Episodes

  • Christmas on Broadway

    Christmas on Broadway
    Dec 20 2024
    There’s a unique category of musicals that only come around once a year. And it is this annual tradition that makes Christmas musicals so special. They're not just a way to celebrate the holiday season—they tap into that universal feeling of nostalgia, warmth, and tradition. These shows bring people together in a way that few others can, offering an escape into a world of joy, wonder, and yes, a little bit of holiday magic. Whether it’s through music, story, or the sheer spectacle, Christmas on Broadway has a way of making the season feel even more magical. From the big, iconic productions that have defined the Christmas season like White Christmas and Elf to lesser-known gems like Here's Love and Flahooley that still manage to capture the spirit of the holidays, we’re going to look at the shows that not only helped define what Christmas can mean on Broadway but also why they remain so beloved long after the final curtain falls. Check out my episode on Patrick Stewart and and his one-man version of A Christmas Carol. --- Click here for a transcript and full list of the resources and materials used in this episode. Closing Night is a production of WINMI Media. I'm Patrick Oliver Jones, host and executive producer. Dan Delgado is editor and producer, not only for this podcast but also for his own movie podcast called The Industry. Theme music for Closing Night composed and created by Blake Stadnik. I’ll be back in the new year with season 2 of Closing Night. I know, it’s taken awhile, but I think you’ll find its been worth the wait when we talk about more shows as they head toward Closing Night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Jennifer Tepper Explores Women Writing Musicals and the Legacy That History Books Left Out

    Jennifer Tepper Explores Women Writing Musicals and the Legacy That History Books Left Out
    Dec 11 2024
    In this special video podcast combo between Why I’ll Never Make It and Closing Night, I’m joined by theater historian and author Jennifer Ashley Tepper, who has written a truly remarkable book - Women Writing Musicals: The Legacy That the History Books Left Out. Jennifer’s work is the first comprehensive exploration of women who have shaped Broadway and Off-Broadway musicals over the last century and beyond. From Tin Pan Alley composers to protest writers of the 1970s, and the voices shaping today’s theater landscape, this book is a treasure trove of history and inspiration. Together, we explore the hurdles these women faced, their remarkable stories, and the profound ways they’ve shaped the art form. And Jennifer’s book resonates deeply with both podcasts: Why I’ll Never Make It delves into the challenges of building a creative career Closing Night reflects on the legacy of shows may not always get the spotlight they deserve In our conversation, we highlight trailblazers like Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins, a Black playwright and novelist whose multi-hyphenate career began in the late 1800s; then there’s Gretchen Cryer and Nancy Ford, the longest-running female duo in musical theater history that began in 1955 and continues today; and then Shaina Taub, the Tony Award-winning force behind the Broadway musical Suffs. These are just a few of the extraordinary women we discuss—names that, thanks to Jennifer's book, are finally getting their due. --- Why I’ll Never Make It and Closing Night are independent productions of WINMI Media and Patrick Oliver Jones. To support the ongoing efforts of these podcasts please subscribe or donate. Thank you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • Listen Now - The Magical Making of Disney's Aladdin on Broadway

    Listen Now - The Magical Making of Disney's Aladdin on Broadway
    Aug 23 2024
    Few musicals have captured the hearts of audiences quite like Disney's ALADDIN. But did you know the beloved stage adaptation of the classic animation almost never came to be? This podcast pulls back the curtain on the untold story of ALADDIN's journey from conception to Broadway triumph. Join 11-time Emmy Award winning entertainment journalist for NY1 and NY1OnStage host Frank DiLella on an in-depth exploration that begins with the initial spark of a stage adaptation. We'll delve into the challenges faced during out-of-town tryouts, the unwavering determination to overcome them, and the celebration of reaching over a decade on Broadway – a remarkable feat in the world of musical theatre. This captivating series features exclusive conversations with the original cast and creative team behind ALADDIN including Alan Menken, Casey Nicholaw, James Monroe Iglehart, Adam Jacobs, Courtney Reed, Sonya Balsara, Adi Roy and more as they recount their experiences with the show. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, a theatre enthusiast, or simply captivated by the magic of storytelling, this series is a must-listen. Unveil the untold story of ALADDIN and discover the passion, resilience, and drive that created a Broadway sensation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 mins
  • A Night of Songs and Stories from the Marquis Theatre

    A Night of Songs and Stories from the Marquis Theatre
    Apr 19 2024
    Last month, Closing Night went live at 54 Below here in New York City, exploring the songs and stories of the Marquis Theatre with Broadway performers and singers—many of whom have performed in shows at the Marquis and some of them even joined us this past podcast season. Patrick Oliver Jones / Diego Prieto - "I Am I, Don Quixote” (Man of La Mancha) Jane Summerhays / Patrick Oliver Jones - "You Would If You Could" (Me and My Girl) John Bolton - "The Good Old Days" (Damn Yankees) Jonathan Shew - "What Do I Need With Love?" (Thoroughly Modern Millie) Lisa Howard - "Get Out and Stay Out" (9 to 5) Leah Horowitz - "All for Laura" (The Woman In White) Diego Prieto - "I Really Like Him" (Man of La Mancha) E. Clayton Cornelious - "Advice from a Caterpillar" (Wonderland) John Bolton - "Someday Baby" (Paper Moon) Nadina Hassan - “Gimme Gimme” (Thoroughly Modern Millie) Bows - “There’s No Business Like Show Business” (Annie Get Your Gun) And so I wanted to let you hear these stories and songs for yourself. You can also watch the concert on YouTube. Follow Closing Night on Instagram @closingnightpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Moose Murders Becomes the Biggest Flop in Broadway History

