Half Hour with Jeff & Richie (Post-Show Broadway Discussions and Interviews)

Half Hour with Jeff & Richie (Post-Show Broadway Discussions and Interviews)

"Half Hour with Jeff & Richie" is the ultimate podcast for Broadway fans. With Jeff Malone & Richie Grasso as your lively hosts, prepare for a thrilling and intellectually engaging exploration of Broadway. This show is all about exclusive interviews with talent and creatives from the industry, captivating analysis of the plays and musicals we see, and a celebration of the artistry, dreams, and legends that define Broadway. Whether you're a seasoned theatre enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who appreciates the power of storytelling, "Half Hour with Jeff & Richie" is your go-to companion. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we uncover the mesmerizing world of Broadway and delve into its rich themes that lie beyond the curtain.

Episodes

May 9, 2025 36 mins
In this episode, we discuss the Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. We break down the show’s production design, direction, and standout performances from Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. We also talk about Sondheim’s legacy, the orchestra’s role, and the emotional impact of the music. Tune in for our full thoughts on the show and what Old Friends means for the future of musical...
Mark as Played
In this episode, we discuss the Broadway revival of Floyd Collins at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. We cover the show's historical background, Jeremy Jordan's performance, Adam Guettel's musical score, and the production design. We also share our thoughts on the Tony nominations and how the show connects with audiences.  Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us...
Mark as Played
This week, we dive into the latest theater award nominations, including the Tony Awards, Outer Critics Circle, and Drama Desk. We share our reactions to the nominees, discuss surprises and snubs, and look at what these nominations mean for Broadway’s best plays and musicals. We also talk about standout performances, the competition in each category, and how nominations can shape a show’s future. Join us for a candid theater chat an...
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In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the 2025 City Center Encores! production of Wonderful Town in New York City. We break down what worked-and what didn’t-in this revival of Leonard Bernstein’s musical about two sisters chasing their dreams in 1930s Greenwich Village. From the standout Encores! Orchestra and impressive choreography to the modernized costumes and a book that left us wanting more, we share o...
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In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway musical Just In Time at Circle in the Square. We break down how the show reimagines the biopic musical, focusing on Bobby Darin’s rise from East Harlem to stardom, and explore what makes this production stand out on Broadway right now. We talk about Jonathan Groff’s dynamic, Tony-worthy performance as Darin, Gracie Lawrence’s scene-stealing turn as Connie Fr...
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In this episode, Jeff and Richie break down the Broadway production of Smash at the Imperial Theatre. Inspired by the cult TV series, Smash takes audiences behind the scenes of a new musical about Marilyn Monroe. We share our first impressions, dig into the plot, and debate whether the show’s backstage antics and meta-comedy work on stage. We talk standout performances from Brooks Ashmanskas and Robyn Hurder, energetic choreography...
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In this episode, we break down the Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s OTHELLO at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. We tackle the impact of casting Hollywood stars in classic roles, the curious omission of Shakespeare’s name from the playbill, and the puzzling decision to set the story in 2028. We share our honest reactions to Kenny Leon’s direction, the production design, and how strict aud...
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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow at the Marquis Theatre. We break down how the play brings 1959 Hawkins to life, its ties to the original Netflix series, and what makes this prequel stand out on stage. We talk about the show’s jaw-dropping special effects, standout performances, and why the design team deserves a Tony nod. Plus, we share our own experiences in the audience a...
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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of JOHN PROCTOR IS THE VILLAIN at the Booth Theatre. We break down how Kimberly Belflower’s play reimagines The Crucible for a new generation, exploring themes of youth, identity, and power. We talk about standout performances—especially Sadie Sink’s—plus the direction by Danya Taymor and how the show’s music and staging set it apart. We also debate the play’s take on gender dyn...
