Broadway Breakdown
Matt Koplik is the most opinionated, foul-mouthed, and passionate theatre geek with access to a mic. Every week, Matt and a guest explore Broadway history by diving into the careers of the artists who shaped it.
All Episodes
Matt Reviews: ELF, TAMMY FAYE, SWEPT AWAY & DEATH BECOMES HER
"Enjoy...the ground." Matt did a reading of his play, then immediately went and saw some shows! He also reads some new reviews of the podcast and discusses when it's appropriate to give people feedback on their work. REVIEW TIME STAMPS (depending on commercial length): Elf: 10:10.
A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER w/ Elliot and Harry White
"I am standing here with poison in my pocket..." INDUBITABLY! Calling all Anglophiles: it's the GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE episode! Producing team and brothers Elliot and Harry White (Foster Cat Productions) stop by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the extraordinarily British musicale.
FAT HAM w/ Jayson Kerr
"Ay, there's the rub." What if HAMLET...wasn't a tragedy? But...a celebration?!?! New friend of the Breakdown Jayson Kerr stops by to talk about the Pulitzer winning play FAT HAM, plus the benefits of choosing joy, the dangers of repressing, and the line of dialogue that broke Matt.
Matt Reviews: MAYBE HAPPY ENDING, A WONDERFUL WORLD & MCNEAL
Matt saw some shows! And read some of your reviews! Matt talks about seeing MAYBE HAPPY ENDING from two different angles, the MEMENTO-ness of MCNEAL and the Tony winning musical that A WONDERFUL WORLD could learn from. Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel Here!
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS w/ Sutton Lee Seymour
"Feed Me..." A perfect musical needs the perfect guest to have the perfect discussion. Friend of the pod Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss all things parody, pathos and talent aliens. Join in the fun!! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here: https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR.
Matt Reviews: RAGTIME, LEFT ON TENTH & SH*T. MEET. FAN.
"The people called it..." Matt saw a play! And an Encores! And another play! What did he think of RAGTIME at Encores? SH*T. MEET. FAN? LEFT ON TENTH? Find out! Donate to Matt's Fundraiser Here! https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly.
A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE w/ Juan A. Ramírez
"Hey STELLAAAAA!!!!!" Friend and Zaddy of the Pod Juan A. Ramírez returns to discuss the sexy play that's actually not all that sexy: A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE. Juan and Matt discuss sexual tension, method acting, what makes a good Blanche Dubois and how STREETCAR birthed the Jessica Lange we know now.
Matt Reviews: ROMEO + JULIET, THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA & Off-Broadway
"O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou...line?" Matt saw ROMEO + JULIET, THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA (with a new third act), and 3 Off-Broadway shows! And he's gonna TALK about 'em DAMMIT! Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Here! https://discord.gg/tFBDvjFR.
WEST SIDE STORY (2021 Movie) w/ Margaret Hall
"A boy like that..." Who doesn't love the chance to talk about a Spielberg musical? Friend of the pod Margaret Hall is back to talk about the 2021 remake of WEST SIDE STORY.
JEKYLL & HYDE w/ Cooper Howell
"This is the moment..." It's all a facade. It's all in his eyes. It's all a dangerous game. It's all JEKYLL & HYDE, babyyyyyy. Cooper Howell (CATS: JELLICLE BALL) joins the Breakdown to discuss all the ways the murderous cult musical fails and yet...succeeds?
Matt Reviews: SUNSET BOULEVARD, OUR TOWN & THE ROOMMATE
"Silent music starts to play..." Matt saw 3 Broadway shows. And even though it's late, he's gonna talk about them. YOURS, TRULY fundraiser: https://www.millironstudios.com/yours-truly. Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/VQWSrW5b.
AMERICAN PSYCHO w/ Jeff Malone & Richie Grasso
"Oh my God, Patrick, COLLEGE?!" Char the Mahi Mahi and rent some videotapes because we're talking AMERICAN PYSCHO. Fellow BPN'ers Richie Grasso and Jeff Malone (Half Hour) join the Breakdown to discuss the concepts of success, goodness, and what it means to be human.
Reviewing Shows and Remembering Artists
Matt reviews YELLOW FACE, THE BIG GAY JAMBOREE and GROUNDED at the Met (most of it). And a conversation about loss and remembrance within the theatre community. Some Mentioned Links: Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/7wkJpY3P.
SOUTH PARK: BIGGER, LONGER & UNCUT (w/ Marcus Scott)
"ALL THE BALDWINS ARE DEAD?!" It's the launch of the new Grab Bag series and we're starting off with a bang: SOUTH PARK: BIGGER, LONGER AND UNCUT. Frequent Breakdown guest Marcus Scott comes back to talk with Matt about all the ways this movie is a perfect musical masterpiece.
Matt's Play and Chad Beguelin's Book (w/ Tony Nominee Chad Beguelin)
It's time... Matt makes a MAJOR announcement about the development of his play and 6-Time-Tony-Nominee Chad Beguelin (ALADDIN, THE PROM, ELF) stops by to discuss his new book SHOWMANCE...and other Broadway things.
Let's Try to Understand Broadway Grosses
"Numbers are so HARD..." The week before a big announcement, and two weeks before the start of GRAB BAG, Matt takes a look at the Broadway grosses for the week ending 9/15 and tries to help you and himself understand them. Let's gab!
The Broadway Season: 2024-2025 w/ Robbie Rozelle!
"Who's it gonna be...?" The 2024-2025 Season has BEGUN. And friend of the pod Robbie Rozelle is HERE to discuss it! In a few weeks, we begin "Grab Bag"! Make sure to join the DIscord in order to submit your questions and concerns for future episodes: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB.
Announcing: Broadway Breakdown's Lineup for 2024
You submitted the shows and movie musicals you wanted Broadway Breakdown to discuss and now the winners are here and ready to be announced!! Find out what the rest of 2024 has in store for the pod! AND AFTER YOU DO: subscribe to the BB Discord Channel to keep making your voice heard on the podcast!
Matt Reviews: ONCE UPON A MATTRESS. Yay, Nay or Meh?
JOIN THE BROADWAY BREAKDOWN DISCORD CHANNEL and talk about all your feelings on theatre, the podcast and random life stuff. It's a fun community! https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB. "Sensitivity..." ONCE UPON A MATTRESS has transferred to Broadway from Encores!
Making SUFFS March w/ Andrea Grody
"The Great American B*tch..." SUFFS Music Director, Arranger and Supervisor Andrea Grody stops by the podcast to talk about all things SUFFS as well as her other major musical contributions to the theatre (including her work on the Tony winning musical THE BAND'S VISIT).
OH, MARY vs, JOB: Off-Broadway Transfer Battle
"Oh Mary! Your job is too much!" Matt saw two one-act plays about gals and guns and both transferred this year from Off Broadway: OH, MARY and JOB. Matt talks at length about both. Their pros, their cons, and their spoilers.
LIVE at Broadway Con! (w/ The Theatre Lovers)
"There is nothing like LIVE THEATAH!" Make sure to join the Broadway Breakdown Discord and chat with other listeners about this week's episode! Link: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB. Broadway Breakdown made its Broadway Con debut with longtime friends The Theatre Lovers!!!
THE BOYS IN THE BAND w/ John Wascavage
"Who is she? Who was she? Who does she hope to be?" It's the finale of PROBLEMATIC(?) and we're going out with the Big Bang of Queer Theatre: THE BOYS IN THE BAND. And in order to talk about this momentous and still hotly-debated play, we had to bring out the big guns: John Wascavage!!!
SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS w/ Jon Reilly
"Bless your beautiful hide..." It's a return of "Problematic(?)" but with a surprise twist! Broadway Breakdown is covering a MOVIE MUSICAL. And one that is TRICKY. Alum Jon Reilly (Life's But a Song) stops by to discuss this sexy, sexist, sexual movie and all the rough and tumble dancing and gender politics that go along with it.
The American Musical w/ Ben West
Join the Broadway Breakdown Discord Channel and get in on the fun! Link: https://discord.gg/jez6sDwB. This week Matt is joined by author and historian Ben West to talk about his new must-have book: The American Musical, Evolution of an Art Form!
CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL (and an Invitation!)
"Hal...it's no longer about CATS." Oooohhh boy! Matt went and saw CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL, the wild, crazy and invigorating new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Feline Fantasia! Listen up for Matt's chaotic thoughts as well as his time sitting with Cynthia Erivo!
FOLLIES, TITANIC, Plays and An Idea
Matt saw FOLLIES! TITANIC! HOME! HERE THERE ARE BLUEBERRIES! And he's gonna talk about all 4! Plus a glorious 1-star review he got.
The Tony Awards Happened. Kinda. Let's Talk About It (w/ James Seol)
"Stop texting me..." The 2024 Tony Awards occurred. Some shows won and some lost. People performed and the TV cameras got waaayyy to close for comfort. And Matt's royally annoyed at Alicia Keys. So let's talk about it!
