Broadway Breakdown

"I'd like to propose a toast..." A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC gets conceptual with the marital musical COMPANY! Yes, we're finally entering the TRUE Sondheim era!! And who better to discuss the landmark musical than a member of the most recent Broadway production, Britney Coleman (SUNSET BOULEVARD, BEAUTIFUL)!!! Britney and Matt discuss the complex music, Bobby's sexuality, and the joys of being vapid. You'l loooooooooooooooooooooooove iiiiiiiiiiiiiit!!!!

Chapter 5 of A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC! Stephen Sondheim, Richard Rodgers and Arthur Laurents wrote a musical once and we ALL forgot about it!! Friend of the pod Adam Elsberry (THE WILD PARTY WARS PART 1 and 2)returns to Breakdown to discuss with Matt about what happens when your lead actors are TOO hot, how Sondheim missed the boat, and why the best characters in musicals are all essentially Samantha Jones from Sex & The City.

Chapter 4 of A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC! Things get weird w/ Daddy Sondheim's next musical about conformity, sanity and the power of a red wig: ANYONE CAN WHISTLE. Broadway historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper (author of the Untold Stories of Broadway Anthology) returns to the pod to discuss this truly whacky musical with Matt as well as the show's troubled process getting produced, including Angela Lansbury shouting in a stairwell, giving audiences the middle finger...and DEATH!!!! We and this pod...we just want to be LOOOOOVED!

Chapter 3 of A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC! We barrel into the 60's with the first Broadway score ENTIRELY written by our boy Stephen Sondheim. Broadway music director and former guest of the pod Patrick Sulken (PRETTY WOMAN, LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS)stops by to discuss with Matt how such a successful show had such a disastrous out of town tryout, a score that works even though it doesn't fit the show, and why this musical may not be as dated as some would have you believe. TRAGEDY TOMORROW, COMEDY TONIGHT!

Impossible? Things are happening EVERY day!! Alum of the pod Jimmy Larkin (@letshearitforthechoice)joins Matt to interview legendary music director Paul Bogaev on his illustrious career on Broadway and in film including the making of the iconic CINDERELLA starring Brandy, the Tony winning actresses that ALMOST starred in AIDA, and how he turned non-singing movie stars into Broadway Babies!! It's a JUICY and THRILLING bonus episode of the Breakdown!!

Chapter 2 of A LITTLE SONDHEIM MUSIC!!! We close out the Golden Age of Broadway with the iconic GYPSY. Often thought of as the perfect musical, Preston Max Allen (WE ARE THE TIGERS, CARRIE 2) comes on to discuss with Matt the show's brilliant writing, homoerotic undertones and missed opportunities. And Matt goes on to explain why Arthur Laurents was the best and worst thing to happen to GYPSY. Have an egg roll!!

The first episode of the new Broadway Breakdown!! Friend of the Pod Andres Melendez comes back to dive into the show that gave Broadway Daddy Stephen Sondheim his Broadway debut...WEST SIDE STORY! The two discuss how the show has aged, if the movie version is ACTUALLY good, why "I Feel Pretty" is better than Sondheim will admit, and why most revivals fail. KEEP IT COOL, BOY!

THINGS ARE SHAKING UP HERE!

"There IS a contest...but she won." Tim Kov and Anna Hulkower (hosts of MY LITTLE TONYS) join Matt to dissect the numerous Tony wins of legend, icon and bubble bath taker Angela Lansbury! The group also discusses when the Tonys had Gays in the mezzanine, Elizabeth Taylor doing stand up, and that one telecast that had blackface...it's Angie's Turn!

"The only thing hornier than Bridgerton is the 1982 ANNIE." Your favorite (or least favorite) redhead is front and center in a new episode of Breakdown! Fan favorite Dani Ticktin Koplik (aka MATT'S MOM) comes on to discuss with the opinionated host the origin, merits and flaws of the musical ANNIE and its subsequent movie versions. Is the the 1982 version too racist? Is the 1999 version too sweet? Is the 2014 version too ashamed it's ANNIE? And who the HECK thought it was a good idea to make all the orphans horny?! WE KNOW YOU'RE GONNA LIKE IT HERE!

"Was it chaos or was it fun?" Fellow podcaster Kimberly Cooper Schmidt (BROADWAYSTED, BROADWAY BABY) takes Matt back to his college years when musical theatre was alive and well in Youtube concerts. Matt and Kimberly discuss the Broadway stars who were once Youtube unknowns, drugs in Angela Lansbury's dressing room, and why a great song can never be in a musical. CLAP YOUR HANDS!

