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Showing episodes and shows of
John McKeever/John Norine
Shows
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Phantom of the Opera
On this week's "very special episode" of John and John (overdramatic title provided courtesy of John N.), the pair discuss the longest-running musical in Broadway history, "The Phantom of the Opera". The Johns talk about the cultural impact of the show, their thoughts on the (lack of) character arcs for most of the show's characters, the legacy of Andrew Lloyd Webber, and so much more. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe Book by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber ...
2023-05-10
52 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Once
It's no secret on this podcast that "band on stage" holds a solid part of the Johns' hearts. This week, the pair discuss the 2012 musical "Once" that not only features the band on stage, but the band as part of the story. John and John give their thoughts on the concept of a "Day in the Life" musical, the score's success on stage and at the Tony Awards, and how some shows are more than the sum of their parts. Music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová Book by En...
2023-04-19
28 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Newsies
John and John seize the day in their next show and discuss the 2012 Disney musical "Newsies". They have a few notes about the score, the dichotomy of the dance vs non-dance music, the attempts at authenticity, and the role of dance in the modern musical... well, at least *this* modern musical. Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Jack Feldman Book by Harvey Firestein Based on the 1992 movie "Newsies", screenplay by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White Find the episode on your favorite podcast app...
2023-04-12
24 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Groundhog Day: The Musical
Some weeks, it feels like you're saying the same thing over and over - week after week. With the modern Broadway trend leaning heavily into movie adaptations, it becomes easy to feel like one is in a loop. So, John and John run headfirst and go a little multiverse and talk about "Groundhog Day: The Musical", a movie adaptation that is literally about reliving every day over and over.... The Johns delve deep into this show that they honestly enjoy, but has some apparent flaws: an inconsistent (if occasionally brilliant) score and a sense of humor that...
2023-03-29
20 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Me and Juliet
This week the Johns return to the Dynamic Duo of Rogers and Hammerstein and a show, that, while not a flop like "Pipe Dream" - was a rare miss for the team. "Me and Juliet" suffers from too much on the stage and not enough attention off it. John and John give their thoughts on the endurance of the music, the memorability of the characters, and how sometimes even Broadway is a job where you punch a clock. Music by Richard Rogers Lyrics and Book by Oscar Hammerstein II
2023-03-15
33 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue (February Flop #4)
To end this year's February Flops, the Johns take Leonard Bernstein to task (kinda, sort of) for his 1976 flop "1600 Pennsylvania Avenue". The pair talk about the troubled road this show had on it's way to Broadway due to incessant meddling during its out-of-town tryouts and how aspects of this show remain in other works of Bernstein. And John M. delights in John N. taking shots at his hero. Music by Leonard Bernstein Lyrics and book by Alan Jay Lerner Find the episode on your favorite podcast app...
2023-02-22
18 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Baker's Wife (February Flop #2)
This week, John and John tackle the monolithic (in terms of performance length, not artistic merit) Stephen Schwartz musical "The Baker's Wife". Their share their feelings on the quality of the book, their takeaways from the score, and... wouldn't you know it, that pesky Frank Loesser makes another appearance. Music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz Book by Joseph Stein Based on the movie of the same name by Marcel Pagnol and Jean Giono Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to...
2023-02-08
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Season 6 Premiere: Pipe Dreams (February Flop #1)
It may be a little late, but we are back! And with another set of February Flops to kick things off! For our first show in the 2023 edition of the Flops, we look at a very rare miss from the titans of the Golden Age - Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, and their show "Pipe Dream". John and John talk about the collaboration between Hammerstein, Rodgers, and author John Steinbeck; how Frank Loesser is tangentially involved; and how would this show fare as populated by the Muppets? Music by Richard Rodgers
2023-02-01
27 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Season 5 Finale: Into the Woods
Once upon a time.... In a far-off kingdom... There were two podcast hosts. John and John wind down Season 5 (more to come!) by talking about the monolithic "Into the Woods". They debate the role of the role of Narrator/Mysterious Man, the movie vs the stage production, their favorite songs and recordings, and John M has some... feelings about the show's most recognizable theme. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by James Lapine Find the episode on your favorite podcast...
2022-11-16
40 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
This week, John and John discuss the Disney musical that never made it to Broadway in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". They discuss the representation in the show, the genesis from "Der Glöckner der Notre Dame", the problems this show has and tries to solve, and John N reaffirms his theater crush on Patrick Page. Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Stephen Schwarz Book by James Lapine and Peter Parnell Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.f...
2022-11-09
39 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Apple Tree
This week, the Johns talk about the 1966 musical "The Apple Tree" and look at how the show works as a series of three separate stories, but comes together under a common umbrella to make a complete show. They also discuss the greatness that is Alan Alda, and briefly get into the debate of cast album vs soundtrack.... well, John N. does; John M. rises above the foolishness. Music by Jerry Bock Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick Book by Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick, and Jerome Coopersmith Based on "The Diaries...
