Carefully Taught: Teaching Musical Theatre with Matty and Kikau
By Kikau and Matty
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Kikau is an Associate Professor and Musical Theatre Program Director at University of the Arts and the VP of Conferences of the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance. Matty is an Associate Professor and Musical Theatre Program Coordinator at Chico State, and the President of the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance.
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Join them as they talk to guests about strategies in the Musical Theatre classroom.
Carefully Taught: Teaching Musical Theatre with Matty and Kikau Apr 08, 2024
Episode 48 - Chelsea Pace
In this episode of Carefully Taught, we have the privilege of hosting Chelsea Pace, co-founder of Theatrical Intimacy Education and the pioneering author behind "Staging Sex." With an impressive resume that includes serving as the intimacy choreographer for Broadway's "Strange Loop" and ongoing professional engagements nationwide, Chelsea is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of theatrical intimacy.
Listen in as Chelsea shares her insights and experiences, tracing the trajectory of intimacy choreography within the performing arts. From her groundbreaking work to her latest endeavor, Open Intimacy Creatives, Chelsea's contributions continue to shape and revolutionize the industry. A captivating conversation on creativity, professionalism, and empowerment in the world of stage intimacy.
Episode 47 - The Return
After a brief hiatus, Kikau and Matty return to discuss showcase season, seeing shows, and what we have been up to for the last couple weeks. Send us a message on carefullytaught@gmail.com and like/follow us on instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast.
Episode 46 - London and the CSU Strike
Matty and Kikau chat about Kikau's recent Short Travel Trip with students to London and Matty's experience with the recent California State University Strike. We also have special guest, Jami Witt Miller, join us at the end of the episode for a recommendation!
Episode 45 - Lara Teeter
Matty and Kikau chat with Lara Teeter, Head of Musical Theatre at Webster University and former President of the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance. Lara has taught at Cal State Fullerton, Shenandoah Conservatory, and Northwestern University. Broadway credits include The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Pirates of Penzance, The Wizard of Oz, and On Your Toes for which he was nominated for a Tony Award.
Lara's recommendations include regular meditation, The Lyrics by Paul McCartney, Shark Heart by Emily Habeck.
Episode 44 - Aaron Lazar and his Impossible Dream
Click here to see Aaron's performance of the song Impossible Dream at 54 below
Aaron's recommendation Life and Teaching of the Masters of the Far East.
For more information about ALS and how you can help, please visit alsgoldenwest.org
Aaron is an actor, singer, producer, and entrepreneur from Cherry Hill, NJ. An athlete and performer in high school, Aaron graduated magna cum laude from Duke University where he studied pre-med and music. After earning an MFA in musical theater from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Aaron put plans of being a doctor on hold and moved to New York City. His career spans Broadway, Television, Film, and Concerts and has allowed him to share his passion for the arts with audiences worldwide. Notable credits include Broadway's The Light in the Piazza, A Little Night Music, Mamma Mia... as well as Matty's directorial debut Piano Man at University of Cincinnati in 1999.
Episode 43 - Erin Farrell Speer
Matty and Kikau talk with Erin Farrell Speer, the Head of the Musical Theatre Program at The University of Utah. She just completed her first semester in this new position after leading the MT program at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. She was the Director of Undergraduate Studies for the School of Theatre at the UNCG, where she developed a new BFA musical theatre program with music director and arranger Dominick Amendum.
Her recommendations include the series Jury Duty on Amazon Freevee, Brenee Brown's podcast "Unlocking Us", Justin Su'a's podcast "Increase Your Impact", Liz Gilbert's Big Magic, and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho!
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Before joining the Department of Theatre, Erin was an Assistant Professor specializing in Musical Theatre and Director of Undergraduate Studies for the School of Theatre at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she developed a new BFA musical theatre program with music director and arranger Dominick Amendum (Wicked, Prince of Egypt). While at UNCG Erin was also recognized as the College of Visual and Performing Arts Outstanding Teacher in 2021. In 2022 she was the recipient of the UNCG-wide James Y. Joyner Award for excellence in teaching.
A Los Angeles native, Erin made her Broadway debut serving as the Directing Assistant to Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley on Escape to Margaritaville, the Jimmy Buffett musical. She also served in that capacity for the show’s pre-Broadway tour. Erin's career has taken her from coast to coast, giving her the opportunity to work off-Broadway at the York Theatre and regionally with companies like Center Theatre Group/the Mark Taper Forum, the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sarasota Opera House. In addition to her directing career, Erin has worked professionally as a performer in theatre, film, and commercials, even spending a year as an agent assistant in LA. She couples her directing and performing knowledge with nearly two decades of teaching experience, covering a wide range of abilities from true beginners to Broadway performers and television stars.
