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Dive into this insightful episode where we discuss the powerful production The Great Privation by Nia Akilah Robinson. Director Ontaria Kim Wilson shares her journey of bringing this historically rich and emotionally charged play to life in Philadelphia, highlighting themes of love, resilience, and social justice. Key topics: The historical context and significance of The Great Privation and its ties to Philadelphia’s Black history How the play explores the treatment of Black bodies during pandemics and in medical research The creative process behind casting, character development, and physical storytelling The importance of honoring cultural traditions, spirituality, and history in theater The rapid rehearsal timeline and the emotional/mental care of actors navigating multiple roles The role of the janitor as the story’s griot, guide, and spiritual conduit The significance of Philadelphia’s Mother Bethel AME Church in African American history and activism The journey of the play from Soho Rep to Woolly Mammoth and now in South Philadelphia Timestamps:  00:00 - Welcome and overview of The Great Privation 00:35 - Introducing Ontaria Wilson and her connection to Theater Exile 01:17 - The significance of The Great Privation and its themes of love and perseverance 02:57 - The play’s focus on Black bodies, pandemics, and societal neglect 05:44 - Personal reflections on initial impressions and character insights 09:30 - The creative development process and character relationships 14:02 - Casting and actor contributions in physical storytelling 18:19 - The importance of cultural and spiritual traditions in performance 19:00 - The intense rehearsal schedule and actor wellness strategies 24:10 - Philadelphia’s history and the play’s connection to local sites like Mother Bethel 30:28 - The play’s journey from New York to Philadelphia and its significance 35:18 - The artistic team behind the production and their creative vision 41:45 - Audience takeaway and the play’s message of collective responsibility and reimagining community Resources & Links: The Great Privation by Nia Akilah Robinson Mother Bethel AME Church Theatre Exile Mother Zion United Methodist Church Follow us and our links here:  https://bio.site/em3ry

Franklin's Key: A Sci-Fi Theatrical Journey Honoring Philadelphia's HistoryJoin us as we explore the creative process behind Pig Iron Theatre Company's Franklin's Key, a musical sci-fi adventure celebrating Philadelphia’s rich history and innovative spirit. This episode features insights from co-director Dan Rothenberg and cast member Jameka Monet Wilson on crafting a story that is both playful and deeply meaningful. In this episode: The origins of Pig Iron Theatre and their journey over 30 years How Franklin's Key blends sci-fi with regional history and mythology The influences of experimental theater and community roots in Philadelphia The role of movement and illusions in storytelling, inspired by 80s movies and magic The significance of Philadelphia landmarks, from City Hall to the Wanamaker organ, in shaping the narrative The impact of parenthood on Dan Rothenberg’s storytelling focus and audience engagement The cast's process of embodying characters like Temple, a teenage genius with universal themes Reflections on Philadelphia’s evolving artistic community and future waves of creative energy The playful, irreverent approach to American history and the story’s inclusive message about the city’s diverse ownership Timestamps:  00:00 - Introduction to Franklin’s Key and Pig Iron Theatre Company 02:06 - The early days of Pig Iron and the Philadelphia arts scene in the 90s 04:13 - How Franklin’s Key was inspired by Philadelphia landmarks and history 09:08 - The personal story behind the creation of Franklin’s Key and parenthood’s influence 16:48 - The integration of magic, movement, and illusions in storytelling 23:40 - Reimagining American history through sci-fi and playful irreverence 26:30 - The future of Philadelphia’s vibrant art community and upcoming performances Resources & Links: Pig Iron Theatre Company Franklin's Key Official Website City Hall Philadelphia Wanamaker Organ Maurice Sendak Connect with the Cast: Jameka Monet Wilson - Instagram Pig Iron Theatre - Instagram Follow us and our links here:  https://bio.site/em3ry