2022-11-02
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Two Gentlemen of Verona
For this week's episode, John Squared talks about the 1971 production of "Two Gentlemen of Verona", a musical based on the play of the same name by William Shakespeare. Listen in as the pair talk about the absurd nature of the material and how it doesn't always make sense, the okay-ness of the resulting material, and where this show sits in the legacy of the rather stacked 1971 Broadway season. Music by Galt MacDermot Lyrics by John Guare Book by John Guare and Mel Shapiro Based on the play "Two...
2022-10-26
18 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Interview with Stage Manager Kelsey Tippins
This week, John and John sit down with Stage Manager Kelsey Tippins, who is fresh off the first national tour of "The Prom", and she talked about tour life, how one becomes a stage manager, and some of the more interesting venues around the country. Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us...
2022-10-12
35 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Discussion: Rodgers and Hammerstein's Best Song
Join John and John as they have a lengthy discussion about the "best" song written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein during their collaboration. As with our last show, the categories are set, (almost) every show is represented, and opinions fly like ravens in the night! Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave...
2022-10-05
1h 13
Musical Minutes with John and John
Ain't Too Proud
On the heels of last week's interview with Brian Binion, John and John talk about the musical "Ain't Too Proud" and talk (yet again) about their feelings on jukebox musicals, the source material of the show, and the concept of narration, and John N. takes some time to talk about a person whose name should be much more commonly known - even amongst theatre aficionados. Music and Lyrics by The Temptations Book by Dominique Morisseau Based on the book "The Temptations" by Otis WIlliams Find t...
2022-09-21
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
A Strange Loop
John and John take some time to talk about the current hit musical "A Strange Loop", discuss the script's construction, their thoughts on the unity of the score and ensemble writing and hypothesize about the emotional toll of this show. Music, book, and lyrics by Michael R. Jackson Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question...
2022-09-07
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Interview with pianist Beth Grimmett-Tankersley
John and John sit down to talk to collaborative pianist Beth Grimmett-Tankersley, who currently plays Keys 1 and is the conductor swing for the US tour of "Mean Girls". The three talk about tour life, how Beth got her start in touring musicals, and so much more! Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave...
2022-08-17
58 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Annie Get Your Gun
For this week's episode, John and John discuss the 1946 musical "Annie Get Your Gun". They discuss the appropriateness of the show (in the 1940s and today) discuss their feelings about "There's No Business Like Show Business" and the orchestrations (which were done by committee), and John N. has an existential crisis? Music and lyrics by Irving Berlin Book by Dorothy and Herbert Fields Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided u...
2022-08-10
22 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Seussical
John and John muddle their way through the Jungle of Nool to try and figure out why "Seussical" existed on the Broadway stage. It's a challenge even for John N, the official "defender of the realm" on this pod for Ahrens and Flaherty. Music by Stephen Flaherty Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens Music and book by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under...
2022-08-03
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Carousel
John and John spend some time with the Rodgers and Hammerstein hit musical "Carousel" - John N. talks about what this show means to him (hint - it may or may not be one of his all-time favorites), and the pair talk about their interpretation and presentation with the show's troubling content. Then dive into the music - which both have exceptionally strong feelings about. Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein II Based on the play "Lilliom" by Ferenc Molnar Find...
2022-07-27
32 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
School of Rock
John and John try to "stick it to the man" by talking about 2015's "School of Rock"... which makes Andrew Lloyd Webber the man? Anyway... the pair discuss the transition from movie to musical, the puffery of the "new" music, and give Webber a LITTLE credit for some stuff. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Glenn Slater Book by Julian Fellowes Based on the movie "School of Rock" directed by Richard Linklater Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by...
2022-07-13
30 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Season 5 premiere: Little Shop of Horrors
Season 5 is here! John and John kick things off with a discussion on the 1982 cult classic "Little Shop of Horrors". The pair discuss the intimacy of the show's scale, what works, what doesn't, and the role of camp in music theater. Music by Alan Menken Book and lyrics by Howard Ashman Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com
2022-07-06
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Firebringer
I don't wanna do the work today. Biut the podcast must go on! John and John switch it up for the Season 4 Finale and talk about one of their favorite shows from the Team StarKid catalog: Firebringer! Now, to be fair, this is not a "Broadway" show. It's not meant to be - but the duo loves it nonetheless. And you can watch a 100% legal video on YouTube! (Go ahead... we'll wait....) https://youtu.be/ZmVuNlu0LCk I know, right?? John and John talk about the role of language in modern theater, give a little...
2022-05-18
30 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Rock of Ages
Forget Paradise City, John and John are going to take you on a Journey, but leave your Guns and Roses at home because this will involve your Twisted Sister... (ok, that's quite enough of that) John and John talk about the jukebox musical "Rock of Ages" and talk about the mining of nostalgia, commercial vs artistic (again), and the standards that should be met when producing a show such as this. Music by lots of bands Lyrics by those same bands (mostly) Book by Chris...
2022-05-11
24 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Beauty and the Beast
It's a tale as old as time, so why not talk about it? John and John discuss the show that started the Broadway/Disney collaboration in "Disney's Beauty and the Beast". They talk about commercialism vs artistic merit, how to portray the fantastical on stage, and the importance of lyricist Howard Ashman to the process. Music by Alan Menken Lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice Book by Linda Woolverton Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro...