"If anyone could write a musical of WHEN HARRY MET SALLY, it's Maltby and Shire..." Broadway Producer and Historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper (BE MORE CHILL, The Untold Stories of Broadway Anthology) discusses with Matt her love for the iconic songwriting duo of Richard Maltby Jr and David Shire (BABY, BIG). The two gush over the amazing scores the two have written as well as high school hobbies, what it means to be a dated musical, and why the 80's wasn't as bad a time for Broadway as some think. STARTING HERE!

"RUTHLESS is the Gay SAT's" It's our longest episode yet, Henny! Breakdown alum Morgan Reynolds comes back to discuss Matt's newfound love for the Off-Broadway camp fest RUTHLESS, which leads to discussions on Bernadette Peters' career as a producer, the history of gay culture, and why Tina Denmark is the hardest role for a child actor. ARE WE ALL LIT?!

"It's not barbaric when you're a diva." Massive backstage drama, high belting arias, and MURDER! It's SUNSET BOULEVARD, baby! International ingenue Matt Leisy (PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, SWEENEY TODD) discusses his obsession with the noir Andrew Lloyd Webber musical and does battle with host Matt about who's a better Norma, when a principal role is actually the worst one in the show, and whether this musical is ACTUALLY good. Ready for you close up?

"What the f*ck is WILL ROGERS FOLLIES about?" Got Milk?? Spencer Glass ("It's the Day of the Show Y'all!") drops by the Breakdown and reminisces with Matt about Broadway in the 90's, including the debut of Laura Benanti, why THE LIFE's Tony performance shows true diversity, and who is Broadway's secret MILF.

"It's sort of the MAGNOLIA of Christmas movies." SURPRISE!!! Just in time for the holidays, Broadway Breakdown has gifted you a special bonus episode with recurring guest Ali Gordon ALL about the Netflix masterpiece/garbage fire that is "Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square." Matt and Ali get into EVERYTHING about this movie: the songs, the drama, and characters getting impregnated by Dolly Parton. FEEL THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!

"All of his songs are bops" Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Look Out! Devin Holloway (SOMETHING ROTTEN, MOTOWN, 42ND STREET) comes to the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with Disney tunesmith and purveyor of childhood dreams Alan Menken! Devin and Matt also discuss which recording of Little Shop is definitive, performing with legends, and the destruction of childhood imagination. ALLEY-OOP!

"How do you silence a woman who's known for her belt?" THE PROM is now on Netflix! And audio issues can't stop Matt from voicing his opinions with his iconic mother by his side. The two discuss the pros and cons of Ryan Murphy's movie adaptation of the stage musical. They also talk about the original Broadway production's secret weapon, why James Corden isn't the enemy, and how a wig can ruin a scene. IT'S TIME TO DANCE!

"I'll eat some breakfast, then change the world." Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee're BACK! Broadway Encyclopedia and Perpetual Opinionated Gay Matt Koplik returns with special guest Jimmy Larkin (aka @letshearitforthechoice)!!! Jimmy stops by to discuss his obsession with the musical landmark HAIRSPRAY. The two also discuss Brandi in Cinderella, dressing up as Dorothy in homemade Wizard of Oz costumes, and why so many musical theatre actors don't like musicals. YOU CAN'T STOP THIS BEAT!

"The last thing you wanna think when someone is having a murderous breakdown is 'This is a bop.'" PART 2!!! Matt and Adam decide ONCE AND FOR ALL: Which is the Better WILD PARTY? And does "best" always mean "favorite"? Can music be enjoyable but not effective? All of these questions (and many more) are answered! Get into it, Toni Collette!

"To quote Uma Thurman on SMASH, 'I'm here to Dig Deep." IT'S A FIRST!!! Broadway Breakdown is doing a Two-Parter Episode!! Matt invites his good Judy Adam Elsberry to figure out once and for all the question that has haunted Broadway chat rooms and frat boy keg parties for years: "Which is the better WILD PARTY?" And the answer is too complicated for just ONE episode! SO WE SPLIT IT INTO TWO!. Part 1 dives into the history of the two musicals and runs through how each version adapts the infamous 1920's poem for the stage. Part 2 compares and contrasts the two and DECISIVELY determines which is the better one. WHAT A PARTY! WHILE YOU LISTEN: Go to https://www.artsactionfund.org/ActionCenter and learn how you can help save the Arts!! More than ever, the world needs art and we want to make sure it comes back. Find out how you can donate, support or fight for the Arts!!

