Episodios

  • JUST IN TIME (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 30 2025
    In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway musical Just In Time at Circle in the Square. We break down how the show reimagines the biopic musical, focusing on Bobby Darin’s rise from East Harlem to stardom, and explore what makes this production stand out on Broadway right now. We talk about Jonathan Groff’s dynamic, Tony-worthy performance as Darin, Gracie Lawrence’s scene-stealing turn as Connie Francis, and how the immersive nightclub design puts you right in the middle of the action. Plus, we get into the show’s fresh approach to storytelling, the emotional punch of the music, and our predictions for the Tony Awards. Tune in for our honest take on the performances, the creative team’s choices, and why Just In Time is a must-see for theater fans. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠. Share your thoughts with us on ⁠⁠Just In Time on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    38 m
  • SMASH! (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 25 2025
    In this episode, Jeff and Richie break down the Broadway production of Smash at the Imperial Theatre. Inspired by the cult TV series, Smash takes audiences behind the scenes of a new musical about Marilyn Monroe. We share our first impressions, dig into the plot, and debate whether the show’s backstage antics and meta-comedy work on stage. We talk standout performances from Brooks Ashmanskas and Robyn Hurder, energetic choreography, and the show’s Tony potential. But we also question the show’s focus, the integration of its score, and whether Smash should have just been a straightforward Bombshell musical. Join us as we unpack what works, what doesn’t, and what we wish we’d seen from Broadway’s latest adaptation. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on ⁠Instagram⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠. Share your thoughts with us on ⁠OTHELLO⁠ on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 m
  • OTHELLO (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 23 2025
    In this episode, we break down the Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s OTHELLO at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. We tackle the impact of casting Hollywood stars in classic roles, the curious omission of Shakespeare’s name from the playbill, and the puzzling decision to set the story in 2028. We share our honest reactions to Kenny Leon’s direction, the production design, and how strict audience policies affected the overall experience. Plus, we debate the show’s Tony Awards chances and what this production means for the future of Shakespeare on Broadway. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on OTHELLO on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 m
  • STRANGER THINGS: THE FIRST SHADOW (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 18 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Marquis Theatre. We break down how the play brings 1959 Hawkins to life, its ties to the original Netflix series, and what makes this prequel stand out on stage. We talk about the show’s jaw-dropping special effects, standout performances, and why the design team deserves a Tony nod. Plus, we share our own experiences in the audience and debate whether the play works for both die-hard fans and newcomers. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on Stranger Things: The First Shadow on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 m
  • JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN - (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 16 2025
    In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN at the Booth Theatre. We break down how Kimberly Belflower’s play reimagines The Crucible for a new generation, exploring themes of youth, identity, and power. We talk about standout performances—especially Sadie Sink’s—plus the direction by Danya Taymor and how the show’s music and staging set it apart. We also debate the play’s take on gender dynamics and why it’s connecting with high school audiences. Join us for our review, character analysis, and thoughts on whether this show is a contender for the Tony Awards. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 m
  • THE LAST FIVE YEARS (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 11 2025
    In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway revival of The Last Five Years at the Hudson Theatre. From its innovative concept to its missteps in execution, we discuss the direction, performances by Nick Jonas and Adrienne Warren, and how the production compares to Jason Robert Brown's original masterpiece. Tune in as we unpack the challenges of this revival, share our thoughts on its Tony Award potential, and explore whether it lives up to Broadway standards. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on The Last Five Years on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 m
  • BOOP! THE MUSICAL (Broadway) - A Post Show Analysis
    Apr 9 2025
    In this episode, we dive into Boop! The Musical, now playing at the Broadhurst Theatre on Broadway. We break down the show's nostalgic yet modern take on the iconic Betty Boop, exploring its themes of identity and self-discovery. From standout performances, including Jasmine Amy Rogers as Betty, to the vibrant choreography and stunning production design, we share our thoughts on what makes this musical a must-see. Plus, we discuss its Tony nomination potential and how it resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on Boop! The Musical on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    33 m
  • Theatre Chat: 2025 Olivier Awards Highlights, Wicked Buzz, & Broadway’s Strong Season
    Apr 7 2025
    In this week’s Theatre Chat, Jeff and Richie break down the highlights of the 2025 Laurence Olivier Awards, including major wins for "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and "Oedipus". They dive into the growing buzz around revivals like "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Cats: The Jellicle Ball", explore how "Wicked" continues to dominate with smart marketing strategies, and analyze Broadway’s impressive financial performance this season. From industry trends to behind-the-scenes insights, this episode covers all things theater for the week ending April 6th. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on all things Broadway on our podcast cover post on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 m
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