2022-05-04
37 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Avenue Q
The sun is shining, and it's a lovely day on Musical Minutes. John and John talk about the 2003 hit musical "Avenue Q" and talk about the difficulties in casting the show, the line between social commentary and entertainment, and once again harp on and on about orchestrations. Plus John N. talks about one of his favorite performers in Stephanie D'Abruzzo. Music and lyrics by Jeff Marx and Robert Lopez Book by Jeff Whitty Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor...
2022-04-27
32 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Music Man
I'll tell you, my friends - we've got trouble. Right here... on this podcast. John and John talk about Meredith Wilson's treasured classic "The Music Man" and discuss their love for the music despite its complications, their admiration for Robert Preston and Barbara Cook, and dive deep into the weeds about orchestrations once more. Music, book, and lyrics by Meredith Wilson Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative...
2022-04-20
31 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Pal Joey
John and John talk about one of John M's favorite properties in "Pal Joey". The duo talks about the comparisons between the Rogers/Hart collaboration and the Rogers/Hammerstein team, the idea of how music history doesn't ever fit in neat boxes, and look at the staying power of this show. Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics by Lorenz Hart Book by John O'Hara Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("...
2022-04-06
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Moulin Rouge
John and John head down to 19th century Paris to talk about the current hit on Broadway "Moulin Rouge". The talk about the role of entertainment in artistic endeavors in the theater sphere, and how success is not just about "art" but can also be a fun spectacle. Plus, they marvel at how many songs they just managed to cram in this show. Music by... a lot of people Lyrics by... even more people Book by John Logan (who is just one person) Find the...
2022-03-30
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Kiss of the Spider Woman
For this week's episode, John and John talk about Kander and Ebb's work "Kiss of the Spider Woman. The Johns share their thoughts on how this show fits within the greater Kander and Ebb legacy, how the drive for authentic representation deserves more than lip service and some of the more problematic issues with this show. Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb Book by Terrance McNally Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes
2022-03-23
18 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Company
Phone rings, door chimes, in comes... John and John with their newest episode - where they talk about one of Stephen Sondheim's underrated hits in "Company". The pair talk about how this show is better than the sum of its parts, the reliance of the score in the Jonathan Tunick orchestrations, and how completely John Doyle missed the mark in his presentation of the show. John N also gives a report on his recent viewing of the current Broadway revival and how the casting choices made for the production increase the nuance of the show. Also, John...
2022-03-16
49 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Fun Home
Representation matters - but that's just the beginning of the story! John and John sit down this week to talk about the musical adaptation of Alison Bechdel's coming of age graphic novel, "Fun Home". The pair discuss how this show is important not only for its representation, but how it's amazingly successful in presenting that representation in a realistic, sincere, and nuanced way. Also, John and John talk about how the show is indicative of the changing styles of Broadway, its technical elements, and how this influenced their view of composer Jeanine Tesori.
2022-03-09
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Fiorello!
John and John delve into the politics of New York City with their talk on the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical "Fiorello!". The Johns talk about how sympathetic characters create a drive for the audience to care, and how that can make the mundane more special. There is also talk about the music of Bock and Harnick, and how Barbara Cook saved one of the songs from continuing a disturbing trend on Broadway. Music by Jerry Bock Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick Book by Jerome Weidman and George Abbott
2022-03-02
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops 4: Candide
John and John end the 2022 edition of February Flops with a show that they genuinely want to love - Leonard Bernstein's Candide. The pair talk about the show's existence in both the Broadway and Opera worlds, their love for the music (especially the overture), and how sometimes the revision process doesn't make anything much better. Music by Leonard Bernstein Lyrics by Richard Wilbur, John Latouche, Dorothy Parker, Lillian Hellman, Leonard Bernstein, Felicia Bernstein, and Stephen Sondheim Book by Lillian Helman, revised by Richard Wilbur Based on the novella “Ca...
2022-02-23
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops 3: Rocky the Musical
For the penultimate episode of the 2022 edition of February Flops, John delve into the depths of the movie-turned-musical and spend some time on "Rocky: The Musical" - a show that John N wanted to work and John M thought might make a great play. The two also discuss the weight of Ahrens and Flaherty and how this show might impact their legacy. Music by Stephen Flaherty Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens Book by Thomas Meehan Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going...
2022-02-16
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops 2 - Annie 2: Ms. Hannigan's Revenge
John and John continue through February Flops with a show that never belonged on Broadway... and technically never was! The pair discuss Annie 2: Ms. Hannigan's Revenge, and talk about how any idea isn't the same as a good idea. Music by Charles Strouse Lyrics by Martin Charnin Book by Thomas Meehan Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on...
2022-02-09
17 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops 1: Glory Days
It's the most wonderful time of the year! John and John return to February Flops, where the duo talks about various shows that didn't quite cut it on Broadway. First up is "Glory Days" a show that lasted on Broadway for one official performance - it closed the same night it opened. John and John talk about how the show fails to resonate with... well, anyone. Music and lyrics by Nick Blaemire Book by James Gardiner Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or...