Class C: A Reflection on Theatre's Power and Relevance in 2026Join us for an in-depth conversation with playwright Chaz T. Martin as we explore the profound themes, production insights, and societal reflections embedded in the world premiere of Class C. This episode delves into the play’s relevance, its production journey, and the powerful role of theatre in shaping and challenging societal norms. In this episode: The significance of Class C and its timely themes related to civil rights and societal upheaval Chaz T. Martin’s journey from acting in Wisconsin to becoming a playwright and producer in Philadelphia Unique insights into the collaborative process behind the world premiere at the The Louis Bluver Theatre How the production design and staging amplify the play’s message Audience reactions, including powerful silence and moments of reflection The play’s commentary on political polarization, societal division, and the importance of forgiveness The role of theatre in creating empathy and challenging perceptions The play’s anticipated relevance and impact in the next decade, including reflections on current political and social issues Practical ideas for leveraging theatre as a tool for social change and dialogue Timestamps:  00:05 - Introduction to the season and the importance of Philadelphia theatre 00:58 - Spotlight on Class C and its partnership with Azuka and Simpatico Theatre 01:36 - Chaz T. Martin’s background: From Wisconsin to Philadelphia 02:06 - The evolution of Martin’s work: Acting, writing, and producing 02:56 - Insights into Class C: Themes, relevance, and societal reflection 04:33 - The collaborative process of staging Class C and insights from the creative team 05:33 - Audience reactions and the powerful silence post-performance 07:17 - The play’s commentary on societal division, polarization, and empathy 09:10 - The importance of community support and reciprocity in theatre 10:27 - The role of storytelling in shaping societal narratives and personal reflection 12:10 - Reflections on current political threats and societal resilience 14:07 - The play as a mirror for understanding history, present, and future challenges 16:34 - The cycle of greed, societal division, and the role of art in fostering understanding 18:50 - The importance of flexibility, dialogue, and shared humanity 20:35 - Moments of realization in the play; characters staying true to their values 23:41 - The play’s commentary on moral integrity versus societal costs 25:16 - The role of forgiveness and understanding in societal healing 27:51 - The danger of imposing singular viewpoints; celebrating diversity of thought 30:50 - Theatre as a reflection of societal potential and cautionary tales 40:39 - Contemporary design and staging choices that deepen engagement 43:29 - Relevance of Class C in 10 years and its prophetic insights 46:47 - Final thoughts: The power of theatre to challenge and inspire Resources & Links: https://azukatheatre.org/ https://simpaticotheatre.org/ https://theaterre.org/class-c (tickets may be closing soon, see website for availability) Connect with Chaz T. Martin: • •   / rhymeswithoz   FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://www.azukatheatre.org/class-c  ‍ ‍ Follow us and our links here:  https://bio.site/em3ry

