BPN Logo
BPN Logo
Token Theatre Friends
Podcasts

Token Theatre Friends

A community of BIPOC theater enthusiasts offering opportunities for theatre lovers to discover and engage with the works of artists we love.

All Episodes

Ep. 79: The Desire of Diana Pou

Ep. 79: The Desire of Diana Pou

In this episode, Jose talks to actor/singer/educator Diana Pou about her role in Alván Colón Lespier's The Desire of the Astronaut, a poetic sci-fi play premiering at Pregones/PRTT next month.

30 mins
Apr 26
Ep. 78: From Book to Movie to Musical to Movie Musical

Ep. 78: From Book to Movie to Musical to Movie Musical

In this episode, Andrew and Graceson talk about the film adaptations of two Broadway musicals, which once were films, which once were books. The Color Purple directed by Blitz Bazawule and Mean Girls directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr.

1 h 1 min
Apr 21
Ep. 77: The Imitator

Ep. 77: The Imitator

In this episode, Jose speaks to Julián Fontalvo the multitalented writer and performer of The Imitator, in which he takes audience members on a personal journey where he imitates the voices of over 70 artists.

34 mins
Apr 19
Ep. 76: The Eras Tour as Theatre

Ep. 76: The Eras Tour as Theatre

In this episode, Jose is joined by fellow Swifties (and BIPOC Critics Lab alumni) Maria Paz Alegre and Octavia Washington, to discuss Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour.

49 mins
12/12/23
Ep. 75: Shakespeare in the Jazz Age (Ft. Aria Shahghasemi)

Ep. 75: Shakespeare in the Jazz Age (Ft. Aria Shahghasemi)

In this episode, Jose talks to actor Aria Shahghasemi about his starring role in Romeo and Juliet at The Curtain in New Jersey. The actor known for his work on various seasons of The Originals and Legacies, speaks about why he wanted to return to the stage, as well as how his inner "Shakespeare dork" informs his performance as Romeo.

32 mins
10/18/23
Ep. 74: Repair (Ft. Michael Marrero and Julio Trinidad)

Ep. 74: Repair (Ft. Michael Marrero and Julio Trinidad)

In this episode, Jose talks to the duo behind Repair, a play making its premiere via streaming at StudioWorks. Writers Michael Marrero and Julio Trinidad (who also stars in the play) talk about the process of writing together, creating a unique NY story, and the joy of bringing theater to people's homes.

47 mins
7/11/23
Ep. 73: El Lancelot Latino (Ft. Matías De La Flor)

Ep. 73: El Lancelot Latino (Ft. Matías De La Flor)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Matías De La Flor, who talks about his work in Lerner & Loewe's Camelot and getting to play a Latino Lancelot. De La Flor also shares what it was like landing his first Broadway job out of school and why he's interested in coaching actors in two languages.

46 mins
7/2/23
Ep. 72: Latiné Rising Stars of Musical Theatre

Ep. 72: Latiné Rising Stars of Musical Theatre

In this episode, Jose speaks to four of the composers who will be featured in 4xLatiné at Latiné Musical Theatre Lab.

46 mins
6/27/23
Ep. 71: Into the Woods (Ft. Shane Dittmar & Aubrie Therrien)

Ep. 71: Into the Woods (Ft. Shane Dittmar & Aubrie Therrien)

In this episode, Jose speaks to two of the artists behind Epic Players' production of Into the Woods. Music Director Shane Dittmar and Executive & Artistic Director Aubrie Therrien talk about the company's mission of providing opportunities for neurodivergent and disabled people, as well as the joys and challenges of taking on a show as beloved as Woods.

38 mins
6/13/23
Ep. 70:  The Cotillion (Ft. Colette Robert)

Ep. 70: The Cotillion (Ft. Colette Robert)

In this episode, Jose speaks to playwright/director Colette Robert of The Cotillion. Robert talks about the significance of seeing Black women represented onstage, how she approaches writing vs. directing, and why she wanted to become an artist.

23 mins
5/10/23
Ep. 69: Like Playing Pretend, But Better! (Ft. Dan Rosales)

Ep. 69: Like Playing Pretend, But Better! (Ft. Dan Rosales)

In this episode, Jose speaks to actor Dan Rosales currently starring in Dog Man: The Musical. Rosales talks about the path he followed to become a performer, and how he connects with his inner child whenever he's on stage.

28 mins
4/24/23
Ep. 68: Mystique, Allure, and Proficiency (Ft. Roger Q. Mason)

Ep. 68: Mystique, Allure, and Proficiency (Ft. Roger Q. Mason)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Roger Q. Mason about readings of two of their works, The Pink and Waiting for a Wake. Mason speaks about why they never call their work "plays," the importance of ritual in performance, and decolonizing theatrical practices.