Erin was previously an adjunct faculty member in musical theatre and dance at Florida Southern College and instructed/lectured in musical theatre, directing and theatre history at Penn State. She earned her MFA in Directing for the Musical Theatre Stage from Penn State University where she studied in their nationally recognized musical theatre program under the mentorship of veteran Broadway director and former SDC President Susan H. Schulman. Erin is also a proud graduate of The University of Michigan, where she earned her BFA in Acting from another nationally recognized program and studied alongside many future Broadway and film/TV stars.
Some of her favorite university direction/choreography credits include American Idiot, Rock of Ages, The SongeBob Musical, The Bridges of Madison County, Sweet Charity, Hot n’ Cole, ‘S Wonderful!, Dreamgirls, The Wild Party, Stones in his Pockets, Romeo and Juliet, and many others. Professional direction/choreography credits include All Shook Up, Little Shop of Horrors, Oklahoma!, Bye Bye Birdie, Seussical, Footloose, Cinderella, Annie Get Your Gun, and Guys and Dolls among many others. Film direction: Hear Our Voices, Radio. Film producing: One Week at Woolworths, Flatbush Avenue.
Erin is a proud Associate of the Society of Directors and Choreographers (SDC), and an alumna of the Director’s Lab West.
Episode 42 - BFA Musical Theatre Auditions
Kikau and Matty chat about ending the semester and beginning the recruitment/audition season for BFA MTs. They both attended Drewnifieds, put on by Drew Boudreau, Autumn Kirkpatrick, and the College Audition Pros team! Let us know what you think of the episode. We would love for you to be a part of the conversation. We also are chatting with MT programs across the country. If you are interested in being featured on our podcast, please reach out to carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com!
Episode 41 - Josh Grisetti
Kikau and Matty speak with the amazing Josh Grisetti who runs the Musical Theatre program at California State University Fullerton all while being a successful working actor. We talk about how he balances everything, while bringing his knowledge of the industry directly to his students.
Josh's recommendation is an author named Michael Kostroff. He wrote several books, notably Audition Psych 101: A Refreshing Approach to the Dreaded Process and The Stage Actor's Handbook: Traditions, Protocols, and Etiquette for the Working and Aspiring Professional, a book he wrote with Julie Garnye.
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JOSH GRISETTI. As a performer, Josh starred in Broadway's SOMETHING ROTTEN!, IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU (Clarence Derwent Award winner), and Neil Simon’s revival of BROADWAY BOUND. Off-Broadway, Josh starred in RENT, PETER AND THE STARCATCHER, ENTER LAUGHING (Theatre World Award winner), RED EYE OF LOVE, CANDIDA and AFTER THE BALL. Regional credits include PRINCE OF BROADWAY (Tokyo), CAMELOT (The Kennedy Center), MATILDA (The Muny), HOW TO SUCCEED… (Reprise Theatre – Los Angeles Ovation Award winner), BEAUTY & THE BEAST (LaMirada), SPAMALOT (Las Vegas), WHERE'S CHARLEY? (Goodspeed) and others. On television, Josh starred in the ABC sitcom THE KNIGHTS OF PROSPERITY, as well as multiple series regular roles in pilots for other networks. Film credits include THE IMMIGRANT, REVOLUTIONARY ROAD, THE NAMESAKE and others. Josh recently directed SOMETHING ROTTEN! at Musical Theatre West, and IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU at Musical Theatre Guild in Los Angeles. Prior to Josh’s appointment at CSUF, Josh taught acting, musical theatre and business of theatre at Fullerton College and Loyola Marymount University; he also authored the book, God In My Head (Tantor Media, LLC). Visit www.joshgrisetti.com , and follow @joshgrisetti.
Episode 40 - The Cast of Here Lies Love
Matty and Kikau chat with Sarah Kay, who graduated from Pace University and Nathan Angelo, who is a current student at Montclaire State University! Both are performing nightly in Here Lies Love on Broadway!
They both talk about what prepared them for this moment and what they are discovering while performing in this immersive show.
Epsiode 39 - The Cast of Les Miserables
Matty and Kikau talk to Ben Cherington (@bencherington), Eden Mau (@Edenelizabethmau), and Christopher James Tamayo (@_cjtam) from the National Tour of Les Miserables. They discuss tour life, as well as the things they learned in their Musical Theatre degree programs that are most applicable to their careers.
For more information about the Les Miserables tour visit https://us-tour.lesmis.com/
Their recs-
BEN
Podcast - Living the Dream with Rory O’Malley and Geffen Playhouse Unscripted
CHRIS
Brian Cranston’s Memoir “A Life In Parts”
EDEN
Getting out of my routine for a while. We are going to Malibu in a swimming hole. Wandering around Target. Doing things that take me out of the world.
Episode 38 - The Cast of & Juliet
In this episode, Kikau and Matty chat with Tiernan Tunnicliffe and Matt Raffy, two members of the Broadway company of & Juliet. They reflect on their MT education, opening on Broadway, and the importance of Dungeons and Dragons.
