Why I‘ll Never Make It

Bret Shuford has dedicated his life to creating theatre. Most recently, he played Robbie in Cirque Du Soleil’s Paramour. Other credits include Broadway shows, national tours, and principal roles in feature films; including Martin Scorsese's The Wolf Of Wall Street. As the Broadway Life Coach, Bret helps people find their full potential, get clear about their purpose, and create balance and self-confidence. He also gives us all a chance to be a part of his FIVE-DAY BALANCE ON BROADWAY CHALLENGE. Click here to sign up. I also mentioned my blog post on Dealing with Our Own Inner Critic. Reach out to me directly with your own questions or comments via email ([email protected]) or on the website: contact.winmipodcast.com ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. I wouldn't be here without listeners like you, so your donations are greatly appreciated. All donors will be recognized in a future episode for their generosity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The very first FINAL FIVE Bonus Episode! These are the five questions each guest will be asked all season long, giving concise and and focused insights not covered in our main conversation. The answers given are surprising and revealing, showing another side to both Bowman and Ghee... If you could have any other job outside of the arts what would it be? What is a bucket list role or show you still hope to do one day? Who do you look up to? A mentor or someone who inspires you. Name a lesson or trait that took you awhile to learn or one that you are still learning to this day? What’s the best advice you’ve received? Listen to Parts One and Two of my conversation with these two talented stars. ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Your donation will go directly into the podcast, helping to grow the WINMI community and allowing me to do so with greater ease and effectiveness. I wouldn't be here without listeners like you, so your donations are greatly appreciated. All donors will be recognized in a future episode for their generosity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Season Three and part two of my interview with J. and Caroline! These two Broadway performers join me to share their own journey to the Great White Way. We also discuss how to deal with detractors, handling disappointment in auditions, and finding confidence in being yourself. Caroline Bowman has played Elphaba in WICKED, Eva Peron on the EVITA National Tour, and is Elsa in the current National Tour of FROZEN. J. Harrison Ghee has performed in Tokyo Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, and taken on the role of Lola in KINKY BOOTS. In fact, this past summer all three of us were in the first regional production of KINKY BOOTS since it closed on Broadway. We put up the show in 11 days in St. Louis at The Muny for the 101st musical season. Find Part One here and the Final Five bonus episode. ------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Season Three! These two Broadway performers join me for three episodes to share their own journey to the Great White Way. We also discuss the pressure of playing a leading role, handling criticism, and knowing who you are. Caroline Bowman has played Elphaba in WICKED, Eva Peron on the EVITA National Tour, and is Elsa in the current National Tour of FROZEN. J. Harrison Ghee has performed in Tokyo Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, and taken on the role of Lola in KINKY BOOTS. In fact, this past summer all three of us were in the first regional production of KINKY BOOTS since it closed on Broadway. We put up the show in 11 days in St. Louis at The Muny for the 101st musical season. Find Part Two here and the Final Five bonus episode. ------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A surprise bonus episode this summer...I just couldn't stay away! And also introducing the first-ever listener question. - First and foremost, I'd love to hear from you and get your thoughts on this podcast. Share what you love and especially what bothers you about WINMI episodes or the blog or the online presence. It's all fair game in the Season Two Feedback Survey: survey.winmipodcast.com - There's also been a slew of Broadway show closings announced recently. By summer's end 16 shows will be gone, with two more set to leave Broadway in the Fall and Winter. Is this normal? Should we be worried about the state of NY theater? As always, money plays a big part in the equation, but there's also an interesting trend or market correction at play as well. Read more from Ken Davenport as well as Forbes and TheaterMania. - It's been awhile since I've mentioned it, but there's yet another reason why I'll never make it: my own lack of time management and keeping up with my schedule. I share a personal story of messing up big time, and it involves a former guest on the show. - And for the first time on the podcast, I answer a listener's question about moving to NYC, auditioning, getting an agent, and when is the best time to join Actors Equity: Hi! My name is Carley and I'm an actor that's living in Florida. I've been to NYC for "audition season" for the past 2 years to go through the motions. I haven't been too successful because I've been non-union, so I'm hoping that I'm seen more at this upcoming season in 2020. I was wondering if you had any advice for people who are living outside of NYC but still working to make it? I plan to move there soon. I'm getting married so my fiancé and I are hanging out here right now because it's easier to save but plan to move after the wedding that's in October 2020. So I guess I'm just wondering what advice you have for people outside of NYC, do any agencies take talent outside of the city, etc. I love the podcast. Thanks in advance! (Thanks so much to Carley for reaching out and I hope more of you will do the same. If you'd like your own question or comment addressed on a future episode, send your message to [email protected].) So here are some of my thoughts on the issues raised... - I used to live in Florida as well, in Orlando for nine years, and I was taking trips to NYC also for specific auditions. So I think it’s smart that you come up for the audition season as a whole. That way you can focus on getting seen as much as you can, which as you said is unfortunately hampered by being Non-Equity. But there’s still plenty of tour work and regional theaters that need non-Eq performers to fill out their casts. - As you prepare for 2020, I would say find as much theater work as you can there in Florida. Don’t hesitate to drive (if you can) to Miami or Jacksonville or Tampa for specific theater season or show-specific auditions. There are plenty of Equity theaters that could possibly get you your Equity card before you get to NYC, which would of course be such a leg-up in getting in the audition room. - If you know any directors in Florida who work in NYC, whether as a director or teacher, get in front of them again, especially if they’ll be in NYC auditioning. Connections and networking are a big help in this business, like schooling I mentioned above. It’s one of the aspects of the business I’d not given as much thought or attention to as I should’ve. So even after 11 years here, I’m still not known to as many directors and producers as I'd like. ---------------- Two ways to show your support for WINMI: Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the final episode of Season 2, Ben Davis joins me in St. Louis to talk about the life of an actor on the road and in New York. His accomplishments on Broadway and elsewhere are many and magnificent, from his award-winning turn in La Boheme to the epic leading man in BBC's Kiss Me, Kate. His journey is both inspiring and instructive in what it means to make it. "Davis' seductive baritone is swoon-worthy." -Fran Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter Follow Ben on Instagram and Twitter and see more on his website. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Audition season is winding up here in New York City as we prepare for the summer months. I hope you have some good plans for the summer. For myself, I will be doing a couple of shows: one in St. Louis the other in Raleigh. My special guest today is also keeping himself busy. Ethan Paisley is a writer, producer, and director, with a TV series this summer on DVD Netflix called Set Life. Other projects include the feature film .453 which is on Amazon, two films that have screened at the Cannes Film Festival...and when it comes to awards Ethan is no stranger. He won Best Overall Film at the San Mauro Torinese Film Festival, Best Young Filmmaker at the Los Angeles Film Awards, and Best Young Director at the Young Entertainer Awards. Just how young is he? He's accomplished all this by the ripe old age of 18. So when I ask myself why I'll never make it, it's guys like this that have the drive and ambition to keep them going. He and I discuss his rapid rise to success and the setbacks he's faced in getting there. He has definite points of view on filmmaking and auditions and directing. It's a fascinating interview with a talented, young, and upcoming artist. Go to Ethan's website and follow him on Instagram and Twitter. Also check out his growing list of IMDB credits. ----------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tonys have all been handed out and another Broadway Season comes to a close. While the trophies themselves are the main attraction, it was really the speeches and heart of the awards ceremony this year that captivated my attention and truly moved me. I talk about some inspiring acceptance speeches from winners like Andre DeShields, Rachel Chavkin, and Ali Stroker as well as the acceptance speech Sam Mendes never gave. Then, I give some background to one of the names In Memoriam that was a first for the Tonys. Read all the speeches here and the full list of winners here. ----------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to WINMI's first international episode! Joining me on the show today is Sherryl-Lee Secomb from Australia. With over thirty-five years on stage, creating roles in musical theatre, farce and dramatic works, she began working as a freelance theatre director, creating large scale musical theatre productions in her home town of Brisbane, Australia. ​In 2011, she was appointed as Communications & Online Marketing Manager to Savoyards Musical Comedy Society, a large community-based theatre company, and began the process of creating their online presence. In 2014, an experience with a another passionate but under-resourced regional theatre company, inspired her to begin a blog, An Idiot On Stage, highlighting ways community theatre organizations can improve and grow. But Sher's work not only focuses on the theater companies themselves but the artists and actors and technicians that make up the whole creative team producing and making art on stage. She gives plenty of insight into how to approach art as a business while still maintaining the creative vision and passion. Follow her on Instagram and read her blog. ----- As you enjoy these guests and conversations each week, please consider buying me a coffee to support this podcast. I wouldn't be here without listeners like you, so your donations are greatly appreciated. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The third and final Awards Season Bonus Episode features Kelvin Moon Loh of BEETLEJUICE, nominated for eight Tony Awards. We discuss his audition for the role of Otho...or rather lack of an audition. Then there's the other fellow performers who Kelvin simply gushes about, sharing his love and gratitude for such a wonderful group to perform with. But we also delve into the business itself and what keeps us going and how to treasure the moments along the way. It's wonderful and far-reaching chat about this fun show about death as well as the Great White Way that keeps us all striving and hoping for our chance to one day be under the big lights. Follow Kelvin on Twitter and Instagram as well as BEETLEJUICE. ----- As you enjoy these guests and conversations each week, please consider buying me a coffee to support this podcast. I wouldn't be here without listeners like you, so your donations are greatly appreciated. (support.winmipodcast.com) Find out more about the WINMI blog and other episodes, go to winmipodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Broadway is all abuzz with the latest shows and performances making all the headlines. But theater in New York is so much more than what happens on the great white way. There's important and significant work being done off-Broadway and by theater companies around the city. One such company is Leviathan Lab, and today I'm talking to Ariel Estrada . . . an actor, singer, arts advocate, producer, and Founder of Leviathan Lab. They are an award-winning not-for-profit creative studio whose mission is the advancement of Asian and Asian American performing artists and their work. With Leviathan Lab (now celebrating its 10th year), Ariel has produced acting and writing salons, cabarets, fundraising events, staged readings, showcase productions, and short films, including the award-winning film Two Weeks. But today's conversation is so much more than just shop talk about auditioning and producing and running a non-profit. Our conversation really digs into some weighty topics of race and opportunity for people of color and the struggles that go with that. Ariel is quite candid and open about his experiences and how they've shaped his career. This is an episode you don't wanna miss! Follow Ariel and Leviathan Lab on Twitter. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having already won the Best Musical award from the Outer Critics Circle. James Monroe Stevko and the entire FIDDLER cast and crew wait to see if their winning continues with the upcoming Drama Desk Award. But before becoming the rabbi's son, James was an instrumental musician and at the age of 18 decided to become a dancer. Transforming himself into a dancer through college, he landed his first job before graduation in Milwaukee Ballet II. And he's continued to become a successful storyteller through song and dance, telling stories through movement in America's top musical theater houses, including performing alongside the Rockettes in New York City's longest-standing theatre tradition - the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. FIDDLER IN YIDDISH marks James' off-Broadway acting debut, directed by Academy/Tony/Emmy Award winner Joel Grey. James shares stories of auditions, learning languages, becoming a dancer, and working with icons like Joel Grey. Earlier this year in The Ensemblist, he wrote about his experience with such a familiar work like FIDDLER in an unfamiliar language like Yiddish. FIDDLER was originally performed in the Museum of Jewish Heritage before moving to its current home at Stage 42 (formerly known as the Little Shubert Theatre). Follow James on Twitter and Instagram...and learn more about FIDDLER in Yiddish! L'chaim! ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The job of a stage manager may be behind the scenes, but all that they do makes its way into each and every performance we actors give onstage. Matthew Stern joins me today to explain the very nature of their work, giving insight into the art and craft of stage management. He recounts of his time with LES MISÉRABLES, 700 SUNDAYS, SPIDER-MAN, and other shows in New York and on the road. This is a must-listen for any actor wanting to know more about what SMs do and all the grunt work they go through to make our shows happen. In addition to his time backstage, Matthew still finds time to share and give back to the next generation of stage managers, as he teaches at SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Design and Technology. His work in the classroom, sharing his Broadway experience and having his students observe his productions, has shown the incredible benefits students receive with access to Broadway. By combining his love of teaching and experience on Broadway, Matthew has created the Broadway Stage Management Symposium. The Symposium is an incredible opportunity for those interested in stage management, considering a career in the theatre or anyone interested in how Broadway really works. There are a variety of registration options available to keep the Symposium affordable for students. See the website for more info. Follow Matthew and the Symposium on Instagram and Twitter. ----- As you enjoy these guests and conversations each week, please consider buying me a coffee to support this podcast. I wouldn't be here without listeners like you, so your donations are greatly appreciated. Find out more about other episodes, go to winmipodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first Award Season Bonus episode of 2019! And it's a musical that's tied for the most Tony nominations with 12, including Best Musical. (A full list of those nominations can be found here.) Joshua Morgan plays Shelly Berger, who was the real-life manager of the Temptations as well as The Supremes and Jackson 5. Josh is no stranger to Broadway as he was in the closing cast for the most recent revival of LES MISÉRABLES, which played at the same Imperial Theater. I first met and worked with Josh at Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, Texas where we performed HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING. And in this episode we talk a lot about succeeding in this business and how hard that can be. he give great insights into the mindset and discipline needed to withstand the rigors of rejection and persistent which are essential components of any actor's journey. Follow Josh on Twitter and Instagram and find out more on his business, Artist's Strategy. ------ Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're not likely to hear a more infectious laugh than on today's episode with Lothair Eaton. His joy of life and performing shine through in this engaging conversation about life on tour with STARLIGHT EXPRESS, the struggles of finding work here in NYC, and how we learn and grow as performers. Lothair was also seen in the ’95 UK Tour of 5 GUYS NAMED MOE. Throughout Germany and the UK Lothair has performed in many Musical Galas and events, as well as his own Cabaret shows to rave reviews! In New York, Lothair was seen in the original cast of NUNSENSE A-MEN as Sister Mary Hubert to wonderful reviews! Also in the York Theatre production of LOST IN THE STARS. And the Papermill Playhouse production of SHOW BOAT, which was also taped and shown on P.B.S. Great Performances. Enjoying time in Vegas, he went back to play the Master Of Laughter (no surprise there!) in EFX at the MGM Grand Hotel starring Tommy Tune! But before all that Lothair was born in Chicago, into a musical family. His father, Cleveland J. Eaton is a famous Jazz musician, playing Contra Bass with the incredible Ramsey Lewis Trio, as well as the World famous Count Basie Orchestra. (See this video of him with Count Basie.) Follow Lothair on Twitter and Instagram as well as his website. You can also find him teaching Eleanor England: https://singing-lessons-nyc.eleonorengland.com/NYC/ ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After our great discussion of Broadway history, Tony Awards, and Dorothy Fields, Kristin was a sport enough to take on some trivia questions...and some of them were doozies. I didn't even know most of them before looking them up. So test your own Broadway knowledge and see how many you know in the first-ever WINMI Theater Trivia Challenge! Follow Kristin on Twitter and learn more about her at DrBroadway.com. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, the Award Season is now in high gear with all the major theater nominations out: Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle, Drama League, and of course the mother of them all, the Tonys. Everyone seems to be talking about the hottest shows on Broadway. So today I’m jumping into the deep end as well, talking about some of the current Broadway darlings. And joining me is Dr. Broadway herself to also discuss the history that went into making Broadway what it is today as well as some of the backstory to the Tony Awards. Dr. Broadway, also known as Kristin Stultz Pressley is a Musical Theatre Historian, and as you would guess one of Broadway’s biggest fans. As a passionate and energetic presenter, Pressley has taught theatre at every level – from pre-school all the way up to university. And yes, she is an actual doctor with a phd in Theater and Film Studies. For her research on the life and work of Tony Award-winning lyricist and librettist Dorothy Fields, she was awarded the Bruce Kirle Emerging Musical Theatre Scholar Award. That’s a long-titled award all to say she knows a whole lot about Dorothy Fields. And we’ll also be discussing her important and pivotal work during broadway’s golden age. Stephen Sondheim once wrote, "Work is what you do for others; art is what you do for yourself." And for Dr. Broadway that’s exactly what she loves about being a Musical Theatre Historian as it also informs her ongoing mission: educating theatergoers in order to enhance theatergoing. Follow her on Instagram and find out more at DrBroadway.com. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After being on WINMI Episode 32, fellow podcaster Clayton Howe invited me to return the favor and come on his podcast. We chatted about my own journey as an actor and what led to the creation of WHY I'LL NEVER MAKE IT. I share my own fears and battles with not "making it" but also what keeps me going and hoping along the way. There's plenty of wit and wisdom in this great conversation with my friend, and I'm so glad to have been a part of his podcast. Enjoy! Subscribe and listen to ENTERTAINMENT(X) and follow Clayton on Instagram. ----------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As part 2 of the focus on auditions, John Ort joins the podcast. He is a member of CSA (Casting Society of America) and works on TV, film, new media and theatre. His insights on the audition process are informative and useful as we continue to navigate this sometimes rough and mysterious process. John sheds light on on-camera vs theater auditions, how best to do self-tapes, and even tackles some of your questions. John's work includes: CBS’s “Bull,” feature films Last Ferry and Anya, and short films The Water Song and Etymology. Associate credits include season 1 of the series “Ozark” (Netflix) for which he won an Artios Award for outstanding casting, the pilots of “Bull” (CBS) and “Blindspot” (NBC), “Younger” seasons 1 & 2 (TV Land), and the last 2 seasons of “Royal Pains” (USA). Previously, John was Manager of Casting at ABC Primetime NY searching for series regulars for numerous pilots and series. For 7 years he oversaw the casting and production of the annual Disney | ABC Talent Diversity Showcase in NY. Independent theatre projects include musicals, plays and cabarets produced downtown at the legendary Joe’s Pub at The Public, Green Room 42, The Cherry Lane Theatre, Le Poisson Rouge, The Duplex Cabaret and various venues in the NY International Fringe Festival. Follow John on Twitter. He is also on the board the Artist's Patron Fund, a 501(c)(3) charity