Matt's London Trip w/ Mom
"Oi!" Hello again! Matt went to London! With his mom! And they saw some shows and did some things! Listen as the two discuss their London outings, plus their takes on OPERATION MINCEMEAT, GUYS AND DOLLS, STANDING AT SKY'S EDGE, and THE HILLS OF CALIFORNIA.
The Tony Awards: A Celebration in Excellence w/ Eila Mell
The Tony Awards: A Celebration in Excellence by Eila Mell is out in bookstores now! Find out more about Broadway's biggest night with an order!
2024 Tony Awards: Predicting the Winners (w/ The Theater Lovers)
Everyone is a winner. Except for those who aren't. It's almost June, which means it's almost Tony month, which means we have to get off our butts and start predicting some WINNERS! Friends of the pod Rachael Joyce and Will Anderson aka The Theater Lovers are BACK!
A Meandering Chat: Full of Gossip, Trauma and BROADWAY! (w/ Robert W. Schneider)
It was supposed to be a discussion about Tony Award Snubs...oops, "omissions." But leave it to BROADWAY BOUND'S Robert W. Schneider to keep Matt distracted with tons of Broadway gossip and a foray into Matt's past trauma.
The Art of Predicting the Tonys (w/ Sam Eckmann)
"It's an art..." Goldderby's Sam Eckmann stops by the Breakdown to discuss Tony trends, myths and what you need to take into account when making your predictions! DOLL OUT THE PUDDING!
Ranking Every Show This Broadway Season...'Cause F**k It, Why Not
Oh look...it's the longest episode in Broadway Breakdown history. Matt saw every show of the 2023-2024 Broadway season. Now he wants to rank them. Because what else is there to do now? Feel free to listen to this episode while crossing Atlantic.
BONUS! Interview w/ MARY JANE's Susan Pourfar
Motherhood...Sisterhood...and Silent Broadway Contracts... We've got another lovely surprise for you! Award-winning actress Susan Pourfar stops by the Breakdown to discuss her journey with MTC's MARY JANE, from its production at NYTW to its Broadway premier with Rachel McAdams.
2024 Tony Nominations Are Here! Reading YOUR Takes
Well...they're here. After much speculating, predicting and dreaming...the 2024 Tony Nominations have ARRIVED. And there were CHOICES made. Matt takes to instagram to read what y'all had to say about the new crop of nominations...and what a few of you had to say about HIM.
2024 Tony Nominees: What We Predict vs. What We Want (w/ Dan Rubins)
Two more days... Recorded Sunday April 21, before Matt saw MOTHER PLAY, CABARET and others...and before the final Tony eligibility rulings...Slant critic Dan Rubins stops by the Breakdown to discuss what they both think the Tony nominees will be and what they WANT them to be.
2024 Tony Predictions (Part 2): PRE- Eligibility Rulings!! (w/ David Lynch)
"OK, who do you have?" The TONY nominations are in 5 days, y'all!! That means we gotta start making some new PREDICTIONS. Recorded a mere 2 hours before the Tony Committee released their second round of Eligibility Rulings, Broadway producer David Lynch stops by the Breakdown to share possible nominations.
BONUS! Interview w/ SPAMALOT/THE GREAT GATSBY Lighting Designer: Cory Pattak
"Find your light..." Y'all have been so good that we're treating you to a BONUS episode! An interview with lighting designer extraordinaire Cory Pattak! Cory made his Broadway debut this season with not one, but TWO musicals: SPAMALOT and THE GREAT GATSBY!
THE GREAT GATSBY, SUFFS and Some Broadway Bullsh*t
"Everyone's a critic..." We're wrapping up the season very soon!!!! And before we do, we got some more shows for you: THE GREAT GATSBY, PATRIOTS and SUFFS! Matt discusses his opinions on all three. Plus some talk about some of the crazy that's been happening online this week in the community.
LEMPICKA, STEREOPHONIC & More...*and* Jack Viertel!!
"Woman is...or is she?" It's a bonanza!! Matt starts off with his reviews on seeing MERRILY a second time (now *with* Lindsay Mendez), LEMPICKA, THE HEART OF ROCK AND ROLL and STEREOPHONIC! Plus a new review that has notes for Matt.
TOMMY, THE OUTSIDERS & Your Tony Predictions!
"See Me...and Stay Gold." It's April!!! Which means Tony season has sprung! Matt sees TOMMY and THE OUTSIDERS and gives you his thoughts...and then reads YOUR thoughts on upcoming results for the 2024 Tony Awards. And some of you are BOLD.
Notebooks, Elephants and Protestors OH MY! (Reviews and Updates on the Season)
"There is nothing like New York in the SPRING!" A *lot* has changed since our first Tonys episode so Matt has come on to talk through some of it. First Matt gives thoughts after having seen WATER FOR ELEPHANTS and THE NOTEBOOK.
THE INHERITANCE w/ Robbie Rozelle
"He has a story to tell..." It came to Broadway touted as the next ANGELS IN AMERICA. And yet...not every gay man was into it. Then it won the Tony...and some people still weren't into it. But does that make something "Problematic"??
AIDA w/ Will Van Dyke
"We all lead such elaborate lives..." It's sexy! It's dangerous! It's Disney! It's AIDA!!! Broadway music director Will Van Dyke (Pretty Woman, The Heart of Rock n Roll) comes on the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the first Broadway Disney musical "for adults." The two also discuss casting, fashion shows, and duty.
SLAVE PLAY w/ Marcus Scott
"Thank you, baby. Thank you for listening..." Welcome back to Problematic(?)! And ooooh boy do we have a DOOZY! Alum of the pod, Marcus Scott, returns to discuss SLAVE PLAY. The show that angered, excited and confused many theatergoers.
2024 Tony Predictions: Bold, Brave and Early (w/ Dylan MacDowell)
Confident and Uninformed. That's the way to make predictions for Tony nominations THIS early. Breakdown alum Dylan MacDowell (DRAMA) returns to go through every possible candidate for this year's Tony Awards.
Tony-Nominee Sally Mayes is here to SING and DISH
"This bird is singing..." Sally Mayes has been there and back and she can sing all about it to you!
THE BOOK OF MORMON w/ Kyle Marshall
"Turn it off..." Hello! Our name is Broadway Breakdown. And we would like to share with you a Tony winning show. It has so many awesome parts. You simply won't believe how much this show has angered crowds. That's right...it's THE BOOK OF MORMON.
MISS SAIGON w/ James Seol
"The heat is on..." To cover a giant show with giant controversy...you need a giant episode. Yup: it's MISS SAIGON. James Seol (COME FROM AWAY, KPOP) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss the last of the British mega-musicals with Matt.
HEATHERS w/ Chelsea Williams
"What's your damage?" CONTENT WARNING: This episode covers a show that contains and discusses suicide, sexual assault, and mental illness. Please listen with caution. We're venturing back to Off-Broadway with the musical that launched a thousand nodes and a million TikTok accounts...we're talking HEATHERS, y'all.
CAROUSEL w/ Juan A. Ramírez
"If I loved you..." Oh Boy. It's the one listeners of BREAKDOWN have been waiting for. It's Matt's favorite musical. It's perhaps the most famous "problematic" musical. That's right...it's CAROUSEL, BABY!! Theatre critic Juan A.
DEAR EVAN HANSEN (Part 1) & The Broadway Season w/ Ruthie Fierberg
"All we see is sky for forever..." STORY TIME! Due to reasons, Broadway Breakdown is covering DEAR EVAN HANSEN in two parts...with the second part coming sometime between now and later.
PROMISES, PROMISES w/ Adam Elsberry
"I'll never fall in love again..." It's turkey lurkey TIME, people! Guncle of the Pod Adam Elsberry returns to talk about one of the hottest shows of the 1960's: PROMISES, PROMISES.
DOWNSTATE w/ Etai Benson
"...you are a fundamentally evil person..." CONTENT WARNING: Before listening, be advised that this episode discusses a play that deals with troubling subject matter (primarily sexual abuse and suicide).
THE KING AND I w/ Corey Lubowich
"Shall I tell you what I think of you...?" It's the first Rodgers and Hammerstein on Broadway Breakdown! And NOT the one you think! Corey Lubowich (Team Starkid) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss the much loved and much debated R&H classic THE KING AND I.
THE PROM w/ Ali Gordon
"It's time to dance..." Welcome back to Broadway Breakdown!! And our new series Problematic(?) covering shows that at some point in their legacy have been met with controversy or backlash.
New Shows, Old Problems, Same Broadway w/ Rob Schneider
"But first: let's stretch." Before launching into our new season of "Problematic(?)" Broadway Breakdown returns with a warm up episode. Rob Schneider (Behind the Curtain) joins the pod to talk with Matt about the upcoming Broadway season, shows that are rumored to come in, Matt's thoughts on HELL'S KITCHEN and how sweetness is killing creativity.
Talking w/ Tony Nominee Heather Hach & Announcing the New Series!