“There's a lot of Gossip Girl in AMADEUS…” The National Theatre just streamed their recent production of AMADEUS, so Matt brought back his close friend (and fellow nerd) Ali Gordon to talk about their deep love for the brilliant play and its even better Oscar-winning film adaptation. The two also discuss film editing that f*cks in the movie, how history's perception makes us see art and the Mozart aria that is SO fierce, even people who hate classical music HAVE to snap their fingers in appreciation. BRAVA! WHILE YOU LISTEN: Check Out the Netflix documentary “Disclosure” about Trans representation in the media, as well all of the herbal teas, sweeteners and various products at Ivy’s Tea (https://www.ivystea.com)

"Dancing and singing at the same time is really hard." The Broadway Gal Pal with a voice like velvet Lauren Nicole Chapman (FROZEN, KINKY BOOTS) joins the Breakdown to discuss her obsession with SWEET CHARITY. Specifically the 2005 revival w/ Christina Applegate, but also the show in general. She and Matt also discuss their days doing shows together in college, the stress of out-of-town tryouts, and how an open call landed Lauren on Broadway! Get into it, Big Spender! WHILE YOU LISTEN: EMAIL Attorney General Daniel Cameron: attorney.general@ag.ky.gov , Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer: greg.fischer@louisvilleky.gov , and Police Chief Robert Schroeder: robert.schroeder@louisvilleky.gov and demand justice for the murder of Breonna Taylor. ALSO: enjoy these two theatrical works that celebrate Black artistry: Ain't Misbehavin' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE8_MxJCsqg&t=1276s) and The Colored Museum (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhFlG3GzqH4)

"HAMILTON is aspiring for us to do exactly what we're doing right now." The hottest ticket on Broadway is in your living room! Matt is joined by his lovely friend Andrew to discuss their love and appreciation for the juggernaut musical HAMILTON, and touch on the difficulties of filming a stage show, Broadway's uneven relationship with race and why representation matters. WHILE YOU LISTEN: EMAIL these three men to demand justice for Breonna Taylor's Murder (Attorney General Daniel Cameron attorney.general@ag.ky.gov , Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer greg.fischer@louisvilleky.gov , Police Chief Robert Schroeder robert.schroeder@louisvilleky.gov ) And check out businesswoman Ashleigh Evans' website and products InBooze Cocktail Kits! (https://www.dashofevans.com/aboutme/ , https://www.etsy.com/shop/InBooze )

JOHN'S BACK!! Yay...? Matt and John discuss how a bold production brings out the sexual toxicity of A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE, what you should NEVER compare Broadway Bootlegs to, and how to celebrate birthdays in quarantine. WHILE YOU'RE LISTENING: Take the time to visit bailproject.org, naacp.org, and reclaimtheblock.org and donate. These organizations (and many more) need your attention and support. Stay Safe!

"Every single line I could pull out and deconstruct." Broadway Nice Guy Charlie Franklin (TINA, BOOK OF MORMON, BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the time travel divorce epic THE LAST 5 YEARS. Together, Matt and Charlie discuss relating to characters, how a performance can completely change a song's presentation, and why the musical is similar to THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS.

"It's so different when you're doing a show that you can relate to in such a deep, deep, deep way." Broadway powerhouse Antoine L. Smith (CAROUSEL, MISS SAIGON, THE COLOR PURPLE) comes on the Breakdown discuss with Matt his obsession with the Broadway revival of THE COLOR PURPLE. Having been in the production, Antoine shares the show’s creative process, why the 80’s movie version received backlash, and the distinctions between each award-winning actress who played Shug Avery. WHILE YOU LISTEN: Take the time to visit the following websites this week as allies of the Black Lives Matter movement: semicolonchi.com, transgenderlawcenter.org/programs, bwayforblm.org. Support, Donate, Educate.

"These girls are heroes and you're rooting for all 10 of them the whole time." Comedian and Professional Gay Tim Murray stops by the pod to discuss his obsession with the 2008 MTV reality show THE SEARCH FOR THE NEXT ELLE WOODS, which followed the casting for the new lead in LEGALLY BLONDE on Broadway. Having just hosted a Zoom reunion with the final contestants, Tim discusses with Matt revelations he learned from the reunion, plus getting cursed out by Leslie Kritzer and the stigma of wanting it too much. Bend and SNAP, Girl!