51 mins
4/18/23
Ep. 67: Listening to the Whisper of Intuition (Ft. Camila Canó-Flaviá)

Ep. 67: Listening to the Whisper of Intuition (Ft. Camila Canó-Flaviá)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Camila Canó-Flaviá, the star of The Coast Starlight, currently at Lincoln Center Theater. Canó-Flaviá talks about returning to a character she played a few years ago and shares her thoughts on the importance of finding a self-care routine.

28 mins
4/11/23
Ep. 66: Analyze Brick (Ft. Matt de Rogatis)

Ep. 66: Analyze Brick (Ft. Matt de Rogatis)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Matt de Rogatis, the star/producer of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. De Rogatis talks about fundraising for the first Off-Broadway production of Cat, why he wanted to play Tennessee William's "trinity" (Stanley from A Streetcar Named Desire, Tom from The Glass Menagerie, and Brick from Cat), and how he uses his passion for psychology to dig deep into the characters he plays.

45 mins
3/15/23
Ep. 65: Breaking Free from Stereotypes (Ft. Laura Gómez)

Ep. 65: Breaking Free from Stereotypes (Ft. Laura Gómez)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Laura Gómez who is currently starring in The Baby Monitor at Santa Fe Playhouse. Gómez talks about sinking her teeth into the part of Soledad in Monitor, as well as the importance of developing new muscles and skills to complement acting, and why there's power in seeing Latinx characters break free of the stereotypes they've been assigned.

43 mins
3/15/23
Ep. 64: Saying Yes to the Things That Scare You (Ft. Adrienne C. Moore & Sean Boyce Johnson)

Ep. 64: Saying Yes to the Things That Scare You (Ft. Adrienne C. Moore & Sean Boyce Johnson)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Adrienne C. Moore and Sean Boyce Johnson, two of the stars of Black Odyssey. The duo talks about the genius of playwright Marcus Gardley, share tips for beginner actors who want to try out working in different mediums, and comment on fearlessness and the importance of saying yes to things that scare you.

46 mins
3/14/23
Ep. 63: MacGyver The Musical (Ft. Brandon Victor Dixon)

Ep. 63: MacGyver The Musical (Ft. Brandon Victor Dixon)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Brandon Victor Dixon about his work in MacGyver The Musical. The Tony, Emmy, and Grammy-nominated artist talks about his work on stage, on screen, and as a producer. He also shares his advice for young people of color who want to be in the performing arts.

24 mins
2/14/23
Ep. 62: Song of Joy (Ft. Carol Mazhuvancheril)

Ep. 62: Song of Joy (Ft. Carol Mazhuvancheril)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Carol Mazhuvancheril, the playwright and star of Song of Joy, currently running at The Tank. Mazhuvancheril draws from his personal history to craft a moving tale of immigration, culture, and love for one's family.

30 mins
1/25/23
Ep. 61: Musical Interpretation and Creation (Ft. Rona Siddiqui)

Ep. 61: Musical Interpretation and Creation (Ft. Rona Siddiqui)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Rona Siddiqui, the Music Director of A Strange Loop. A composer first, as she tells Jose, Siddiqui talks about what it was like to interpret Michael R. Jackson's award-winning music and the elements she played with in both the Off-Broadway and Broadway cast recordings.

29 mins
12/27/22
Ep. 60: You Gotta Have Faith (Ft. Annie Fang)

Ep. 60: You Gotta Have Faith (Ft. Annie Fang)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Annie Fang, one of the stars of Your Own Personal Exegesis by Julia May Jonas. Fang plays Beatrice, one of the members of a church youth group in New Jersey, where she hopes she will be able to find answers to her problems.

49 mins
12/21/22
Ep. 59: When You Know the Notes to Sing (Ft. Ashley Blanchet)

Ep. 59: When You Know the Notes to Sing (Ft. Ashley Blanchet)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Ashley Blanchet who plays Maria in the Paper Mill Playhouse production of The Sound of Music. Blanchet speaks about playing one of the most iconic characters in musical history and making it her own.

30 mins
12/6/22
Ep. 58:  En inglés with an Accent (Ft. Migguel Anggelo)

Ep. 58: En inglés with an Accent (Ft. Migguel Anggelo)

In this episode, Jose speaks to multidisciplinary artist Migguel Anggelo about his album English with an Accent and the eponymous theatrical piece he'll present at Lincoln Center in early December.

