This transcript was automatically generated and might contain errors.

[0:01] Eli Tokash: Hello everyone and welcome to episode 86 of Take A Bow. I'm your host Eli Tokash and this week we have one of our best episodes yet. We have the incredible James Monroe Iglehart and I love this episode so much and I know that you all are going to love it too if you haven't heard of him. He was the genie in Aladdin on Broadway and that is probably the role that he is most known for.

[0:26] Eli Tokash: However, if you listened to last week's episode and you are keeping up with all of Take A Bow, I'm a huge fan of James. I've mentioned him many times on this podcast and I mentioned last week that he's stepping into the role of Billy Flynn in Chicago and we talk all about that on this week's episode because he starts this Sunday.

[0:44] Eli Tokash: So very exciting episode, a very exciting guest, a very exciting time to talk to a person such as James and I know that you all are going to love this interview. We talk so much and he goes off the rails of even what I asked and in doing so brought so many amazing stories to the table that I wouldn't have even dreamed of talking about.

[1:10] Eli Tokash: And so the fact that we were able to do so just made this episode really special and I know that you all are going to freaking love it but it is a long episode so let's waste no time and let's go to the news, shall we?

[1:22] Eli Tokash: We have tons and tons of news to talk about. It's been a great week for Broadway. There's been a few sad moments but let's talk about some of the good stuff here.

[1:32] Eli Tokash: West Side Story won three awards at the Golden Globes including Best Motion Picture in a Musical or Comedy category. Rachel Ziegler won Best Performance by an Actress and then Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress.

[1:49] Eli Tokash: So that was really exciting for me. I was able to cheer on some of my friends. It was really weird because the Golden Globes actually weren't televised this year and in fact they were kind of happening but not happening and you had to follow it on like Twitter and all these weird crazy things.

[2:09] Eli Tokash: Anyways, Andrew Garfield also won a Golden Globe for his portrayal as Jonathan Larson in Tick Tick Boom. He won Best Actor beating Leonardo DiCaprio and all of these wonderful artists so huge shout out to Andrew Garfield and his amazing work in Tick Tick Boom.

[2:27] Eli Tokash: MJ Rodriguez won for Pose and Lin-Manuel also won an award for Best Motion Picture or Best Animation for Encanto which he obviously wrote the music and lyrics for. So huge shout out to the Broadway community. They showed up, they put the work in on these films and movies and rightfully so won the awards and are properly getting the accolades that they deserve.

[2:54] Eli Tokash: So huge shout out to all of those incredible, incredible artists. It'll be interesting to see now the other award ceremonies that happened and if they will get the same attention or if there's going to be a little bit of biasness in it and especially for like Jonathan Larson with Leo. I don't know if there's any biasness towards that.

[3:14] Eli Tokash: I don't know, it'll be interesting. But huge on the Golden Globes to celebrate the Broadway community in such a big way, really with West Side Story and Encanto giving them the best films in their categories was really, really cool and got the recognition that it definitely deserves.

[3:34] Eli Tokash: So with that being said, let's talk about what else is going on. So right now there's actually two for one Broadway ticket sales. It's actually going to be for about a month. So for a limited time, you can go see select Broadway shows. Two people can go see select Broadway shows for the price of one. And that's what the two for one Broadway show is.

[3:54] Eli Tokash: Some of them are discounts. Some of them are the actual two for one deals. Some of them are just saying like 50% off of both tickets, which is basically a two for one. The tickets are actually on sale now. But you can only go see the shows from that January 18th through the February 13th time slot. But you can go purchase a ticket now for those dates to get that deal.

[4:18] Eli Tokash: Very exciting stuff. It's a great time for Broadway. I know being a part of a show, you really are excited for this little stretch, because you get a really full house during this wonderful promotion that they do. And they do it yearly. So very cool. I'm glad it's that time of the year. It's always around this New Year kind of phase because Christmas and New Year's just happened. So a bunch of people came to New York, and now it's going to bring them back, hopefully.

[4:48] Eli Tokash: So yeah. And another thing for Broadway as a whole, Broadway extended their mask and vaccination mandate. They extended that until April 30th, basically saying that until April 30th, the same policies that we are following right now as we go to a show are going to be in place until then.

[5:06] Eli Tokash: Until when it becomes April 30th, they will reevaluate what's going on as far as the virus is concerned, and they will decide what policy should be in place. If in fact, we will be able to be like, oh, everyone who's vaccinated can come and do a show without a mask, or they'll keep the same policies, or maybe they'll just say mask and no vaccine. I don't know.