founded in 2016 that provides fiscal sponsorship of mid-career artists, with project-specific grants. http://artistspatronfund.org ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first annual Auditions episode! I’ll be sharing stories from those in the audition room as well as some tidbits of wisdom along the way. For the past few months during my conversations with guests I've asked them about their own audition stories. I saved those tales of wonder and woe, so I could bring them to you now for the first time. And that’s what today is going to be all about…sharing and commiserating on auditions - the good, the bad, and the funny. Here are the guests featured today with links to the their previous/upcoming episodes: Glasgow Lyman & Jeff Rosick, WE NEED THIS MUSICAL... Caitlin Kinnunen, THE PROM Amy Marie Stewart, Founder of Theory Works Tovi Wayne, MEAN GIRLS Ilana Levine, LITTLE KNOWN FACTS Wojcik/Seay Casting John Ort, Casting Director of BULL and Casting Associate on OZARKS (episode is next week) Tony Howell, Brand Marketing Strategist Kelly Gabel, Founder of Triple Threat Therapy Lothair Eaton, STARLIGHT EXPRESS A big thank you to each of my guests for sharing their personal tales of triumph and dismay and also to you for joining me on this fun and insightful episode. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to your favorite holiday: Tax Day! One of the most difficult but important issues we face in the arts is our finances. How to make more of it and how to spend (and save) it in the best way possible. Rebecca Selkowe, head of the Financial Wellness Program at The Actors Fund, covers some of the challenges people working in performing arts and entertainment face when trying to balance variable income and expenses, and also touches briefly on important tax issues. A performing artist’s financial life is complex, so it’s easy to get confused when trying to organize your money. This episode will help you distinguish between regular and irregular income, and determine what this means for building yourself a financial cushion, saving for periodic expenses and investing for your future. The overall goal of the Financial Wellness program? Establishing a stable method of managing your finances. So check out their free classes and seminars today! Learn more about Rebecca Eve Selkowe and her book Dominate Your Debt. -------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kelly and I talk about the mindset needed to get through the ups and downs of this business, and as founder of Triple Threat Therapy she even gives me a bit of therapy, asking questions and giving insights into my own thinking when it comes to auditions and making decisions for my career. But it all started the ripe old age of 4, when Kelly stepped on stage for the first time during a kindergarten musical. From that moment on, she was hooked. Most of us have a story similar to that, right? She performed throughout my childhood but focused on choir and singing during high school and college. In her 20's, she started auditioning for local community theater productions. Up to that point, she had never been to a professional or semi-professional audition and had no clue what to expect. So she learned by doing and was soon performing regularly at a local theater. But she struggled to move beyond chorus, or small featured roles. Now in her 30's and after taking several years off from auditioning and performing, she focuses on family and her vocal students. She also writes a blog, which is how I first found out about Kelly. Her honesty and openness about the rejection that comes with auditioning and performing was both eye-opening and refreshing... "We all know that we aren't supposed to take rejections personally...but seriously?! How can we NOT? It stings when someone doesn't see our talent, or sees our talent but just doesn't want us. We have poured our heart and soul into that performance and their response is simply, "thanks but no thanks" or "we'll call you." ⁣So what do we do with that rejection?" Read the full blog article here. Kelly is also starting a brand new Masterclass series, featuring many artists and professionals, including myself and former guest, Maggie Bera. To learn more about her Journey to Broadway Masterclass and the other coachings and consultations she provides, visit her website. You can also follow her on Instagram & Facebook. ----------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fellow actor and podcaster, Clayton Howe, riffs on the business of auditioning as well as creating new work and making a difference in the world...whether that world is our own theater community or a larger presence influencing millions. He even brings up one influencer, Casey Neistat, who is a filmmaker and was ticketed here in NYC for not riding his bike in the bike lane. Through his videos and mission to fight back against the ticket, he ended up exposing a flaw in the enforcement of bike lanes and galvanized a strong following behind him. Watch the video that started it all. Notice the 22+ million views so far! Okay, now back to Clayton...he and I first met during my contract with Disney Cruise Line. He was Vocal Captain and became a true friend on the ship. Since being back on land, our careers have led us in similar directions as we pursue more theater gigs around the country. Born and raised on Long Island and schooled at State University of New York (SUNY), Clayton has a resume that stretches from New York theater to regional theater and beyond. He most recently performed in From Here to Eternity at Ogunquit Playhouse and just finished a production at Gateway Playhouse for Cabaret. All of this has brought Clay to a higher understanding of what it means to change the world through storytelling, which is why he created his podcast Entertainment(x). Clayton believes in understanding the roots of one's successes and struggles so others can learn from them and live a more fulfilled life...sounds familiar, eh? Much like WINMI, Clayton brings in names you might recognize, names you won't, and names you don't yet. In fact, in the coming weeks he'll be bringing me on his show. So stay tuned as your favorite host turns into Clayton's favorite guest! :) Follow Clayton on Twitter and Instagram. ----------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From musical theater to opera, from Disney Cruise Line to New York's famed Town Hall venue,Amy Marie Stewart has seen first hand the struggles that singers and actors face. Most of it coming from our own preconceived notions or those expectations heaped on us by others. Her recent blog post "Failing our Singers" went viral as she tried to dispel those do's and don'ts in order to free us up to give our best performance, whether onstage or in the audition room. Due to a recent illness, which she opens up about in this episode, Amy now focuses on teaching and helping singers be their best. As the founder of TheoryWorks she specializes in distilling down effort, finding a filter-free sound, helping legit singers belt and belters sing legit -- and, most importantly, in being her student's new number-one cheerleader. She works with musical theatre folks to build a cohesive book. To get a sense of her approach, check out the (free) TheoryWorks online masterclass on putting an audition book together. Amy is also a published Backstage Expert and distinguished representative of the CU College of Music Alumni in NYC. Her students are currently performing on Broadway, and in Broadway tours, on cruise ships, with the Rockettes, and in theatres across the country. Learn more about Amy here. ------------ Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I'm joined by the wonderfully charming and talented Ilana Levine. She takes a break from her own