The show must go on! 8 podcasts to stream ahead of Sunday’s Tony Awards ceremony

We’re happy that the neon lights are bright-and brighter than ever on Broadway’s spectacular return this September! Leslie Odom Jr. and Audra McDonald are hosting The 74th Tony Awards on Sunday, September 26, 2021 at NYC’s Winter Garden Theatre. The ceremony (along with just about everything else) was postponed last year due to the pandemic.

Setting: your favorite listening spot.

Characters: You (streaming device at the ready)

Action: Prepping for the Tony Awards (listening attentively)

So if you’re looking for a refresher on the nominations before tuning into Sunday’s ceremony, wanting to hear backstage stories from nominees, eager to learn about playwrights’ inspirations for their award-nominated plays, or wanting to learn about Broadway’s history, we’ve rounded up a bunch of shows and episodes to celebrate this Sunday’s festivities.

Aaron Tveit on Happy Sad Confused

Host Josh Horowitz nerds out with actor Aaron Tveit on this episode of “Happy Sad Confused.” Aaron is currently nominated for Best Performance by an actor in a musical’s leading role for an adaptation of Baz Luhrmann’s “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” He spoke about the show’s initial run in Boston before it was brought to Broadway, and likened it to an endurance test.

The uber-talented performer has accumulated quite the acting resume! On this episode, Aaron speaks about his on-screen roles in Les Misérables and the TV show Gossip Girl, and how he has been singing his way to the stage for years. He shares experiences from plays like “Next to Normal” and “Catch Me If You Can.” Tune in to other episodes of “Happy Sad Confused” to hear from additional A-list stars.

Jeremy O. Harris on It’s Been a Minute with Sam Sanders

NPR’s “It’s Been a Minute with Sam Sanders” interviewed playwright Jeremy O. Harris on “Slave Play” in early 2020. This Best Play Tony Award-nominated production delves into history, relationships, and race. It received 12 nominations including Robert O’Hara for Best Director, Best Original Score, and more. On this episode, Jeremy discussed dealing with the different reactions this play has received, ranging from outraged audience members in post-show talk-backs to international praise. Jeremy expressed what it’s like to be comfortable in the spotlight, and feeling welcomed by Broadway. He also dished on what happened when Rihanna showed up to see “Slave Play.”

Tom Hiddleston on Variety Stagecraft

In 2020, “Variety Stagecraft” with Gordon Cox spoke with Tom Hiddleston, Charlie Cox, and Zawe Ashton from “Betrayal.” With 4 Tony nominations, “Betrayal,” harps on intricate relationships and the different levels of hurt occurring amongst the characters, including struggles with accountability and self-betrayal. The play is constructed of scenes between couples. Tom is in the running for a Best Performance Tony. You’ve probably also seen Tom in the Marvel Universe.

My Little Tonys

Stroll down Broadway’s history with Anna & Tim’s “My Little Tonys.” This podcast recaps previously award-winning performances and past years’ award ceremonies. They’ll dissect the biggest wins, snubs, acceptance speeches, and major fashion moments.

And the Award Goes To… Hosted by Ilana Levine

“And the Award Goes To… Hosted by Ilana Levine” interviews Tony Award-winning performers. Appearances have included Kristen Chenoweth, James Lapine, Cady Huffman, Patti LuPone, and Cynthia Nixon – just to name a few. Host Ilana Levine is an actress and Broadway star as well. She appeared alongside Kristen Chenoweth as Lucy in 1999’s Broadway production of “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown,” and they both discuss the magic of its revival in a podcast’s episode.

Jake Gyllenhaal on Variety Stagecraft

“Sea Wall/A Life’s” Jake Gyllenhaal is nominated for Best Performance by an actor in a musical’s leading role. This show is a series of one-act monologues about love, life, and family. In this episode of “Variety Stagecraft,” Jake discusses co-starring with Tom Sturridge. Director Carrie Cracknell shared behind-the-scenes snapshots with Jake on this episode. On stage, Jake feels that he becomes his “best self,” and explores what this play means to him.

Kathryn Gallagher on My First Show

Broadway Podcast Network’s “My First Show” speaks with Broadway stars. In this episode, host Eva interviews Kathryn Gallagher on her Tony nomination for her role as Bella in “Jagged Little Pill,” a rock musical by Alanis Morissette and Glen Ballard. Kathryn’s father and actor Peter Gallagher also stopped by this episode to discuss his 1986 nomination for “Long Day’s Journey Into Night.” On this episode, the father and daughter laugh while sharing memories, sing praise of “Annie,” how Dean Martin artistically inspired them, and more.

Samuel H. Levine on The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

Samuel H. Levine starred in “The Inheritance,” a story about modern love and queer culture in NYC. Samuel and host Alan discuss his beginnings at NYC’s LaGuardia High School, attending the California Institute of the Arts, then returning to NYC for gigs. Samuel talks about playing two different roles on “The Inheritance,” since he previously appeared in the West End’s version. He also discusses the opportunities “The Inheritance” has presented, including learning and teaching queer history. “The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales” is brought to you by the Broadway Podcast Network.