2022-02-02
15 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Wicked
It may be one short day in the Emerald City - but this was an episode long overdue. John and John talk about the Broadway and cultural juggernaut "Wicked" and discuss the issues of the niche role the show plays and how the cultural lexicon of Broadway has changed in relation to this show and its success. Music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz Book by Winnie Holzman Based on the novel "Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West" by Gregory Maguire
2022-01-26
30 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Sondheim's Best Song
Buckle in while John and John try something a little different this week. This episode is a continuation of a conversation had in Season 3 - where the pair delved ever so slightly into the concept of what Sondheim's best song may be. So, John M. came up with a rubric (which is mostly followed... mostly) and the duo dive deeper into what they think makes Sondheim... well, Sondheim. They may have gotten it wrong - and look forward to all the comments telling them where they messed up. Find the...
2022-01-19
1h 11
Musical Minutes with John and John
Hadestown
John and John continue the season with a discussion on the current hit "Hadestown" and talk about the possibility of influences from the operatic tradition, the role of staging in the success of a production, and John N. gets into his theatre crush on Patrick Page. Music, lyrics and book by Anaïs Mitchell Based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Euridice Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided u...
2022-01-12
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Sound of Music
Welcome to Season 4 of "Musical Minutes With John and John"! To start the season off, the Johns take a look at the peak of the Rodgers and Hammerstein mountain with their last collaboration "The Sound of Music". The pair discuss how they view the legacy of Rodgers and Hammerstein and how this show exemplifies their process. They also get into a bit of a discussion of the movie version, and as always - try and give a good recommendation on what to listen to. It's good to be back! Music by Richard...
2022-01-05
30 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Follies
To finish off Season 3, John and John take a look at Stephen Sondheim's "Follies", a show about regret, looking to the past, and seeing what might have been. The pair discuss the show's legacy in recordings, the various revisions that the show underwent, their deep and abiding love for Sondheim's use of tone painting... and it all culminates in a discussion about Sondheim's musical legacy. Which is left up in the air and will be revisited in Season 4. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by James Goldman
2021-11-24
43 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Gypsy
Sit down with your favorite eggrolls and miniature farm animals - because this week John and John try and get their gimmick by talking about Gypsy. They talk about the lasting power of the show, how it faced some massive juggernauts when originally on Broadway, and where they would place the overture in the overall body of theatrical work. Music by Jules Styne Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by Arthur Laurents Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor...
2021-11-17
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Les Miserables
This week, John and John man the barricades to talk about the height of the Megamusical and "Les Miserables". The team talks about their... issues with the score and orchestration, and how it affects their views of the piece. Music by Claude-Michel Schönberg Lyrics by Alain Boubil and Jean-Marc Natel Book by Alain Boubil and Claude-Michel Schönberg Based on the novel “Les Miserables” by Victor Hugo Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musical...
2021-11-11
37 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Beetlejuice
This week, John and John talk about "The Ghost With the Most"... but don't say his name three times in a row, or we'll have some problems on our hands. "Beetlejuice" is our topic of the week, and the duo talks about its changes from the source material, some (relatively minor) issues John N. has with the show, and where its lasting place in the theatre canon could end up. Music and lyrics by Eddie Perfect Book by Scott Brown and Anthony King Based on the movie "Beetlejuice" by Geffen...
2021-11-03
30 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Little Women
This week, John and John delve into the 2005 musical "Little Women: The Musical". They talk about their issues with the script and how it glosses over some of Louisa May Alcott's divine characterizations, the score (especially the auditioners' favorite number 'Astonishing'), and some of their experiences with their own productions. Music by Jason Howland Lyrics by Mindi Dickstein Book by Allan Knee Based on the book "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes
2021-10-27
39 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Waitress
John and John venture into the pie shop this week to talk about "Waitress". The pair discuss their thoughts on the music of Sara Bareilles, the effectiveness of the story, and their future hopes for this show. Music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles Book by Jessie Nelson Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a...
2021-10-20
20 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Cats
The time has come to talk about the birth of the Megamusical era and Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Cats". John and John sit down to talk about the enduring legacy of this show, their earliest experiences with the production, and their thoughts on the enduring legacy and its place on Broadway. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by T.S. Elliot, with additional lyrics by Trevor Nunn Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro...
2021-10-13
29 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Light in the Piazza
John and John talk this week about Adam Guettel's 'The Light in the Piazza" and discuss their love for this score (despite some rather major stylistic issues), their bafflement at the story (#shetlandpony), and their view of this show's place in the 2000s canon of Broadway musical theatre. Music and lyrics by Adam Guettel Book by Craig Lucas Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International...
2021-10-06
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
On the Town
Mix three sailors with three young women in World War 2 New York City - add in some madcap adventures, someone who "understands", and some incredibly interesting names - and you have "On the Town". Join John and John as they take a look at this monolith of a show, discuss their issues with the book, their thoughts on the music (before things start going off the rails...), and end with a brief discussion on this shows inclusion process. Music by Leonard Bernstein Book and Lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green
2021-09-29
39 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Orchestrator Spotlight: Robert Russell Bennett
We talk about orchestration, a lot. I mean, it's kind of our thing. For this episode, John and John talk a little bit about orchestration and dive into the father of modern Broadway orchestrators - Robert Russell Bennett (1894 - 1981). The pair talk a little of his background, some of the projects he delved into, and his lasting legacy on Broadway today. Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International L...