"Are you *actually* calling Gloria Steinem a skank?" Hey Kids!! Broadway Breakdown isn't TOTALLY back yet. BUT! To tide you over: here's an amazing conversation with Tony nominee Heather Hach, book writer for LEGALLY BLONDE and co-screenwriter of the 2003 FREAKY FRIDAY.
SIGNIFICANT OTHER w/ Adam Elsberry
"You're in a tough chapter...but the book is long." Whoo boy. It's the big one. The play that we've been waiting for: SIGNIFICANT OTHER. Guncle of the Pod Adam Elsberry returns to dive deep into one of the most painfully personal plays Matt has ever witnessed.
IN THE HEIGHTS w/ Philippe Arroyo
"96,000..." Lights up on the Broadway debut of one of musical theatre's biggest names: Lin-Manuel Miranda. Yup, we're talking IN THE HEIGHTS baby!!!! After Matt *just* said he couldn't find anyone to cover this show, along comes Broadway's Philippe Arroyo (& JULIET, ALADDIN) swopping in and making an iconic episode with Matt.
![[title of show] w/ Tyler Joseph Ellis](https://d1md8edy3s7xes.cloudfront.net/images/podcasts/broadway-breakdown/180-1-400x400?2024-11-24T16:47:40.485Z)
[title of show] w/ Tyler Joseph Ellis
"Die, Vampire..." It's two guys on a podcast talking about a musical about two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical...it's a snake, it's a vortex, it's a Full Tilt Original Musical! It's TITLE OF SHOW!
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE w/ Todd Buonopane
"Life is pandemonium..." THE BIG MOVE IS BACK! With a brand new episode covering the musical that brought William Finn back to the Broadway and held the longest run at the Circle in the Square Theatre. That's right: SPELLING BEE!
BONUS! Making & JULIET Sing w/ Dominic Fallacaro
"I want it that way..." A special treat for our Breakdown-ers!! & JULIET's Tony nominated orchestrator/arranger/music director Dominic Fallacaro stops by the pod to chat with Matt about the secrets and insights of Broadway's latest hit.
Surprise! TITANIQUE w/ Courtney Bassett
"For the mothers, the fathers, and the children of the world..." Surprise, Girlfriend!! It's a special episode! Matt gets to talk about his *other* favorite musical this season: TITANIQUE!
Reacting to the 2023 Tony Awards
And Just like That...Pudding Season was over. The Tonys happened!! And they...weren't a sh*t show?? Matt is tired, y'all but he's still gonna go through all of your Hot Takes (and some weird personal questions) about this year's Tony Awards.
2023 Tony Predictions: Who'll Win?? (w/ Inappropriate Patti)
"And the award goes to..." We're coming to the end of Pudding Season y'all!! Good Judy Jonathan Hoover (aka Inappropriate Patti) stops by to make some final Tony Award predictions with Matt. Matt also spills some tea after having attended the Drama Desk, Theatre World and Drama League Awards.
Tony Award Snubs (w/ Ben Rimalower)
"It's an honor just to be ignored..." Friend of the pod and Network Ben Rimalower (Giants in the Sky) comes back to discuss with Matt their most egregious snubs in Tony history. Everyone knows two big ones for Matt...but there are a few that Matt and Ben disagree on!!!!
Our Favorite Tony Award Performances (w/ Sutton Lee Seymour)
"And I am telling you..." The 2023 Tony Awards are fast approaching! And so friend of the pod Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss with Matt all the amazing performances that have been on the telecast.
Disruptive Broadway Chaos w/ PJ Adzima
"Let's talk about it." Famous Broadway ally PJ Adzima (BOOK OF MORMON) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the latest on the Tonys vs. the WGA Strike, the Broadway Ecosystem, what needs to change and how we all can be smarter audiences.
When the Tonys Got It Right (w/ Peter Duchan)
"I chose right..." Matt takes a break from predictions and analysis to look back fondly on the times when the Tony Awards got it right! Writer Peter Duchan (DOGFIGHT) stops by the Breakdown to share some of his favorite choices as well as the first ceremony to make an impression on him.
The 2023 Tony Nominations: They're HERE! (w/ Kyle Marshall)
It's time. To compare. Apples and Bacon. The 2023 Tony nominations are HERE and Matt has some egg on his face, some dreams that became realities, and some realizations after seeing CAMELOT the night before.
2023 Tony Predictions (Part 4): FINAL Predictions (w/ The Theatre Lovers)!
It's Pudding Season!! The Theatre Lovers are BACK to make one last big swing for Tony nomination predictions before the big day: May 2. Matt and the duo also discuss some opinions on newly seen shows and Matt reads Rachel and Will for filth on some of their predictions (and vice versa).
2023 Tony Predictions (Part 3): Reading YOUR Predictions!
It's Pudding Season!! Matt goes solo and reads your Tony Predictions! Well...mostly your Tony predictions. A couple of personal questions snuck in there somehow... What do YOU think is making it in this year??
2023 Tony Predictions (Part 2): SHUCKED, SWEENEY, LIFE OF PI & more w/ Adam Elsberry
It's Pudding Season! And Matt's seen more stuff!! Guncle Adam Elsberry returns to shake up some predictions with Matt. Matt also gives some takes after having seen SWEENEY TODD, SHUCKED, FAT HAM and LIFE OF PI.
2023 Tony Predictions (Part 1) w/ The Theater Lovers
"It's an honor just to be *pretend* nominated..." Pudding Season is almost upon us! That's right, it's time to start talking TONY AWARDS!!! Will and Rachael Anderson aka The Theater Lovers stop by the Breakdown to do some wild Tony nomination predictions.
KIMBERLY AKIMBO w/ Dad
"When life gives you lemons..." It's a special episode y'all!! Breakdown is taking a rest from the planned lineup to do a bonus cross over episode from Tesori Hour. That's right: it's KIMBERLY AKIMBO!!
SPRING AWAKENING w/ Drama!
"It's the bitch of living..." Are you ready for some drama? Connor and Dylan MacDowell of the hit podcast DRAMA stop by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Spring Awakening.
DOUBT w/ Ali Gordon
"I will DO what needs to be DONE!" Do you have doubts? Do you have parables? Do you have DOUBT: A PARABLE?! 'Cause Godmother of the Pod Ali Gordon is back to discuss all things nuns, priests, Catholic school and having no real life experience with any of it.
A CHORUS LINE w/ Robert Peterpaul
"God, I Hope I Get It!" It's a big one, kids...a huge one...a one...singular sensation, if you will! That's right, it's A CHORUS LINE!!! The mother of all Broadway transfers.
AVENUE Q w/ Sam Simahk
"Everything in life is only for now..." Sex! Racism! PUPPETS! It's Avenue Q kids!!!!! Friend of the Breakdown Sam Simahk (INTO THE WOODS, CAROUSEL) stops by to discuss the controversial, deceptively complex musical that deals with existentialism, hopelessness and porn.
AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' w/ André Jordan
"One never knows...DO one?" This week we're covering the jukebox musical to end all jukebox musicals. The golden musical revue that launched a dozen careers: Ain't Misbehavin'!!!
HAIR w/ Robbie Rozelle
"This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius..." Good morning, Starshine! Broadway says "Hello"! Friend of the Breakdown Robbie Rozelle returns to discuss the American Tribal Musical that defined a generation and begrudgingly brought Broadway to the rock era...if only it stayed.
LOVE! VALOUR! COMPASSION! w/ James Crichton
"I am sick to death of straight people. Tell the truth, aren't you?" Broadway Breakdown is BACK!!! After our hiatus, we return with the Tony winning Terrence McNally play LOVE, VALOUR, COMPASSION!
THE HEIDI CHRONICLES w/ Jessie Field
"And THAT is Feminism." Breakdown alum Jessie Field is BACK to discuss the Pulitzer Prize and Tony winning hit play that gave Wendy Wasserstein her Broadway debut and made a slew of Boomers go "It Me." It's THE HEIDI CHRONICLES!!
HAMILTON w/ Brian Nash
"History has its eyes on you..." HAMILTON! Ever heard of her? In case ya haven't we go in deep and niche for this week's take on the blockbuster phenomenon that made history cool again.
THE GOLDEN APPLE w/ Alex Weisman
"Helen is always willing..." What has sex, wall to wall music, and a golden apple? Why, THE GOLDEN APPLE! Alex Weisman (HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, SESAME STREET) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the first Off-Broadway musical to transfer to the Great White Way.
ONCE UPON A MATTRESS w/ Backstage Babble
"I've always been shy!" Broadway Breakdown goes into the 1950's with the Golden Age wunderkind Charles Kirsch (host of Backstage Babble)! Matt and Charles discuss the rowdy "not your typical fairy tale" musical ONCE UPON A MATTRESS.
URINETOWN w/ Marc Tumminelli
"It's a privilege to pee..." What is URINETOWN? Is it the end? A lie? Or a brilliant musical that spawned a generation of meta-spoof musicals? All the above!