"MEET ME IN ST LOUIS was the foreplay that lead to Liza Minnelli." Tony Award nominee Grey Henson (MEAN GIRLS, THE BOOK OF MORMON) comes onto the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the 1944 Judy Garland classic MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS. Matt and Grey *also* discuss the facets to queer conversations, the magnetism of vulnerability, and why Tammy Blanchard made a 100 Judy Garland impersonators quit drag (probably).

"You are to show stops what Taylor Swift is to boyfriends." Perpetual juvenile Daniel Quadrino (NEWSIES, WICKED, BYE BYE BIRDIE) stops by the Breakdown just 'cause sometimes you need to gab! Some of the many topics he and Matt discuss are on-stage mishaps, when fans cross boundaries and the gender bent role of Daniel's dreams. Snap INTO it, Henny!

"I'm a sucker for a good comedic song done well." Gabe Gibbs (BOOK OF MORMON and creator of the podcast MUSICALS THAT NEVER MADE IT) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his obsession with the only musical that has onstage commentary THE DROWSY CHAPERONE. However, Gabe's never actually SEEN it! Together, Matt and Gabe discuss if someone can be obsessed with a show if they're not sure what it's about, why DROWSY has aged well but THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE has not, and Matt being dumped by someone after they listened to the podcast.

"This show has layers." Fancy Dance Man Joshua Burrage (NEWSIES, CATS, A BRONX TALE) stops by the Breakdown to discuss his deep love of the movie-turned musical-turned Netflix movie musical SHREK. Joshua and Matt also discuss character secrets in CATS, audio issues with Zoom and how to properly showcase Sutton Foster. Take it home, Stephen!!

"If I became a knight...I could STILL be in CATS." John Krause (HADESTOWN, FUN HOME, WICKED) stops by the pod to discuss his newfound fascination and obsession with the CATS movie. And Matt is MORE than happy to discuss all the horniness, uncanny valley-ness, and Judi Dench's leg extension-ness. Also, the two discuss how plot "fixes" can become plot "holes," why some musicals don't work on film and WHO exactly is the Dean of CATS School?

"Who doesn't love a nose douche?" How's isolation going kiddies? We thought so. Matt and John discuss the numerous ways to pass the time while locked in your home plus the moral grey area of bootlegs, Broadway stars who left us for TV, the best series to binge these days and what happened when one of your beloved hosts contracted Corona!!!

"We really underestimated the stupidity and the entitlement of the American people." Matt and John are on lockdown with the rest of NYC. Together, they discuss the Broadway shutdown, ways to pass the time while social distancing, and how to find the silver linings even when you're down.

"Don't. Trick. LANDON." Recorded on Wednesday 03/11, Matt and John discuss the sensual, steamy and Tig Ol' Bitties topic of "CONSENT." Plus a very long dissertation about a Mean Girls' actress's opinions of the stage door. Kisses!

"They're all GAY." Matt and John bemoan the lack of specialty in Broadway these days. Plus the new season of Drag Race, Matt seeing MACK & MABEL, and what's exciting this Broadway season.

"So much beauty in the world." Director/Choreographer Emily Maltby (EVITA, LOLITA MY LOVE, FIRST DAUGHTER SUITE) joins the Breakdown to discuss with Matt her love of the Pulitzer Prize winning, sometimes confusing, always moving musical SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE. Major topics include what makes a successful production of SUNDAY, which two minor characters Matt thinks are totally f*cking, and what the final scene means. HELLO GEORGE!

"Usually I'm just like, 'You're boring and I hate you.'" TV/Film actor and Professional Gay Trey Gerrald (ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK, THE QUEENS PROJECT, YOU'RE THE WORST)stops by the Breakdown to discuss with Matt the legacy, the history and the complete illegality of the world of Broadway Bootlegs. Plus the two discuss some Broadway gossip and make plenty of sexually crude jokes. SORRY ABOUT IT!

"I would like to reiterate how trash people are." An incident at JAGGED LITTLE PILL gets Matt and John talking about the downfall of audience etiquette. Plus, Matt revisits ALADDIN and THE LION KING on Broadway, the pod gets a brand new review and the two dissect the problems with a recent statement made by WEST SIDE STORY.