2021-09-22
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Oklahoma
John and John take a look at one of the highlights of the Golden Age of Broadway, as well as the show that started the phenomenon on "Rodgers and Hammerstein" by looking at their 1943 show, "Oklahoma". The duo talk about the role of ballet (and dance in general) in the narrative process, the necessary nature of a villain in a story, and the difference between creative vision and "tinkering". Music by Richard Rodgers, lyrics and book by Oscar Hammerstein II Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/m...
2021-09-15
32 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Thoroughly Modern Millie
In a bit of a departure - John and John discuss "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and spend the entire time talking about why this show shouldn't be done. They delve into the problematic portrayals within and discuss author Dick Scanlan's response to criticism about his show. Music by Jeanie Tesori, lyrics by Dick Scanlan, and book by Dick Scanlan and Richard Morris Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on...
2021-09-08
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Tick, Tick... Boom!
"The sound you are hearing is not a technical problem. It is not a musical cue. It is not a joke. It is the sound of one man's mounting anxiety. I... am that man." Join John and John as they take a glance at the early work of composer and playwright Jonathan Larson and his work "Tick, Tick... Boom!". The pair discuss the tribulations of a small show, the trope of the "coming of age" story, and play a little "What if?". Music, book, and lyrics by Jonathan Larson Find...
2021-09-01
27 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Six
This week, John and John venture into new territory - and talk about a show that hasn't technically opened on Broadway yet (curse you, COVID!). The duo delves into "Six" and talk about their love of this show - from the clever wordplay to the costuming as well as the integration of 21st Century media and culture.... this show has it all. Music, lyrics, and book by Lucy Moss and Toby Marlow Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") p...
2021-08-25
20 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
La Cage aux Folles
The classic love story plays out on the Broadway stage once more in "La Cage aux Folles" - with a few changes, of course. Join John and John as they delve into this amazing score and show, while they discuss the power of Alban's character whilst avoiding the pitfalls of a romantic lead, the accessibility of the show for various theatres financially, and the underratedness of Jerry Herman. Music and lyrics by Jerry Herman Book by Harvey Firestein Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm...
2021-08-18
20 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Sometimes the master puts down his pen... and it's up to someone to take it up again. Join John and John as they discuss "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" and talk about the pervasive nature of audience participation, the ambiguity of the show's ending, and the operatic trope of trouser roles and how they are represented in musical theatre. Music, book, and lyrics by Rupert Holmes Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International...
2021-07-28
40 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Hello, Dolly!
John and John venture into the madcap world of dancing waiters, singing shopkeepers, and the most lovely matchmaker you'll meet on the East Coast! The duo talks about the enduring popularity of the score and cast recording, the concept of cutting numbers, and how good ol' Horace is just a rotten person. Music and Lyrics by Jerry Hermann Book by Micahel Stewart Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by...
2021-07-21
31 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Come from Away
John and John are back with Season 3! To return to the podcast, the two Johns take a look at "Come From Away" - and discuss the idea of art imitating life, the authenticity of the sound, and touch on their favorite trope: band onstage. Book, Music and Lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question...
2021-07-14
29 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
A Chorus Line
For the final episode of Season 2 - John and John dive into the one singular sensation that is "A Chorus Line". The duo discusses their thoughts on Hamlisch's fantastic score, the genesis of the show, and how, once again... orchestrators matter. Book by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante Music by Marvin Hamlisch Lyrics by Edward Kleban Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix...
2021-05-19
17 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
John and John attend the tale of "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" to talk about the place for this show in the opera vs. musical debate, their love for almost every part of this score, and the importance of orchestrations - especially as a character in Sondheim's catalog. Spoilers... they have some feelings about John Doyle. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by Hugh Wheeler Based on the 1973 play of the same name by Christopher Bond Find the episode o...
2021-05-12
39 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Guys and Dolls
This week marks the return of John M. to the podcast - Musical Minutes's own Dynamic Duo is back together! This week, John and John talk about the trope maker that has founded a million jokes on this podcast - the essential Golden Age musical where you get almost *nothing* but singing and dancing gangsters: "Guys and Dolls". They talk about their enjoyment of the characterizations of the leading roles, talk about the strengths and weaknesses of the book, and their love for Frank Loesser's music and lyrics... although John N has some thoughts on the title s...
2021-05-05
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Dynamic Duos #2 - Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty
For the second entry in the Dynamic Duos topic, John N. sifts through the catalog of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flattery. Prolific collaborators of the stage and screen, Ahrens and Flaherty have given us such shows as Ragtime, Seussical, Lucky Stiff, Rocky the Musical, and Once on This Island - among many others. John gives a brief overview of their history and talks about the concept of humanism in the collaborative process. Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under C...