podcast, LITTLE KNOWN FACTS, to talk with me about her career on Broadway and in TV/film as well as share stories of auditions and her obsession with British royalty. From her big Broadway turn as Lucy in YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN to her various appearances in The Nanny Diaries, Law & Order, and the infamous Seinfeld episode "The Contest," she has had a storied career. But Ilana has also directed and produced and her contact list is a veritable who's who of Hollywood and Broadway. It is from this wide array of stars that she brings guests onto her own podcast to talk about the ins and outs of entertainment and performing. I'm so honored and proud to add her to my list of guests today. She's an inspiration and motivation to keep striving and reaching for the best from myself and this career. I'm sure she'll inspire you as well! Listen to her podcast: http://www.littleknownfactspodcast.com ----------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Promposal Day! Caitlin Kinnunen may go to THE PROM eight times a week on Broadway as Emma, a high schooler who wants to bring her girlfriend to the big dance. But when she was a teenager herself, she never actually attended prom. On today’s episode, Caitlin opens up about being home schooled and how she could only go to the before and after parties with a friend. Her home schooling was largely due to being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at a young age, and being at home meant better care of her condition. She stayed active in local theater, though, auditioning and performing in her hometown of Seattle, Washington. But it was when she landed the role of Thea as a replacement in SPRING AWAKENING in 2008 that she finally moved to New York City. Once that Broadway run ended the following year, it would be another 5 years before her next Broadway show, BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, and almost another 5 years until THE PROM opened at the Longacre Theater. There were times during those in-between years Caitlin wasn’t sure she would “make it” in this business. She even had to go on Medicaid at one point when her Actors Equity health insurance ran out. So being a part of THE PROM isn’t just making up for her lack of one in high school, it is also giving her wonderfully supportive cast and stage management team, who also help monitor her blood sugar levels throughout the show and make sure she has plenty of fruit snacks hidden around the stage. Lastly, Caitlin shares her thoughts on the upcoming Tony Award nominations and what that could mean to the show. But she had even more fun with some fantasy casting of her fellow actors in Sondheim's classic INTO THE WOODS. One giveaway: Beth Leavel would play the Witch, of course. ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first Spotlight Series of 2019 I’m joined by Josie Whittlesey, the founder and Executive Director of Drama Club. The organization started in 2013, providing theatre programming to incarcerated and court-involved young people. They bring classes into juvenile detention centers, jails and community centers throughout New York City. Currently, Drama Club works with about 500 individual students between the ages of 10-21, using improv as their core curriculum, empowering young people to tell the stories they want to tell, in the ways in which they want to tell them. From her previous work with Rehabilitation Through the Arts and Girls Educational & Mentoring Services, Josie has proven to be staunch advocate for those who are underserved and in need of the outlet and experience that theater provide. I caught up with her at the Drama Club office in Long Island City, where she shares how this important organization began and talks about the lives they impact in such positive ways. Find out more about Drama Club and Josie. ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How would you like to learn 13 different roles for one show, and be ready at a moment's notice to perform anyone of them...or even combine two or three of them in one show? That's exactly what Heather Botts is prepared to do 8 times a week in MY FAIR LADY, currently on Broadway. In this episode, recorded backstage in the Lincoln Center Theater, she shares her process for gearing up for such a demanding part in cast as well as her journey from regional theaters to the Great White Way. Born and raised in Walla Walla, WA, Heather started singing at a very young age. She grew up performing all over the Northwest and spent her extra time doing community theatre and competing in singing competitions. In college, she double majored in acting and voice. After earning both of her bachelor degrees, she moved to Seattle, WA to explore all facets of the professional theatre world. She worked at Taproot Theatre and Seattle Children's Theatre performing, teaching and working in the administrative offices. Her time in Seattle also paved the way for her own private voice studio, where she taught aspiring artists. In 2010, Heather went back to school to work on her Master's degree. She studied at Oklahoma City University under the direction of Professor Florence Birdwell. Mrs. Birdwell taught Broadway veterans Kelli O'Hara and Kristin Chenoweth as well as many others. After receiving her Master's degree in Music Theatre, Heather worked regionally around the United States and has since moved to NYC to pursue her acting career. Favorite credits include: Clara (The Light in the Piazza), Nellie Forbush (South Pacific), Cosette (Les Misérables), The Baker's Wife (Into the Woods), Ellen (Miss Saigon), Sandy (Grease), and many more. When not on stage, she loves to teach voice and inspire the next generation of performers. Follow her on Instagram. Check out her website. ----------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The man who has been in more EVITA productions than Mandy Patinkin joins me on the podcast to talk about his back and forth in show business and finding the balance between "making it" and making a living. As founder and owner of Ryan Bailer Support, he's created a thriving company that he enjoys and supports him and his family. But he still dreams of being on the stage and knows that he's not quite complete if he's not pursuing his acting career as well. He gives the hilarious story of his first audition in 10 years for the EVITA National Tour, which he booked, as well as gives us some tech tips and strategies for our own use of computers and mobile devices. Click here to have Ryan and his team help you with any of your own tech needs. You can also follow Ryan on Instagram -------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tony Howell is a digital strategist for Emmy, Grammy, Tony, Oscar, and Olivier award-winning artists. His work has been featured by Google, Squarespace, SAG-AFTRA, Actors' Equity Association, and more. On today's episode, he shares his insights of how to match our online presence with our in-person persona. Before becoming an entrepreneur, he was an actor for 20+ years-performing on Broadway, Off-Broadway, National Tours, and more. In addition to weekly free content and scholarships to his quarterly programs, Tony donates a percentage of profits to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and 100% of all the profits from his book, Artists to Artist to the ACLU. He gives Patrick a digital branding session and talks about what to work on when creating a social media strategy. That session begins at 26:44, almost midway through the episode. Learn more at TonyHowell.me. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter. ----------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're now about halfway through the 2018-19 Broadway season, and several shows have closed and some still have yet to open. Ryan McPhee, Managing News Editor at PLAYBILL, joins the podcast once again to talk about the notable shows of the 2018-19 Broadway Season. We focus especially on those that are likely to get some Tony Award recognition. Here's the list of all shows we mention in this episode: • Andrea McArdle and Donna McKechnie at 54 Below • Getting the Band Back Together did not get good reviews • Head Over Heels was thrown out on its heels in January • The Cher Show gets a diva endorsement • American Son getting a Netflix adaptation • The Intricacies of Family in Waverly Gallery and The Ferryman • Lifespan of a Fact with Daniel Radcliffe • Network and Bryan Cranston's electrifying performance reviews • To Kill a Mockingbird overcame lawsuits to make it to Broadway • Are you going to The Prom? • King Kong stirs up controversy and bad reviews • Be More Chill goes from Off-Broadway to the big time • Kiss Me Kate in the #MeToo era • Oklahoma! sets a darker tone in this reboot • Hadestown's road to Broadway • Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus is a new comedy with Tony veterans • Tootsie gets a facelift • Beetlejuice...Beetlejuice...Beetlejuice out of town • Ain't Too Proud to Beg, the latest Broadway temptation We also give special shoutouts to Bonnie Milligan and Stephanie J. Block. Follow Ryan McPhee on Twitter. ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com "Hot Swing" by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maggie graduated from Texas State with a BFA in Musical Theatre just two years ago and has been pounding the NYC pavement ever since. In today's episode she talks about how she holds herself back sometimes from being her best in the audition room and in pursuing this career. She also opens up about what keeps her going and how theater has truly changed her life, enjoying every step of it along the way. She studied for ten years at Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Theatre Conservatory under the leadership of Mark Hoebee and Patrick Parker. There she was nominated for a Paper Mill Rising Star Award two years in a row for her performances as Lucy in Jekyll & Hyde and Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes. Regionally she appeared as Aquata (u/s Ariel) in The Little Mermaid and understudied Christine Daae in Phantom, both at the Fireside Theatre. Also, she struck "the perfect balance of sarcasm, selfishness and underlying heart" (BroadwayWorld) as Lucy Van Pelt in The World According to Snoopy at Theatre Under The Stars choreographed by Adam Cates. Broadway legend and Tony-nominated Terrence Mann directed her in Les Miserables at Connecticut Repertory Theatre, and he also starred in a production of Peter Pan alongside Maggie, who played Wendy. Follow her on Instagram. Read her insightful blog on Actor Aesthetic. ---------------------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A good friend of mine and the podcast joins me for the first interview of 2019! Tovi Wayne opens up about starting dance late in his performing career and how that put him behind other dancers but also motivated him to get better, to learn as much as he could. He came to NYC with the dream of being in NEWSIES and through a lot of hard work finally did a regional production of the show down in Florida. But he certainly has a long career ahead of him with more shows he wants to do! So join the conversation as we dig a little deeper into what it takes to make it in this business and why we keep going. https://www.toviwayne.com/ --------------- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first episode of the year has me chatting about my failed attempt to make Red Velvet Cupcakes...and I mean utter failure. I hurried through the prep and ended up with inedible red mushy hockey pucks. Such wasted time and effort and ingredients. What wasn't a waste of my time, though, was a recent chat I had with Marc Kudisch. I met him at the Only Make Believe Gala after-party, and he graciously talked with me for about 15 minutes. From the business to Broadway and keeping it all in perspective, it was an informative and surprisingly honest chat about making it in theater and in New York itself. So I wanted to share my reflections from this impromptu discussion. (Hopefully he can come on the show at some point to expound upon these topics and more.) ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's been a wonderful ride despite some growing pains and losses along the way. My first year of podcasting has nonetheless taught me a great deal, and I hope you've learned a thing or two as well. I honestly do this for you and try my best to give you interviews and insights as well as some fun along the way. A lot of effort goes into these episodes and sometimes they hit the mark and other times fall short (mostly technical hitches and glitches and my own verbal fumbles). So I may not have made it on anyone else's Top Podcast Lists, but here's my own best-of retrospective on the highs and lows of 2018! The guests and sounds clips featured on this episode: Marella Martin Koch • Erin Cronican • Joey Fatone • Jeff Thomson • Scott Wojcik • Mike Wartella • Stephen Wallem • Casey Erin Clark • Jessica Holt • Matt Zambrano • Grace McLean • Jelani Alladin • Glasgow Lyman • Alvin Hough, Jr. • Jeff Theiss • Dena Hammerstein • Michael Repper • Sydney Altbacker • Tate Robinson • John McGinty • Chris Coyne Though there was no way to include every episode on this best-of-2018 edition, I am immensely grateful for ALL the guests that have come on the podcast. It most certainly would not be the same or nearly as good without their contributions. ---------- Music is this episode - "Hot Swing" by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) ---------- Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Patrick shares one thing that has kept him from auditioning and finding work lately...and that's jury duty. That civic obligation that many try to get out of has become yet another obstacle to making it. But Patrick diligently fulfilled his duty and rendered a verdict on an attempted murder case involving a babysitter. This is certainly a different kind of episode for the podcast, but nonetheless it's a fascinating story with twists and turns and surprises, just the kind of "ripped from the headlines" case they feature on LAW & ORDER. For more on the case, read about some of the most important moments in the trial: The Retrial of Marianne Benjamin-Williams The Father Takes the Stand Mother's Emotional Testimony Defense Doctor Provides Alternate Possibility Defendant Takes the Stand Manhattan DA Press Release on Verdict ------------- Whether you call it "dun, dun" "chung, chung" or "bong, bong"...the Law & Order sound effect is ubiquitous with the franchise and was conceived by Mike Post, produced by Dick Wolf. Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the school year winds down, a Ph.D joins the podcast once again, this time to talk about fiction writing and The Promise of Failure. The most recent book from John Mcnally is a collection of lectures and essays he's given to writing students about the certainty of rejection and how best to handle it and move on from it. I mean, what better guest and topic are there for the Why I'll Never Make It podcast?? He shares how he combats writer's block and why acting and theater play a vital role in his own writing as well as how he teaches his students. Follow John on Instagram. ---------- Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Clausen is a New York-based composer, trombonist, bandleader, and graduate of The Juilliard School. Hailing from Seattle, Clausen relocated to NYC in 2010 where he enjoys a diverse schedule collaborating with filmmakers, folk and blues artists, classical composers, as well as New York's jazz elite. An active educator, Clausen has taught workshops across the United States and currently serves as Artistic Director of The New York Youth Symphony Jazz Program. --------- Intro music and interludes: "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