39 mins
11/20/22
Ep. 57:  Artists as First Responders (Ft. The Bengsons)

Ep. 57: Artists as First Responders (Ft. The Bengsons)

In this episode, Jose speaks to The Bengsons about Sovereignty Hymns, a series of spirituals they wrote in which they address a woman's right to choose when it comes to reproductive liberty. The Hymns were first released by La Jolla Playhouse shortly after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v.

44 mins
11/16/22
Ep. 56:  Rhythm is Gonna Get'cha (Ft. Linedy Genao & Brandon Espinoza)

Ep. 56: Rhythm is Gonna Get'cha (Ft. Linedy Genao & Brandon Espinoza)

In this episode, Jose speaks to actors Linedy Genao & Brandon Espinoza who starred as Gloria and Emilio Estefan in On Your Feet! at Paper Mill Playhouse. They discuss the different paths they took to become actors and what they learned playing the real-life couple.

37 mins
11/8/22
Ep. 55:  Getting Candid with "Candida" Leads (Ft. Avanthika Srinivasan & R.J. Foster)

Ep. 55: Getting Candid with "Candida" Leads (Ft. Avanthika Srinivasan & R.J. Foster)

In this episode, Jose speaks to actors Avanthika Srinivasan & R.J. Foster currently playing the leads in a revised Candida by Gingold Theatrical Group. The actors talk about falling in love with performance, starring in new works vs.

37 mins
11/8/22
Ep. 54:  Bergman's Ark (Ft. FC Bergman)

Ep. 54: Bergman's Ark (Ft. FC Bergman)

In this episode, Jose speaks to members of the Belgian troupe FC Bergman. The boundary-pushing collective are bringing their majestic "300 el x 50 el x 30" el to BAM in Brooklyn this month.

39 mins
9/30/22
Ep. 53:  Scene with Solis (Ft. Octavio Solis)

Ep. 53: Scene with Solis (Ft. Octavio Solis)

In this episode, Jose speaks to playwright Octavio Solis. Solis' new play, Scene with Cranes is having its world premiere at REDCAT (Roy and Edna Disney CalArts Theater ) in Los Angeles. The poetic work deals with the aftermath of a tragedy that shatters a family.

51 mins
9/30/22
Ep. 52: Security, Stability, and South Asians in Theater (Ft. Ramita Ravi)

Ep. 52: Security, Stability, and South Asians in Theater (Ft. Ramita Ravi)

In this episode, Isabel speaks to Ramita Ravi, actor and dance captain in Bhangin' It. The La Jolla Playhouse musical, written by Mike Lew and Rehana Lew Mirza, with music and lyrics by Sam Willmott and Deep Singh, made its world premiere in San Diego from March 20th - April 17th, 2022.

54 mins
6/24/22
Ep. 51:  To the Moon and Back (Ft. Jackie Burns)

Ep. 51: To the Moon and Back (Ft. Jackie Burns)

In this episode, Jose speaks to performer Jackie Burns. The actor is currently starring in a musical adaptation of A Walk on the Moon where she plays Pearl, a woman grappling with her life choices during the summer of 1969.

25 mins
5/13/22
Ep. 50:  A Map to Making Music (Ft. Anthony McGill & Weston Sprott)

Ep. 50: A Map to Making Music (Ft. Anthony McGill & Weston Sprott)

In this episode, Jose speaks to clarinetist Anthony McGill and trombonist Weston Sprott, who also run Juilliard’s Music Advancement Program (MAP). The program is designed to recruit students from underrepresented communities in an effort to increase diversity in classical music.

42 mins
5/13/22
Ep. 49: License to Be Human (Ft. Fernanda Santos)

Ep. 49: License to Be Human (Ft. Fernanda Santos)

In this episode, Jose speaks to Fernanda Santos. The trailblazing, multilingual writer is known for her powerful journalism and intimate storytelling. Now she's also a musical writer with ¡Americano!

42 mins
4/27/22
Ep. 48: H*tler's Tasters (Ft. Michelle Kholos Brooks)

Ep. 48: H*tler's Tasters (Ft. Michelle Kholos Brooks)

In this episode, Jose speaks to playwright Michelle Kholos Brooks about her play H*tler's Tasters (we reviewed the first New York production in 2018), her tragicomic look at the young women who were ready to give their lives for the infamous Nazi führer.

46 mins
4/22/22
Ep. 47: Immigrant Songs (Ft. Jaime Lozano)

Ep. 47: Immigrant Songs (Ft. Jaime Lozano)

In this episode, Jose speaks to composer Jaime Lozano about his career and upcoming performances. On April 15, Lozano will take the stage at Lincoln Center's American Songbook series with Songs by an Immigrant, featuring music from his acclaimed song cycle performed by Latinx guest artists.