[5:33] Eli Tokash: But I'm just saying those rules may be altered come April 30th, but right now you must be vaccinated. You must be masked to enter a Broadway theater and to go see a show until April 30th.

[5:47] Eli Tokash: So that's what's going on there. And I saw a show last night. I saw MJ the Musical, and holy moly, I posted a review on TikTok. So go follow our Take About Podcast TikTok. It's the same username as our Twitter, our Instagram. And now we're going to be doing TikTok, and we're going to be doing exclusive content there. So it's going to be different content than what you see on Instagram.

[6:09] Eli Tokash: I posted a review of Michael Jackson, and it was awesome. I mean, listen, Michael Jackson as a whole, I mean, it may have some controversy there. However, I'm speaking right now solely on what I saw and the art that was put on stage last night.

[6:31] Eli Tokash: It was one of the most incredible shows that I had ever seen. That cast was incredible. Myles Frost is going to be a name that we remember for a long time. He's going to be a Broadway star now. He is incredible. And you know who else is incredible? Middle Michael, whose name is Tavon Oldsample.

[6:53] Eli Tokash: I mean, these guys were just phenomenal. I mean, these guys were incredible. Their voice, first of all, is just insane. But the work that they had to do to embody Michael Jackson and to make the audience feel like you are watching Michael Jackson up on that stage.

[7:19] Eli Tokash: The work that they put into ensuring that that would happen is unbelievable. This creative team has done such an amazing job with the choreography, with the embodiment of Michael Jackson, working on all the things, the set design, the costumes, the everything.

[7:38] Eli Tokash: Everything was so well done. I can't imagine what went into the show and how much it could have cost and all these things. But whatever they did, they are doing it right. They are right now in previews and you couldn't tell.

[7:54] Eli Tokash: I mean, it is in amazing shape and I cannot wait to go see the show again when it opens because I will literally go see the show 10 times because those people on that stage were absolutely fantastic.

[8:08] Eli Tokash: And a lot of them are making their Broadway debut, including Miles Frost and Tavon Oldsample, who I specifically mentioned, who are playing the roles of Michael Jackson.

[8:19] Eli Tokash: What they're doing is just incredible. It opened on December 6th. It is officially opening on February 1st. You guys want to go see the show. I mean, you have got to go see the show.

[8:34] Eli Tokash: If you are a fan of Michael Jackson's music and you are a fan of Broadway and theater and supporting new artists, this show is for you. It was such a good time. That's all I can say. It was amazing.

[8:46] Eli Tokash: Now, I have been critical of jukebox musicals, so you all know that I have a strong love-hate relationship with jukebox musicals, but this one works.

[8:55] Eli Tokash: I mean, the casting directors, shout out them. I mean, they did incredible, incredible work in finding these unbelievable generational talents.

[9:04] Eli Tokash: That's Rachel Hoffman at Telsey, of course. I feel like they cast everything. So, shout out to them and just everyone involved in the MJ musical because I loved it and I really think that you guys, that everybody should go see it.

[9:18] Eli Tokash: It was really, really cool. And in the Jackson 5 kind of stage of what they were showing, it reminded me a lot of the Temptations because it was all around that time and they had similar dance moves.

[9:31] Eli Tokash: So, to see they brought out Fred Astaire and Bob Fosse and kind of showed how their choreography is related to Michael Jackson and everything, it was just really, really cool and I really think that a lot of people will really like this show.

[9:47] Eli Tokash: Oh, and last thing, there was a standing ovation in Act 2 during Thriller because after Thriller was performed, that whole house stood on their feet and went crazy.

[10:03] Eli Tokash: We all agreed that Thriller was worth clapping for and standing and everything in between because it's a showstopper. I mean, period, end of story.

[10:13] Eli Tokash: And you think about it where it's just like, oh, well, how are they going to pull it off? It's such a big number and all the things, but they do such a great job and it certainly lives up to the hype.

[10:25] Eli Tokash: I loved it. I went in with no expectations whatsoever and came out in love.

[10:31] Eli Tokash: So, go see MJ the Musical. Thank you to my mentor, Lou Grumit, for taking me and your granddaughter. It was a really unforgettable night and I'm so glad that I got to see that show.

[10:43] Eli Tokash: Anyways, I'm going to talk about Billy Crystal. Y'all, he's coming back to Broadway. I had no idea. I don't know how I missed this, but he's coming back and it's in Mr. Saturday Night, which is a movie that he was famously in.