TIERNAN TUNNICLIFFE (she/they) is thrilled to be making her Broadway debut with such a magical cast. Credits include: Bat Out of Hell (NY City Center),The Who’s Tommy (Kennedy Center). T would like to thank her friends, family & everyone in between that has supported her journey-so much love for y’all. (BFA, NYU-Tisch)
MATT RAFFY (he/they) Theatre: & Juliet (Mirvish); Exit, Pursued by a Bear, Mamma Mia! (Globe Theatre); Mythic (Segal Centre); Beauty and the Beast (Capitol Theatre); Cinderella, Mamma Mia! (Neptune Theatre); Disgraced (Magnus Theatre); TV/Film: “Workin’ Moms” (CBC); Pillowcase (KP Films). Matt is over the moon to make his Broadway debut in & Juliet!
Episode 37 - Back to Before
Carefully Taught is a podcast to discuss Musical Theatre pedagogy and create a community of sharing amongst Musical Theatre Educators.
In this episode Matty and Kikau get caught up about their summer activities and prepare for another exciting semester of teaching Musical Theatre at the collegiate level.
Follow us on instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast
Episode 36 - Run Freedom Run (to the end of the semester)
Carefully Taught is a podcast to create a community of sharing amongst musical theatre educators. Make sure to follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast!
Music provided by Joshua Hegg follow him @joshhegg23
Episode 35 - Neurodivergence in MT Education and Production
Matty (@teaguemiller) and Kikau (@kikautown) speak with Making Light Productions Executive Director, Juliet Yaques, Making Light Productions Executive Director, Mandi Broadfoot, and Director Actor and Educator, Christine Hansen about theater performers and audience members of all ages who might be neurodivergent. Making Light Productions is a non-profit organization in Tallahassee, Florida with the mission of providing an inclusive arts education for children, teens, and adults of all abilities.
Here are links to their recommendations:
Fearlessly Different: An Autistic Actor's Journey to Broadway's Biggest Stage by Mickey Rowe
Shakespeare's Heartbeat: Drama Games for Children with Autism by Kelly Hunter
Playing Shakespeare: An Actor's Guide by John Barton
The Professional Actor's Handbook by Julio Agustin
Sense of Direction: Some Observations of the Art of Directing by William Ball
Directing Your Heart Out by Tom Dugdale
Office of Accessibility
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Founded by Mandi Broadfoot and Juliet Yaques, both mothers of children with autism, Making Light offers classes and lessons in music, art, dance, acting/theatre, and stagecraft. Visit our Classes and Lessons page for all the details and to register online! We are excited to hold classes at our facility at 2720 S. Blair Stone Rd. For more information on our thorough health and safety protocols please click here.
Please visit our blog and sign up for our email newsletter to see when Making Light is Making News!
Episode 34 - Jacob Brent and David Coolidge - Best Friends Part 3
Matty (@teaguemiller) and Kikau (@kikautown) check in with Jacob Brent (@jacobbrentstagram) and David Coolidge (@david.coolidge.3) who are now both at different institutions since we last spoke on the podcast. Some of their recommendations include taking a trip to NYC, asking students for New Musical recommendations, embedding Spotify lists on Canvas, meditation, the importance of being surrounded plants and flowers!
Read Bios Below:
Jacob Brent is a veteran Broadway performer with a MFA in Musical Theatre.
With extensive experience performing, directing, choreographing and teaching, Mr. Brent has been recognized by The New York Times as knowing how to inspire actors.
As a performer, Jacob is probably best known for his portrayal of Mr. Mistoffelees in the Broadway, London and DVD productions of Cats. Now on the other side of the table, he brings the same commitment and passion for performing to directing, choreographing and teaching.
When not working as a Director and Choreographer around the United States, Jacob is an Assistant Professor at Shenandoah Conservatory and frequently teaches at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in NYC.
Mr. Brent is actively involved in the international Junior Theatre Festival and pilot productions of new Broadway Jr. musicals... always looking to inspire the next generation of artists and audiences.
David Coolidge joins ONU as an Associate Professor and Head of Musical Theatre. He is a certified Master Teacher in Archetypes for Singers and Actors with specializations in New Works and Acting Through Song. David was a member of the Broadway National Tour of Parade, Jeff Calhoun’s highly acclaimed pre-Broadway production of Big River at Deaf West Theatre, and he has appeared in numerous roles in regional theatres across the country. David is the former Assistant Artistic Director of TheatreworksUSA in New York City where he directed six national tours and oversaw thirty national touring productions reaching an annual audience of over three million. David received his BFA in Musical Theatre from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (CCM) and his MFA in Acting from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Episode 33 - Victoria Bussert
Kikau (@kikautown) and Matty (@teague.miller) chat with the amazing Vicky Bussert, who is the Director of Music Theatre at Baldwin Wallace University.