45 mins
4/7/22
Ep. 46: 7 Minutes to Change the World

Ep. 46: 7 Minutes to Change the World

In this episode, Jose speaks to the director and cast of 7 Minutes. The Waterwell production is a translation of Stefano Massini's play, making its American debut at HERE Arts from March 17 - April 10, 2022.

45 mins
3/24/22
Ep. 45: Pipes' Dreams (Ft. Eliana Pipes)

Ep. 45: Pipes' Dreams (Ft. Eliana Pipes)

In this episode, Jose speaks to playwright Eliana Pipes. Her play Dream Hou$e is in the midst of a rolling premiere in Atlanta, Connecticut, and Maryland. In Dream Hou$e, sisters Patricia and Julia deal with the recent death of their mother as they are left to decide whether they should sell their childhood house or not.

34 mins
3/17/22
Ep. 44: Finding the Right Words (Ft. Marjan Neshat)

Ep. 44: Finding the Right Words (Ft. Marjan Neshat)

In this episode, Jose speaks to actor Marjan Neshat, one of the stars of English. The play by Sanaz Toossi takes place in a classroom in Iran, where the students prepare to take the TOEFL, in order to prove their proficiency in English.

37 mins
3/3/22
Ep. 43: Growing Up (Ft. Mia Pinero)

Ep. 43: Growing Up (Ft. Mia Pinero)

In this episode, Jose speaks with recording artist/actor Mia Pinero. Pinero is currently starring in Dipika Guha's Yoga Play at PlayMakers Repertory in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The actor speaks about what draws her to the characters she plays.

35 mins
2/24/22
Ep. 42: Addressless (Ft. Martin Boross & Jonathan Payne)

Ep. 42: Addressless (Ft. Martin Boross & Jonathan Payne)

In this episode, Jose speaks with playwright Jonathan Payne and director Martin Boross about Addressless. In the digital experience, attendees play a game where they learn about the many causes/consequences of housing insecurity.

33 mins
2/11/22
Ep. 41: A Journey in the Dark (Ft. Martín Bondone & Carlos Armesto)

Ep. 41: A Journey in the Dark (Ft. Martín Bondone & Carlos Armesto)

In this episode, Jose speaks with playwright Martín Bondone and dramaturg Carlos Armesto about Odd Man Out. The site-specific/international co-production takes place in complete darkness, audience members are blindfolded and experience the story of Alberto, a blind artist traveling to Argentina.

42 mins
2/10/22
Ep. 40: A Lesson in Crafting Opera (Ft. Laquita Mitchell)

Ep. 40: A Lesson in Crafting Opera (Ft. Laquita Mitchell)

In this episode, Jose speaks to world renowned soprano Laquita Mitchell. This month she stars in On Site Opera's Lesson Plan, an adaptation of Georg Philipp Telemann's Der Schulmeister which takes place on Zoom.

32 mins
1/20/22
Ep. 39: I'm Just a Teenage Dick, Baby (Ft. Mike Lew & Gregg Mozgala)

Ep. 39: I'm Just a Teenage Dick, Baby (Ft. Mike Lew & Gregg Mozgala)

In this episode, Jose speaks to playwright Mike Lew and actor Gregg Mozgala about Teenage Dick. The high-school-set play is a hilarious adaptation of Richard III in which Mozgala plays the title Dick, a young man who exacts revenge on those who have bullied and mocked him for his cerebral palsy.

43 mins
1/18/22
Ep. 38: Reopening Shakespeare in the Park (Ft. Jocelyn Bioh & Saheem Ali)

Ep. 38: Reopening Shakespeare in the Park (Ft. Jocelyn Bioh & Saheem Ali)

In this episode Jose speaks to playwright Jocelyn Bioh and director Saheem Ali, who star in the documentary "Reopening Night" (available on HBOMax from Dec. 20). The film by Rudy Valdez follows the talented troupe led by Bioh and Ali who brought back Shakespeare in the Park following the Covid-19 theater shutdown.

35 mins
12/20/21
Ep. 37: Historias del West Side & Panamá (Feat. Ilda Mason)

Ep. 37: Historias del West Side & Panamá (Feat. Ilda Mason)

In this episode, Jose speaks to actor Ilda Mason, who is making her big screen debut in Steven Spielberg's sumptuous retelling of West Side Story. Mason talks about how she ended up starring in four different versions of the beloved musical, as well as her upbringing in Panamá.