[11:01] Eli Tokash: It's coming back to Broadway and he's reprising his role that he did in the movie. He's going to be in Mr. Saturday Night with Shoshana Bean, who's going to play, who's going to co-star with him, and David Pamer, who's also going to be reprising his role that he did in the movie.

[11:19] Eli Tokash: So, I can't wait for this. I think this is going to be awesome. Of course, it's not an original work, but I think it's going to be cool to see those folks on stage, Billy Crystal and David Pamer, who are more known on stand-up or the screen and not so much on Broadway.

[11:37] Eli Tokash: It is, in fact, going to be a musical, so it'll be interesting to see how that goes. Shoshana Bean's obviously going to be amazing. They announced a couple other casts, so congratulations to everyone involved in Mr. Saturday Night. I think it's going to be fun. It's going to open in March, March 29th, I believe. That'll be one to go check out for sure.

[11:59] Eli Tokash: Because of the fact that this is a longer episode and including a longer intro and outro, instead of doing a Drama Dictionary or a Triple E segment, I'm going to do a casting segment because there have been a lot of casting calls being sent out, especially for young actors.

[12:19] Eli Tokash: So, actually, these are specifically for young actors. So, if anyone's listening that's my age and younger, keep your ears open.

[12:30] Eli Tokash: Welcome back to Take A Bow! Today, we have a very special guest, the incredible James Monroe Iglehart, known for his amazing performances in Aladdin, Hamilton, and so much more.

[12:50] James Monroe Iglehart: Thanks for having me, Eli! I'm excited to be here and share some stories.

[13:00] Eli Tokash: So, let's dive right in. You played the Genie in Aladdin, which is such an iconic role. What was that experience like for you?

[13:20] James Monroe Iglehart: It was absolutely surreal. Stepping into the shoes of the Genie, especially after seeing Robin Williams bring that character to life, was both thrilling and daunting. I wanted to honor what he did while also bringing my own flair to the role.

[13:40] Eli Tokash: I can only imagine! What was your process for making the character your own?

[14:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I focused on the energy and the joy of the character. The Genie is all about being larger than life, so I really leaned into that. Plus, I added some of my own experiences and humor to make it feel authentic to me.

[14:20] Eli Tokash: That’s awesome! You also had a stint in Hamilton. How did that compare to your experience in Aladdin?

[14:40] James Monroe Iglehart: Hamilton was a completely different vibe. It’s more grounded and historical, but still has that same level of energy. The music is so powerful, and being part of that revolutionary story was an honor.

[15:00] Eli Tokash: You’ve done so much on Broadway. What do you think has been the most challenging role for you?

[15:20] James Monroe Iglehart: Honestly, every role has its challenges. But I’d say stepping into Chicago was a big one for me. The choreography is intense, and the character requires a different kind of energy. It pushed me out of my comfort zone.

[15:40] Eli Tokash: That’s really interesting! And you’ve also been involved with Freestyle Love Supreme. What’s that experience like?

[16:00] James Monroe Iglehart: Freestyle Love Supreme is a blast! It’s all about improvisation and creating something new every night. The energy from the audience fuels the performance, and it’s such a unique experience.

[16:20] Eli Tokash: It sounds like a lot of fun! You’ve won a Tony Award for your role in Aladdin. What was that moment like for you?

[16:40] James Monroe Iglehart: Winning the Tony was a dream come true. It felt like all the hard work and dedication paid off. I was just so grateful to be recognized for something I love so much.

[17:00] Eli Tokash: That’s amazing! What advice would you give to young performers who aspire to be on Broadway?

[17:20] James Monroe Iglehart: My biggest piece of advice is to stay true to yourself and keep working hard. Rejection is part of the journey, but don’t let it discourage you. Keep honing your craft and believe in your unique voice.

[17:40] Eli Tokash: Great advice! And what’s next for you? Any upcoming projects you’re excited about?

[18:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I’m currently working on a few projects, including some new music and possibly stepping back into a theater role soon. I can’t wait to share more with everyone!

[18:20] Eli Tokash: We’ll definitely be on the lookout for that! Thank you so much for joining me today, James. It’s been a pleasure.

[18:40] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you for having me, Eli! It’s been a blast sharing my journey with you.

[19:00] Eli Tokash: And thank you to our listeners for tuning in to this episode of Take A Bow. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and check out more episodes for more amazing stories from the world of theater!

[25:00] James Monroe Iglehart: You know, I think the best part about playing the Genie is that you get to be a kid again. You get to play and have fun, and you get to be larger than life. And I think that’s what makes it so special.