In addition to running the MT program at Baldwin Wallace, Victoria Bussert is resident director for musical theatre for the Great Lakes Theatre, Idaho Shakespeare Festival and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. She has taught as a guest faculty member at UNCSA, Kent State, and Northwestern University. She has directed worldwide including productions in Russia, Denmark, Africa, England, and South America. Bussert is the 2019 recipient of the Cleveland Arts Prize for outstanding mid-career artists. Bussert is also a member of SDC.
Vicky's recommendation is a book called The Ballerina Mindset: How to Protect Your Mental Health While Striving for Excellence by Megan Fairchild. You will read all about the "successes, failures, body image and what she went through getting her mind ready for a career in the performing arts." An excellent read no matter what your artistic practice is!
Episode 32 - Senior Showcases, Sabbatical, and Disneyland
Matty (@teague.miller) and Kikau (@kikautown) get caught up on what is happening! Kikau talks about directing his first show at UARTS and Matty updates Kikau on sabbatical life. They talk about the senior showcase landscape, and debrief about Matty's recent family trip to Disneyland!
Follow Carefully Taught on Instagram @CarefullyTaughtPodcast!
Episode 31 - Rose Van Dyne
Kikau and Matty discuss Musical Theatre Education and Social Justice in Theatre with multi-hyphenate artist and teacher Rose Van Dyne (@Rose_Van_Dyne). Rose is currently in the final semester of her MFA at the Boston Conservatory, and serves as the administrative assistant to the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance. She served on the music team of the post COVID remounting of Waitress on Broadway, and appeared as several different roles in the recent Broadway revival of 1776. She also presented at the 2023 International MTEA conference in New York City.
Click this link for Rose's recommendation! http://www.aapacnyc.org/uploads/1/3/5/7/135720209/aapac_report_2018-2019_final.pdf
Episode 30 - Van Angelo
Matty (@teague.miller) and Kikau (@kikautown) speak to the amazing Van Angelo, who is currently at San Diego State University working on their MFA in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre. At the end of the episode, Van recommends YouTube University, the College of Google, Google Chrome Extension: Transpose, Tik Tok, and Joe Deer's Acting for Musical Theatre.
Van Angelo (they/them) - is a proud Westminster Choir College graduate and served as Director of Choral Activities for five years at the high school level. Van is currently a teaching artist for Moonlight Youth Theatre and New Village Arts. Select Regional Credits: Something Rotten, Memphis (Moonlight), Catch Me If You Can (SDMT), Seussical (Candlelight), West Side Story, Tarzan, Hairspray (Performance Riverside), The View UpStairs (Desert Rose Playhouse). Music Directing Credits: Leonard Bernstein's New York (NVA), Moana Jr. (MYT), Little Shop of Horrors, Seussical, and The Little Mermaid (VVUSD). Van has performed with the New York Philharmonic, Vienna Chamber Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Zelda Symphony Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Van is a two-time Inland Theatre League Award winner, and a Desert Theatre League Award winner. Van is currently a Teaching Associate at San Diego State Universty and an MFA in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre candidate.
Episode 29 - MTEA Conference and Other Things
Matty and Kikau discuss the MTEA Conference and some of the other things from their trip to NYC. Follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast on Instagram and reach out to us by emailing carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com
Episode 28 - Cheers to 22! Here's to 23!
Kikau (@kikautown) and Matty (@teague.miller) reflect on the last year and discuss what they are looking forward to in 2023!
Thank you for supporting our little podcast! Give us a follow @carefullytaughtpodcast, rate and review the podcast, and send us a message at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com.
Episode 27 - Alisa Hauser
Matty and Kikau have a chat with the amazing Alisa Hauser, Assistant Professor of Music Theatre at Florida State University. She is the Program Director for the BM in Music Theatre. As a performer, Alisa appeared on Broadway in the original cast of Thoroughly Modern Millie (Alice), Grease! (Frenchy), and in the original cast of Disney’s Beauty and The Beast (Silly Girl).
In 2014 Alisa was nominated for a national primetime Emmy award for Outstanding Music and Lyrics for the song “No Trouble” from A Christmas Carol – The Concert (PBS). With music by Bob Christianson, she wrote the book adaptation and lyrics for this symphonic retelling of the Dickens classic. Also for television she has written lyrics with composer Stephen Sislen, for the Disney Channel’s Johnny And The Sprites.
In this episode they discuss the program at Florida State University, taking over as the New President of Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance, and New Works! Todays recommendation (besides the MTEA Conference - January 4th, 5th, and 6th) is the app/website called Sounds Of Broadway! Follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast or send us a message at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com!
Episode 26 - Musical Theatre TikTok (You Don't Stop) - Part 2
Do you use TikTok in the classroom? Email us at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com and tell us about it!