These two writers and actors join the podcast to talk about their new show...WE NEED THIS MUSICAL TO KEEP US FROM KILLING OURSELVES: THE MUSICAL. (Oh yes, it's a mouthful.) But Lyman Glasgow is more than just a writer, by day he works as a licensed therapist, applying the work of Dr. John Sarno to patients with chronic pain and TMS. Before that he was a farmer, shepherd, and set decorator for Playboy. And we definitely talk about all that! Jeff Rosick has had a more traditional path in the arts by getting a degree in theater, composing commercial jingles, and having a recurring character on the hit TV show FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS. They talk about the creative process in creating this new musical for the Hollywood Fringe Festival, and then being asked to come to NYC and perform their show at the Soho Playhouse. But the writing process certainly wasn't smooth sailing, and they share the twists and turns that finally gave them a show worthy of production. But it is when they talk about themselves that we really get an inside look at what drives these two and keeps them motivated beyond the "glitz and glamour" of the stage. For more info, go to www.whyillnevermakeit.com. Follow them on social media: facebook.com/danielglyman facebook.com/jeffreyrosick & @jeffrosick ---------- Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we delve into the captivating world of the New York Youth Symphony's Musical Theater Composition program under the direction of the talented Anna Jacobs. As an accomplished composer and lyricist, she has an impressive portfolio that includes musicals such as POP! with book and lyrics by Maggie-Kate Coleman, ANYTOWN with a book by Jim Jack, TEETH with co-book and lyrics by Michael R. Jackson, and collaborations on CAGE MATCH and MAGIC 8 BALL with Prospect Theatre Company alongside Sam Salmond and Michael R. Jackson. Her upcoming project, KAYA: TASTE OF PARADISE, a movie musical commissioned by the New York Film Academy, features Okieriete Onaodowan, with a screenplay by Jerome Parker and direction by Paul Warner. Anna's contributions to the world of musical theater have earned her recognition, including the prestigious Billie Burke Ziegfeld Award. A former Sundance Fellow and Dramatists Guild Fellow, Anna has also served as an Artist in Residence at esteemed institutions such as Ars Nova, New Dramatists, Musical Theatre Factory, Goodspeed, and Barrington Stage Company. Holding an M.F.A. in Musical Theatre Writing from NYU-Tisch, Anna now imparts her expertise as a faculty member at The New School. Join us as we explore the journey and achievements of this remarkable musical talent. www.annakjacobs.com ---------- Also featured in this episode are two students in the MT Composition program, Sydney Altbacker and Tate Robinson, along with their new piece "Song for Marilyn" which was written for the class. Watch the full interview with Sydney, Tate, and two other students on the WINMI YouTube Channel. Learn more about the New York Youth Symphony, founded in 1963 as an orchestra to showcase the metropolitan area's most gifted young musicians. ---------- Intro music and interludes: "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) Subscribe to WINMI for access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Wartella spent ten years in the city before landing his dream role and first major New York production, RENT at the Off-Broadway venue New World Stages. Since then he's reached even greater heights on Broadway with WICKED, TUCK EVERLASTING, and CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY. But there's also been some pauses and setbacks along the way, both personal and professional, from divorce and sharing custody of his son to years of struggling to be noticed and cast in shows. With age comes wisdom, though, and Mike shares the insights he has learned and continues to learn about the entertainment industry as well as himself and finding balance in his life. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram. See more of his work on YouTube. ---------- Subscribe to WINMI for access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the next couple of weeks will be talking to directors of the New York Youth Symphony. Founded in 1963 as an orchestra to showcase the metropolitan area’s most gifted musicians ages 12-22, its activities have since grown to encompass programs in chamber music, conducting, composition, and jazz, with performances at world class venues including Carnegie Hall and Jazz at Lincoln Center. Today’s guest is Michael Repper who is in his second year as Music Director of the NYYS Orchestra. He is an emerging conductor of classical music, jazz, pops, and musical theater. A graduate of Stanford University, he recently completed his doctoral residency at the Peabody Conservatory of Music as a student of Gustav Meier and his longtime mentor, Marin Alsop, a world-famous conductor and violinist who is also an alumna of the NY Youth Symphony. Michael talks about his own path to conducting and the importance of music education and his passion for helping foster the next generation of artists. These kids truly sound amazing! Learn more about New York Youth Symphony and Michael Repper. Intro music and interludes: "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you’d like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John McGinty lost his hearing at a young age and for years headed toward a career in Finance. But theater kept calling him, and he finally answered by moving to New York to see if he could make it. On this episode he shares the twists and turns of that journey and what keeps him motivated and focused. John also opens up about lessons he learned, and that we all can learn, from his Broadway debut in the revival of CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD, which The Hollywood Reporter called "forceful and spontaneous." He also spoke of his performance in Hunchback of Notre Dame and in a short film Sign, directed by Andrew Keenan Bolger. Follow John on Twitter and learn more about his career on is website. You can also watch this interview, our very first video podcast, on YouTube. (ASL Interpreter - Craig Fogel) ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first ever mini-episode with Patrick, focusing on why he'll never make it as well as why he's still here. Patrick talks about the wonderful camaraderie within theater and gives a loving tribute to Marin Mazzie, who passed away last month from ovarian cancer. (Read about Marin's remarkable joy and positivity as she confronted cancer.) A career that spans 30 years, she was always a consummate professional yet easy-going and always herself. She brought passion and true enjoyment to each role she played. Her light still shines and her impact is still felt on a grateful Broadway community to whom she gave so much. "We've been laughing and laughing, and hoping that the audience thinks it's as funny as we do," she says of her time in Bullets Over Broadway. Opera News did an excellent interview and chronicle of her life. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Part Two of our look at Only Make Believe, Patrick talks to Jackie Miller, Artistic Director of the acting company, and two of the actors, Dan Domingues and Jeanette Bonner. They share the process of bringing interactive theater to children in hospitals and care facilities. From choosing the right type of shows that best fits the kids and their medical conditions to rehearsing scripts and coordinating actor schedules, a lot of time and effort goes into these productions...and all at no cost to the hospitals or children. Each of them also discuss their lives before OMB and what they currently do in addition to their work with this organization. With over twelve years of experience as a director and curator of arts programming across New York City’s cultural sector, Jackie joined Only Make Believe in 2012. She holds a B.F.A. in Performance and M.A. in Arts-Politics, both from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Jeanette joined OMB in 2013. She received her BA in Theater from Trinity College in Hartford, CT and has performed with Magic Futurebox Productions, Ars Nova ANT Festival, Manhattan Theatre Source, as well as her solo show, "Love. Guts. High School." at the 2012 Midtown International Theatre Festival and won nominations for Best Actress and Best Solo Show. She performs weekly with the Improv troupe National Comedy Theater and is also a licensed NYC tour guide...welcome to New York! Dan has been with OMB since 2007. Off-Broadway credits include Atlantic Theater, Joe's Pub, LaMAMA, Baruch PAC, HERE and Soho Playhouse. He's worked regionally at Studio Theatre, Cape Playhouse, Long Wharf, Kansas City Rep, Florida Stage, Portland Stage, Pioneer Theatre, Rep of St. Louis, George Street Playhouse, ART. On TV his credits include Royal Pains, Law & Order, Hope and Faith, Third Watch, and As The World Turns. Dan has an MFA from ART/IATT at Harvard and is an associate artist with The Civilians. You too can make a difference in children's lives. Go to https://www.onlymakebelieve.org and see ways you can help and contribute. ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost 2010 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Coyne’s career in the entertainment industry spans more than 30 years, and in this episode he talks about his work onstage and in television commercials from Los Angeles to Europe as well as Las Vegas. where he has the distinction of playing leading roles in both of the longest continuously running shows in Las Vegas history: JUBILEE! and LES FOLIES BERGERE. Chris also shares why, after finally getting his first national commercial for Southwest Airlines, he decided to go back to school for 2 years and learn the craft of Sound Editing for film and TV...and then what is was like to be nominated for both an Emmy and a Motion Picture Sound Editors Award for his work on the Dreamworks animated series The Adventures of Puss in Boots available on Netflix. Check out his credits on IMDB and follow him on Instagram. Also, in 2015 he released an EP of original material available on iTunes and Amazon. Check out the lead single "By God's Grace" on YouTube. ---------- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Geraldine Sherman was born in Middlesex, England and became a busy actress on BBC and in film when she met and later married James Hammerstein. She is now known as theater producer Dena Hammerstein, President/CEO of James Hammerstein Productions and Founder of the non-profit organization Only Make Believe. OMB brings interactive theater to children in hospitals and care facilities, those with illnesses and disabilities and special needs. They entertain the kids with specially created plays designed for their needs and to encourage their participation. Starting in one hospital in 1999, OMB has now grown (thanks to private and corporate support and donations) to more than 50 hospitals in New York City and Washington D.C. This episode is Part One of a two-part look at this wonderful organization and is also the first installment of the Spotlight Series. Dena shares part of her life story in entertainment and what/who brought her to America. We also discuss the founding of Only Make Believe and how it has shaped her work and her life ever since. To find out more and see how you can make a difference in children's lives: https://www.onlymakebelieve.org And to find out a bit more about Dena's early years in TV and film: IMDB ----- Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com "Reverie (small theme)" by _ghost 2010 - Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution (3.0) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Scott Wojcik and Gayle Seay entered the entertainment industry, headshots were black and white and fax machines and beepers were high tech ways to communicate. The mode of casting has changed dramatically from when they began their careers. What has not changed is their commitment to the process, their care for the actor and their collective love of show business. Both Scott and Gayle were both actors and eventually worked in casting prior to merging their experience into the thriving partnership of Wojcik | Seay Casting. They opened their doors in January of 2009 with the non-union National Tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and has been working non-stop ever since. In this episode, the lead-off to Season Two of our podcast, Patrick talks with Scott and Gayle about their life before casting and gets an inside perspective on auditions, casting, and making in this business. They not only answer questions on who makes it and who doesn't, but more importantly address the "why" as well. https://wscasting.com ----- Listen to every episode and help support WINMI! Follow on Instagram and Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before he became a part of the worldwide phenom *NSYNC, Joey was a theater kid in Orlando, Florida. And since his days of touring around the world, he has been on Broadway, appeared in films and television, and has hosted more shows than he can count. Through it all, he makes time for his family and friends and even our little podcast. We catch up with him on the phone from his home in Florida to chat about life in the spotlight and how his career is constantly evolving. There is no better way to say "bye bye bye" to Season 1 than with Mr. Joey Fatone! Follow Joey on Twitter! ----- Support WINMI Producing this podcast is a rewarding experience, but it's also costly and time-consuming as I’m essentially a one-man operation. By subscribing you’ll be supporting these podcasting efforts, and have access to extended conversations and other bonus content. Whether you subscribe or donate, your financial support of this podcast is greatly appreciated! Subscribe to get access to bonus episodes and extra content Make a one-time Donation to support transcripts and podcast production If you'd like to support WINMI but have limited funds to do so, then contact me directly for reduced-price or even free access to the bonus content. Follow WINMI: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube ---------- Why I’ll Never Make It is an award-winning, Top Theater Podcast with actor and singer Patrick Oliver Jones and is a production of WINMI Media. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just a week to go before the Tony winners are announced, Patrick joins Ryan McPhee at the Playbill headquarters in midtown Manhattan to chat about the whole Broadway season and this year's nominees: the surprises, the snubs, the favorites, and the underdogs. Who do you think will win the big prizes this year? Find the full list of nominees here: TonyAwards.com Follow Ryan on Twitter: @rdmcphee ----- The time and expense needed to bring these guests and conversations to you each week is both sometimes challenging but always rewarding. Please consider buying me a coffee to support this work that goes into each episode. Join the WINMI community by following on Instagram or Twitter as well as reaching out to Patrick with any questions or comments: contact.winmipodcast.com "Hot Swing" by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices