Aroldis Chapman, the Yankees’ 6-time All-Star and flame-throwing closer.
Special thanks to our friend Samara Finkle for helping put this one together.
Produced by the Broadway Podcast Network
Edited by Matthew Hendershot
Connect with Jackie Burns on Instagram: @jackieburnsnyc and Twitter: @jackieburnsnyc
Connect with Break a Bat! on Instagram: @break_a_bat_podcast