2021-04-21
11 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Chicago: A Musical Vaudeville
As the second half of the Kander and Ebb story, John N. talks about "Chicago: A Musical Vaudeville" and discusses the anatomy of the "Kander and Ebb" sound, the collaborative process and its ups and downs, and how art and life can intermingle. Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb Book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to https://anchor.fm/musicalminutes Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw...
2021-04-14
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Dynamic Duos #1 - John Kander and Fred Ebb
John N. is back with a few solo episodes - and trying something a little different. This week, he introduces the short series of "Dynamic Duos" - pairs of collaborators on Broadway that you may or may not be aware of, but probably should; then pairs it with a show that you'll probably know and maybe even love from that duo. First up is the writing team of John Kander (composer) and Fred Ebb (lyricist). What began as an introduction in 1962 fermented into a 42-year collaboration with movies, shows, and songs to their credit. They...
2021-04-07
08 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Ragtime (with Guest Hosts Dr. Aaron and Mark Albin from Art 4)
This week John N. is joined by Dr. Aaron and Mark Albin, founders and directors of Art 4, a professional musical theatre production company integrating four different mediums of art - performing, visual, literary, and culinary - to cultivate unique arts experiences that engage the community. Mark, Aaron, and John discuss the show's presentation of race and how our current events might inform the story, the concept of blending historical fiction with historical accuracy, and how presenting a show has changed in the Age of COVID. Find the episode on your favorite podcast app or by going to h...
2021-03-31
1h 05
Musical Minutes with John and John
Rent (with Guest Host Sienna Riehle)
This week John N. is joined by Dallas actor, director, and stage manager Sienna Riehle to discuss the late 1990's mega-smash hit "Rent". John admits to a bit of (well deserved) hero-worship before the pair discuss whether "Rent" can be considered a period piece, whether Benny is a "bad guy" or a "bad" guy, and opine on Jonathan Larson's intent in either emulating or subverting Giacomo Puccini's opera "La Boheme". Music, lyrics, and book by Jonathan Larson Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com
2021-03-24
31 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
My Fair Lady (with Guest Host Kristen Norine)
Over the next three weeks, John N. will be joined by various professionals in the theatre world to get a unique take on some beloved musical theatre properties. "My Fair Lady" has a complicated message - one that is often lost or obfuscated in oversimplification and generalization. But looking a bit closer shows some interesting threads of self-determination, female character agency, and how old-fashioned some "masculine" views can be. John N is joined by Philadelphia actress (and to be fair, younger sister) Kristen Norine; the two discuss the above and much more. Music...
2021-03-17
36 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Interview with Sound Designer Justin Schmitz (Part 2)
John and John finish off the interview with Justin and get some more info about his background as well as some fantastic stories from some of his more memorable gigs. To learn more about Justin and his work - please visit www.justinschmitztheatre.com Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com For more info on our...
2021-03-10
48 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Interview with Sound Designer Justin Schmitz (Part 1)
John and John were incredibly fortunate to sit down with DC-based sound Designer Justin Schmitz, and had the opportunity to talk about his experiences and anecdotes about working in music theatre - so much so that we had to split the interview into two episodes. In the first part - Justin talks about his work with non-traditional audiences, what to do when everything goes wrong, and how artists are coping with the current pandemic. To learn more about Justin and his work - please visit www.justinschmitztheatre.com Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under...
2021-03-03
1h 04
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops #4 - Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark
We end the month of February (and February Flops) with one of the biggest flops in recent memory.... Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark. Plagued with technical and artistic issues, the show managed to set a record for the longest preview period with 182 performances. John and John talk about the lack of an out-of-town period that could have helped with the technical problems, their views on the score, and how flash does not equal substance. Music and lyrics by Bono and The Edge Book by Julie Taymor, Glen Berger, and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
2021-02-24
33 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops #3 - Flora, the Red Menace
For the third entry in the February Flops series, John and John discuss Kander and Ebb's very first show together, and how it doesn't... really say anything? But it's fascinating to see the birth of this dynamic duo and also the introduction of Liza Minelli into the larger Broadway sphere. Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb Book by George Abbott and Robert Russell Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com ...
2021-02-17
16 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops #2 - Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson
In February, John and John sit down to talk about four shows that failed for various reasons on Broadway. Week 2 sees John and John tackle the highly problematic "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson", which ran on Broadway for 94 performances. The pair discuss how labeling satire doesn't make it so, the blandness of the score, and how it's pretty amazing to be *this* tone-deaf. Music and lyrics by Michael Friedman Book by Alex Timbers Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com
2021-02-10
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
February Flops #1 - Merrily We Roll Along
In February, John and John (YAY - McKever is BACK!) sit down to talk about four shows that failed for various reasons on Broadway. First up is Stephen Sondheim's "Merrily We Roll Along". John and John talk of their love of the music for this production, but how the various book and logistics issues doomed this production to close after only 16 performances. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Book by George Furth Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com
2021-02-03
41 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Man of La Mancha
When you have a dream to right the world's wrongs, to find and save your dream - you pull yourself out of bed and do it... even if you have to fight a few windmills to do so. In this episode, John talks about the 1956 hit "Man of La Mancha" - touching on the beloved trope of the "show within a show", how the dense writing of Cervantes can translate to the popular medium of the Broadway musical, and the role of the audience in imagining the story. And the Spanish Inquisition - which no...
