Theatre Podcasts You Need to Hear

PODCASTS ARE A GREAT WAY to explore new ideas and find answers to your burning theatre questions. From Broadway buzz to the inside scoop on what it’s really like to be a working actor, there’s a theatre podcast designed to give you access to angles you might not otherwise consider — or even know about.

NEWS AND REVIEWS

If you’re looking for something that will keep you up-to-date about what’s happening in New York theatre, “Token Theatre Friends” is a valuable resource for recent Broadway and Off-Broadway reviews and interviews. For intel on theatre across the country, check out “Three on the Aisle,” which features three critics weighing in on American theatre trends and hot topics, or “Treading the Boards’ Regional Theatre News,” which includes updates on companies nationwide, as well as interviews with theatre professionals.

HISTORY AND BACKSTORIES

Trying to brush up on your background knowledge? Check out the “Theatre History Podcast,” which covers everything from medieval morality plays to the history of Latinx performers in American stage and film. If you want insider information about the evolution of productions both recent and remembered, subscribe to “Broadway Backstory,” with episodes on everything from The Secret Garden to Natasha, Pierre, & the Great Comet of 1812. Or if Shakespeare is more your cup of tea, investigate the Folger Library’s “Shakespeare Unlimited” podcast. You’ll learn all there is to know about the Bard’s plays and the people who perform and produce them.

PERFORMERS AND CREATORS

For those who dream of a career onstage, there are several opportunities to learn firsthand what it’s like to work in the business. “The Ensemblist” is like the podcast version of A Chorus Line — it gives you the inside view of supporting roles that are often less glorified. There’s coverage of ensemble performers, but the podcast also delves into other areas, such as dramaturgy and social media authenticity. “The 98%” is an unvarnished look at the life of working actors: To find out what it’s really like out there, give the series a listen.

If it’s in-depth knowledge of Broadway stars you’re after, “Theater People” is a good bet. Popular interviews have included Laura Benanti, Megan Hilty, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. “Little Known Facts” prides itself on revealing interviews with celebrity guests, such as an episode featuring the stars, composer-lyricist, and producer of Be More Chill.

THE BUSINESS OF SHOW BUSINESS

It’s also important to be informed about the business end of show business. Backstage, long considered a premiere source of information on all things theatre, produces “In the Envelope,” which features award-winning actors, including Darren Criss, Gina Rodriguez, and Leslie Odom Jr., giving advice on topics ranging from auditioning to self-empowerment. “Actor CEO” offers practical tips, such as tax guidance and maximizing social media impact. Even if you don’t need this information yet, it’s good to prepare for the day you will.

BEGINNER’S GUIDES

If you’re not listening to “The Young Actor’s Guide,” put it at the top of your list. This podcast is aimed right at, well, you. Interviews with agents, managers, and casting directors will help you understand what they want from performers. Episodes on overcoming nerves, boosting confidence, and essential do’s and don’ts of auditioning will interest anyone planning to spend time onstage or working in film and television.

If your thoughts are drifting to the West Coast but your parents have concerns, encourage them to check out “Hometown to Hollywood.” Host Bonnie J. Wallace wrote the book (The Hollywood Parents Guide) on what parents need to know about building a television and film career as a young performer.

BACKSTAGE TIPS

Those looking for insight into work that goes on behind the scenes will want to investigate “Twins Talk Theatre.” Cynthia Hennon Marino and Stacy Hennon Stone talk technical theatre and more with stage managers, directors, movement coaches, and other experts. Future designers should try “in 1: the podcast.” It includes interviews with experts in lighting, sound, costumes, makeup, and sets, discussing everything from making it in New York to surviving a touring production.

Try adding one or two of these podcasts to your usual mix, and who knows? You might become more confident, better informed, and more prepared for future work than you thought possible — just from listening in.