Meet the Cartozians: Two Timelines, One Armenian American Story
In this episode of “Half Hour”, we take a closer look at Meet the Cartozians, Talene Monahon’s new play at Second Stage Theater’s Irene Diamond Stage at the Pershing Square Signature Center. We trace the dual timelines, from an Armenian American family fighting for legal recognition in the 1920s to a present‑day descendant navigating reality‑TV fame and social media, and how the play uses that structure to ask who gets to belong in America.
Our conversation digs into David Cromer’s staging, the tonal balance between historical drama and contemporary satire, and performances from Raffi Barsoumian, Will Brill, Andrea Martin, Nael Nacer, Susan Pourfar, and Tamara Sevunts. We also talk about where the piece could go next, how it might evolve in future productions, and why this kind of Armenian American story feels urgent right now.
Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Share your thoughts on this production in the comments on Spotify, and let us know what you would like us to cover next. If you enjoy these post-show conversations, follow Half Hour and leave a rating and review so more theater lovers can find the podcast.
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Ragtime at Lincoln Center: A New Broadway Revival Under Review
In this episode of Half Hour, Jeff and Richie take a close look at the 2025 Broadway revival of Ragtime at Lincoln Center Theater’s Vivian Beaumont Theater, with Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, and Colin Donnell leading the cast. They compare Lear deBessonet’s Broadway staging to the earlier New York City Center presentation, weighing the strength of the performances, the impact of a more pared-back production, and how the material lands with today’s audiences.
The conversation covers the score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, Terrence McNally’s book, design choices that support or undercut the storytelling, and what this revival might mean for the upcoming Tony Awards. Jeff and Richie also discuss how Ragtime’s mix of fictional and historical figures speaks to contemporary questions about race, class, immigration, and the American dream.
Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Share your thoughts on this Ragtime revival and your own experience at the Vivian Beaumont in the comments on Spotify, and let us know what you would like us to cover next. If you enjoy these post-show conversations, follow Half Hour and leave a rating and review so more theater lovers can find the podcast.
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Theatre Chat: Rob Lake Magic with the Muppets, Brewster High Schools TikTok Reveal & NYT Critics Pick
In this episode of “Half Hour”, the conversation covers dynamic ways to promote school theater, including Brewster High School’s viral TikTok show announcements and the power of student participation. We discuss the early closing of Rob Lake’s Magic with special guests The Muppet, Caissie Levy’s exit from The Lost Boys, and the latest Broadway grosses for the week ending November 9th.
Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on our podcast cover post on Instagram.
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Liberation on Broadway: Feminism, Memory, and Modern Power Debates
In this episode of “Half Hour”, we cover Liberation at the James Earl Jones Theatre. Bess Wohl’s new play captures complex power dynamics and contemporary questions about equality, anchored by an ensemble cast and Whitney White’s direction. We dig into the production’s treatment of solidarity, feminism, and generational change, examining how moments of vulnerability emerge as agents for progress.
Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on our podcast cover post on Instagram.
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Bat Boy: The Musical at City Center - Inside the 2025 Encores! Production
In this episode of “Half Hour”, we break down the 2025 City Center Encores revival of Bat Boy: The Musical. The discussion covers creative staging, the cast's performances, standout performances by Kerry Butler and Taylor Trensch, and musical updates that define the production. We reflect on Bat Boy’s continued relevance, its humor, and how the show balances transformation, talent, and energy.
Follow and connect with all things @HalfHourPodcast on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Share your thoughts with us on our podcast cover post on Instagram.
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Acerca de 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.
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