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In this episode of Half Hour with Jeff & Richie, we dive into the Broadway revival of The Last Five Years at the Hudson Theatre. From its innovative concept to its missteps in execution, we discuss the direction, performances by Nick Jonas and Adrienne Warren, and how the production compares to Jason Robert Brown's original masterpiece. Tune in as we unpack the challenges of this revival, share our thoughts on its Tony Award potent...
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In this episode, we dive into Boop! The Musical, now playing at the Broadhurst Theatre on Broadway. We break down the show's nostalgic yet modern take on the iconic Betty Boop, exploring its themes of identity and self-discovery. From standout performances, including Jasmine Amy Rogers as Betty, to the vibrant choreography and stunning production design, we share our thoughts on what makes this musical a must-see. Plus, we discuss ...
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In this week’s Theatre Chat, Jeff and Richie break down the highlights of the 2025 Laurence Olivier Awards, including major wins for "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and "Oedipus". They dive into the growing buzz around revivals like "Fiddler on the Roof" and "Cats: The Jellicle Ball", explore how "Wicked" continues to dominate with smart marketing strategies, and analyze Broadway’s impressive financial performance this season...
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In this episode of *Half Hour with Jeff & Richie*, we dive into the Broadway production of The Picture of Dorian Gray at the Music Box Theatre. Featuring Sarah Snook's captivating one-person performance, we discuss how Kip Williams' direction and innovative use of technology bring Oscar Wilde's classic tale to life. From themes of vanity and youth to the immersive video design that redefines storytelling, we explore why this produc...
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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway production of Operation Mincemeat at the Golden Theatre. We explore its unique mix of British humor and historical storytelling, unpack the creative team's choices, and share our thoughts on the show's pacing, score, and scenic design. Plus, we discuss how American audiences might perceive the humor and speculate on potential Tony nominations. Tune in for our take on this fast-paced musica...
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In this week's Theater Chat episode, Jeff and Richie dive into the latest buzz from Broadway and beyond. From the revival of Noël Coward's Private Lives and Hugh Jackman's exciting partnership with Sonia Friedman to John Krasinski’s Off-Broadway return in Angry Allen, they unpack the biggest theater news of the week. Plus, they discuss Paper Mill Playhouse’s upcoming season, Jennifer Lopez’s involvement in Kiss of the Spider Woman,...
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In this episode, we dive into the Encores! production of LOVE LIFE at New York City Center. We discuss this rarely staged musical that follows a love story across two centuries of American history. We break down the unique concept, standout performances by Kate Baldwin and Brian Stokes Mitchell, and Tony winner Victoria Clark's direction. Join us as we explore the show's blend of heartfelt scenes and vaudeville acts, its lush score...
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In this episode, we dive into the Broadway play PURPOSE by Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins at the Hayes Theatre in NYC. We explore the intricate plot, character dynamics, and how the play blends humor and drama. We discuss Phylicia Rashad's direction, standout performances, and the themes of family legacy and personal purpose. Tune in for our take on this must-see play. Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, and ...
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In this week's Theater Chat, Jeff and Richie dive into the latest theater news. They discuss the unexpected closure of The Jonathan Larson Project, upcoming shows featuring Brian d’Arcy James and Maya Hawke in Eurydice, and Billy Porter's directorial debut in London. They also explore the impact of star power on Broadway ticket sales and the importance of engaging younger audiences. Tune in for their take on the current state of th...
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In this episode, we explore the Off-Broadway production of Henrik Ibsen's GHOSTS at the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater at Lincoln Center. We dive into the modern adaptation of this classic play, discussing its themes of deception and family dynamics, and highlight standout performances from Lily Rabe and Ella Beatty. We also examine the direction by Jack O'Brien and how the scenic design enhances the emotional impact of the story. Tune ...
Mark as Played
In this week's Theatre Chat episode, Jeff and Richie dive into the latest Broadway news. They discuss Rachel Zegler's casting in Evita, Jean Smart's return to Broadway, and Kristin Chenoweth's new musical, Queen of Versailles. They also explore Ashley Graham's Broadway debut, the upcoming season at Manhattan Theater Club, and current trends in Broadway grosses. Tune in for insights into the theater industry's exciting and challengi...
Mark as Played

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