PASSING STRANGE w/ Marcus Scott
"Yeah, it's alright..." It's nonstop to the REAL!! Returning guest Marcus Scott comes back to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the unclassifiable masterpiece that is PASSING STRANGE.
TORCH SONG TRILOGY w/ Mom!
"I care a great deal. But not enough..." The 4 hour epic that launched Harvey Fierstein and finally made gay men palatable to many Americans...it's Torch Song Trilogy.
RENT w/ Adam Elsberry
"Viva La Vie Boheme..." Broadway Breakdown is BACK with the new series "The Big Move," covering select Off-Broadway to Broadway transfers. First up and in no particular order...RENT! Guncle of the pod Adam Elsberry (@adamels) is back to discuss with Matt all things Bohemia.
DIANA w/ John Wascavage
"A pretty, pretty girl..." We're finishing "Underestimated" with the musical that gave the series its namesake...DIANA!!!!! A massive flop that is quickly turning around into becoming a cult classic.
LEGALLY BLONDE w/ Abby Goldfarb
"What you want is ME!" Omigod you guys! We're talking LEGALLY BLONDE! The musical that was doubted, praised, maligned, then praised again! Breakdown alum Abby Goldfarb (HARMONY, FIDDLER ON THE ROOF) comes back to discuss with Matt all things Law school, high belting, and female power!
SEUSSICAL w/ Jeffrey Scott Parsons
"Just THINK!" Oh the thinks you can think....and the flops that can flop...and come back again and again! We're talking about SEUSSICAL! The costly Broadway embarrassment that was plagued by creative overhauls and bad press, but would go on to become one of the most produces musicals in the COUNTRY!
PARADE w/ Jonathan Chisolm
"All the wasted time..." The sadness, the drama, the MUSIC! It's PARADE! Friend and listener Jonathan Chisolm stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the sad, yet moving Tony-winning musical. The two also discuss the downside of grandeur, the allure of obtuseness and Carolee Carmello's belt.
SIDE SHOW w/ Adam Elsberry
"Come look at the freaks..." The shock! The wonder! The BELTING! We're talking SIDE SHOW, kids! Guncle of the pod Adam Elsberry returns to discuss with Matt the cult classic musical about conjoined twins Daisy and Violet Hilton on the longest episode yet.
CARRIE w/ Preston Max Allen
"And Eve was weak..." It was once known as the flop to end all flops...and it just won't DIE. That's right! We're heading to the prom with CARRIE!
SMILE w/ Ali Gordon
"I will live in Disneyland..." IT'S. FINALLY. HAPPENING. We're talking about SMILE, baby!!!!!!!! Listeners rejoice!!! Godmother of the Breakdown Ali Gordon returns to discuss with Matt one of his favorite musicals.
WORKING w/ Jon Reilly
"I hear America singing..." Critics hated it. It nearly ruined Stephen Schwartz's Broadway career. It...had a TV movie? It...gets done all the time across the country? It...is the only Broadway musical Patti Lupone ever did where she DIDN'T sing??
MACK AND MABEL w/ Kimberly Cooper Schmidt
"Time heals everything..." Movies! Cocaine! Murder! It's MACK AND MABEL! The Jerry Herman flop that won't die, yet probably should...? Fellow podcaster Kimberly Cooper-Schmidt (Broadwaysted, Broadway Baby) comes back to the Breakdown to discuss toxic romance, Bernadette Peters, and what no one will admit about this troubled musical.
From Cautionary Tales: Bless the Coal-black Hearts of the Broadway Critics
*BONUS* Here’s a special preview of the Cautionary Tales podcast from Pushkin Industries. On Cautionary Tales, bestselling author Tim Harford shares stories of human error, natural disasters, and tragic catastrophes from history that contain valuable lessons for today.
CANDIDE w/ Jessie Field
"We're neither good, nor wise, nor pure..." The show lasted 73 performances...and has now been performed all over the world. AND was revived on Broadway TWICE! It's CANDIDE!
PAL JOEY w/ Ben Rimalower
"I'm wild again, beguiled again..." WE BACK and with a whole new series! Starting off with PAL JOEY: the classy Rodgers/Hart musical that made Broadway go "...this character's kind of a dick, right?" New guest Ben RImalower (PATTI ISSUES, CAST OFFS) joins the Breakdown to discuss subtly sexy lyrics, Ben's obsession with Patti, and the origin of the word "Stereotype." ZIP, BABY!
FUN HOME w/ Julia Meinwald
"Welcome to our house on Maple Avenue..." It's the END of TESORI HOUR! And we're closing out with a big one...FUN HOME! The show that gets Jeanine her much deserved Tony and an official placement in the Broadway firmament.
VIOLET w/ Eli Cohen
"I am on my way..." Who doesn't want to look like a million different movie stars? It's VIOLET everyone! Writer Eli Cohen (THE CHOSEN ONE) stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the musical that should've launched Jeanine Tesori into the Broadway stratosphere, but took 17 years to finally make it.
SHREK w/ Timothy Huang
"I've always been a morning person..." It's big, it's green, it's gassy...it's SHREK! We continue Tesori Hour with Jeanine's biggest, crassest musical yet with frequent collaborator David Lindsay-Abaire.
CAROLINE, OR CHANGE (w/ Marcus Scott & Matt!)
"There is only underwater..." It wouldn't be Breakdown without some twists and turns! Acclaimed playwright and journalist Marcus Scott (TUMBLEWEED, CHERRY BOMB, FIDELIO at the Metropolitan Museum of Art) stops by the Breakdown to discuss one of the dramatic masterpieces of the 21st Century: CAROLINE, OR CHANGE.
THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE w/ Jessie Field
"Only in New York..." WELCOME BACK!!!! It's a brand new year and we got a brand new series: TESORI HOUR, covering the 5 Broadway musicals of Tony winning composer Jeanine Tesori. First up: THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE.
SIX w/ Katie Johantgen
"History's about to get overthrown..." Divorced, beheaded, LIVE!! It's the final episode of The British Invasion and we're covering the most recent British import to dominated Broadway: SIX. Katie Johantgen (@katiejoyofosho) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt all things Tudors, marriage, and pop music!
MATILDA w/ Marc Tumminelli
"We are REVOLTING!" It's Loud, it's Quiet, it's Naughty, it's the Smell of Rebellion...it's MATILDA! The musical critics loved and American audiences...didn't really. Fellow podcaster Marc Tumminelli (LITTLE ME) comes on the Breakdown to talk with Matt about the British antidote to ANNIE.
BILLY ELLIOT w/ Stephen Hanna
"Like electricity..." Boys doing Ballet?! What's next, a British musical coming to Broadway and winning 10 Tony Awards? Yes ma''am because this week it's BILLY ELLIOT!
THE HISTORY BOYS w/ James Crichton
"What have we learned this week...?" Things get pensive and classy get this week with the Tony-winning hit THE HISTORY BOYS. Podcast alum James Crichton (UNKNOWN SOLDIER, ACTORS: ON PROCESS) returns to the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the '06 super-smash.
MAMMA MIA! w/ Kate Lumpkin
"I don't wanna talk..." Spangles, jumpsuits and long-lost fathers...it's MAMMA MIA, henny! Casting director Kate Lumpkin comes aboard the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the jukebox musical that made ABBA cool again and Meryl Streep an international movie star!
SUNSET BOULEVARD w/ Justin Mendoza
"Eternal youth is worth a little suffering..." It's big, it's bold, it's BACK! The British Invasion comes to a crashing halt with the landing of the Desmond Mansion, bankrupting a billion dollar production company and causing multiple leading ladies to claw at Andrew Lloyd Webber's throat.
BLOOD BROTHERS w/ Kyle Marshall
"Did you hear the story of the Johnstone twins...?" It ran for over 20 years on the West End...and for 2 on Broadway. It's about class, murder, and...Marilyn Monroe? Just roll with it!
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA w/ Sofia Christensen
"Let your mind start a journey to a strange new world..." It's the longest running Broadway production. The ultimate "Mask4Mask" musical. The show that's kept classic sopranos employed for over 30 years. It's PHANTOM OF THE OPERA!
LES MISÉRABLES w/ Sutton Lee Seymour
"Do you hear the people sing?" C'est le gros chien: LES MISÉRABLES! Aka LES MIZ! The epic 3 hour pop-opera is given the epic Breakdown treatment with the grand return of our dearly loved Sutton Lee Seymour(@suttonleeseymour)!!
ME AND MY GIRL w/ My Favorite Flop
"The sun has got his hat on!" It's the revival NO ONE saw coming! Yes, we're talking about the smash musical comedy ME AND MY GIRL!
NOISES OFF! w/ Adam Elsberry
"All these DOORS!" It's a gut-busting, pants-dropping, door-slamming night at the theatre! It has violence! It has alcohol! It has SARDINES! We're talking about the all-time classic farce NOISES OFF!
CATS w/ Amanda Lee Hawkins
"Jellicles can and Jellicles do." You know it, you hate it, you love it, you secretly know at least two songs from it...it's CATS! Good friend and Sastress Amanda Lee Hawkins (@imamandahawkins) comes on the Breakdown to explore with Matt this feline fever dream that somehow ran for decades around the world.
THE NATIONAL THEATRE w/ Ali Gordon
"What's On?" If we're talking British imports, then we gotta talk about the West End's ultimate incubator for Broadway transfers: The Royal National Theatre!! Specifically, 4 BIG, IMPORTANT, SEXY PLAYS from the National.
EVITA w/ Jonathan Hoover
"What's new, Buenos Aires?" Things are HEATING UP with the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice Belt-A-Thon...EVITA! Even though the sung through "rock opera" is the team's follow up to their controversial SUPERSTAR, EVITA truly marks the team's arrival on the theatre scene...and their invasion of Broadway.
OLIVER! w/ Margaret Hall
"Please Sir, I want some more..." Welcome to the NEWEST series on Broadway Breakdown: The British Invasion, covering imports from the West End to our beloved Broadway! First up: OLIVER! Exclamation Point!
ROAD SHOW w/ Jimmy Larkin
"Look at it, LOOK AT IT!" Guest/Alum of the Pod Jimmy Larkin (@letshearitforthechoice) closes out the Sondheim Series with ROAD SHOW(aka BOUNCE, aka WISE GUYS)! The two discuss why it took almost 20 years for the show to make it to NYC, lawsuits, and why writing a musical about incest may NOT be a great idea Plus!
Reviewing IN THE HEIGHTS (w/ Mom!)
IN THE HEIGHTS came out in theaters this week! What did Matt think? More importantly what did our resident movie musical critic, Matt's Mom, think?! Can a light entertainment be deep? Is it possible to have TOO many good ideas? And how are we all misusing hyperboles?
THE FROGS w/ Ali Gordon
"Brek-kek-kek-kek!" Stephen Sondheim, Susan Stroman, and Nathan Lane...how could it lose? Well, we're gonna find out EXACTLY how. Breakdown Legend Ali Gordon comes aboard the River Styx to discuss with Matt the last new Sondheim score to hit Broadway...THE FROGS!
ASSASSINS w/ Erin Markey
"Everybody's got the right to be happy..." It took 13 years... but it got to Broadway and won some Tonys, to boot! That's right. We're talking ASSASSINS! This week, Matt is joined by musical artist Erin Markey to discuss the political-LSD-vaudeville and all the hang ups that go with it.
SATURDAY NIGHT w/ Kevin Metzger-Timson
"This is nice, isn't it...?" Special guest Kevin Metzger-Timson (MT Trivia, Tara Rubin Casting) joins Matt to discuss the first fully formed musical Sondheim wrote: SATURDAY NIGHT! Despite being his first, it took almost 50 years to come to New York and even then...never got to Broadway.
Sondheim and Storytelling w/ Natascia Diaz
BONUS EPISODE! On a very special Breakdown, Matt sits with triple threat and beautiful soul Natascia Diaz (EVERY LITTLE STEP, SEUSSICAL, CAROUSEL) and oooohhhh is it WONDERFUL!
PASSION w/ Nur Fahlevi Pratama
"So much happiness..." If Stephen Sondheim wrote for Taylor Swift...it would turn out to be PASSION. That's right! It's here! The last Tony-winning Sondheim musical in the series. Matt is joined by his dear friend Nur Pratama to discuss all things love, sex and sickness with this sexy Sondheim chamber opera.
INTO THE WOODS w/ Kevin Zak
"And I know things now..." Before SHREK, there was INTO THE WOODS! That's right, we've come to the classic fairy tale Sondheim musical that every high school in America has performed at one point in the last 30 years.
SUNDAY IN THE PARK... w/ Emily Maltby
"GOD, I am so HOT." It's SUNDAY on a Thursday! We're talking all things SUNDAY IN THE PARK with our Resident GEORGE expert Emily Maltby (EVITA, ANASTASIA)!!! YESSSSS, Emily has returned to discuss even further her favorite musical in the Sondheim canon.
MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG w/ Jane Bruce
"Hey, Old Friend..." From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows...here go with MERRILY! The big Broadway flop that almost made Sondheim quit the business, gave Liz Callaway her debut, and despite running for 16 performances has continued to survive and become beloved in its own right.
SWEENEY TODD w/ Justin Mendoza
"Attend the tale..." Ooooooooohhhh it's the BIG ONE!! Broadway music director Justin Mendoza (BOOK OF MORMON, WICKED) discusses with Matt just about every element of this grand ol' cannibalistic musical/opera including stupid lovers, sociopathic actresses and what SWEENEY TODD has in common with LES MIS.
PACIFIC OVERTURES w/ Sam Simahk
"Have some tea, My Lord..." 1976, Broadway met Kabuki with PACIFIC OVERTURES, and Sondheim fans have been arguing over it ever since. Guest Sam Simahk (MY FAIR LADY, THE KIND AND I, CAROUSEL) chats with Matt about the historical Sondheim musical's virtues and shortcomings, as well as diversity in musicals, Japanese history and telling your story.
A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC w/ Charlotte Maltby
"RAISINS!!" The Sondheim Streak continues with one of the songwriter's biggest hits: A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC! Podcast alum Charlotte Maltby (THE SOUND OF MUSIC) returns to discuss all things delightful about the one Sondheim musical even your grandmother will love!
FOLLIES w/ Dad!!!
"I'm just a Broadway Baby" The Golden Age of Sondheim keeps going with the existential showbiz fever dream that is FOLLIES! Peter Koplik (aka MATT'S DAD) makes his Breakdown debut to discuss his longtime love for the musical.
COMPANY w/ Britney Coleman
"I'd like to propose a toast..." A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC gets conceptual with the marital musical COMPANY! Yes, we're finally entering the TRUE Sondheim era!! And who better to discuss the landmark musical than a member of the most recent Broadway production, Britney Coleman (SUNSET BOULEVARD, TOOTSIE, BEAUTIFUL)!!!
DO I HEAR A WALTZ? w/ Adam Elsberry
"We're gonna be alright..." Stephen Sondheim, Richard Rodgers and Arthur Laurents wrote a musical once and we ALL forgot about it!!
ANYONE CAN WHISTLE w/ Jennifer Ashley Tepper
"I don't know, but it's BRILLIANT!" Things get weird w/ Daddy Sondheim's next musical about conformity, sanity and the power of a red wig: ANYONE CAN WHISTLE.
...FORUM w/ Patrick Sulken
"INTERMISSION!" We barrel into the 60's with the first Broadway score ENTIRELY written by our boy Stephen Sondheim.
Teaching Movie Stars to Sing (w/ Paul Bogaev & Jimmy Larkin)
Impossible? Things are happening EVERY day!! Alum of the pod Jimmy Larkin (@letshearitforthechoice)joins Matt to interview legendary/award winning music director Paul Bogaev on his illustrious career on Broadway (CHESS, AIDA, SUNSET BOULEVARD).
GYPSY w/ Preston Max Allen
"Children, go play in the alley..." We close out the Golden Age of Broadway with the iconic GYPSY. Often thought of as the perfect musical, Preston Max Allen (WE ARE THE TIGERS, CARRIE 2) comes on to discuss with Matt the show's brilliant writing, homoerotic undertones and missed opportunities.
WEST SIDE STORY w/ Andres Melendez
Welcome to Broadway Breakdown’s first mini-series “A Little Sondheim Music” where we go through the career of Stephen Sondheim. Friend of the Pod Andres Melendez comes back to dive into the show that gave our Broadway Daddy his Broadway debut...WEST SIDE STORY!
UPDATE: Making Changes!
THINGS ARE SHAKING UP HERE!
94 "The 5 Tonys of Angela Lansbury (w/ My Little Tonys)"
"There IS a contest...but she won." Tim Kov and Anna Hulkower (hosts of MY LITTLE TONYS) join Matt to dissect the numerous Tony wins of legend, icon and bubble bath taker Angela Lansbury!
93 "Is ANNIE Good or Bad? (w/ Mom!!)"
"The only thing hornier than Bridgerton is the 1982 ANNIE." Your favorite (or least favorite) redhead is front and center in a new episode of Breakdown! Fan favorite Dani Ticktin Koplik (aka MATT'S MOM) comes on to discuss with the opinionated host the origin, merits and flaws of the musical ANNIE and its subsequent movie versions.
92 "My Obsession: YOUTUBE MUSICALS (w/ Kimberly Cooper Schmidt)"
"Was it chaos or was it fun?" Fellow podcaster Kimberly Cooper Schmidt (BROADWAYSTED, BROADWAY BABY) takes Matt back to his college years when musical theatre was alive and well in Youtube concerts.
91 "My Obsession: MALTBY & SHIRE (w/ Jennifer Ashley Tepper)"
"If anyone could write a musical of WHEN HARRY MET SALLY, it's Maltby and Shire..." Broadway Producer and Historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper (BE MORE CHILL, The Untold Stories of Broadway Anthology) discusses with Matt her love for the iconic songwriting duo of Richard Maltby Jr and David Shire (BABY, BIG).
90 "Why Bootlegs Matter (w/ Morgan Reynolds)"
"RUTHLESS is the Gay SAT's" It's our longest episode yet, Henny! Breakdown alum Morgan Reynolds comes back to discuss Matt's newfound love for the Off-Broadway camp fest RUTHLESS, which leads to discussions on Bernadette Peters' career as a producer, the history of gay culture, and why Tina Denmark is the hardest role for a child actor.
89 "My Obsession: SUNSET BOULEVARD (w/ Matt Leisy)"
"It's not barbaric when you're a diva." Massive backstage drama, high belting arias, and MURDER! It's SUNSET BOULEVARD, baby!
88 "My Obsession: THE 90'S (w/ Spencer Glass)"
"What the f*ck is WILL ROGERS FOLLIES about?" Got Milk?? Spencer Glass ("It's the Day of the Show Y'all!") drops by the Breakdown and reminisces with Matt about Broadway in the 90's, including the debut of Laura Benanti, why THE LIFE's Tony performance shows true diversity, and who is Broadway's secret MILF.
BONUS! "Christmas on the Square (w/ Ali Gordon)"
"It's sort of the MAGNOLIA of Christmas movies." SURPRISE!!! Just in time for the holidays, Broadway Breakdown has gifted you a special bonus episode with recurring guest Ali Gordon ALL about the Netflix masterpiece/garbage fire that is "Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square." Matt and Ali get into EVERYTHING about this movie: the songs, the drama, and characters getting impregnated by Dolly Parton.
87 "My Obsession: ALAN MENKEN (w/ Devin Holloway)"
"All of his songs are bops" Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Devin Holloway (SOMETHING ROTTEN, MOTOWN, 42ND STREET) comes to the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with Disney tunesmith and purveyor of childhood dreams Alan Menken!
86 "Reviewing THE PROM with Mom"
"How do you silence a woman who's known for her belt?" THE PROM is now on Netflix! And audio issues can't stop Matt from voicing his opinions with his iconic mother by his side. The two discuss the pros and cons of Ryan Murphy's movie adaptation of the stage musical.
85 "My Obsession: HAIRSPRAY (w/ Jimmy Larkin)"
"I'll eat some breakfast, then change the world." Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee're BACK! Broadway Encyclopedia and Perpetual Opinionated Gay Matt Koplik returns with special guest Jimmy Larkin (aka @letshearitforthechoice)!!!
84 "The WILD PARTY Wars: Part 2 (w/ Adam Elsberry)"
"The last thing you wanna think when someone is having a murderous breakdown is 'This is a bop.'" PART 2!!! Matt and Adam decide ONCE AND FOR ALL: Which is the Better WILD PARTY? And does "best" always mean "favorite"? Can music be enjoyable but not effective?
83 "THE WILD PARTY Wars: Part 1 (w/ Adam Elsberry)"
"To quote Uma Thurman on SMASH, 'I'm here to Dig Deep." IT'S A FIRST!!! Broadway Breakdown is doing a Two-Parter Episode!! Matt invites his good Judy Adam Elsberry to figure out once and for all the question that has haunted Broadway chat rooms and frat boy keg parties for years: "Which is the better WILD PARTY?" And the answer is too complicated for just ONE episode!
82 "Rock My World, AMADEUS!! (w/ Ali Gordon)"
“There's a lot of Gossip Girl in AMADEUS…” The National Theatre just streamed their recent production of AMADEUS, so Matt brought back his close friend (and fellow nerd) Ali Gordon to talk about their deep love for the brilliant play and its even better Oscar-winning film adaptation.
81 "My Obsession: SWEET CHARITY (w/ Lauren Nicole Chapman)"
"Dancing and singing at the same time is really hard." The Broadway Gal Pal with a voice like velvet Lauren Nicole Chapman (FROZEN, KINKY BOOTS) joins the Breakdown to discuss her obsession with SWEET CHARITY.
80 "HAMILTON at Home!! (w/ Andrew Melendez)"
"HAMILTON is aspiring for us to do exactly what we're doing right now." The hottest ticket on Broadway is in your living room! Matt is joined by his lovely friend Andrew to discuss their love and appreciation for the juggernaut musical HAMILTON, and touch on the difficulties of filming a stage show, Broadway's uneven relationship with race and why representation matters.
79 "My Obsession: THE LAST 5 YEARS (w/ Charlie Franklin)"
"Every single line I could pull out and deconstruct." Broadway Nice Guy Charlie Franklin (TINA, BOOK OF MORMON, BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the time travel divorce epic THE LAST 5 YEARS.
78 "My Obsession: THE COLOR PURPLE (w/ Antoine L. Smith)"
"It's so different when you're doing a show that you can relate to in such a deep, deep, deep way." Broadway powerhouse Antoine L. Smith (CAROUSEL, MISS SAIGON, THE COLOR PURPLE) comes on the Breakdown discuss with Matt his obsession with the Broadway revival of THE COLOR PURPLE.
77 "Streaming Theatre"
JOHN'S BACK!! Yay...? Matt and John discuss how a bold production brings out the sexual toxicity of A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, what you should NEVER compare Broadway Bootlegs to, and how to celebrate birthdays in quarantine.
76 "My Obsession: LEGALLY BLONDE: THE SEARCH FOR ELLE WOODS (w/ Tim Murray)"
"These girls are heroes and you're rooting for all 10 of them the whole time." Comedian and Professional Gay Tim Murray stops by the pod to discuss his obsession with the 2008 MTV reality show THE SEARCH FOR THE NEXT ELLE WOODS, which followed the casting for the new lead in LEGALLY BLONDE on Broadway.
75 "My Obsession: MEET ME IN ST LOUIS (w/ Grey Henson)"
"MEET ME IN ST LOUIS was the foreplay that lead to Liza Minnelli." Tony Award nominee Grey Henson (MEAN GIRLS, THE BOOK OF MORMON) comes onto the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the 1944 Judy Garland classic MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS.
74 "Let's Gab! (w/ Danny Quadrino)"
"You are to show stops what Taylor Swift is to boyfriends." Perpetual juvenile Daniel Quadrino (NEWSIES, WICKED, BYE BYE BIRDIE) stops by the Breakdown just 'cause sometimes you need to gab!
73 "My Obsession: THE DROWSY CHAPERONE (w/ Gabe Gibbs)"
"I'm a sucker for a good comedic song done well." Gabe Gibbs (BOOK OF MORMON and creator of the podcast MUSICALS THAT NEVER MADE IT) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the only musical that has onstage commentary THE DROWSY CHAPERONE.
72 "My Obsession: SHREK (w/ Joshua Burrage)"
"This show has layers." Fancy Dance Man Joshua Burrage (NEWSIES, CATS, A BRONX TALE) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his deep love of the movie-turned musical-turned Netflix movie musical SHREK.
71 "My Obsession: CATS: THE MOVIE (w/ John Krause)"
"If I became a knight...I could STILL be in CATS." John Krause (HADESTOWN, FUN HOME, WICKED) stops by the pod to discuss his newfound fascination and obsession with the CATS movie. And Matt is MORE than happy to discuss all the horniness, uncanny valley-ness, and Judi Dench's leg extension-ness.
70 "While You Were Quarantined..."
"Who doesn't love a nose douche?" How's isolation going kiddies? We thought so. Matt and John discuss the numerous ways to pass the time while locked in your home plus the moral grey area of bootlegs, Broadway stars who left us for TV, the best series to binge these days and what happened when one of your beloved hosts contracted Corona!!!
69 "Shut it Down"
"We really underestimated the stupidity and the entitlement of the American people." Matt and John are on lockdown with the rest of NYC. Together, they discuss the Broadway shutdown, ways to pass the time while social distancing, and how to find the silver linings even when you're down.
68 "Consent Is Sexy"
"Don't. Trick. LANDON." Recorded on Wednesday 03/11, Matt and John discuss the sensual, steamy and Tig Ol' Bitties topic of "CONSENT." Plus a very long dissertation about a Mean Girls' actress's opinions of the stage door. Kisses!
67 "Where Are All The Aliens?!"
"They're all GAY." Matt and John bemoan the lack of specialty in Broadway these days. Plus the new season of Drag Race, Matt seeing MACK & MABEL, and what's exciting this Broadway season.
66 "My Obsession: SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE (w/ Emily Maltby)"
"So much beauty in the world." Director/Choreographer Emily Maltby (EVITA, LOLITA MY LOVE, FIRST DAUGHTER SUITE) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt her love of the Pulitzer Prize winning, sometimes confusing, always moving musical SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE.
