Broadway with AJ and Sarah

Broadway with AJ and Sarah

Broadway with AJ and Sarah is your backstage pass to the Bay Area theater scene! Join AJ and his theater partner-in-crime, Sarah, as they go beyond the reviews to explore what truly brings a production to life. As members of the San Francisco Bay Area Theater Critics Circle, they spotlight the artists, actors, and creative minds behind the curtain through in-depth interviews, all while sharing their insights on the latest shows. Whether you’re a theater lover or an industry insider, this podcast is your guide to the vibrant world of Bay Area theater!

Episodes

December 17, 2025 16 mins

This week, we’re stepping under the big top for Circus Bella’s Starlight in San Francisco! 🎪✨

In this episode, we share our experience with this joyful, high-energy circus production — from the incredible acrobatics and live music to the warm, family-friendly atmosphere that makes Circus Bella such a standout in the Bay Area arts scene. We talk about the artistry, the surprises, and the magic of seeing a modern circus that’s rooted...

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This week, we’re unbelievably excited to share our conversation with Jefferson Mays, the star of Berkeley Rep’s production of A Christmas Carol. 🎄✨

We talk with Jefferson about taking on this iconic holiday story, the creativity behind this unique one-actor production, and how he brings more than 50 characters to life onstage. He also shares insight into the show’s evolution, the demands and joys of such an ambitious performance, a...

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December 12, 2025 47 mins

This week, we’re getting into the holiday spirit with Coastal Rep’s production of Elf! 🎄✨ We had an absolute blast seeing this festive, high-energy show — and we’re excited to share our experience with you.

We also got the chance to chat with Carter, Andre, William, and Ralph about stepping into their roles, the joy of performing a beloved holiday musical, and the behind-the-scenes moments that make this production so special. From...

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December 11, 2025 38 mins

This week, we’re heading to the ball! We saw Hillbarn Theatre’s production of Cinderella and had the chance to sit down with Judith, who plays Madame. 👑✨

In this episode, we talk about our experience with the show, the charm and humor of this particular production, and what stood out to us onstage. We also chat with Judith about stepping into the role of Madame, the fun of playing a theatrical villain, and the magic happening behin...

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In this special bonus episode, we’re taking you inside Pintello Comedy Theater’s production of 1940s Radio Hour 🇺🇸✨

We talk about our experience attending the show, the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and why this entirely family-run theater has such a special place in the local arts community. From the way they connect with audiences to the heart behind every production, Pintello offers something you simply don’t find everywhere.

I...

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December 2, 2025 19 mins

This week, we are heading into the world of fractured fairy tales with SF Playhouse’s production of Into the Woods. We break down the performances, design choices, standout moments, and how this production brings Sondheim’s classic to life in a fresh way. 🌲✨

From bold character interpretations to the production’s emotional impact, we’re sharing our honest thoughts on what worked, what surprised us, and why this revival is worth see...

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This week, we are diving into San Jose Stage’s production of Million Dollar Quartet — the electrifying musical inspired by the legendary jam session with Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. 🎸✨

We’re also joined by actors Cody (Elvis) and Bryant (Johnny Cash) to talk about stepping into these iconic roles, their approach to the music, and what makes this production such a standout at The Stage. From behind...

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November 26, 2025 30 mins

🎬 This week, we’re sitting down to review Wicked: For Good, the newest film adaptation of the Broadway hit. We discuss the performances, direction, musical numbers, and how the movie translates the stage production to the screen. ✨🎶

Whether you’re familiar with the musical or seeing the story for the first time, we break down what works, what doesn’t, and what audiences can expect from this long-awaited release. 🎥

A clear, thought...

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November 12, 2025 27 mins

This week, we’re celebrating sixty sparkling years of community theatre magic at WVLO’s 60th Diamond Celebration! 💎✨ From heartwarming memories to show-stopping performances, it was a night filled with laughter, love, and legacy.


We also chat with cast member Tony about what makes WVLO such a special place, his favorite moments from the celebration, and how the company has built a true theatre family over the decades.


It’s a...

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November 5, 2025 15 mins

This week, we’re chatting about the Tony winning musical that visited Broadway San Jose. Hear all our thoughts on this show stopping production!

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This week, we’re headed back to the California Theatre for their annual symphonic concert featuring a bewitching Broadway set. Join us as we chat with executive artistic director Robert Massey about what Symphony San Jose has to offer those who are longtime symphony lovers or those who’ve never been and what to look forward to!

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October 22, 2025 37 mins

This week, AJ and Sarah sit down with the incredible Britta Rae, who’s been bringing Carole King to life in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical! 🎶 We talk about what it’s like stepping into such an iconic role, Britta’s favorite moments from the show, and the realities of being a working, traveling actor in today’s theater world.

Plus, we swap some hilariously anxious audition stories (because who hasn’t been there?). It’s an honest...

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October 15, 2025 29 mins

This week, we’re dishing all our thoughts on BSJ’s latest tour. Plus Sarah shares her idea for a new podcast! ⭐️

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We’re totally taking it back to the ’80s this week! AJ and Sarah hit up Woodside Musical Theatre’s high-energy production of The Wedding Singer — and it’s giving all the neon, big hair, and big laughs. 💜💍

We share our favorite moments from the show, plus chat with Sam (Julia) and Chava (Robbie) about bringing these iconic roles to life, their favorite parts of performing together, and what makes this production so special.

Grab you...

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October 7, 2025 24 mins

This week, AJ and Sarah step into the supernatural with Hexed — the eerie, immersive experience taking over the historic SF Mint. 👻✨ We’re joined by special guest (and AJ’s friend!) Lacey to unpack all the spooky vibes, stunning visuals, and unexpected twists that made this show such a wild ride.

From haunted hallways to jaw-dropping effects, we’re spilling all the tea on what it’s like to get Hexed!

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October 2, 2025 23 mins

This week, we’re chatting all things Les Mis! Come hear our thoughts on the latest tour to stop at the Orpheum! Plus listen for a promo code for our next show this weekend!

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September 30, 2025 55 mins

This week, we’re sitting with the PR man who fronts several of the Bay Area’s largest theater companies. Join us for a fun chat filled with dream roles, PR secrets, and a lot of laughs!

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September 18, 2025 58 mins

This week, we're diving into the world of Cabaret! We share our thoughts on the latest production at LASC and sit down with Brandon, the magnetic Emcee, and Lee Ann, the visionary Director/Choreographer, for an inside look at bringing this classic to life. Plus, Sarah takes the mic for an extended storytime segment, where she gives the ultimate backstage scoop on Gypsy at PAP. Don’t miss this episode packed with theater magic, ...

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September 8, 2025 30 mins

This week, we're chatting with Kate Marilley who's currently starring in Transcendence Theatre Company's cabaret style production of Ladies of Broadway, where 7 ladies recount fun audition and origin stories of their career. Kate is a professional actress with several Broadway credits and we're super excited to chat about her journey. Listen for a promo code from our friends over at TTC.

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This week, we're visiting a new theater (to us) in the heart of Cannery Row to see a hit 80's turned musical. Join us as we chat about our favorite moments from the show as well as why we think you should visit the Paper Wing on your next theater outing!

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