    Moose Murders Becomes the Biggest Flop in Broadway History
    Feb 22 2024
    The second season of Closing Night is set to premiere this June. But while we all eagerly await the curtain rising on our next act, here's a story about a show that famously closed on its opening night. There are actual plans to do a future season about Broadway productions that only lasted one performance. But now there's one show to take off the list of potential episodes, all because of the podcast being sharing today, a podcast that feels like a time machine, whisking us away to different eras, and immersing us in captivating stories of yesteryear. It’s called History Daily, but it isn't your average history podcast. It's a real treasure trove of tales from the past, delivered straight to your ears every weekday. From monumental battles to the quirkiest fashion trends, from groundbreaking scientific discoveries to the drama of politics, sports, and even theater—History Daily covers it all. Now, back in December, the host Lindsay Graham and his production team over at History Daily featured an episode from this podcast (remember the one all about Andrew Lloyd Webber's short-lived Broadway production of The Woman in White?). Lindsay talked about that production and shared the episode with his listeners. So now it's my turn to share one of their episodes. Much like Closing Night, History Daily is more than just a recounting of dates and names—it's about the lives, the struggles, and the triumphs of those who came before us. And you're about to hear a tale so legendary in the world of theater that it's become synonymous with failure: a play called Moose Murders. So let's journey back to February 22, 1983, as we unravel the mystery behind one of Broadway's biggest flops. It's a reminder that even the darkest nights in theater history have a story worth telling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    24 mins
  • Closing Night Goes Live at 54 Below!

    Closing Night Goes Live at 54 Below!
    Jan 29 2024
    Get ready for a night of Broadway magic as 54 Below Celebrates the Marquis Theatre on March 19th! The concert will feature performances by those who were there at the Marquis, like Tony Award nominee Kate Baldwin from Thoroughly Modern Millie, Tony Award winner Richard Maltby, Jr. from Nick & Nora, E. Clayton Cornelious from Wonderland, Leah Horowitz from The Woman in White, and Lisa Howard from 9 to 5 and Escape to Margaritaville. Patrick Oliver Jones will be hosting as well as singing that night, which just happens to be his birthday, so you don't miss this exclusive one-night-only event on March 19th, where tickets start at just $35. Visit the website 54below.com to secure your seat for this fun-filled evening, whether in person or via livestream online! **Use code MTHEATRE5 for $5 OFF Main Dining Room and Bar Rail cover charge.** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    2 mins
  • BONUS: A Moment to Revisit The Band's Visit on Broadway

    BONUS: A Moment to Revisit The Band's Visit on Broadway
    Jan 16 2024
    Five years ago, the enchanting musical The Band's Visit closed on Broadway (April 7, 2019) after capturing hearts with its simplicity and profound storytelling. Composed by David Yazbek and written by Itamar Moses, it emerged as a masterpiece in the 2017-2018 season, transcending contemporary Broadway norms. At the 2018 Tony Awards, this gem earned 11 nominations and secured 10 wins, including Best Musical, triumphing over big blockbuster shows like SpongeBob Squarepants, Mean Girls, and Frozen, and running for 598 performances. Amidst current Middle East tensions, The Band's Visit stands out as a show that explores human connection and shows how music can bridges the divides between us. So enjoy an encore presentation of my 2018 interview with Jeff Theiss, associate conductor of The Band's Visit. We delve into the musical's score, its unique storytelling, and how it transcends political divisions to focus on our shared human experiences, reminding us of our profound commonality. Follow on Instagram and listen to Closing Night on your favorite podcast app. --- Closing Night is a production of WINMI Media with Patrick Oliver Jones as host and executive producer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    26 mins
  • INTERVIEW: Sharon Catherine Brown Live at BroadwayCon 2023!

    INTERVIEW: Sharon Catherine Brown Live at BroadwayCon 2023!
    Dec 30 2023
    In an enjoyable BroadwayCon encounter this past summer, I found myself in the heart of all things Broadway, rubbing shoulders with the stars and hosting live interviews for the Broadway Podcast Network. While my conversation with Jelani Alladin about Frozen and Hercules has already been shared in a previous episode of Why I’ll Never Make It, today we delve into my interview with the talented Broadway actress Sharon Catherine Brown. I had the pleasure of working with her on a new musical last year, and in this bonus episode we chat about that a bit, but the primary focus is on her time with Jekyll & Hyde. We'll also explore her contributions to iconic musicals like Dreamgirls and Caroline, Or Change, gaining valuable advice for aspiring performers along the way. Follow Closing Night on Instagram and listen to it on your favorite podcast app. Follow Why I’ll Never Make It on Instagram and listen on your favorite podcast app. ---------- A production of WINMI Media. CN Theme music is by Blake Stadnik. Background music is by John Bartmann and Blue Dot Sessions is used under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins