Gerianne Perez (Operation Mincemeat) joins the pod squad to talk about her journey from singing in her high school's show choir to Broadway. Hear what she has to say about the importance of representation in theater, the quiet confidence learned from working with powerhouse women, and the performer mindset that helps overcome nerves. Gerianne Perez is a powerhouse performer known for her soaring vocals, emotional depth, and commanding stage presence. A proud New Yorker of Puerto Rican descent, she has built a dynamic career spanning Broadway and several national tours. She made her Broadway debut in the groundbreaking a cappella musical In Transit and went on to appear in Waitress, where her vocal strength and heartfelt performance left a lasting mark. Most recently, she is standing by for the tour de force role of Montagu in the U.S. premiere of the West End hit Operation Mincemeat, earning praise for her comedic brilliance and versatility in one of the most buzzed-about new musicals of the season. Her national tour credits include Vocalosity, Waitress, and the original U.S. Boleyn Tour company of SIX, where she originated the role of Catherine of Aragon. Gerianne has also worked extensively in regional theatre, bringing warmth, wit, and vocal fire to both classic and contemporary roles. For more information visit www.gerianneperez.com. Be sure to follow Beltline to Broadway on social media @beltlinetobroadway OR visit us online at www.beltlinetobroadway.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode dives into the play Native and the independent film adaptation The Problem of the Hero, both of which explore the relationship and ideological conflict between literary figures Richard Wright and Paul Green. The conversation delves into themes of racism, patriotism, artistic integrity, censorship, and the role of art in driving social change. David zum Brunnen is a seasoned actor, director, and theater-maker with decades of experience in both classical and contemporary work. He is widely recognized for his portrayal of Paul Green in Native and The Problem of the Hero, roles that reflect his longstanding interest in the life and legacy of the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright. In addition to acting, zum Brunnen is also a respected educator and producer, known for fostering collaborative ensemble work and promoting historically significant narratives. J. Mardrice Henderson is an accomplished actor and storyteller known for his dynamic stage presence and thoughtful portrayals of complex characters. A classically trained performer with a passion for social justice and truth-telling through art, Henderson first came to prominence through his role as Richard Wright in the stage play Native, later reprising the role in the award-winning independent film The Problem of the Hero. His performance earned acclaim for its emotional depth and fierce authenticity. Outside of acting, Henderson is an educator and advocate for equity in the arts, often lending his voice to discussions around representation and cultural integrity in storytelling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of the Beltline to Broadway podcast, hosted by Lauren Van Hemert, spotlights a new production of Hairspray at Thalian Hall in Wilmington, NC. What makes this production unique is its powerful blend of Broadway alumni, live TV experience, and hair-raising (literally) design, brought together by the Opera House Theatre Company. Melissa VanPelt is a native of Memphis TN and a graduate of AMDA(The American Musical and Dramatic Academy) in NYC. Theater credits include Hairspray on Broadway, Hairspray National Tour, Once On this Island, Ain’t Misbehavin', Purlie and Fame. Live Entertainment credits include Hairspray with The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Spirit cruises, Cedar Point, Libertyland, and The USO Show Troupe. Rhon Saunders is a dynamic performer and choreographer whose career bridges the worlds of stage and screen. A featured dancer in NBC’s Hairspray Live!, Rhon’s high-energy performance and deep understanding of the show's iconic choreography brought him national attention and solidified his connection to the Hairspray legacy. With over a decade of professional dance experience, Rhon has worked across theater, television, and live entertainment, bringing both charisma and precision to every project he touches. As co-choreographer for the Opera House Theatre Company’s production of Hairspray, Rhon combines his lived experience in the show with a thoughtful, inclusive approach to storytelling through movement. Erin Sullivan is a seasoned performer and wig designer whose connection to Hairspray spans decades and roles. She starred as Amber Von Tussle in the national tour from 2008 to 2010 and now returns to the stage as Velma, bringing full-circle flair and fierce comedic timing to the Opera House Theatre Company’s production. A true multi-hyphenate, Erin also serves as the show's wig supervisor, drawing on her deep knowledge of character transformation and period styling. Her passion for theatrical storytelling—both onstage and backstage—makes her an invaluable part of the Hairspray legacy and a beloved mentor to rising performers. Links: Opera House Theatre Company Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric Woodall joins the pod squad to discuss the 2025 Tony Awards season, with reflections on Broadway trends, productions, performers, and predictions across various categories. Eric Woodall is a nationally respected theater director, casting professional, and arts leader with deep roots in both Broadway and regional theater. Currently serving as the Producing Artistic Director of Theatre Raleigh, Eric is known for his visionary leadership, dynamic productions, and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Before returning to North Carolina, Eric spent over a decade as a casting director for Broadway and national tours with Tara Rubin Casting in New York City. His casting credits include blockbuster productions such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Billy Elliot, and Mamma Mia!. A former Tony Awards voter, Eric brings an insider's perspective to the Broadway industry, blending a love for new works with a reverence for classic storytelling. His creative lens is marked by innovation, inclusivity, and an enduring passion for reimagining beloved works—traits evident in his acclaimed regional productions of Gypsy, Parade, August: Osage County, and Ragtime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this