Music provided by Joshua Hegg
Episode 25 - Musical Theatre TikTok (You Don't Stop) - Part 1
Matty and Kikau look at the world of Musical Theatre TikTok, and have conversations about how this technology can be used in our classrooms.
Jessica Humphrey (@jmhumphrey1) from Texas Christian University talks about ways she uses TikTok in the classroom.
Co-creator of Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical, Daniel Mertzlufft (@danieljmertzlufft), discusses his relationship with the app and ways it can be shaping the future of Musical Theatre.
Don't forget to follow Matty, the musical theatre professor, on TikTok (@Teaguemill)!
Music provided by Joshua Hegg
Episode 24 - Kristy Cates
Matty and Kikau speak to the amazing Kristy Cates this week. Hear her talk about balancing family with Broadway and teaching obligations! We chat about international students and New York Film Academy's new BFA programs. At the end of the show Kristy recommends the books 'The War of Art' by Steven Pressfield, '50 Key Stage Musicals' edited by Robert W. Schneider and Shannon Agnew, and the instagram account of self-care and mental health educator, @minaa_b!
Kristy Cates’s credits include Elphaba in Wicked (Broadway, First National Tour, Chicago), Miss Bassett in Finding Neverland (Broadway), Grandma Josephine in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Broadway), Jerry Springer: the Opera (Carnegie Hall), a handful of off-Broadway shows, and many regional productions. She is a proud member of AEA and SAG-AFTRA. Kristy is an original member of the NYFA Musical Theatre faculty and is a professional voiceover artist.
Episode 23 - And Now We're Back
Matty and Kikau discuss summer adventures and getting back to school. We are excited to be back for semester 3 of our podcast and look forward to hearing from you! Follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast!
Here is a LINK to Matty's latest project: The Music of Tomorrow, an afternoon of new music from the next generation of Broadway composers.
Episode 22 - Semester Two Wrap-up
Matty and Kikau wrap up semester two with a vacation check-in and a discussion about each of the amazing guests they had the opportunity to connect with this season!
We are so thankful to our guests: Marty Austin Lamar, Chris Peterson, Aaron J. Albano, Drew Boudreau, Laura Enstall, Leo Ash Evans, Kaitlin Hopkins, Laura Rikard, Jodi Picoult, Timothy Allen McDonald, Kate Anderson, Elyssa Samsel, Sally Cade Holmes, and Amanda Flynn.
We are also thankful to our audience. Please let us know what you think of the podcast by rating, reviewing, and sharing with folks you think will enjoy it. Send us an email at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com OR a message @carefullytaughtpodcast on instagram.
Thank you all. See you in the Fall!
Episode 21 - Amanda Flynn
Amanda Flynn is a “performer turned vocal technician who loves helping people achieve vocal success.”
Amanda is currently on the musical theatre voice faculty at Pace University. She performed in two Broadway shows and her first book, So You Want to Sing Musical Theatre, Revised and Expanded Edition is about to be released. It will be available everywhere on June 15th.
She also works as a vocal coach and consultant for Broadway shows (The Lightning Thief, Be More Chill) Off-Broadway shows (The Lightning Thief), films (Encanto, One Year Off, BEAU) as well as theatre companies in the NYC area (Two River Theatre, TheatreworksUSA, iTheatrics).
Amanda's Recommendation: Teaching Race: How to Help Students Unmask and Challenge Racism
Episode 20 - Broadway Producer Sally Cade Holmes
Her Broadway producing credits include Hadestown (Tony Award), The Inheritance (Tony Award / GLAAD Media Award), Terrence McNally’s Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune (Tony nomination), and Anastasia. Her Off-Broadway credits include Little Shop of Horrors (Drama Desk, Drama League & Outer Critics Circle Awards) and Puffs. Past credits include Nubia (featuring the queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race), Boy Gets Violent (Ars Nova's AntFest), Summer Valley Fair (New York Musical Theatre Festival), Ryan J. Haddad's Hi, Are You Single (2015 Hot! Festival and 2016 Under The Radar) and Here’s Hoover (directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers).
Music provided by Joshua Hegg
Episode 19 - The Between the Lines Creators
Matty and Kikau sit down with the creators of the new must see Off-Broadway musical BETWEEN THE LINES, including New York Times Best Selling Author Jodi Picoult (@jodipicoult), the composer/lyricists Elyssa Samsel and Kate Anderson (@samselanderson), and co-writer Timothy Allen McDonald (@timmcdonaldnyc). Between the Lines opens for a limited engagement beginning June 14th at 2nd Stage's Tony Kiser Theater. For more information visit www.betweenthelinesmusical.com.
Picoult is best known as a prolific novelist. She is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of twenty-eight novels, including Wish You Were Here, The Book of Two Ways, A Spark of Light, Small Great Things, Leaving Time, The Storyteller, Lone Wolf, Sing You Home, House Rules, Handle with Care, Change of Heart, and My Sister's Keeper, and, with daughter Samantha van Leer, two young adult novels, Between the Lines and Off the Page.