65 "My Obsession: BOOTLEGS (w/ Trey Gerrald)"
"Usually I'm just like, 'You're boring and I hate you.'" TV/Film actor and Professional Gay Trey Gerrald (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, THE QUEENS PROJECT, YOU'RE THE WORST)stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the legacy, the history and the complete illegality of the world of Broadway Bootlegs.
64 "Say It, Don't Pepper Spray It!"
"I would like to reiterate how trash people are." An incident at JAGGED LITTLE PILL gets Matt and John talking about the downfall of audience etiquette. Plus, Matt revisits ALADDIN and THE LION KING on Broadway, the pod gets a brand new review and the two dissect the problems with a recent statement made by WEST SIDE STORY.
63 "Is This Anything?"
"Am I creating things for art or for attention?" Matt and John discuss Cameron Dallas in Mean Girls, the TV show that's ruining everything, and even come up with a new word!
62 "Bachelorette Parties and Drunk Gays"
"What a wonderful use of oxygen you are." IT'S 2020 AND WE'RE STILL HERE (barely)! Matt reviews MOULIN ROUGE, John reviews the new Disney/Musical Theatre/Life Evaluation Reality Show ENCORE and the two get into the nitty gritty of some Oscar potential flicks.
61 "My Obsession: MARY-LOUISE PARKER (w/ James Crichton)"
"You know who's not in Amadeus? Mary-Louise Parker." It's the last episode of 2019!! So ring in the end of the year with one more obsession! Fellow theatre podcaster James Crichton ("Actors: On Process") swings by the pod to discuss his obsession with Tony Award and Emmy Award winner Mary-Louise Parker with Matt.
60 "We Need To Talk About CATS..."
"A hundred people had to sign off on all of these decisions that were made." Matt spills all the Jellicle T after seeing the CATS movie, John discusses the double edged sword of academic pushback and the two gays gush over a brand new, piping hot iTunes Review!!
59 "My Obsession: LINDA EDER (w/ Elena Ricardo)"
"I don't think prostitutes sound like Linda Eder." Approachable Broadway ingenue Elena Ricardo (MAMMA MIA, BEAUTIFUL) stops by the Breakdown to share her obsession with vocal heavyweight (and semi-Broadway diva) Linda Eder.
58 "Defending The Little Mermaid"
PRESENTING BROADWAY BREAKDOWN'S FIRST RADIO PLAY: An excerpt from Matt's series "YOURS, TRULY," specifically the scene in the season finale defending THE LITTLE MERMAID. This episode is brought to you by the "iTunes review challenge" Matt and guest Melanie Brook set for listeners in episode 56.
57 "#JusticeForMike"
"I can't tell you that it's ANY good. And if someone were to tell me that it was, I would perhaps think a little less of them." MILK!!!! John's back for a good ol' fashioned episode of the Breakdown!
56 "My Obsession: BROADWAYWORLD.COM (w/ Melanie Brook)"
"The Good, The Bad, and the Ridiculous. That is what I would call Broadwayworld." Internet Musical Theatre Diva Melanie Brook joins the Breakdown to talk with Matt about the infamous, glamorous, garbage fire beauty that is the message board Broadwayworld.com; the two discuss their histories with the website, favorite posters and problematic threads.
55 "I Call Bullsh*t, Broadway (w/ Sutton Lee Seymour)"
"I don't blame myself for not liking her." Broadway Breakdown alum and our favorite Broadway drag queen Sutton Lee Seymour steps in for John as co-host in this HIGHLY opinionated, DEEPLY passionate episode.
54 "The Great Broadway Casting Epidemic"
John has thoughts on THE INHERITANCE, Matt has thoughts on the Yiddish FIDDLER, and with the casting announcement for COMPANY, both gays wonder if anyone on Broadway is even listening . HODGE PODGE, KIDZ!
53 "My Obsession: TAP DANCE (w/ Kaitlyn Frank)"
"This story reveals to me that if you wanted to, you could probably murder me and get away with it." John was busy, so Matt scooped up tap dancing cutie pie Kaitlyn Frank (NEWSIES, MY FAIR LADY, WE ARE THE TIGERS)and the two discuss the amazing art of tap dance by deconstructing three amazing clips of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Ann Miller.
52 "So Emotional: The Whitney Houston Musical"
JOHN'S BACK!!! And we're *pretty* happy about it. Matt and John discuss an article about phone etiquette that gets them PISSED, express the joy they feel from Katrina Lenk GIFS, and the return of "Jukebox That Musical" with "SO EMOTIONAL: A Whitney Houston/Shonda Rhimes Extravangaza." Pas de deux it, bitch!
51 "My Obsession: OKLAHOMA! (w/ Charlotte Maltby)"
"Musical theatre didn't start with Dear Evan Hansen, you know." Honorary theatre gay Charlotte Maltby (THE SOUND OF MUSIC) joins the Breakdown to discuss the amazingness of OKLAHOMA, specifically the legendary 1998 London staging w/ mind blowing choreography by Susan Stroman and a shirtless Hugh Jackman!
50 "My Obsession: BIG THE MUSICAL (w/ Michael Bello)"
"I don't think a blonde on Broadway has been that iconic until Taylor Louderman as Regina George." It's 90's Nostalgia Week at the Breakdown with BIG THE MUSICAL.
49 "My Obsession: THE SONDHEIM DIVAS (w/ Josh Daniel)"
"It just encapsulates every part of what I love about the musical theatre." It's gay, it's crude, it's BROADWAY! Josh Daniel (THE BOOK OF MORMON) stops by to talk about his obsession with the 6 Tony Nominated/Winning Ladies in Red at Stephen Sondheim's 80th Birthday Concert.
48 "My Obsession: INTO THE WOODS (w/ Sutton Lee Seymour)"
"You can talk to birds?" Broadway drag queen and Breakdown vet Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss everyone's favorite Sondheim morality musical INTO THE WOODS. Matt and Sutton discuss the legendary original cast, deep themes, and why this amazing musical has had so many productions that suck.
47 "My Obsession: 11 O'CLOCK NUMBERS (w/ Abby Goldfarb)"
"F*ck the rest of GYPSY!" Lifelong friend and Comedic Bit-stress Abby Goldfarb (Fiddler on the Roof) joins the pod to talk about her obsession with the epic-ness of 11 O'Clock numbers.
46 "My Obsession: SEUSSICAL (w/ Patrick Sulken)"
"Yop, Queen, Yop!" Broadway Music Director Patrick Sulken (Pretty Woman, Kinky Boots)joins the Breakdown to chat his obsession with the Broadway flop/National Treasure SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL.
45 "Get It Together (A Cancer-ish Episode)"
John opens up about his continuous struggle with testicular cancer...and a sexual side effect after his upcoming surgery. PLUS, Matt shares thoughts on 2 recently closed Broadway musicals, describes to John the worst Winona Ryder movie EVER, and the two share the origin story for the podcast's newest running gag.
44 "3 Gays In a Room Bitching (w/ Sutton Lee Seymour)"
Musical theatre drag queen star Sutton Lee Seymour chats with Matt and John about drag inspiration, racism in old Hollywood movies, the great Broadway closings of 2019, and what the f*ck is ACTUALLY happening in the CATS movie trailer.
43 "My Obsession: DISNEY (w/ Bret Shuford)"
"I wish they gave Tonys for opinions, 'cause I would have 9." Broadway actor/influencer/husband and Special Guest Bret Shuford (The Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beauty and the Beast) talks his obsession with DISNEY on BROADWAY.
42 "A Sexy Man Who's Willing (TONYS Reactions)"
The 2019 Tony Awards left Matt and John with some OPINIONS. Will they share them? Damn right! Also, an old internet friend resurfaces and Matt and John freak out over the best new show on TV/The Internet.
41 "My Obsession: SUTTON FOSTER (w/ Morgan Reynolds)"
"I don't know if I just want to BE you, Sutton, or if I just want to kiss Gavin Creel. Because she go to 8 times a week." In honor of Pride here is the gayest episode YET of Broadway Breakdown!
40 "See Everything, Like Nothing"
Dealing with the 2019 Tony Nominees: Matt tells you why you shouldn't say "snub," John is worshipping at the altar of Christina Applegate, and MOVE OVER FINDING NEVERLAND...there is a new Broadway show Matt can NOT stand.
39 "TONY Predictions: Comparing Apples & Bacon"
It's Pudding Season! Matt and John make some wildly intelligent (and intelligently wild) predictions for this year's Tony nominations. Also, Matt sees TOOTSIE, John sees OKLAHOMA, and the two gays discuss the cost of selling your soul for the wrong jukebox musical.
38 "Ryan Murphy's Coming To Town"
Being sick won't keep Matt and John from exploring their truths! Matt reviews HADESTOWN and the new OKLAHOMA, John finally sees THE PROM, a brief discussion on FOSSE/VERDON, and the return of talking about DRAG RACE. Buckle up!
37 "Your Opinion Is Stupid"
John's back!!! And together, he and Matt compare thoughts on the Kiss Me Kate revival, Sutton Foster's casting in The Music Man and why it's important to listen to other people's gross opinions.