[25:30] James Monroe Iglehart: I remember the first time I stepped on stage as the Genie, and it was just this overwhelming feeling of joy. You know, I had been working towards this moment for so long, and to finally be there, in that costume, with that energy from the audience, it was just magical.

[26:00] James Monroe Iglehart: And then, of course, there’s the music. The songs are so iconic, and getting to sing them every night is a dream come true. I mean, who wouldn’t want to sing “Friend Like Me” and “Prince Ali” in front of a live audience?

[26:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And then there’s the improvisation. I love being able to play with the audience, to make them laugh, to see their reactions. It’s such a unique experience every night, and I think that’s what keeps it fresh for me.

[27:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I also love the camaraderie with the cast. We’re all in this together, and we support each other. It’s like a big family, and that makes the experience even more special.

[27:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And let’s not forget about the Tony Awards. Winning that award was surreal. I remember standing there, holding it, and thinking about all the hard work that led me to that moment. It was a validation of everything I had done up to that point.

[28:00] James Monroe Iglehart: But it’s not just about the awards or the accolades. It’s about the impact we have on the audience. When I see kids in the audience, their eyes wide with wonder, it reminds me why I do this. It’s about inspiring the next generation.

[28:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And then there’s Hamilton. Being a part of that show was another incredible experience. The energy in that room is electric, and the storytelling is so powerful. It’s a different kind of magic, but just as impactful.

[29:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I also had the chance to work with Freestyle Love Supreme, which was a whole different ballgame. The spontaneity of it all, the freestyle rapping, it really pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I loved every minute of it.

[29:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And then there’s stepping into Chicago. That was a challenge, but it was also a thrill. The choreography, the music, the character work—it was all so rewarding.

[30:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I think what I love most about this industry is the variety. There’s always something new to learn, a new role to tackle, and new people to meet. It keeps me on my toes, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

[30:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And of course, I have to give a shoutout to my time with TWITS on BPN. That was such a fun project, and it really allowed me to explore different aspects of my creativity.

[31:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I also recently fell in love with Mr. Dellamourt. The story is so unique, and the characters are so rich. It’s been a joy to dive into that world and bring it to life.

[31:30] James Monroe Iglehart: I think the key to success in this industry is to stay open to new experiences. You never know where they might lead you, and sometimes the most unexpected opportunities can turn into the most rewarding ones.

[32:00] James Monroe Iglehart: And I always remind myself to have fun. At the end of the day, we’re telling stories, and that should be enjoyable. If you’re not having fun, then what’s the point?

[32:30] James Monroe Iglehart: I’m just grateful for all the experiences I’ve had so far, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

[33:00] James Monroe Iglehart: I think it’s important to keep pushing yourself, to keep challenging yourself, and to never lose that sense of wonder.

[33:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter how big or small they may seem.

[34:00] James Monroe Iglehart: So, to anyone out there listening, just remember to keep dreaming, keep working hard, and most importantly, keep having fun.

[34:30] James Monroe Iglehart: Because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.

[35:00] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you for having me on the show, Eli. It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey with you.

[35:30] James Monroe Iglehart: I can’t wait to see what the future holds, and I hope to continue bringing joy to audiences everywhere.

[36:00] James Monroe Iglehart: And remember, if you ever need a friend like me, I’m just a call away!

[36:30] James Monroe Iglehart: Let’s keep the magic alive, and I’ll see you all on stage!

[37:00] James Monroe Iglehart: Curtain up!

[37:30] James Monroe Iglehart: You know, I think one of the most important things about being in this industry is the relationships you build. I mean, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some incredible people, and each experience has taught me something new.

[38:00] James Monroe Iglehart: When I was in Aladdin, playing the Genie was a dream come true. The energy of the audience, the music, and the sheer joy of bringing that character to life was just magical.

[38:30] James Monroe Iglehart: And then transitioning to Hamilton, it was a whole different vibe. The storytelling, the history, and the way the music blends with the narrative is just genius.

[38:56] James Monroe Iglehart: I remember the first time I stepped into the role of Lafayette/Jefferson. It was like stepping into a whole new world, and I had to bring my own flair to it while respecting the original vision.

[39:23] James Monroe Iglehart: Freestyle Love Supreme was another unique experience. It’s all about improvisation and being in the moment, which is something I absolutely love.

[39:43] James Monroe Iglehart: The Tony Awards were a whirlwind! Winning that award for my role as the Genie was surreal. It’s something I had dreamed about since I was a kid.