2021-01-27
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Jesus Christ Superstar
John's third solo episode tackles Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Jesus Christ Superstar" - a show that paved the way for the idea of the modern Megamusical in the 1980s and beyond. He covers its place in Broadway history, how it helped shows that came after, and how prevalent it has become in our cultural zeitgeist. Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics by Tim Rice Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave f...
2021-01-20
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Next to Normal
Brains can be tricky, and brains can lie. Sometimes all we can do is try to be next to normal and that has to be good enough. For solo episode number two - John looks at the 2009 hit "Next to Normal" and talks about parallels to "Dear Evan Hansen", subversion in music and lyrics, and how some shows can be a marathon in every way possible. Music by Tom Kitt Book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw...
2021-01-13
17 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Kismet
Season 2 premiere! Join John (and John in spirit) as we open our second season with Kismet - a musical that takes a less-tropic look at a fanciful story in the vein of 1001 Nights. John talks about his love of Alexandr Borodin, how this show might fare today, and just how much borrowed music there is in Kismet. Book by Charles Lederer and Luther Davis Music by Alexandr Borodin, Robert Wright, and George Forrest Lyrics by Robert Wright and George Forrest Adapted from a play of the same name by E...
2021-01-06
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Season 2 Promo!
Looks like this train is getting ready to head back onto the tracks! John and John check-in and briefly discuss Season 2 of "Musical Minutes" - things such as February Flops! And Dynamic Duos! And more! We're excited to get to it and can't wait to start sharing it with you on January 6th, 2021. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com
2020-12-16
07 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Something Rotten!
John and John wind down Season One of the podcast with the hilarious hit, "Something Rotten!" (Don't worry - there is a Season 2! And we won't be banished before it happens!) Our erstwhile hosts talk about how this show is a tongue-in-cheek love letter to Broadway (lots of lampshades are tossed), how some old 19th-century tropes are resurrected, and how important is a plot, really? Music and lyrics by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick Book by Karey Kirkpatrick and John O'Farrell Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons...
2020-11-25
18 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder
One man must decide between two women while "taking care" of eight family members to assume his place at the head of a family... all played by one man. Trust us, the math checks out. Sort of. Join John and John as they discuss "A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder", and talk about the subtle spectacle of the show's casting, the nonsensical humor of the pot, and offer an audiophile's take on the cast recording. Music by Stephen Lutvak Lyrics and book by Robert L. Freedman Intro and o...
2020-11-18
26 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Cabaret
There was a podcast, and there were two hosts named John... and there was a show called "Cabaret" in a theatre that was part of Broadway.... and it felt like the end of the world." Art reflects life. Sometimes it's not the good parts. John and John discuss Kander and Ebb's "Cabaret". Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb Book by Joe Masteroff Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John...
2020-11-11
24 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Camelot
John and John venture to a magical land where the weather is controlled by Royal Proclamation and systems of government are determined by sword-holding rocks and women in ponds. This week they dive into the Lerner and Lowe classic, "Camelot"; discussing the dichotomy of the music and the score, the reliance of the book on source material, and the mystique of the magical... cave? Invisible walls? Something like that. Music by Frederick Lowe Lyrics and book by Alan Jay Lerner Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by...
2020-11-04
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Band's Visit
John and John sit down to talk about another entry in the new realism of modern musical theatre - "The Band's Visit". We talk about one of our most cherished tropes (band on stage!), the concept of realism in the show, and the importance of representation on stage and in the story... all while trying to not mangle and be respectful of everyone's names. Music and lyrics by David Yazbek Book by Itamar Moses Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com
2020-10-28
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
She Loves Me
Budapest, 1934. John and John step into Maracek's Parfuemrie to talk about "She Loves Me". They talk about the charming score, the grand pastiche of characters, and this story's place in popular culture. Music by Jerry Bock Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick Book by Joe Masteroff Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com For...
2020-10-21
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Of Thee I Sing
John and John go WAY back to the 1930s and look at one of the Gershwin duo's finest works - "Of Thee I Sing". We talk about the absurdity of the plot and the comedy therein. One of the Johns expresses a long-hidden feeling of support for Ira, the forgotten Gershwin. Good times all around! Music by George Gershwin Lyrics by Ira Gershwin Book by Lloyd S. Kaufmann Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question...
2020-10-14
19 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Dear Evan Hansen
In the 21st century, we are all connected digitally and virtually... yet it's sometimes easy to feel like you're completely lost and alone. John and John break down their thoughts on the current musical "Dear Evan Hansen" and talk about the modern Broadway sound and genre, the effects of the mind on our actions, and realism in theatre. Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul Book by Steven Levenson Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com H...
