In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with Susan McKey, a seasoned actor involved in Hedgerow Theatre's production of 'Fly Me to the Moon.' They discuss Susan's extensive experience in theater, the dynamics of the play, the challenges of rehearsals, and the themes of loneliness and connection that resonate throughout the performance. The conversation highlights the importance of humor in addressing serious topics and the audience's experience of live theater.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://hedgerowtheatre.org

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with Nell Bang-Jensen, CEO and producing director of Fringe Arts, as they reflect on her first year in the role. They discuss the importance of Fringe Arts in supporting new and experimental work, the growth of the festival, and the significance of community engagement in the arts. Nell shares insights on the challenges faced by artists, the role of workshops, and the unique experiences offered by events like Feastival. The conversation also touches on funding challenges and the potential for more festivals in Philadelphia, emphasizing the need for continued support for the arts community.

FOR MORE ABOUT FRINGE ARTS: https://fringearts.com

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with director Damien Figueras about Curio Theater's upcoming production of 'Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.' They discuss Figueras's background in sound design, the rehearsal process, the unique comedic adaptation of Dracula, and the collaborative nature of theater in Philadelphia. The conversation highlights the enduring appeal of the Dracula story, the importance of character dynamics, and the creative decisions behind the production's design elements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://curiotheatre.org

In this engaging podcast episode, host Darnelle Radford speaks with Kaisheem Fowler-Bryant about his journey as a new artist in Philadelphia and his involvement in the production of 'FIRE,' a play centered around the life and works of Wallace Thurman. They discuss the significance of Thurman's contributions to literature and theater, the challenges and joys of bringing a new work to life, and the relevance of historical themes in today's society. Kaisheem shares insights from his rehearsal experiences, the importance of joy amidst adversity, and the audience's potential takeaways from the production.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://www.quintessencetheatre.org/  

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with Kendyll Young and Grant Struble, founders of the Relic Theater Company, about their journey in establishing a new theater company in Philadelphia. They discuss the challenges and excitement of starting a theater, the importance of branding, the current landscape of theater, and the need for community support. The conversation also touches on their production of 'Spring Awakening' and the significance of creating opportunities for local artists.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://relictheatre.org 

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford engages with Anna Snapp, a performer at the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, discussing her production 'I Found the Sun Will Rise Tomorrow.' They explore Anna's artistic journey, the evolution of her work, and the healing power of performance. The conversation delves into the importance of audience engagement, the role of direction in theater, and the personal growth Anna has experienced through her art. The episode highlights the significance of self-discovery and the necessity of checking in with oneself amidst the hustle of life.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/i-found-that-the-sun-will-rise-tomorrow/ 

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with Aaron Pang, a storyteller and performer whose production 'Falling, a Disabled Love Story' was featured in the 2025 Philly Fringe Festival. They discuss Aaron's multifaceted identity, his approach to storytelling, and the unique challenges and experiences of presenting disability in art. The conversation explores audience expectations, cultural differences in reception, and the importance of vulnerability in storytelling. Aaron shares insights from his experiences at the Edinburgh Festival and his aspirations for future performances.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/falling-a-disabled-love-story/  

In this episode of the Broad Street Review Podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with playwright Daniel Neer about his new work, 'Dachau for Queers,' which explores the historical context of a psychiatric hospital in California that incarcerated gay men. The conversation delves into themes of empathy, self-acceptance, family dynamics, and the importance of community support within the LGBTQ+ experience. Neer shares insights into the creative process and the role of theater in fostering social change, emphasizing the need for understanding and connection in a fragmented society.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/dachau-for-queers/

In this episode of the Broad Street Review podcast, host Darnelle Radford speaks with performance artist John Michael about his work, particularly his production 'Spank Bank Time Machine.' They discuss the themes of grief, loss, and the importance of addressing societal issues such as addiction and mental health through art. John Michael shares his personal experiences and the impact of his performances on audiences, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in the face of tragedy. The conversation also touches on the role of audience participation and the significance of Narcan in combating the overdose epidemic. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the transformative power of art and the responsibility of artists to engage with pressing social issues.

MESSAGE FRON JOHN MICHAEL:

As a professional artist, I believe it's important to talk finances, and at this moment, the show is making $500, which is 50% of the costs to be here.  Other Ways you can support my work: 

• Contribution to my venmo link here.

• Tax-deductible contributions can be found here

• Buy a Narcan Time Machine t-shirt at this link here

A personal introduction to Universities, health organizations, or philanthropists who might want to book or support the young adult play. Check out this trailer for the young adult play here. Please reach out to me for copy/more information about the show's impact individually for you to forward to interested parties. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/spank-bank-time-machine/ 

Today on the podcast, Tina Brock drops in to talk about the IRC FringeArts offering, Painting Churches by Tina Howe. On Stage at Theatre Exile through September 21st. Here is my interview with Tina Brock for Painting Churches.

Described as “... beautifully written... a theatrical family portrait that has the shimmer and depth of Renoir portraits... ” by The New York Times, Tina Howe’s 1984 Pulitzer Prize-nominated play is a provocative exploration of the parent-child relationship, art and aging. The IRC production features Kirsten Quinn as Mags Church, the successful artist and daughter of Fanny and Gardner Church, who returns home with a life-changing announcement to the chaos of her parent’s impending move from their lifelong home in Boston’s Beacon Hill. John Zak plays Gardner Church, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet facing dementia after a lifetime devoted to intellectual and creative pursuits. Tina Ann Brock plays Fanny Church, Gardner’s wife and Mags’ quirky mother, who has a penchant for ostentatious hats and criticizing her daughter’s choices in life. The trio explores their changing dynamic relationship over the span of several days.

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: https://phillyfringe.org/events/painting-churches-by-tina-howe/