Matt Rodin sits down with Broadway royalty, Tony Award winner Beth Leavel. With a remarkable career spanning over four decades, Beth has become a true luminary in the theater world. She's celebrated for her Tony-winning performance in The Drowsy Chaperone and Tony-nominated roles in Baby It's You! and The Prom. Beth's résumé boasts 13 Broadway credits—including 42nd Street, Mamma Mia!, and Elf—plus countless performances at regional theaters nationwide.
Recorded as Beth prepares for her Stephen Sondheim tribute show at 54 Below and Matt wraps up the national tour of Sondheim's COMPANY, this episode offers a unique glimpse into two artists deeply influenced by Sondheim's genius. Beth shares her experiences with Sondheim's challenging works, including roles in Gypsy, Into the Woods, and her special performance at Carnegie Hall's Follies concert. She opens up about the thrill and intimidation of performing Sondheim's complex material and how it has shaped her artistry.
The conversation explores the highs and lows of new productions, such as the critically acclaimed but short-lived Lempicka. Beth candidly discusses show business realities—from the excitement of creating something new to the challenges of a shorter-than-hoped run. She reflects on The Drowsy Chaperone and The Prom, emphasizing the importance of commitment, passion, and optimism in every project.
Beyond her stage successes, Beth reveals how she maintains a fulfilling life offstage. She highlights the importance of a strong support system, nurturing relationships, and finding joy outside work. The discussion touches on gratitude, community, and the vital role of lasting friendships in the theater industry. Beth also shares insights on mentorship, social media's impact on young performers, and staying true to oneself in a competitive field.
Whether you're an aspiring actor, a seasoned performer, or a Broadway enthusiast, this episode brims with wisdom, humor, and inspiration from one of theater's most respected figures. Beth Leavel's journey exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the enduring power of storytelling.
Tune in to hear:
- Beth's insights on performing Stephen Sondheim's work and preparing for her 54 Below show
- The excitement and challenges of being involved in new Broadway productions like Lempicka
- How she balances her career with her personal life, emphasizing the importance of family and friendships
- Her experiences working with renowned directors like Casey Nicholaw and the significance of strong creative partnerships
- Advice for aspiring artists on navigating the ups and downs of the theater industry
- The role of gratitude, love, and optimism in sustaining a long and successful career
- The importance of community and lasting relationships in an ever-changing business
The Come Up pulls back the curtain on the perpetual journey of “making it.”
Artists and creatives share insights, stories, and truths about the reality of being a human being in show business, with actor and generalist Matt Rodin.
Matt believes that love is who we are. He taps into people’s light so that we can form deeper connections with ourselves and one another. He’s a queer creative generalist. Matt most recently played Jamie on the first national tour of the Tony Award-winning revival of Stephen Sondheim's COMPANY. Matt also recently starred in Hedwig and the Angry Inch at Milwaukee Rep, RENT at Paper Mill Playhouse, and the upcoming musical film BEAU. In 2020, he released his first live solo album, Matt Rodin: Live at Home. Matt has also worked as a content producer and consultant for The Tony Awards, Kamala Harris, The Smithsonian Institute, SoulCycle, Hamilton, Cynthia Erivo, Ingrid Michaelson, Playbill, Broadway.com, Dear Evan Hansen, Write Out Loud, and more.
The Come Up is presented by Broadway Podcast Network