35 mins
12/20/21
Ep. 36: Black Feminist Video Game (Feat. Victoria Collado and Darrel Alejandro Holnes)

Ep. 36: Black Feminist Video Game (Feat. Victoria Collado and Darrel Alejandro Holnes)

In this episode, Jose speaks to the creative minds behind "Black Feminist Video Game." In the play, Jonas, a biracial teenager with autism, learns about feminism through a classic video game. Playwright Darrel Alejandro Holnes talks about discovering a safe space in gaming.

40 mins
5/22/21
Ep. 35: Shadow/Land: Part Play Part Poem

Ep. 35: Shadow/Land: Part Play Part Poem

In this episode, Brittani and Alexi review Shadow/Land at the Public Theater. The show explores the relationship between a mother and daughter who are forced to stay in New Orleans as Hurricane Katrina engulfs the city.

31 mins
5/21/21
Ep. 34: The Immigrants

Ep. 34: The Immigrants

In this episode, Alexi and Murtada talk about the March on Broadway organized by the Actor’s Equity Association. They discuss the need for systemic reform to prevent future manifestations of abusive behavior within the theatre industry.

30 mins
4/24/21
Ep. 33: Messy Characters/Meaningful Theatre

Ep. 33: Messy Characters/Meaningful Theatre

In this episode, Alexi and Juan review Romeo Y Julieta at The Public Theater. The show’s bilingual translation reminded Alexi of the chismes in his family spilling the tea (some might say he himself is the chisme).

37 mins
4/16/21
Ep. 32: No COVID Musicals Please!

Ep. 32: No COVID Musicals Please!

In this episode, Ayanna and Alexi get in their feels as they reminisce over the last in-person shows they each saw before the pandemic began 1 year ago (for most of us). They have high expectations for the first season of in-person shows and make one request: NO musicals about pandemics please!

31 mins
4/7/21
Ep. 31: Romeo y Julieta (Feat. Saheem Ali and Ricardo Pérez González)

Ep. 31: Romeo y Julieta (Feat. Saheem Ali and Ricardo Pérez González)

In this episode, Jose talks to Saheem Ali and Ricardo Pérez González. The director and playwright discuss their bilingual adaptation of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Now titled Romeo y Julieta, the audio-play transforms Verona into a sonically layered version of Latin America.

42 mins
3/16/21
Ep. 30: Thank You Theater-Makers (Ft. Daniel K. Isaac)

Ep. 30: Thank You Theater-Makers (Ft. Daniel K. Isaac)

It's been one year since theaters shut down all over the world. We're all still processing our new reality in different stages. The way to commemorate this strange anniversary couldn't be one of just sadness over what we lost or admiration at the perseverance of artists.

43 mins
3/12/21
Carpe Donum (Ft. André De Shields)

Carpe Donum (Ft. André De Shields)

In this episode, Jose talks to Tony winner André De Shields. The legendary performing activist talks about his upcoming performance as Frederick Douglass in Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory. The piece is part of Flushing Town Hall's Black History Trilogy, a celebration of Black History Month.

56 mins
2/26/21
Ep. 29: Carnival (Feat. Kwame Kwei-Armah)

Ep. 29: Carnival (Feat. Kwame Kwei-Armah)

In this episode, Andrew and Brittani celebrate carnival and discuss their favorite soca musicians. This leads them to imagine, and cast, a soca-driven Broadway show. Make it happen, producers! Then they review two pieces.

1 h 43 mins
2/19/21
Ep. 28: Single and Fabulous, Exclamation Point (Feat. Ryan J. Haddad)

Ep. 28: Single and Fabulous, Exclamation Point (Feat. Ryan J. Haddad)

Kathlynn and Jose commemorate Valentine's Day. Last time they reviewed two dark romances and promised to find happy endings for V-Day. First, they talk about Malcolm and Marie on Netflix, leading Kathlynn to ask: why is this billed as a romantic drama?

1 h 41 mins
2/13/21
Ep. 27: Why Producers Are a Show's #1 Fan (Feat. Rashad V. Chambers and Miranda Goh)

Ep. 27: Why Producers Are a Show's #1 Fan (Feat. Rashad V. Chambers and Miranda Goh)

In this episode, Alexi and Jose go Gaga over J.Lo at the Inauguration. This leads Jose to ask: why are official ceremonies always so somber? This is followed by their review of Adrienne Kennedy's Etta and Ella on the Upper West Side.