2020-10-07
27 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Six unique kids, three adults, and a whole dictionary to choose from. What could be more original or entertaining? John and John talk about a mutual favorite show, "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee". Hear them recount some fun stories from their own experiences with the show, how the concept of adults-as-kids adds a deeper connotation, and just how funny this show can be! Music and Lyrics by William Finn Book by Rachel Sheinkin Based on the play "C-R-E-P-E-S-C-U-L-E" by The Farm Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided u...
2020-09-30
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Evita
John and John dive deep into one of Andrew Lloyd Webber's early rock operas, Evita. They talk about the mystery of post-life for Eva Peron, the eclectic nature of the score, and how this show is a great example of "art imitating life". Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber Lyrics and Book by Tim Rice Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell...
2020-09-23
18 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
South Pacific
When "South Pacific" is first mentioned, so many thoughts turn to silly Thanksgiving reviews and island life. But in the 1940s, the show was groundbreaking in its stance on racism. Winner of 10 Tony Awards, and sitting on the Billboard charts for 400 weeks (not a typo!). John and John talk about the role in the social morals of the time, the popularity of the musical, and get into it once more about how effective of an ending the show has. Music by Richard Rodgers Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II Book by Oscar Hammerstein II...
2020-09-16
22 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812
"And this bright star Having traced its parabola With inexpressible speed Through immeasurable space Seems suddenly To have stopped Like an arrow piercing the earth Stopped for me" -Pierre, "Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812" John and John sit down to talk about the visually and technically stunning "Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812". They get into the one-of-a-kind staging, integrating the band into the set and audience, and the subtle brilliance that is author/composer Dave Malloy. Music, Lyrics, and Book by...
2020-09-09
27 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Drowsy Chaperone
What happens when you mix a Follies starlet, a tottering old lady, a man of a thousand (bad) accents, and a woman who loves a good martini? Well, you get "The Drowsy Chaperone"! John and John discuss how the show uses tropes of the Golden Age, the technical elements that make this show a delight, and whether its better to "live, not leave". Also - there are singing gangsters. Music and Lyrics by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison Book by Bob Martin and Don McKellar Intro and outro music ("...
2020-09-02
22 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The SpongeBob Musical
This week John and John get a little silly... well, more so than usual by "diving" into the 2017 musical "A SpongeBob Musical"! They talk about the role of theatre in entertainment, the collaborative nature of the score, and an admiration for one of the noblest of theatrical tropes - a band member onstage. All this about a not-so-simple sponge, a crabby squid, a greedy crab, a genius squirrel, and... Patrick. Original Songs and Lyrics by Yolanda Adams, Alex Ebert of “Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros”, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Domani, Derek Drymon, Mark Harrison, Stephen Hillen...
2020-08-26
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
West Side Story
"A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head. Go hence, to have more talk of these sad things." -Prince Escalus, Act V, Scene 3 William Shakespeare - Romeo and Juliet John and John explore one of the seminal musical theatre works of the mid 20th century in West Side Story. They talk about subversion, the "newness factor" of WSS and John (Norine) spends way too long fanboy-ing over Leonard Bernstein. Music by Leonard B...
2020-08-19
28 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
A Little Night Music
In his review of the original 1973 Broadway production, Clive Barnes in The New York Times called A Little Night Music "heady, civilized, sophisticated and enchanting." Well, what did you expect from Stephen Sondheim? Join John and John as they explore this love letter to the triple meter, Richard Strauss, and Ingmar Bergman. Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and book by Hugh Wheeler. Inspired by the 1955 Ingmar Bergman film Smiles of a Summer Night. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a...
2020-08-12
23 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
1776
This week, John and John step back to Philadelphia in the 18th century and "courteously" discuss show endings, fiction vs. reality, and representative birds with 1776 - music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards, and book by Peter Stone. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com For more info on our hosts - please visit https://norine62.wixsite.com/musicalminutes
2020-08-05
25 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
The Fantasticks
In this "very special episode" of MMwJaJ, John and John travel the world and back again to bring you a shockingly serious discussion on The Fantasticks - music by Harvey Schmidt, lyrics and book by Tom Jones. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com or comment on our Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/musicalminutes For more...
2020-07-29
21 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Pippin
Episode 3! Time to join us with your flowering fields and souring cheese as we sit down and talk about the 1970's musical Pippin - music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, and book by Roger Hirson - with additional (uncredited) material by Bob Fosse. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com For more info on our hosts - please...
2020-07-22
17 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Kiss Me Kate
Next up on the docket is the Cole Porter classic musical, Kiss Me Kate - music and lyrics by Cole Porter, book by Bella and Samuel Spewack. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at musicalminutespodcast@gmail.com For more info on our hosts - please visit https://norine62.wixsite.com/musicalminutes
2020-07-15
20 min
Musical Minutes with John and John
Bright Star
In their first episode, John McKeever and John Norine, Jr - both orchestral conductors who also work as Music Directors in the theatre - introduce themselves and the podcast before diving into a discussion of the show Bright Star - music by Edie Brickell and Steve Martin, lyrics by Edie Brickell, and book by Steve Martin. Intro and outro music ("BeBop 25") provided under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com Have a question for John or John? Want to leave feedback or tell us how wrong we are? Email us at m...
2020-07-06
19 min