Exploring the Power and Evolution of Opera with Davóne Tines and 'The Black Clown'This episode delves into the making of The Black Clown, a groundbreaking opera piece inspired by Langston Hughes, co-created by renowned artist Davóne Tines. Discover how this work intertwines historical trauma, artistic innovation, and cultural storytelling, and what it reveals about diversity and expression in contemporary opera. Main Topics: The personal and artistic journey behind The Black Clown Integrating historical narratives and emotional storytelling in opera Challenges of representing complex themes like oppression on stage The importance of visual design and sensory experience in theater Broader implications of diversity and inclusion within opera and performing arts Key Insights: Davóne Tines shares his transition from classical opera to experimental works blending multiple styles. The creation process of The Black Clown involved extensive collaboration, workshops, and thoughtful staging choices including silhouette imagery inspired by Kara Walker. The piece explores themes of resilience and identity, culminating in an uplifting gospel-inspired finale. The production emphasizes safeguarding mental health of performers during emotionally intense scenes. The visual aesthetic combines contemporary art influences with traditional theatrical elements to amplify storytelling. Attendees can expect an immersive experience, with a minimal but transformative set design and compelling lighting. The show reinforces the importance of listening and empathizing with diverse cultural voices in American history and art. Timestamps: (0:00) - Welcome and overview of The Black Clown's significance (1:21) - Davóne Tines introduces his multidisciplinary approach to art (3:28) - The evolving identity of opera and its expanding boundaries (5:30) - Addressing diversity gaps in traditional opera spaces (7:54) - Inspiration and conception of The Black Clown (10:25) - Musical adaptation based on Langston Hughes' poetry (11:44) - Development, workshop process, and the role of the American Repertory Theater (12:38) - Choosing a director and the importance of cultural perspective (14:00) - The emotional impact of staging and audience reception (15:02) - Navigating the depiction of oppression and trauma on stage (16:50) - Innovative solutions like silhouettes and visual symbolism (21:03) - The emotional and mental health practices among performers (22:33) - The journey from darkness to joy through Hughes' narrative arc (24:45) - Visual design and artistic influences shaping the production (25:12) - Audience takeaways: empathy, history, and emotional connection (26:02) - Call to experience The Black Clown at Opera Philadelphia from May 14-17 Resources & Links: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Langston_Hughes https://kara-walker.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alsoanoperasinger/ FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION:https://www.operaphila.org/whats-on/2526-season/the-black-clown/ https://operaphila.org/about/news-press/pressroom/2026/the-black-clown/ Follow us and our links here: https://bio.site/em3ry

Celebrating 15 Years of Public Art and Community Engagement - A Conversation with Conrad Benner Join us as we explore the vibrant art scene in Philadelphia with Conrad Benner, founder of Streets Department, a platform dedicated to documenting and promoting public art for over 15 years. Discover insights about community-led projects, the impact of murals, and the future of urban art and media. Timestamps: 00:04 - Introduction and overview of Philadelphia’s thriving art scene 01:17 - Conrad’s role and daily work with Streets Department 02:30 - The podcast journey and collaborations with WHYY and ROHOM 03:44 - Discussing the importance of long-form conversations and media independence 06:27 - Social media strategies: humor, virality, and community storytelling 07:47 - Supporting artists and public art through independent platforms and Patreon 11:45 - Highlights of key projects and impactful moments over 15 years 13:01 - The influence of community-led murals and public art programs 14:00 - The success of the 24/7 transit petition and its impact 15:02 - Public transit challenges and advocacy in Philadelphia 16:53 - Broader issues: taxes, infrastructure, and city funding 18:10 - The power of urban planning and rail infrastructure in Philadelphia 19:34 - The significance of murals and community stories in public spaces 21:14 - Future aspirations: writing a book and expanding public art projects 24:30 - Upcoming mural projects celebrating LGBTQ+ leaders in the Gayborhood 29:23 - The enduring importance of storytelling, conversation, and community engagement About Streets Dept Founded as a photo-blog in January 2011, Streets Dept has grown into a multi-platform showcase of Philadelphia public art and public space. We discover and celebrate commissioned and non-commissioned art on the streets and in the public spaces of Philadelphia. And sometimes we also curate it! We believe deeply that the public space has a profound effect on us as individuals and on our city as a whole, and our purpose is to explore how all of us build and use public spaces creatively. You can find our work here on the blog, across social media (Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Threads), on our Patreon, in our publications, on our monthly walking tours, and, of course, on the streets. Streets Dept was the winner of the Philadelphia Geek Award for ‘Geek Culture Journalism’ (2011); named one of the ‘Best Blogs for Travellers’ by The Guardian (2013); beat out the one-and-only Gritty to win of the ‘Never Delete Your Account‘ award at the first annual Billy Penn awards, The Billies (2019); and has been notably mentioned by Time Magazine (2011), Encyclopedia Britannica (2012), Instagram (2014), Mashable (2015), Thrillist (2016), Philadelphia Style Magazine (2016), Philly Voice (2016), Highsnobiety (2017), Curbed National (2017), Travel + Leisure (2018), Artblog (2019), South Philly Review (2021), 6 ABC (2021), Philadelphia Museum of Art (2021), Philadelphia Gay News (2022), Philadelphia Magazine (2022), The Philadelphia Inquirer (2023), NBC’s 1st Look (2023), and The New York Times (2023), among others!  About Conrad Benner, Founder/Editor Conrad Benner is the Founder/Editor of StreetsDept.com. A Fishtown, Philadelphia born-and-raised photo-blogger, curator (Streets Dept Walls and Mural Arts Philadelphia), and podcaster (WHYY’s Art Outside), Conrad’s work explores the art of our public spaces and the artists who create it.  Resources & Links: Streets Department Mural Arts Philadelphia Connect with Conrad Benner: • Instagram Follow us and our links here:  https://bio.site/em3ry

The conversation covers Mandy Gonzalez's experience in celebrating Lin-Manuel Miranda's music, connecting with the audience, creating the show, the rehearsal process, surprises and guest stars, post-performance feelings, encouraging young artists, telling universal stories, the impact of music on society, and the In the Heights return to Broadway. Takeaways Celebrating Lin-Manuel's music Community involvement in performances Chapters 00:00 Mandy's Journey with Orchestras 02:06 Celebrating Lin-Manuel's Music 03:55 The Rehearsal Process 05:48 Community Engagement and Local Talent 07:02 The Joy of Performing 08:31 Inspiring the Next Generation 09:45 The Power of Storytelling 12:27 Reflections on 'In the Heights' LINKS: EVERYTHING I KNOW - Mandy Gonzalez sings Lin-Manuel Miranda https://www.ensembleartsphilly.org/rent-our-spaces/special-events-and-performances/everything-i-know ABOUT MANDY GONZALEZhttps://mandygonzalez.com/ Mandy Gonzalez on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/mandy.gonzalez/ Follow us and our links here: https://bio.site/em3ry

The podcast features a conversation with actor Adam Howard, discussing his journey in the theater community and his recent production with InisNua Theatre Company. The conversation covers his experiences, the Philadelphia theater community, and the production of 'Can't Forget About You' by David Ireland. The conversation delves into the experience of performing in a play, the impact of uncomfortable conversations, and the challenges and rewards of being a working actor. It also explores the intersection of personal and professional life, the importance of community support, and the pride in one's work. Takeaways The Philadelphia theater community is accessible and offers diverse opportunities for actors and artists. The production of 'Can't Forget About You' by InisNua Theatre Company was a unique and engaging experience for both the actors and the audience. Uncomfortable conversations in a play can be impactful and thought-provoking. The life of a working actor involves flexibility, uncertainty, and the need for community support. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Highlights01:04 Embodiment of Characters: Wilbur and Beyond02:38 Adam Howard's Path to Philadelphia Theater03:58 The Philadelphia Theater Scene: Opportunities and Community08:46 InisNua Theatre and International Plays10:01 Introduction to 'Can't Forget About You'12:07 Themes of Family, Love, and Humor in the Play15:51 Stage Design and Choreography in Theater18:26 Audience Engagement and Memorable Moments22:13 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth25:56 Upcoming Projects and Future Opportunities30:45 Supporting Arts in Philadelphia32:30 The Actor's Life: Flexibility, Challenges, and Rewards35:18 Reflections on Pride and Artistic Journey36:34 Closing Remarks and Future Conversations CONNECT WITH ADAM HOWARD:https://www.instagram.com/adamdouglashoward/ Learn More About InisNua Theatre Company and "Can't Forget About You": https://inisnuatheatre.org/show/cant-forget-about-you-0 Follow us and our links here: https://bio.site/em3ry

The conversation covers James Ijames' life post-Fat Ham, his role in teaching playwriting and living in New York, the Philadelphia theater scene, the James Ijames Pass, his response to Arden's presentation of Good Bones, writing and scale, creating an anthology and writing process, and interpreting the play on stage. The takeaways include the balance of entertainment and depth in writing and the impact of personal experiences on writing. The conversation explores the transformative power of tiny steps and the importance of community and connection. It delves into the themes of generational shifts and legacy, the formula for a Pulitzer Prize-winning play, and the management of multiple projects and ideas. Takeaways Balancing entertainment and depth The impact of personal experiences on writing The transformative power of tiny steps The importance of community and connection Chapters 00:00 Life Post-Fat Ham 06:06 The Philadelphia Theater Scene 15:11 Response to Arden's Presentation of Good Bones 22:51 Creating an Anthology and Writing Process 28:10 The Transformative Power of Tiny Steps 35:52 Generational Shifts and Legacy 43:29 The Formula for a Pulitzer Prize-Winning Play LINKS: Philadelphia Theatre Company - https://philatheatreco.org Wilderness Generation Play - https://philatheatreco.org/wilderness-generation Fat Ham by James Ijames - https://www.pulitzer.org/winners/james-ijames Blanca Zizka - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blanca_Zizka Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwijames/ Website - https://www.jamesijames.com James’ Plays - https://www.jamesijames.com/the-plays Follow us and our links here: https://bio.site/em3ry

Dive into a lively discussion about two decades of arts journalism with Broad Street Review, celebrating its 20th anniversary, and explore the evolving landscape of arts and culture coverage, community engagement, and the importance of archiving and supporting local media. This episode celebrates 20 years of Broad Street Review, highlighting its impact on arts journalism in Philadelphia, its community engagement, and the importance of dedicated arts coverage in the digital age. Main Topics: The history and significance of Broad Street Review’s 20-year anniversary celebration The critical role of independent arts journalism and archiving in Philadelphia’s cultural landscape The challenges and opportunities faced by local media in the digital age Community engagement and grassroots support for arts organizations Upcoming cultural events in Philadelphia, including Philly Theatre Week and the 250th anniversary The importance of media literacy and critical thinking in sharing false or viral images • Future growth strategies for Broad Street Review, including team expansion and community outreach Resources & Links: Broad Street Review IndyHall America’s Founding: An Immersive Exhibit Philly Theatre Week James Ijames Connect with Broad Street Review: Instagram Newsletter Signup Support & Donations: Donate to Broad Street Review Thank you for listening and supporting local arts journalism! Your engagement keeps community stories alive and thriving. Follow us and our links here: https://bio.site/em3ry

Step into the electrifying world of jazz legend Jelly Roll Morton in Jelly’s Last Jam! This Tony Award-winning musical takes you on a thrilling journey through the life, music, and complex legacy of the self-proclaimed inventor of jazz. Told through dazzling choreography, powerful storytelling, and Morton’s iconic music, the show explores his meteoric rise, struggle with identity, and the cultural impact of his groundbreaking sound. As Jelly reflects on his past from the afterlife, he must confront the truths he tried to outrun.

Join us as we explore the vibrant Philadelphia theater scene through the eyes of the Bruce sisters. They share their journey, the importance of accessibility, and their love for live performances, from community shows to Broadway stars. Discover how they keep the arts alive and engaging for everyone, regardless of barriers. Join us as we explore the vibrant world of theater, discussing recent productions, favorite shows, and the importance of supporting the arts. Our guests share their insights on the power of storytelling, the impact of theater on community, and upcoming events to watch for. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Women's History Month 05:23 Accessing the Arts: Overcoming Barriers 10:51 Engaging with Local Artists and Productions 16:39 Theater as a Personal Journey 22:15 Inspiring the Next Generation of Theatergoers 27:51 The Beauty of Imperfection in Live Theater 30:32 The Importance of Understudies in Theater 32:24 The Impact of Seeing New Talent 34:20 The Value of Local Theater Productions 37:13 Celebrating Long-Standing Relationships in Theater 38:38 The Role of Community in Supporting the Arts 40:32 Accessibility and Transportation to Arts Events 43:07 Memorable Performances and Their Lasting Impact 44:37 The Joy of Theater Productions 46:23 Exploring Unique Storytelling in Plays 47:36 Emotional Impact of Performances 49:53 Mental Health Themes in Theater 53:23 Highlighting Female Directors 56:23 The Power of New Works in Theater 58:15 Fringe Festival and Emerging Talent 01:00:16 Connecting Through Theater: A Journey to Edinburgh 01:02:05 Anticipating Upcoming Productions: Excitement for March 01:03:55 Exploring New Theatrical Experiences: Jelly's Last Jam 01:05:43 The Importance of Community in Theater 01:06:53 Engaging with Emerging Voices in Theater 01:07:58 Reflections on Theater Experiences and Expectations 01:10:00 The Power of Theater: Finding Meaning in Every Performance 01:11:51 Nostalgia and the Impact of Classic Productions 01:14:13 Closing Thoughts: The Joy of Sharing Theater Experiences  RESOURCES Theater Philadelphia - https://theaterphiladelphia.org/  Art Reach - https://artreachphila.org/  Quintessence Theatre Group - https://quintessencetheatre.org/  Philadelphia Theater Company - https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/  Philadelphia Theater Company - https://www.philadelphiatheatercompany.org/  Lantern Theater Company - https://www.lanterntheater.org/  Azuka Theatre - https://azukatheatre.org/  Theatre Exile - https://theatreexile.org/  Edinburgh Festival Fringe - https://www.edfringe.com/  Hedgerow Theater - https://hedgerowtheatre.org/   GUEST LINK: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dembrucegals/

In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford welcomes director Morgan Green to discuss the Philadelphia Theatre Company's adaptation of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. They explore the shared leadership model in Philadelphia theatre, the unique interpretations of the cast, and the relevance of the play in today's society. The conversation delves into character analysis, choreography, and the audience's engagement with the production, highlighting the emotional and political themes that resonate with contemporary issues. A Bold and Modern New Adaptation Caesar Adapted by Tyler Dobrowsky From Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare Directed by Morgan Green What would you do to protect your home? Shakespeare’s classic political tragedy is reborn as a gripping contemporary thriller in this bold new adaptation by Tyler Dobrowsky. Caesar stays true to Shakespeare’s original language but trims the story to its leanest, most urgent core—cutting to the heart of ambition, authoritarianism, and the cost of protecting democracy. Brutus, a principled Roman senator, joins a conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar, fearing the rise of tyranny. But once the deed is done, the fragile dream of liberty spirals into violence, unrest, and civil war. As alliances shift and Rome descends into chaos, the play asks: Who gets to hold power? And at what price? Running just 95 minutes, Caesar is fast-paced and fiercely relevant, inviting audiences to draw parallels between ancient Rome and the political tensions of our world today. In a season about what it means to be home, Caesar asks: who gets to shape the future of a nation? And what are we willing to risk to defend the place—and people—we love? ABOUT MORGAN CLAIRE GREEN PTC: Debut. Off-Broadway: Five Models in Ruins, 1981, LCT3; Staff Meal, Playwrights Horizons; School Pictures, Playwrights Horizons. Regional: Hilma (Opera), Eternal Life Part 1, School Pictures, Fat Ham (digital; Pulitzer Prize for Drama), Wilma Theater. Additional premieres include Five Models in Ruins and The Karamazovs (film). Awards: Obie Award. Leadership: Co-Artistic Director of Philadelphia’s Tony Award–winning Wilma Theater, where she has directed numerous world premieres and new theatrical collaborations. FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/caesar/