1 h 10 mins
2/8/21
Ep. 26: Creating a Ritual Around Quarantine Theater (Ft. Heather Christian and Joshua William Gelb)

Ep. 26: Creating a Ritual Around Quarantine Theater (Ft. Heather Christian and Joshua William Gelb)

In this episode, Kathlynn and Jose start by looking back at the attack on the Capitol by white supremacists. Furthermore, the way in which theatrical elements can be put at the service of terrorists. After that, they review two shows.

1 h 53 mins
1/28/21
Ep 25: So Long, 2020 (Feat. Stacy Osei-Kuffour and Whitney White)

Ep 25: So Long, 2020 (Feat. Stacy Osei-Kuffour and Whitney White)

Our last episode of 2020 is jam-packed with goodies. First up, Ayana and Jose review a new digital production of Meet Me in St. Louis, and an audio version of A Christmas Carol.

1 h 31 mins
12/31/20
The Body of Work (Feat. Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty)

The Body of Work (Feat. Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty)

In this special episode, Jose talks to Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty, the composers behind beloved musicals such as Ragtime, Once on This Island, and Anastasia. During the pause provoked by the pandemic, the duo went to their archives to put together a new album called Legacy: Two Song Cycles.

1 h 3 mins
12/30/20
Tiger Blood, Sondheim, and Tamales (Feat. Nicholas Rodriguez)

Tiger Blood, Sondheim, and Tamales (Feat. Nicholas Rodriguez)

In this episode, Jose talks to Nicholas Rodriguez about his upcoming appearance in Sondheim Unplugged, at Feinstein's/54 Below (Dec. 26). As well as the lessons he's learned in 2020, how he's acquired new skills in order to perform online, and his realization that there exist two kinds of people in the world.

25 mins
12/24/20
Ep. 24: The Power of Will (Feat. Chad Austin and Bianca Marroquín)

Ep. 24: The Power of Will (Feat. Chad Austin and Bianca Marroquín)

This week, Alicia and Jose talk to Chad Austin and Bianca Marroquín. As the artistic director of Abingdon Theatre Company, Austin conceived the #IWILL campaign, meant to remind theatre makers who can't be onstage right now, about the importance of hope.

1 h 16 mins
12/19/20
Have Yourself a Very Norm Lewis Christmas

Have Yourself a Very Norm Lewis Christmas

In this episode, Jose talks to Broadway icon Norm Lewis about his new Christmas show at Feinstein's/54 Below. Unlike years past, audience members can't gather at the famed nightclub to be serenaded by Lewis.

35 mins
12/16/20
Ep. 23: A Streetcar Named Audio-play (Feat. Sullivan Jones and Robert O'Hara)

Ep. 23: A Streetcar Named Audio-play (Feat. Sullivan Jones and Robert O'Hara)

In this episode, Alexi and Jose review The Wilma’s recent production of Heroes of the Fourth Turning. Which they compare to an episode of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Alexi even matches each Heroes character to a ROBH cast member.

1 h 16 mins
12/15/20
Ep. 22: Kelly is Going to Prom (Feat. Alexandra Silber, Marike Splint, and Denisse Estefany Mendoza)

Ep. 22: Kelly is Going to Prom (Feat. Alexandra Silber, Marike Splint, and Denisse Estefany Mendoza)

In this episode Jose and Kelly review Ryan Murphy's adaptation of The Prom (now in select theaters, Dec. 11on Netflix) and discuss how the Hollywood cast fares compared to the Broadway company. Kelly also discusses digital quest Thickett and The Mad Ones Engine.

2 h 22 mins
12/7/20
Ep. 21: Putting Black Gay Lives Centerstage (Feat. Donja R. Love)

Ep. 21: Putting Black Gay Lives Centerstage (Feat. Donja R. Love)

In this episode Jose and Juan Michael speak with Donja R. Love, the award-winning Afro-Queer playwright about why authentic representation is essential. In each of his plays, Love centers the lives of Black, Queer, and HIV positive lives.

35 mins
11/26/20
Unlocking the Secrets of the Voice (Feat. Grace McLean)

Unlocking the Secrets of the Voice (Feat. Grace McLean)

On this episode Jose talks to Grace McLean, the composer and star of In the Green, a musical about medieval saint Hildegarde Von Bingen, a composer, exorcist. and doctor of the church who spent most of her childhood in a tower.

39 mins
10/29/20
Telenovelas, Pastorelas, and Penny Marshall with Victor I. Cazares

Telenovelas, Pastorelas, and Penny Marshall with Victor I. Cazares

In this episode, Jose talks to playwright Victor I. Cazares about their limited series Pinching Pennies with Penny Marshall: Death Rituals for Penny Marshall, in which the legendary filmmaker comes to life as a financial advisor sharing her wisdom with OnlyFans content creators via Zoom.

35 mins
10/23/20
Ep 20: "American Utopia" and "The Subject" (Feat:  Chisa Hutchinson and Aunjanue Ellis)

Ep 20: "American Utopia" and "The Subject" (Feat: Chisa Hutchinson and Aunjanue Ellis)

On this week's episode, it's Jose's turn to rant about the Tony Awards and the nominators' petty snub of The Lightning Thief. The Friends also talk about American Utopia, which is the filmed version of David Byrne's Broadway show of the same name.

1 h 2 mins
10/22/20
Meet the Fake Friends Behind "Circle Jerk"

Meet the Fake Friends Behind "Circle Jerk"

In this episode Jose talks to Michael Breslin, Patrick Foley and Cat Rodríguez, the creative minds behind Fake Friends, a new theatre/media company where they explore their love for pop culture, theatre and politics, through genre-bending pieces that combine multimedia with "traditional" theater.

42 mins
10/19/20
Ep 19: What the Constitution Means to Us (Feat: Heidi Schreck)

Ep 19: What the Constitution Means to Us (Feat: Heidi Schreck)

This week, Diep delivers a rant about the Tony Award nominations, and why it all feels anti-climactic. This week the Friends welcome one of their favorite people: Heidi Schreck. Schreck was a Pulitzer Prize finalist for her play What the Constitution Means to Me, which ran on Broadway in 2019.

40 mins
10/16/20
Ep 18: 'The Boys in the Band' and 'Yellow Rose' (Feat: Lea Salonga and Eva Noblezada)

Ep 18: 'The Boys in the Band' and 'Yellow Rose' (Feat: Lea Salonga and Eva Noblezada)

On this week’s episode, the Friends react to the Lincoln Project’s ad that compares the president to Evita. It’s called Covita. It’s pretty terrifying. Then they review two shows-turned-movies/TV.

59 mins
10/9/20
Ep 17: The Brujx of Theater (Feat. Luis Alfaro and Alexis Scheer)

Ep 17: The Brujx of Theater (Feat. Luis Alfaro and Alexis Scheer)

This week the Friends experienced two shows. One was an immersive play for one person for Portaleza by David Israel Reynoso/Optika Moderna, presented by La Jolla Playhouse. The prompt is: Send a message to a person in your life who has died.

1 h 11 mins
10/2/20
Ep 16: Songs of Hope (Feat: Josh Groban)

Ep 16: Songs of Hope (Feat: Josh Groban)

On this week's episode, the Friends talked to musician and actor Josh Groban (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812), who is about to release a new album called Harmony in November.

34 mins
9/26/20
Ep 15: What the Hell Is a Republic, Anyway? (Feat: Lisa Peterson and Denis O'Hare)

Ep 15: What the Hell Is a Republic, Anyway? (Feat: Lisa Peterson and Denis O'Hare)

This week, the Friends talk about two shows. First they discuss Murder at River Crossing Book Club from Live In Theatre Company, which is an interactive murder mystery where the audience get to interrogate witnesses and try to figure out, who killed the richest woman in town?

1 h 3 mins
9/17/20
Ep 14: Building a Latinx Legacy (Feat: John Leguizamo)

Ep 14: Building a Latinx Legacy (Feat: John Leguizamo)

This week, the Friends weren't able to record an intro together. But their guest is pretty epic. They welcomed Tony-winning actor/writer John Leguizamo, who is now adding director to his resume.

28 mins
9/10/20
Ep 13: How to Be Productive in Quarantine (Feat: The Bengsons)

Ep 13: How to Be Productive in Quarantine (Feat: The Bengsons)

This week, the Friends react to the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards and the sudden death of Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman (who was also a playwright!). Then they discuss their experiences at Here We Are, a series of one-on-one plays produced by Theater for One where an actor performs, just for you!

1 h 14 mins
9/3/20
Ep 12: Shooting the Sh*t About the Tony Awards (Feat. Daniel K. Isaac)

Ep 12: Shooting the Sh*t About the Tony Awards (Feat. Daniel K. Isaac)

The Friends took a break last week because Diep was out of town. But this week, they're coming back in time to talk about the Tony Awards. It's happening! And the Friends have opinions about what the awards ceremony should look like this year.