[40:03] James Monroe Iglehart: And then there’s Memphis, which was such a powerful show. The music, the story—it really resonated with me and allowed me to explore different aspects of my artistry.

[40:23] James Monroe Iglehart: Stepping into Chicago was a challenge, but also a thrill. The energy of that show is unmatched, and I loved every minute of it.

[40:43] James Monroe Iglehart: I’ve also had the pleasure of working on projects like TWITS on BPN, which was a fun and creative outlet.

[41:03] James Monroe Iglehart: And let’s not forget about Falling in Love with Mr. Dellamourt on BPN. That was a unique experience that allowed me to explore different genres and styles.

[41:23] James Monroe Iglehart: Each project has its own flavor, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to dive into such diverse roles.

[41:43] James Monroe Iglehart: I think it’s important to keep pushing yourself and trying new things. That’s how you grow as an artist.

[42:03] James Monroe Iglehart: I’ve learned so much from my peers and mentors along the way. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping my career.

[42:23] James Monroe Iglehart: And honestly, the friendships I’ve made in this industry are some of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.

[42:51] James Monroe Iglehart: I love being able to share experiences and stories with others who understand the hustle and grind of this business.

[43:11] James Monroe Iglehart: It’s all about community and support. We lift each other up, and that’s what makes this industry so special.

[43:21] James Monroe Iglehart: I’m excited for what’s next and can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.

[43:31] James Monroe Iglehart: The possibilities are endless, and I’m ready to embrace whatever comes my way.

[43:51] James Monroe Iglehart: So, to anyone out there pursuing their dreams, keep going! It’s worth it.

[44:11] James Monroe Iglehart: Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey and the people you meet along the way.

[44:31] James Monroe Iglehart: I’m grateful for every moment and every opportunity that has come my way.

[44:51] James Monroe Iglehart: And I can’t wait to share more stories and experiences with everyone.

[45:11] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you for having me on the show, Eli. It’s been a blast!

[45:31] James Monroe Iglehart: Let’s keep the conversation going and inspire the next generation of artists.

[45:51] James Monroe Iglehart: Together, we can make a difference in this industry.

[46:11] James Monroe Iglehart: So, let’s keep shining and supporting each other.

[46:31] James Monroe Iglehart: I’m looking forward to what’s next for all of us!

[46:51] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you again for this opportunity, Eli.

[47:11] James Monroe Iglehart: It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey with you.

[47:31] James Monroe Iglehart: Let’s continue to uplift and inspire one another.

[47:41] James Monroe Iglehart: Until next time, keep dreaming big!

[47:52] James Monroe Iglehart: And remember, the sky's the limit!

[47:54] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you!

[48:15] James Monroe Iglehart: I appreciate everyone tuning in.

[48:43] James Monroe Iglehart: Let’s keep the magic alive in the world of theater!

[48:54] James Monroe Iglehart: I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

[48:56] James Monroe Iglehart: Take care, everyone!

[49:17] James Monroe Iglehart: And keep spreading love and positivity.

[49:19] James Monroe Iglehart: Until next time!

[49:46] James Monroe Iglehart: Bye!

[50:01] James Monroe Iglehart: Your digs. I've loved you. We've been boys forever. Nobody raps as fast as you. And he goes, I don't want to copy your style. And he's like, no, no, no, that's the whole thing. They want someone to come in different from me. So it won't look like someone's trying to copy me. I said that I can do. I'm a showman that I can do. So I said, yes. And the rest is history. And I got to spend four wonderful years with, with three and a half, you know, with the pandemic, right, with, with, with the ham fam. And I've loved it. I still have made lifelong friends with that show. And then what do we do in the middle of it? Freestyle Love Supreme came to Broadway. Right. And all of us from that was it that we're that started with group and with Hamilton did that as well.

So I was doing twice twice on Broadway. I was doing Hamilton and Freestyle Love Supreme. I would I would like on on Sundays, I would do a three o'clock show at Hamilton, run over and do the show at Freestyle Supreme. Then on Mondays, do two shows of Freestyle Supreme and jump back into stopping. Yeah, one day on this. I got you that one day I get a call. We were so Saturday that when they were Freestyle Supreme was off Broadway, the stage manager called me and said, Hey, one of the guys is out. Can you come down? So I did the two o'clock show, ran downtown. No to the Greenwich House and did the show of freestyle then jump back on a cab and ran back. So I did three shows in one day. I did Hamilton, Freestyle Hamilton.

And when you when you're that that family that freestyle family, right how we do man, that's just what we do. Good for you. The hustle. It doesn't stop. No, not stop. I love it. It's so cool. I actually saw I've seen Freestyle Supreme many times, but I saw though I only saw you once and it was with Jordan Fisher. Oh, yeah. That was so sick. I love Freestyle Supreme. I watched the documentary everything about it. It's just so cool. I mean, what is it? Yeah, no, seriously. Like, what is that like? Because I mean, obviously, that's just like a different experience every night. New stories to tell. That is one of my favorite things because I love performing. I know it's going to sound crazy because I know people are going to challenge me to that.

But it's fun to perform without a net. Yeah. It's fun to perform just to create, you know, what's what's nothing out of nothing. Right. You know, somebody gives you a suggestion, you just create something out of nothing. And I thrive on that. I love that. Give me a subject and let's go. Right. And also just to be up there with your friends and do what I was what I would. My father always said, find a job you would do for free and hopefully someone to pay you to do it. Well, basically, he was like, find a job you would do for free and then find a way to get paid for that. And that's what I've done. And I we we would freestyle for nothing. Me and Chris just in a parking lot next to a burrito shop, just freestyling about the dumb things we see. And people are paying us to do that. I do that for the heck of it. And we get to do this professionally. Are you serious? Yeah. Best, best job in the world.

[53:07] Eli Tokash: Well, talk to me about like, obviously, like performing without a net and everything. But talk to me about performing as yourself and telling your story.

[53:17] James Monroe Iglehart: Oh, that's that's really fun, too. Yeah. That's one of the things I love about stand up comedians. You're you're not playing a character. You're you. Right. You're telling your take on the world and your take on opinions and your take on stories that come out there. And I love that because you don't have to. You could just be you. You don't have to put on a costume. What I'm wearing on stage and freestyle supreme is just a louder version of what I would wear in regular life. Like, yeah, you you saw freestyle supreme. And I don't know if you saw me wearing Knight Rider, Batman, Millennium Falcon or Star Trek, but I'm wearing Star Trek right now. Yeah. We're in the enterprise right now at home.

It just doesn't have rhinestones on it. So I mean, this is what I would do as a normal basis. Uh huh. So to be able to play myself was fun because then I'd have to worry about, you know, the right notes or the right things to say. I just could say what was on my mind. And there's something free. There's something very freeing about that. There's something that lets you kind of go. Yeah, that that feels really good just to be you.

[54:19] Eli Tokash: Yeah. I think that's so sick. That whole group, the fact that it's on Broadway. I know it's going on tour now. Yes. Oh, yes. Are you like going to be popping into any of those or that is the plan you are?

[54:24] James Monroe Iglehart: Yeah, that is the plan I was supposed to. They're starting in San Francisco, which is my hometown, my home state, I should say. And I was supposed to go. And then Chicago came up. And when I say you talk about the hustle freestyle of Supreme in closed on Broadway, January 2nd, 2022, January 3rd, 2022, I started rehearsals for Chicago. No way. Yeah. What? Yeah. But but that's great. I mean, you're always employed. That's good. Yeah. So the family knows that and they they were they were so supportive and so sending me nothing but love. But I look forward to any time I get to jump on stage with my FLS family. I am excited. And so hopefully, you'll see me in one of the cities around. We're working on that right now trying to get scheduled. I can't say anything yet. But that yet, you know, that's that's the plan for me to show up. And when you least expect it out, Jay Soul will step on stage with FLS.

[55:20] Eli Tokash: Well, I think that's what's cool about it. Like you go to the show and you don't know who you're going to see.

[55:24] James Monroe Iglehart: Yeah. Yeah. I mean, it's a different story, but you also don't know who you're going to see on stage. Well, that's the fun part. FLS is a entity that no matter what you see, it's going to be a good show. You just don't know who's going to show up.

[55:37] Eli Tokash: Yeah. I don't know who's going to show up. It's so cool. I love everything about the show. That's why it keeps it keeps you coming back.

[55:42] James Monroe Iglehart: Yeah. Oh, yeah. You have to because you because it's not don't get me wrong. Like you see a Broadway show and you love it because you love it. But FLS, you go because you don't know what you're going to see. You don't know what you're going to get. It's going to be different every night. And I've been doing it for 16 years.

[55:59] Eli Tokash: Wow.

[56:00] James Monroe Iglehart: And it's never been the same.

[56:05] Eli Tokash: You've been with Freestyle Love Supreme for 16 years or freestyling for 16 years?

[56:10] James Monroe Iglehart: Freestyle Love Supreme for Freestyle Supreme is 18 years old. Utkarsh and I have been with it for 16 years. Holy moly. I didn't realize that. That's crazy.

[56:16] Eli Tokash: Yeah. We joined we joined in 2006.

[56:25] James Monroe Iglehart: Wow. Let me ask you a question. How would you describe Freestyle Love Supreme? Like if you're going to see it for the first time, like because there's like you can't really say I would say about it.

[56:29] James Monroe Iglehart: I would say Freestyle Love Supreme is a hip hop improvisational comedy group that will tell a brand new story that is always different because it's never the same. It's happening for the first and last time right then right there. And trust me, you're going to have a great time.

[56:48] Eli Tokash: Wow. Wow. That was like a little promotion there. I like it. But so I'll let you go here in a second. I just want to ask you, obviously, you're stepping into the role of Billy Flynn and you're in rehearsals. You start January 17th. How excited are you for this? Is this a dream role of yours?

[57:09] James Monroe Iglehart: Weirdly, yes and no. Like I remember I was chilling, another name drop. I was chilling at the end of Hamilton. I was on my last week and I was in Mandy Gonzalez's dressing room. We were laughing about life and just, you know, being parents and all that kind of stuff. And she said, so what are you thinking about doing now? I'm like, you know, right now I'm just thinking about Freestyle Supreme. I said, I don't know. I said, there are a couple of roles. She goes, are there any shows on Broadway, on Broadway that you would want to do? And I said, I love Phantom of the Opera. I would love to step into the role of Phantom. I said, you know what? I said the other role, I said, but they'll never, ever call me. I said, it would be fun to, I think, play Billy Flynn. I said, but you know, Chicago folks ain't looking at me. And literally three months later I get a call.

[58:03] Eli Tokash: That's crazy.

[58:04] James Monroe Iglehart: I had no idea that they were even looking at me or interested. It was crazy. And I called Mandy. The minute I got the part, I called Mandy. I said, yo, did we, did we put this in the air? What happened? She was like, I guess we did because I had never said it out loud. I had never said Billy Flynn out loud, but I was, I was looking at stuff and I was like, well, you know, sometimes they, they put guys in the role that you don't, you know, imagine. And I just said that was the first time I'd ever said it out loud was with Mandy Gonzalez. And here we are.

[58:31] Eli Tokash: Here we are.

[58:32] James Monroe Iglehart: And what's funny is I've always thought the role was fun. I've always thought he was dashing. I've always thought he was just kind of smooth as silk, you know? And but I never thought that someone would look at me like that. And now that I've been in rehearsal for a couple of days, it's such a fun role and the show itself. And the funny part about Chicago is I had never seen it on Broadway. I had been on Broadway. I have been on Broadway since 2007 and I have walked past the ambassador theater hundreds of times, hundreds of times, and never saw it on Broadway. I saw Chicago 1998 in Chicago, which I went to Chicago to audition for the Lion King. And I had nothing to do that night. And I said, you know what?

I'm going to the theater. I see if I can get a ticket. And they had like a couple of tickets left and they were way in though. I mean, they were the rafters. Right. And I paid a hundred dollars and sat in the nose and watch Chicago with this is pretty cool. And, um, you know, I got to see Jasmine Guy and I got to see Ola Babatunde and some amazing actors and, um, just fantastic. But, you know, at that time I was like Lion King, gun it. And I was like, they're not getting there with Chicago. It's a great show, but they ain't got it for me. And now looking at it, it's such, I've been watching it, you know, this week, it's such a fantastic show. Yeah. It's, you know, how some people say, oh, show's still in good shape.

No, it's not still in good shape. It's an amazing show. There is no shape that the performers there are killing it. And also, especially in this time of COVID time where, you know, the understudies and, um, swings are killing it, or at least I should say being recognized for what they do because they've been killing it since the beginning of time. Right. But the fact that they're finally being recognized is a wonderful thing. I am telling you, the Chicago cast is incredible. Or as I like to say on Instagram, the Chicago cast is fire from top to bottom. Oh my God. They are just, if you get a chance to see them right now before the 17th, go. They are, this cast is great. The couple of us that are coming in, can't say who it is, couple of you coming in for the 17th, we're going to be fire too. And I can't wait for you guys to see it. It's so, so good.

[1:01:10] Eli Tokash: Oh my God. I'm so excited. I can't wait to see you in that role. I think it's going to be amazing. Like you said though, like it was one of those things that like, I, I guess I would have never pictured it, but now that you like are in it, I'm like, makes sense.