"Am I creating things for art or for attention?" Matt and John discuss Cameron Dallas in Mean Girls, the TV show that's ruining everything, and even come up with a new word!

"What a wonderful use of oxygen you are." IT'S 2020 AND WE'RE STILL HERE (barely)! Matt reviews MOULIN ROUGE, John reviews the new Disney/Musical Theatre/Life Evaluation Reality Show ENCORE and the two get into the nitty gritty of some Oscar potential flicks. Because we CAN CAN CAN, GIRL!

"You know who's not in Amadeus? Mary-Louise Parker." It's the last episode of 2019!! So ring in the end of the year with one more obsession! Fellow theatre podcaster James Crichton ("Actors: On Process") swings by the pod to discuss his obsession with Tony Award and Emmy Award winner Mary-Louise Parker with Matt. The two also get into such hot topics as: How to get famous actors to do your projects, what Disney film defines you, and what Broadway star has changed their tune about social media. AULD LANG SYNE KIDZ!

"A hundred people had to sign off on all of these decisions that were made." Matt spills all the Jellicle T after seeing the CATS movie, John discusses the double edged sword of academic pushback and the two gays gush over a brand new, piping hot iTunes Review!! MEOW BITCH!!!

"I don't think prostitutes sound like Linda Eder." Approachable Broadway ingenue Elena Ricardo (MAMMA MIA, BEAUTIFUL) stops by the Breakdown to share her obsession with vocal heavyweight (and semi-Broadway diva) Linda Eder. Elena and Matt discuss Eder's crazy vocal range as well as the difference between confidence and egotism and the ONE musical that gives Elena nightmares. BA-BAM!

PRESENTING BROADWAY BREAKDOWN'S FIRST RADIO PLAY: An excerpt from Matt's series "YOURS, TRULY," specifically the scene in the season finale defending THE LITTLE MERMAID. This episode is brought to you by the "iTunes review challenge" Matt and guest Melanie Brook set for listeners in episode 56. Enjoy! And if you don't, at least it's short! CAST: Matt Koplik (Calvin), Nick Giedris (Narrator), Cassie Levine (Sophie), Nick Prior (Brent), Kate Forristall (Audrey), Tyler Milliron (Sean), Ali Gordon (Callie Mason), Jordan Puryear (Dee), Amanda Hawkins (Kelly), Sofia Christensen (Ann), and Josh Daniel (Neil). Music provided by Tri-Tachyon ("Little Lily Swing" and "Energy Fix")

"I can't tell you that it's ANY good. And if someone were to tell me that it was, I would perhaps think a little less of them." MILK!!!! John's back for a good ol' fashioned episode of the Breakdown! The two gays dissect the new CATS trailer, John re-joins the work force and Matt sees JAGGED LITTLE PILL, SLAVE PLAY and THE INHERITANCE. Also, the two ask the biggest question: Who the f*ck is Mike?!?! To avoid spoilers, time frame for discussion on each show is: Jagged Little Pill: 22:00-35:00 Slave Play: 36:00-41:00 The Inheritance: 43:00-65:00

"The Good, The Bad, and the Ridiculous. That is what I would call Broadwayworld." Internet Musical Theatre Diva Melanie Brook joins the Breakdown to talk with Matt about the infamous, glamorous, garbage fire beauty that is the message board Broadwayworld.com; the two discuss their histories with the website, favorite posters and problematic threads. Also, Matt discusses THE INHERITANCE and Melanie tries to make "#JusticeForBakingItOnBroadway" trend. ALERT THE MODS!!!

"I don't blame myself for not liking her." Broadway Breakdown alum and our favorite Broadway drag queen Sutton Lee Seymour steps in for John as co-host in this HIGHLY opinionated, DEEPLY passionate episode. Sutton reviews the Off-Broadway LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, Matt calls out some Broadway bullsh*it and the two dissect the dead fish that is THE LITTLE MERMAID LIVE. These gays give opinions that can...what's the word...BURN.

John has thoughts on THE INHERITANCE, Matt has thoughts on the Yiddish FIDDLER, and with the casting announcement for COMPANY, both gays wonder if anyone on Broadway is even listening . HODGE PODGE, KIDZ!