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with actors Brandon Tyler and Max Lynch about their upcoming production of 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise' by Ken Ludwig. The conversation delves into the characters, the historical context of World War II, and the emotional depth of the story, which is based on real letters exchanged between the two main characters. They discuss the rehearsal process, the significance of letter writing in building connections, and the parallels between past and present relationships. The episode concludes with reflections on what audiences can take away from the production. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:19 Exploring 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise' 05:09 Character Insights and Rehearsal Process 09:59 Thematic Connections to Modern Relationships 16:05 Audience Expectations and Emotional Moments 22:59 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Ken Ludwig's Dear Jack, Dear Louise Directed By Peter Reynolds
February 11 - March 1, 2026 Regional Premiere. 
A love story begins when two strangers meet by letter during World War II. U.S. Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday, if the war allows. Tony Award-winning playwright Ken Ludwig tells the joyous, heart-warming story of his parents’ courtship during World War II, and the results are anything but expected. Max Lynch as Louise
Brandon Tyler as Jack FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://hedgerowtheatre.org

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford welcomes the cast and director of 'Jesus Hopped the A Train' to discuss the themes, characters, and relevance of the play. The conversation explores the journey of the characters, the impact of community and accountability, and how the play resonates with current social issues. The guests share their personal experiences with the material and the importance of storytelling in theater. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Season 10 03:58 Introduction to Jesus Hop the A Train 05:37 Character Insights and Table Read Reactions 09:14 Exploring Themes of Redemption and Accountability 14:42 Relevance of the Play in Today's Society 21:17 Community, Power, and the Role of Money 25:58 Character Development and Personal Growth 28:15 Final Thoughts and Audience Takeaways Jesus Hopped the “A” Train A young man with little hope, Angel, has shot a cult leader for brainwashing his best friend; his confession to the public defender then cripples Angel’s defense when the cult leader dies. Ironically, while in The Tombs, the serial killer in the next cell sparks Angel’s spiritual conversion. Directed By: Dave Ebersole CAST: Carlos Jiga - Angel Jon Owens - Lucius Monica Guest - Mary Jane Brandon Tabb - Valdez Eric Jarrell - D’Amico FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://thestagecrafters.org/production/jesus-hopped-the-a-train/

In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford welcomes playwright Phaedra Michelle Scott to discuss her upcoming world premiere production, Plantation Black, presented by Interact Theatre Company. The conversation delves into Phaedra's background, her motivations for writing the play, and the unique structure that allows for multiple beginnings and endings. They explore the rehearsal process, the dynamics of the cast, and the importance of audience engagement. Phaedra emphasizes the significance of storytelling in understanding identity and legacy, while also addressing the challenges faced by Black Americans in connecting with their history. The episode concludes with details about the production and Phaedra's excitement for sharing her work with audiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:57 Phaedra's Background and Journey to Playwriting 02:37 Exploring Identity and Family History 05:36 The Importance of Storytelling in Understanding History 08:29 Overview of 'Plantation Black' and Its Inspiration 11:16 The Unique Structure of 'Plantation Black' 13:44 The Rehearsal Process and Collaboration with the Cast 16:26 Engagement and Audience Experience in Theater 19:17 Themes of Safety and Representation in Storytelling 21:26 The Power of Storytelling and Audience Engagement 26:32 Exploring Unique Storytelling Techniques 27:42 Art as a Reflection of Society 28:53 Connecting with Family and Ancestry 33:54 The Importance of Momentum in Theatre Two centuries after a murky agreement binds a Civil War era plantation family to the enslaved people working the land, the white and Black Prioleau descendants must finally determine who is the rightful heir. A cast of six actors play both the Civil War and present-day characters, and each night the play begins at a different point in the timeline when a cast member spins a drum bearing the names of all the scenes in the play. PLANTATION BLACK’s innovative structure evokes the way history repeats itself, and the (sometimes) random ways we learn about our national and personal history. PLANTATION BLACK has six potential starting points. About 20 minutes before each performance, we will pull a ball from the raffle drum to see where we'll start. If you want to return for the chance to see the play start in a different place (no guarantees!), you can purchase a $12 return ticket at [email protected] or call 215-568-8079.