[1:01:18] James Monroe Iglehart: What's funny is that happened. My friends called and they were like, oh my God, this makes so much sense though. Right. I said, I never thought about it myself, but yeah, you're right.

[1:01:27] Eli Tokash: Yeah. Literally. I love it. I've, I've, I've like listened to his stuff, but when I said it to Mandy, I was saying it as like, that would be a fun fantasy of being able to wear the tux and come down the stairs. Never. And if what's funny is I should know better. I should know better because I am 47 years old and this has happened to me several times. I will say a, it would be fun to do this, but that's never going to happen. That's what happened with Jeannie. Yeah. It'd be fun to play Jeannie, but they're never going to, I said, yo, it'd be really, really fun to like, you know, Jim up there with ham and all those guys, but then that's never going to happen. I said, it'd be fun to actually be able to rap on Broadway.

I said, but you know, I I've been rapping for a long time, but yeah, I'm too old for that. And for yourself Supreme, well, I said, I said, it'd be really, really cool to play the whiz, to do the lion and the whiz in New York city. And we got to do it in 2009 with the encores. Uh, and at the time it was me, Josh Henry, Christian.

[1:03:31] James Monroe Iglehart: You know, I think one of the most incredible things about playing the Genie in Aladdin was the freedom that came with it. I mean, I got to really explore this character in ways that I never thought possible. The energy that I brought to the role was something that I had to tap into every single night, and it was exhilarating.

[1:04:01] James Monroe Iglehart: I remember the first time I stepped on stage as the Genie. It was like a rush of adrenaline. The audience was so alive, and I could feel their energy feeding into my performance. It was one of those moments where you realize why you do what you do.

[1:04:27] James Monroe Iglehart: And then, of course, there were the Tony Awards. Winning that award was surreal. I mean, to be recognized by your peers in such a significant way is something that every actor dreams of. It was a validation of all the hard work and dedication I put into my craft.

[1:04:57] James Monroe Iglehart: But it wasn't just about the accolades. It was about the journey. I had the chance to work with some incredible people, from the creative team to my fellow cast members. Each performance was a collaboration, and I learned so much from everyone involved.

[1:05:27] James Monroe Iglehart: And then transitioning to Hamilton was another adventure altogether. The energy in that show is electric, and the storytelling is so powerful. I had to adapt my performance style to fit the rhythm and flow of the music, which was a fun challenge.

[1:05:57] James Monroe Iglehart: I also had the opportunity to be part of Freestyle Love Supreme, which was a completely different experience. Improv is such a unique art form, and being able to create something on the spot with such talented individuals was both thrilling and terrifying.

[1:06:17] James Monroe Iglehart: You know, stepping into Chicago was another highlight. It was a chance to explore a different character and style of performance. The choreography and music in that show are iconic, and I loved every minute of it.

[1:06:37] James Monroe Iglehart: I think one of the most important lessons I've learned throughout my career is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Whether it's a small role or a lead, each experience contributes to your growth as an artist.

[1:06:57] James Monroe Iglehart: And let's not forget about the importance of community in this industry. The relationships I've built with my fellow performers and creatives have been invaluable. We support each other, share stories, and lift each other up.

[1:07:17] James Monroe Iglehart: I also want to highlight the importance of mentorship. I've had some incredible mentors who have guided me along the way, and I strive to do the same for others. It's crucial to give back and help the next generation of artists.

[1:07:37] James Monroe Iglehart: I think about my journey often, and I realize how fortunate I am to have had these experiences. Each show has shaped me in different ways, and I carry those lessons with me as I continue to grow.

[1:07:57] James Monroe Iglehart: And as I look to the future, I'm excited about what lies ahead. There are so many stories to tell and characters to explore. I can't wait to see where this journey takes me next.

[1:08:17] James Monroe Iglehart: It's all about passion and perseverance. If you love what you do, it shows in your work. And that's what keeps me motivated every day.

[1:08:37] James Monroe Iglehart: So, to anyone listening who is pursuing a career in the arts, remember to stay true to yourself and keep pushing forward. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth it.

[1:08:57] James Monroe Iglehart: Thank you for having me on the show, Eli. It's been a pleasure sharing my experiences with you and your audience.

[1:09:17] James Monroe Iglehart: I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams and embrace the magic of storytelling through performance.

[1:09:37] James Monroe Iglehart: And remember, every performance is an opportunity to connect with someone in the audience. That's the beauty of live theater.

[1:09:57] James Monroe Iglehart: Curtain up! Let's keep the magic alive.