"This story reveals to me that if you wanted to, you could probably murder me and get away with it." John was busy, so Matt scooped up tap dancing cutie pie Kaitlyn Frank (NEWSIES, MY FAIR LADY, WE ARE THE TIGERS)and the two discuss the amazing art of tap dance by deconstructing three amazing clips of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Ann Miller. And also how Kaitlyn's old tap teacher become Youtube famous only AFTER he hung up his dancing shoes. TAP INTO IT, GIRL! For reference: Gene Kelly SUMMER STOCK clip: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0tnHNYpRG8&t=9s) Fred Astaire EASTER PARADE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emNOxALQlpo) Ann Miller EASTER PARADE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yS1e9zksJ8)

JOHN'S BACK!!! And we're *pretty* happy about it. Matt and John discuss an article about phone etiquette that gets them PISSED, express the joy they feel from Katrina Lenk GIFS, and the return of "Jukebox That Musical" with "SO EMOTIONAL: A Whitney Houston/Shonda Rhimes Extravangaza." Pas de deux it, bitch!

"Musical theatre didn't start with Dear Evan Hansen, you know." Honorary theatre gay Charlotte Maltby (THE SOUND OF MUSIC) joins the Breakdown to discuss the amazingness of OKLAHOMA, specifically the legendary 1998 London staging w/ mind blowing choreography by Susan Stroman and a shirtless Hugh Jackman! Together, Matt and Charlotte discuss the show's historic legacy, how Hugh Jackman lead them both to a sexual awakening, and their plan to turn the musical into a 70's style sitcom called "Facets of Laurey." OK, BISH!

"I don't think a blonde on Broadway has been that iconic until Taylor Louderman as Regina George." It's 90's Nostalgia Week at the Breakdown with BIG THE MUSICAL. Matt's childhood friend Michael Bello (SUMMER, DOCTOR ZHIVAGO, WE ARE THE TIGERS) drops by the pod and the two discuss all of the things they LOVE about this gigantic musical (Fierce dancing teens! Epic music! Slurpee cups!) as well as some plot points that might lead to psychological trauma for its characters(DID they sleep together??) CROSS THAT LINE, HUN!

"It just encapsulates every part of what I love about the musical theatre." It's gay, it's crude, it's BROADWAY! Josh Daniel (THE BOOK OF MORMON) stops by to talk about his obsession with the 6 Tony Nominated/Winning Ladies in Red at Stephen Sondheim's 80th Birthday Concert. He and Matt discuss why no man's d*ck can throw Patti Lupone , why Marin Mazzie's performance makes Matt mad and, more importantly, which diva's performance is the perfect choice for your next "sexy time." GET INTO IT, FISH!

"You can talk to birds?" Broadway drag queen and Breakdown vet Sutton Lee Seymour returns to discuss everyone's favorite Sondheim morality musical INTO THE WOODS. Matt and Sutton discuss the legendary original cast, deep themes, and why this amazing musical has had so many productions that suck. BEANS!

"F*ck the rest of GYPSY!" Lifelong friend and Comedic Bit-stress Abby Goldfarb (Fiddler on the Roof) joins the pod to talk about her obsession with the epic-ness of 11 O'Clock numbers. Matt and Abby also discuss the night that Ruth Bader Ginsburg came to FIDDLER, the quality of epic sung-through musicals and their new drag name "Patti LuPorn."

"Yop, Queen, Yop!" Broadway Music Director Patrick Sulken (Pretty Woman, Kinky Boots)joins the Breakdown to chat his obsession with the Broadway flop/National Treasure SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL. Matt and Patrick dig deep and discuss the show's troubled history, what Broadway heavyweights can be found in the show's ensemble, and whose performance is CRIMINALLY underrated. Splash, bitch, Splash!

John opens up about his continuous struggle with testicular cancer...and a sexual side effect after his upcoming surgery. PLUS, Matt shares thoughts on 2 recently closed Broadway musicals, describes to John the worst Winona Ryder movie EVER, and the two share the origin story for the podcast's newest running gag.

Musical theatre drag queen star Sutton Lee Seymour chats with Matt and John about drag inspiration, racism in old Hollywood movies, the great Broadway closings of 2019, and what the f*ck is ACTUALLY happening in the CATS movie trailer.

"I wish they gave Tonys for opinions, 'cause I would have 9." Broadway actor/influencer/husband and Special Guest Bret Shuford (The Little Mermaid, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beauty and the Beast) talks his obsession with DISNEY on BROADWAY. Bret and Matt also discuss a new Disney trend Matt HATES, differentiating between Sierra Boggess' mix and belt, and inducting Matt into the gay mafia.