1 h 10 mins
8/27/20
Ep 11: Would You Risk Your Life For Theater? (Feat: Harriett D. Foy)

Ep 11: Would You Risk Your Life For Theater? (Feat: Harriett D. Foy)

This week, the Friends talk about Godspell at Berkshire Theatre Group, the first musical to be performed in from of a live audience using union actors. There's a lot of plastic involved, and masks on stage, which is admirable but they can't help but wonder: Who would want to risk their health to go see a show right now?

58 mins
8/13/20
Ep 10: "Songs From an Unmade Bed" Is BD Wong's Gay "Lemonade"

Ep 10: "Songs From an Unmade Bed" Is BD Wong's Gay "Lemonade"

This week, the Friends open the show by talking about Black is King, Beyoncé's new visual album, and folklore, the new album by Taylor Swift that was written and released during quarantine.

58 mins
8/6/20
Ep 9: Audio Dramas and Dating Drama (Feat: Clare Barron)

Ep 9: Audio Dramas and Dating Drama (Feat: Clare Barron)

The Friends discuss two audio plays: Richard II by Shakespeare and Julia Pastrana by Shaun Prendergast. Richard II was presented by the Public Theater and WNYC, and starred André Holland as the king and Miriam A. Hyman as his foe Henry Bolingbroke.

1 h 11 mins
7/23/20
Ep 8: How COVID Life and Undocumented Life Aren't That Different (Feat: Hilary Bettis)

Ep 8: How COVID Life and Undocumented Life Aren't That Different (Feat: Hilary Bettis)

This week, the Friends discuss immigration, or rather, how immigration is portrayed on the stage. First off is a review of The Copper Children by Karen Zacarías, a play that was performed at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and is now being streamed by the theater.

1 h 10 mins
7/17/20
Ep 7: Our "Hamilton" Congress! (Feat: Kelundra Smith and Heath Saunders)

Ep 7: Our "Hamilton" Congress! (Feat: Kelundra Smith and Heath Saunders)

Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda's epic (and very expensive) musical has moved from the stage to screen thanks to Disney+. A musical as big as Hamilton deserves a big discussion, a cabinet battle, if you will.

1 h 14 mins
7/10/20
Ep 6: Why George Salazar Prefers to Call In, Instead of Call Out

Ep 6: Why George Salazar Prefers to Call In, Instead of Call Out

The Friends recorded on June 7. This week is a very special episode because there's not one, but TWO, podcast episodes. In the planning for this week, Diep and Jose realized that they had too much content and they didn't want to cut any of it.

52 mins
7/9/20
Ep 5: Why Zoom Theater is Giving Us Life! (Feat: Taylor Reynolds)

Ep 5: Why Zoom Theater is Giving Us Life! (Feat: Taylor Reynolds)

The Friends recorded on June 29. They open the show by talking about Zoom plays, what's been working about them, what hasn't been working, and things they've seen on Zoom that they love. Then they talk about two shows they've seen.

1 h 13 mins
7/1/20
Ep 4: "2666" and Going Beyond Latinx Stereotypes (Feat: Raúl Esparza)

Ep 4: "2666" and Going Beyond Latinx Stereotypes (Feat: Raúl Esparza)

The Friends recorded on June 23 where they discussed the news that Broadway will not be back until January 2021 (at least). They also went into a deep dive on 2666 by Seth Bockley and Robert Falls—a five-hour play adaptation of the Roberto Bolaño novel, that is currently available to stream for free at the Goodman Theatre's website.

1 h 12 mins
6/25/20
Ep 3: "The King and I" and the White American Theatre (Feat: April Matthis)

Ep 3: "The King and I" and the White American Theatre (Feat: April Matthis)

The Friends sat down and recorded over Skype on June 14 and talked about "We See You White American Theatre," an open letter that got more than 50,000 signatures (including from a bunch of celebrities) and what can be done to solve racism in the American theater.

1 h 16 mins
6/18/20
Ep 2: Jasmine Batchelor Talks "The Surrogate" and Why Theater Should Be Streamable

Ep 2: Jasmine Batchelor Talks "The Surrogate" and Why Theater Should Be Streamable

The Friends sat down and recorded over Skype on June 8. They discuss the recent discovery that Broadway theater owners the Nederlanders gave over $150,000 to the 2016 Trump presidential campaign and why we should care.

1 h 23 mins
6/11/20
Ep 1: Black Lives Matter and How We Can Fight Injustice

Ep 1: Black Lives Matter and How We Can Fight Injustice

On the first episode of the newly revamped Token Theatre Friends podcast, the Friends sat down and recorded over Skype on June 1. They discussed Black Lives Matter and the protests that have erupted around the world around the murder of George Floyd and police brutality.

58 mins
6/3/20

© Broadway Podcast Network, All Rights Reserved