Samsel and Anderson met in 2010 in the BMI Lehman Engel Musical Theater writing workshop. Since then, they’ve gone on to work with Disney Animation, Tony Award winner producer Daryl Roth, and many major studios in Hollywood. They are both classically trained musicians who share a passion for female forward stories, comedy, and true storytelling through song. Composers and lyricists for Disney's Olaf's Frozen Adventure and Apple TV's Central Park.
McDonald is an award winning playwright who wrote Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Jim Henson’s Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, and Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach. He is also the co-founder of iTheatrics and the creator of Music Theatre International's Education Division.
Music Provided by Joshua Hegg. For More information visit JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 18 - Laura Rikard
Matty and Kikau were very excited to speak to Laura Rikard (she/her) this week. She is one the of the co-founders of Theatrical Intimacy Education! Laura and TIE co-founder, Chelsea Pace (A Strange Loop and Resident Intimacy Consultant and Choreographer) have literally written the book on the topic, Staging Sex: Best Practices, Tools, and Techniques for Theatrical Intimacy.
Laura Rikard (SAG-AFTRA/AEA) She is a director, actor, teacher, stage movement specialist, intimacy choreographer, intimacy coordinator, and a founding member and head faculty of Theatre Intimacy Education. She is Assistant Professor of Theatre at the University of South Carolina Upstate. Laura has worked in film and television in NYC, regionally, on national tours, internationally and devised solo performance productions.
Here is a LINK to all of the exciting workshops they offer.
Episode 17 - Kaitlin Hopkins
To learn more about Kaitlin visit www.kaitlinhopkins.net/.
To learn more about her organization Living Mental Wellness, visit www.livingmentalwellness.com/
Episode 16 - A Conversation with College Audition Coaches
Drew Boudreau (@collauditionpro) from College Audition Pros, Laura Enstall (@auditionwell) from Audition Well, and Leo Ash Evens (@musicaltheatrecollegeauditions) from Musical Theatre College Auditions.
Music provided by Joshua Hegg. For more information visit JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Please rate and review on your favorite podcast app!!
Episode 15 - Aaron J. Albano
Broadway's Aaron J. Albano (Newsies, Hamilton...) comes on to talk about a NEW film he produced (and is featured in) that comes out TODAY called ensemble. Aaron and I go WAY back...like way way back and Matty and Aaron are both alums from University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, OH.
Here is some Information about the movie: On the one year anniversary of the longest shutdown in Broadway history, a multigenerational group of Broadway ensemble members come together to both dance and reflect on the year that was and what the world's largest stage can learn from this Intermission to come back for a stronger and more equitable Act 2. This behind-the-scenes look captures cast members from the biggest hits on Broadway as they come out of isolation to examine their love of performing and how they can be the change they want to see in the world and in the industry they love.
Woolf Productions, Drew & Dane Productions, & Masie Productions
present
ENSEMBLE
A Documentary by Pierre Marais.
Produced by Aaron J. Albano, Mo Brady, Telly Leung, and Joey Monda.
Episode 14 - Chris Peterson
Matty and Kikau talk to Chris Peterson from OnStage Blog. They talk about the theatre community, college program rankings, and why it's important to cry from time to time!
Follow us on instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast or send us an email at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com.
Episode 13 - Marty Austin Lamar
Kikau and Matty sit down with Cal State Fullerton Assistant Professor Marty Austin Lamar (He/Him).
Marty (@MartyAustinLamar) graduated from the Florida A&M University’s School of Business and Industry and furthered his education at the University of Florida where he received his Master of Fine Arts degree (MFA) in acting with an emphasis in Musical Theatre performance and technique. Marty recently served as Musical Theatre program co-ordinator at Howard University, the only HBU with a Musical Theatre BFA. Marty has been featured on stages throughout the United States and abroad. Some of Marty’s Theatrical Credits include: The Amen Corner (Brother Davis), Shakespeare Theatre Company; Little Shop of Horrors (Voice of Audrey II), Constellation Theatre; SPUNK (Folkman 2); ELF (Mr. Greenway), Olney Theatre; On the Brink (Storyteller), The Kennedy Center; Let Freedom Ring Concert (Dr. King), The Kennedy Center; Choir Boy (Headmaster), The Studio Theatre; Five Guys Named Moe (Big Moe); Ragtime (The Attorney, Ensemble), Portland Center Stage; Miss Ever’s Boy’s (Hodman), Off-Broadway; Big River (Jim), Mill Mountain Theatre; Hairspray (Seaweed), Weathervane Theatre; College: The Musical (Jay) Hippodrome Theatre; Lysistrata (Phaedrias) Athens, Greece; Dreamgirls (James “Thunder” Early) The Essential Theatre; Don’t Bother Me, I Can’t Cope (Preacher, Lead), The Essential Theatre; CROWNS (Male), The Essential Theatre; The Exonerated (David), McGuire Blackbox; La Traviata (Barone), Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Marty is a proud member of the Actor’s Equity Association. Marty was recently nominated for the Helen Hayes Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical.