The 2019 Tony Awards left Matt and John with some OPINIONS. Will they share them? Damn right! Also, an old internet friend resurfaces and Matt and John freak out over the best new show on TV/The Internet.

"I don't know if I just want to BE you, Sutton, or if I just want to kiss Gavin Creel. Because she go to 8 times a week." In honor of Pride here is the gayest episode YET of Broadway Breakdown! Special Guest Morgan Reynolds (Broadway ASMR) comes on to discuss his Broadway obsession with SUTTON FOSTER (because who can't relate?) Morgan and Matt talk amazing belting, dropped in/realistic acting, and go off topic a LOT. Get into it!

Dealing with the 2019 Tony Nominees: Matt tells you why you shouldn't say "snub," John is worshipping at the altar of Christina Applegate, and MOVE OVER FINDING NEVERLAND...there is a new Broadway show Matt can NOT stand.

It's Pudding Season! Matt and John make some wildly intelligent (and intelligently wild) predictions for this year's Tony nominations. Also, Matt sees TOOTSIE, John sees OKLAHOMA, and the two gays discuss the cost of selling your soul for the wrong jukebox musical.

Being sick won't keep Matt and John from exploring their truths! Matt reviews HADESTOWN and the new OKLAHOMA, John finally sees THE PROM, a brief discussion on FOSSE/VERDON, and the return of talking about DRAG RACE. Buckle up!

John's back!!! And together, he and Matt compare thoughts on the Kiss Me Kate revival, Sutton Foster's casting in The Music Man and why it's important to listen to other people's gross opinions.

"If we're always trying to push boundaries, at some point the boundaries are gonna be broken but the device is gonna be the same." With John still absent, Matt calls on Kevin Duda (The Book of Mormon, Beautiful, CInderella) to share his Broadway obsession as well as laying down the law on "unofficial recordings," what makes an effective revival, and some more talk on "SMILE The Musical."

"People in America were like 'What is this f*cking garbage? Get it out of my stage!'" Actress/Comedienne/Broadwayphile Ali Gordon comes in to launch "My Obsession," the new Broadway Breakdown mini-series! Matt and Ali discuss her Broadway obsession CORAM BOY, getting murdered by Alan Cumming, and why epic theatre is going extinct on Broadway. PLAY ALONG KIDS!

It has been a WEEK, kids. Matt and John play therapy with each other as they discuss Laura Benanti in My Fair Lady, John almost meeting Stephen Sondheim and Matt's emotional breakdown at a friend's show. Strap in, it's a fun one!!

John discovers just how young some of the listeners of Broadway Breakdown are, Matt finally watches The Princess Switch, and producer Lucas McMahon (Something Rotten, Hand to God, The Play That Goes Wrong) pops in to correct some misconceptions about Broadway. It's REVELATORY!

Matt and John discuss Valentine's Day plans, John's intimate moment with Jake Gyllenhaal and why "Rent Live!" was doomed to fail. GET INTO IT!

Audio troubles can't bring Matt and John down!!! They're gonna honor Carol Channing by sharing their favorite stories of the musical theatre legend, they're gonna share all the piping hot TEA Kelli O'Hara spilled at her latest concert, and Matt is going to PROVE to you that the most memorable performance in The Ferryman ISN'T from a human.

2018 is almost over, bitch, and Matt and John are gonna close it out with some OPINIONS. Why is Mary Poppins Returns like a gayer Bohemian Rhapsody? What Broadway show has been ruined for John forever? And why should you NEVER make a New Year's Resolution? Find out and embrace 2019!!

Matt and John talk about the Broadway sh*tstorm that occurred on the internet this week....oh, and also some shows.

Matt and John discuss the onslaught of Broadway closings, what's wrong with modern movie writing, and effective ways to deal with sexism in old musicals.

If you're having a sh*tty day, curl up with John and Matt as they talk about what lessons you can learn from "The Little Mermaid," which Bible story playwrights can't seem to get enough of, and if "A Star is Born" is ACTUALLY good (spoiler: it is).

Matt and John discuss "Frozen" on Broadway, the closing of "Kinky Boots" and some adult truths to help you *somewhat* make it through life on their latest episode!