36 "My Obsession: BROADWAY PATTERNS (w/ Kevin Duda)"
"If we're always trying to push boundaries, at some point the boundaries are gonna be broken but the device is gonna be the same." With John still absent, Matt calls on Kevin Duda (The Book of Mormon, Beautiful, CInderella) to share his Broadway obsession as well as laying down the law on "unofficial recordings," what makes an effective revival, and some more talk on "SMILE The Musical."
35 "My Obsession: CORAM BOY (w/ Ali Gordon)"
"People in America were like 'What is this f*cking garbage? Get it out of my stage!'" Actress/Comedienne/Broadwayphile Ali Gordon comes in to launch "My Obsession," the new Broadway Breakdown mini-series!
34 "So, Stephen Sondheim Walks Into A Bar..."
It has been a WEEK, kids. Matt and John play therapy with each other as they discuss Laura Benanti in My Fair Lady, John almost meeting Stephen Sondheim and Matt's emotional breakdown at a friend's show. Strap in, it's a fun one!!
33 "Hey, Mr. Producer! (w/ Lucas McMahon)"
John discovers just how young some of the listeners of Broadway Breakdown are, Matt finally watches The Princess Switch, and producer Lucas McMahon (Something Rotten, Hand to God, The Play That Goes Wrong) pops in to correct some misconceptions about Broadway.
32 "Why Live Musicals Don't Work (or 'Why Are You Down There?')"
Matt and John discuss Valentine's Day plans, John's intimate moment with Jake Gyllenhaal and why "Rent Live!" was doomed to fail. GET INTO IT!
31 "British Plays, Kelli O'Hara, and A Funny Goose"
Audio troubles can't bring Matt and John down!!! They're gonna honor Carol Channing by sharing their favorite stories of the musical theatre legend, they're gonna share all the piping hot TEA Kelli O'Hara spilled at her latest concert, and Matt is going to PROVE to you that the most memorable performance in The Ferryman ISN'T from a human.
30 "Riding the Year Out Dirty"
2018 is almost over, bitch, and Matt and John are gonna close it out with some OPINIONS. Why is Mary Poppins Returns like a gayer Bohemian Rhapsody? What Broadway show has been ruined for John forever? And why should you NEVER make a New Year's Resolution?
29 "A Gay Filibuster"
Matt and John talk about the Broadway sh*tstorm that occurred on the internet this week....oh, and also some shows.
28 "Thank U, Next (or The Movie Episode)"
Matt and John discuss the onslaught of Broadway closings, what's wrong with modern movie writing, and effective ways to deal with sexism in old musicals.
27 "Feeling Sad and Mixing Pretty"
If you're having a sh*tty day, curl up with John and Matt as they talk about what lessons you can learn from "The Little Mermaid," which Bible story playwrights can't seem to get enough of, and if "A Star is Born" is ACTUALLY good (spoiler: it is).
26 "I Went to Theatre Camp w/ a Movie Star!"
Matt and John discuss "Frozen" on Broadway, the closing of "Kinky Boots" and some adult truths to help you *somewhat* make it through life on their latest episode!
25 "Conceptual Broadway Boners (w/ Robbie Rozelle)"
In what may be their gayest episode yet, Matt and John invite cabaret/kickstarter superstar Robbie Rozelle to discuss backstage Patti Lupone stories, the legacy of Marin Mazzie, and the downside of going viral.
24 "A Movie? Now a Musical? Groundbreaking"
Can you have an opinion on a musical you haven't seen? Damn right! Matt and John dissect the "Sharp Objects" finale, Pretty Woman The Musical and the one Broadway musical Matt has NO time for.
23 "Be Still Our Beating Vaginas"
Is Mamma Mia 2 Here We Go Again a masterpiece or a clusterf*ck? Who IS Taylor Swift playing the Cats movie? And how DO you say Amanda Seyfried's name? Matt and John will not rest until these questions are answered on a new Broadway Breakdown.
22 "Miss Independent: The Kelly Clarkson Musical"
Matt and John discuss "Head Over Heels," the announcement of Ivo van Hove's "West Side Story" and the new (entirely fictional) Kelly Clarkson jukebox musical!!
21 "Why It's Good To Call Out (We Said It!)"
Matt and John discuss the newest writer for The Devil Wears Prada musical, John's loose bones and why Lauren Ambrose doesn't have to do Sunday shows.
20 "Give Her the Goddamned Award!"
Matt and John discuss this year's Tony telecast, the "My Fair Lady" revival, and why it's important to be good at improvisation at 2 AM.
19 "I'd Rather Be Sitting (On Andy Karl's Face)"
What movie did Lindsay Lohan star in opposite a porn star? Who will win at this year's Tony Awards? If you can't sit on Andy Karl's face, who is the next best option? Matt and John discuss ALL this and more in the latest Broadway Breakdown!
18 "Tony Predictions, Hunty!"
Recorded 4 days before the announcement of the 2018 Tony Nominations, Matt and John give THEIR take on who and what will be given some Tony love and hate this season.
17 "Let's Talk Sh*t About Babies"
Matt finally sees Carousel and John takes in Frozen and they have OPINIONS HONEY!!!!
16 "I'm Just a Stage Door Sally"
BACK AGAIN! Matt explains why Sally Murphy is his definitive Julie Jordan in Carousel, John dissects the most recent winner of "Rupaul's Drag Race" and the two twinks further discuss the new main stream gay high school movie "Love, Simon" and where it succeeds, and slightly falters.
15 "How Sutton Foster Made Me Gay"
Buckle up, Buttercup 'cause opinions are flowing! Matt and John discuss the brilliant oddity that is Ellen Greene's Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, some theatre news that is both exhilarating and confusing, and why you shouldn't dream stupid.
14 "Smile, Bitch, It's a Tangent!"
Back and bitchier than ever, Matt and John discuss the gayest new show on TV, shocking diva confessions, and the one lost musical Matt will fight for Encores! to do.
13 "2 Crusty Messes in Evita Dresses"
They're back! Or are they? After a mid-winter break, Matt and John come back in full force to discuss Broadway at the Grammys, new projects, and the excitement of a new Rupaul's Drag Race.
12 "Dumb Twinks The Musical: Live!"
In their latest, Matt and John discuss their predictions for "A Christmas Story Live!," the recent "Once On This Island" revival, and the benefits of being young and dumb (but not in public).
11 "Call Me By Your Taint"
Matt and John are back with an in depth discussion of sexual misconduct in theatre, gay characters in cinema, and how Katrina Lenk is showing up EVERYBODY in The Band's Visit.
10 "Bridges, Trouble and Energy (w/ Caitlin Kinnunen)"
Matt and John eat old Halloween candy with Caitlin Kinnunen (Spring Awakening, The Bridges of Madison County, The Prom) and discuss message board comments, sharing needles, and one strange Broadway TV commercial.
9 "Kevin Spacey Closet Watch"
Matt and John discuss the upcoming revival of "The Boys in the Band," the Kevin Spacey scandal, and fight over the "Beauty and the Beast" remake.
8 "Sickening: The Taylor Swift Musical"
In their first late night recording, Matt and John drink whiskey, argue over successful Broadway revivals, and reveal the new jukebox musical "Sickening!"
7 "White Men Writing Feminist Musicals (w/ Natalie Walker)"
Social media siren Natalie Walker sits down with Matt and John to discuss the drunken joys of "Cats the Musical," exciting up and coming musical theatre writers, and elementary school horror stories.
6 "Getting Slutty with New Microphones"
They're back! A new review leaves Matt and John pondering the quality of their tangents, while Matt teases an upcoming "Jukebox That Musical" and John goes undercover with the mysterious foot fetishist.
5 "Born This Way: The Lady Gaga Musical"
Matt and John discuss the Hal Prince revue "Prince of Broadway," the new replacements in "Dear Evan Hansen," and a surprise segment of "Jukebox That Musical"
4 "A Little Night Lubing"
Matt and John discuss Broadway-themed lubricant, the upcoming 2017-2018 musicals, and offer a final reflection on the mysterious foot fetishist.
3 "Brunettes: The Musical!"
Matt and John discuss casting controversy for "The Great Comet," delve deeper with the mysterious foot fetishist, and premiere their new Vanessa Carlton/Michelle Branch jukebox musical "Brunettes!"
2 "Don't Trick Landon"
Matt and John analyze the National Theatre's production of "Angels in America," discuss the benefits of a gender swapped "Company," and discover more information on the mysterious foot fetishist!
1
In their very first episode, Matt and John discuss the recent production of "Assassins" at City Center, dissect a controversial review of Donna Murphy in "Hello Dolly," and discover a foot fetishist who's posting audition breakdowns online.
Broadway Breakdown - Podcast Trailer
Matt Koplik is the most opinionated, foul-mouthed, and passionate theatre geek with access to a mic. Every week, Matt and a guest explore Broadway history by diving into the careers of the artists who shaped it.
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