For more information visit www.mtdpa.org Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 12 - The Matty and Kikau Podcast Show
It's semester two y'all! We are so excited to get back to work. Matty and Kikau talk about the new semester, Broadway musicals, the West Side Story movie, and the MTEA annual conference. Matty's recommendation today is another podcast called "My Favorite Flop."
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-favorite-flop/id1546767941
Thank you for listening, following, and sharing! Send us a message at carefullytaughtpodcast@gmail.com and like and follow us @carefullytaughtpodcast on instagram!
Episode 11 - Katie O'Halloran and Vinh Nguyen - So You Wanna Be a Musical Theatre Teacher? - Part 2
On our final episode of the semester, we interview Katie O'Halloran (she/her) and Vinh Nguyen (he/him).
Katie is a Dublin-based, interdisciplinary director and creator from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her work celebrates theatricality, examines the materiality and effects of borders and confines, and prioritises a thorough probing of the text. She fuses her love of analyzing language with detailed vocal and physical work, as she firmly believes that “actors write with their bodies”.
She holds a BFA (Hons) in Musical Theatre from The Boston Conservatory (concentrations in Directing, Acting, Songwriting) and an MFA (Distinction) in Directing from The Lir National Academy of Dramatic Art.
Vinh is a multi-faceted theatre maker, educator, and EDI consultant based in the San Francisco Bay Area/Ohlone Native Land. He has performed with companies such as 42nd Street Moon, San Jose Stage, Bay Area Musicals, Cabrillo Stage, and Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre. During his time in San Diego to pursue his graduate studies, Vinh performed in concerts with The Old Globe Theatre, San Diego Symphony, and Kristin Chenoweth at the Music Box Theatre.
As a director, Vinh aims to critically examine and reinterpret the American Musical Theatre cannon for a modern audience. He is also invested in and has contributed to the creation of new works that spotlight BIPOC voices and diverse cultural experiences. Selected world premieres include: Mr. Holland's Opus (by BD Wong and Wayne Baker), Gold: The Midas Musical (by Min Kahng for Bay Area Children's Theatre), and The Emeryville Horror (Same Boat Theatre Collective, the Bay Area's first & only environmental justice theatre company). Vinh will be directing the musical Company for South Bay Musical Theatre and the musical Allegiance for Palo Alto Players this upcoming season.
Vinh is a passionate advocate and consultant for the causes of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and anti-racism in the theatre, having contributed to EDI efforts of companies such as: South Bay Musical Theatre, Hillbarn Theatre, 42nd Street Moon, and Portola Valley Theatre Conservatory. He is the Manager of Youth and Family Programs at Montalvo Arts Center and an adjunct professor at his alma mater, San Jose State University. Vinh received an MFA in Musical Theatre from San Diego State University. Membership includes: the Stage Directors & Choreographers Society (SDC), Equity Membership Candidate Program (EMC), and the Musical Theatre Educators' Alliance (MTEA).
Episode 10 - Mundo Ballejos Jr. and Kyle Montgomery - So You Wanna Be a Musical Theatre Teacher? - Part 1
On today's episode, we interview Mundo Ballejos Jr. (he/him) and Kyle Montgomery (he/him). Mundo is one of Matty's students at Chico State and Kyle is one semester away from an MFA in Musical Theatre at San Diego State University. Both are interested in careers as musical theatre teachers. The future of MT Education is BRIGHT!
Episode 9 - Just the Two of Us (or "Beauty and the Beast")
With only two episodes left this semester, Matty and Kikau touch base on how things are going and a handful of other current event topics.
Music Provided by Joshua Hegg
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For more information about Alice Ripley's apology and denial, visit the link below-
https://pagesix.com/2021/08/20/alice-ripley-apologizes-denies-vile-accusations-of-grooming/
For more information about "grooming" and how it's spoken about, visit the link below-
https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/what-is-grooming-sexual-abuse-1199141/
For more information about The Morning Show visit-
https://tv.apple.com/us/show/the-morning-show/umc.cmc.25tn3v8ku4b39tr6ccgb8nl6m
For more information about Squid Game-
https://www.netflix.com/title/81040344
Episode 8 - Jacob Brent - Best Friends - Part 2
Jacob Brent (@jacobbrentstagram) is the Musical Theatre Coordinator at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. Jacob is best known for his portrayal of Mr. Mistoffelees in the Broadway, London and Video productions of CATS. He is the only performer to have appeared in all three and the only actor to perform in both of the record-breaking performances of the longest running Broadway and West End show.
We discuss musical theatre, Disney, and friendship.
Jacob's recommendation is a website called Course Workload Estimator 2.0.