In what may be their gayest episode yet, Matt and John invite cabaret/kickstarter superstar Robbie Rozelle to discuss backstage Patti Lupone stories, the legacy of Marin Mazzie, and the downside of going viral.

Can you have an opinion on a musical you haven't seen? Damn right! Matt and John dissect the "Sharp Objects" finale, Pretty Woman The Musical and the one Broadway musical Matt has NO time for.

Is Mamma Mia 2 Here We Go Again a masterpiece or a clusterf*ck? Who IS Taylor Swift playing the Cats movie? And how DO you say Amanda Seyfried's name? Matt and John will not rest until these questions are answered on a new Broadway Breakdown.

Matt and John discuss "Head Over Heels," the announcement of Ivo van Hove's "West Side Story" and the new (entirely fictional) Kelly Clarkson jukebox musical!!

Matt and John discuss the newest writer for The Devil Wears Prada musical, John's loose bones and why Lauren Ambrose doesn't have to do Sunday shows.

Matt and John discuss this year's Tony telecast, the "My Fair Lady" revival, and why it's important to be good at improvisation at 2 AM.

What movie did Lindsay Lohan star in opposite a porn star? Who will win at this year's Tony Awards? If you can't sit on Andy Karl's face, who is the next best option? Matt and John discuss ALL this and more in the latest Broadway Breakdown!

Recorded 4 days before the announcement of the 2018 Tony Nominations, Matt and John give THEIR take on who and what will be given some Tony love and hate this season.

Matt finally sees Carousel and John takes in Frozen and they have OPINIONS HONEY!!!!

BACK AGAIN! Matt explains why Sally Murphy is his definitive Julie Jordan in Carousel, John dissects the most recent winner of "Rupaul's Drag Race" and the two twinks further discuss the new main stream gay high school movie "Love, Simon" and where it succeeds, and slightly falters.

Buckle up, Buttercup 'cause opinions are flowing! Matt and John discuss the brilliant oddity that is Ellen Greene's Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors, some theatre news that is both exhilarating and confusing, and why you shouldn't dream stupid.

Back and bitchier than ever, Matt and John discuss the gayest new show on TV, shocking diva confessions, and the one lost musical Matt will fight for Encores! to do.

They're back! Or are they? After a mid-winter break, Matt and John come back in full force to discuss Broadway at the Grammys, new projects, and the excitement of a new Rupaul's Drag Race.

In their latest, Matt and John discuss their predictions for "A Christmas Story Live!," the recent "Once On This Island" revival, and the benefits of being young and dumb (but not in public).

Matt and John are back with an in depth discussion of sexual misconduct in theatre, gay characters in cinema, and how Katrina Lenk is showing up EVERYBODY in The Band's Visit.

Matt and John eat old Halloween candy with Caitlin Kinnunen (Spring Awakening, The Bridges of Madison County, The Prom) and discuss message board comments, sharing needles, and one strange Broadway TV commercial.

Matt and John discuss the upcoming revival of "The Boys in the Band," the Kevin Spacey scandal, and fight over the "Beauty and the Beast" remake.

In their first late night recording, Matt and John drink whiskey, argue over successful Broadway revivals, and reveal the new jukebox musical "Sickening!"

Social media siren Natalie Walker sits down with Matt and John to discuss the drunken joys of "Cats the Musical," exciting up and coming musical theatre writers, and elementary school horror stories.

They're back! A new review leaves Matt and John pondering the quality of their tangents, while Matt teases an upcoming "Jukebox That Musical" and John goes undercover with the mysterious foot fetishist.

Matt and John discuss the Hal Prince revue "Prince of Broadway," the new replacements in "Dear Evan Hansen," and a surprise segment of "Jukebox That Musical"

Matt and John discuss Broadway-themed lubricant, the upcoming 2017-2018 musicals, and offer a final reflection on the mysterious foot fetishist.

Matt and John discuss casting controversy for "The Great Comet," delve deeper with the mysterious foot fetishist, and premiere their new Vanessa Carlton/Michelle Branch jukebox musical "Brunettes!"

Matt and John analyze the National Theatre's production of "Angels in America," discuss the benefits of a gender swapped "Company," and discover more information on the mysterious foot fetishist!

In their very first episode, Matt and John discuss the recent production of "Assassins" at City Center, dissect a controversial review of Donna Murphy in "Hello Dolly," and discover a foot fetishist who's posting audition breakdowns online.