Follow us on Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 7 - David Coolidge - Best Friends - Part 1
We are excited to welcome David Coolidge on part one of the 2-part Best Friends series. David Coolidge is the director of the musical theatre program at Anderson University. He received his MFA in acting from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and his BFA in musical theatre from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. As a professional theatre artist, David toured with Jason Robert Brown in the Broadway National Tour of “Parade” directed by Hal Prince; served as the director of six national tours; and as the assistant artistic director of TheatreworksUSA, he oversaw 30 national touring productions. As a coach, David works one-on-one with young professionals to develop a plan to successfully navigate the “business of the business.” Past clients have been successful on Broadway, national tours, TV, and film, including: MTV’s The Search for Elle Woods, The Good Wife, Army Wives, and Law & Order. Music for Carefully Taught is provided by JoshuaHeggmusic.com
Episode 6 - Khalia Davis
(Apologies for the sound issues. We are attempting to fix and repost asap)
The AMAZING Khalia Davis (she/her) is a guest on our show today! Here is a link to her website. She is the Artistic Director of Bay Area Children's Theatre (BACT) and a director and playwright and is so inspiring. She led the premiere of A Kids Play About Racism, based on a kids book about racism by Jelani Memory, creating a new hybrid between live theatrical storytelling and film. This work brought together over 40 theater producing partners and was viewed on Broadway on Demand nearly 80,000 times. Past BACT directing credits: award-nominated world premiere, She Persisted the Musical, based on the popular children’s book by Chelsea Clinton, Frog and Toad, Judy Moody and Stink and the Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt. NYC directing credits: Atlantic for Kids, NYCCT, Disney Theatrical Group. What a joy she is! Recommended Resources: Woke Kindergarten and Teaching Artistry with Courtney J. Boddie Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 5 - “Should Matty Direct Legally Blonde?" - Part 2
Matty continues to weigh the pros and cons of directing Legally Blonde, and reaches a conclusion (what?! No part 3?!?!). --- Guests include Broadway's Nikki Snelson (@nikkisnelsonaugh), CSU Chico Student Gaby Saxon (@gaby.saxon) and Megan Glynn Zollinger (@megan.glynn.zollinger). --- Plus, as always we share a recommended resource to enhance your musical theatre classroom. This week's recommendation is Instagram follow @katieohallorandirects. --- Music for Carefully Taught is provided by JoshuaHeggmusic.com
Episode 4 - "Should Matty Direct Legally Blonde?"- Part 1
Matty wrestles with his 2021-2022 Directing assignment and talks to some colleagues about their point of view.
Plus, as always we share a Recommended Resource to enhance your Musical Theatre teaching.
Guests Include: Tim Espinosa (@timespinosaoffical), Lauren Haughton Gillis (@laurenhaughton) and Shavanna Caulder (@shaviexo)
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast
Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 3 - Rick Edinger
Episode 2 - Amanda Wansa Morgan
We are very excited to Welcome to the Podcast, Amanda Wansa Morgan (@wansaham).
Amanda Wansa Morgan is an Atlanta-based music director, composer, director, and actor who serves as Coordinator of Musical Theatre & Associate Professor at Kennesaw State University. Amanda has a Certificate of Figure Proficiency from Estill Voice Systems and she is an Executive Board member of the Musical Theatre Educators Alliance (MTEA), Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC), National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), Dramatist’s Guild, and ASCAP. Amanda teaches courses in musical theatre performance, acting, voice, and musical theatre history and literature. In addition to being an incredible teacher she’s a director, a music director and performer. She’s also a dear friend who has incredible insight and a powerful point of view.
Mentioned in the podcast: Malcolm Gladwell's 'Outliers' and 'Tipping Point', Tenuto, MusicTheory.net, A Man of No Importance, and Brene Brown.
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast
Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 1 - Carefully Taught: Teaching Musical Theatre with Matty and Kikau
Here it is! It is our first episode. We are so excited to tell you why we are doing a podcast!
For more information about Dr. Carol Dweck's GROWTH MINDSET, watch her Ted Talk here or read her book!
For more information about Korrie Yamaoka and her podcast "Studying the Song" visit https://korrieyamaoka.com/
For more information about Ashlee and Tim Espinosa and their podcast "Breaking the Fourth Wall" visit https://ashleeespinosa.com/ and https://timespinosa.com/
Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @carefullytaughtpodcast
Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com
Episode 0 - Introduction
We are so excited to introduce our brand new podcast! This is 'Carefully Taught: Teaching Musical Theatre with Matty and Kikau'. It is a podcast to discuss Musical Theatre Pedagogy and to create a community of sharing amongst Musical Theatre Educators.
Our first official podcast episode drops on August 20th, 2021 and then you can find us every other Friday afternoon!
Follow us at @carefullytaughtpodcast on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with our journey!
Music provided by JoshuaHeggMusic.com