thoughtful and heartfelt episode, host Lauren Van Hemert sits down with acclaimed actor, producer, and musician Brandon Victor Dixon to discuss his artistic journey, advocacy, and newly released single, "Maybe." Known for roles in Hamilton and The Color Purple, Dixon opens up about the soulfulness behind his music, the importance of civic engagement, and the power of storytelling in creating social change. The episode serves as both an inspiring dialogue and a wake-up call—reminding listeners that allyship and anti-racism are continuous commitments. Lauren reflects on her own biases, thanking Dixon for challenging her perspective and deepening the conversation. Brandon Victor Dixon is a Tony, Emmy, and Grammy-nominated performer, producer, and activist best known for his unforgettable performances in Broadway hits like Hamilton, The Color Purple, and Shuffle Along. A graduate of Columbia University, Dixon has built a celebrated career defined by versatility and purpose. He originated the role of Harpo in The Color Purple, earned critical acclaim as Aaron Burr in Hamilton, and captivated television audiences as Judas in NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert. His dynamic talents extend behind the scenes as well—he is a co-founder of WalkRunFly Productions, a company committed to developing socially conscious theater and amplifying diverse voices. Beyond the spotlight, Dixon is a passionate advocate for equity, civic engagement, and social justice. He’s used his platform to speak out on issues ranging from voting rights to arts accessibility and is widely recognized for his bold 2016 message to then-Vice President Mike Pence during a Hamilton curtain call. Most recently, Dixon released his soul-stirring single “Maybe,” a musical meditation on collective responsibility and hope, inspired in part by James Baldwin. With every performance and project, Dixon continues to challenge, uplift, and inspire audiences through the intersection of art and activism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ali Stroker joins the pod squad for an honest, inspiring conversation about breaking barriers on Broadway and beyond. From her historic win for Oklahoma! to navigating an industry not always built for inclusivity, Ali shares how she turned challenges into opportunities. Ali Stroker is a Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and advocate who has made history as a trailblazer for performers with disabilities. In 2015, she broke new ground as the first actor in a wheelchair to appear on Broadway, starring in Deaf West Theatre’s acclaimed revival of Spring Awakening. er portrayal of Ado Annie in the 2019 Broadway revival of Oklahoma! earned her a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical, marking another historic first. Beyond the stage, she has appeared in television series such as Only Murders in the Building, Ozark, and Echoes. Committed to advocacy, Stroker co-founded Be More Heroic, an anti-bullying campaign, and has led theater workshops for women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Her motto, "Turning Your Limitations Into Your Opportunities," reflects her dedication to empowering others through the arts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The incomparable Carmen Cusack—Tony-nominated star of Bright Star, Wicked, and Flying Over Sunset joins the pod squad. She shares the fascinating arc of her career, from training as an opera singer to finding her authentic voice in roles that defy genre conventions. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her artistic process as she prepares for an immersive concert at Theatre Raleigh. With humor, honesty, and soul, Carmen Cusack reminds us why she's one of the most compelling performers working today. Carmen Cusack is a Tony-nominated actress and singer best known for originating the role of Alice Murphy in Bright Star, for which she received critical acclaim. With a rich background in opera, gospel, and contemporary music, she has brought powerhouse performances to the stage in roles like Elphaba in Wicked, Clare Boothe Luce in Flying Over Sunset, and Nellie Forbush in South Pacific. A genre-defying artist, Carmen continues to forge new paths as a musician, storyteller, and collaborator in both musical theater and original music projects. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether in soap operas or stage work, it’s all about honoring the craft, respecting the audience, and telling stories that matter. Hear what John Wesley Shipp and David A. Gregory say about their journey from meeting on One Life to Live to facing off in the courtroom drama, Caine Mutiny Court-Martial. John Wesley Shipp is a veteran actor best known for his dynamic range across television and stage. He originated the role of The Flash in the 1990s CBS series and later returned to the modern CW version in multiple iconic roles, including Barry Allen’s father. Shipp also made a major mark in daytime television, earning two Daytime Emmy Awards for his performances on As the World Turns and Santa Barbara. Beyond his screen presence, he’s a passionate stage performer with deep ties to theatrical storytelling and a loyal fan base spanning generations. David Gregory is a seasoned actor recognized for his compelling work in television, film, and theater. He’s best known for his role as Robert Ford on the long-running soap opera One Life to Live, where he became a fan favorite for his emotionally complex portrayal. Off the screen, Gregory has built a strong reputation in regional and off-Broadway theater, often gravitating toward powerful, language-driven plays. He brings a thoughtful, grounded approach to every role and is deeply engaged in conversations around storytelling, ethics, and the impact of live performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robert Ariza (Hamilton, Spring Awakening) and Maya Jacobson (Fiddler on the Roof) join the podsquad to discuss how even quirky cult musicals like Little Shop carry deeper critiques of capitalism and power. While early in their careers, both actors bring insight into how the stage can be a space for healing, rebellion, and storytelling that transcends language and background. Robert Ariza is a dynamic and versatile stage actor known for his work in boundary-breaking productions that blend artistry with activism. A proud alum of the groundbreaking Spring Awakening revival by Deaf West Theatre, Robert stepped into a unique role as a swing, learning American Sign Language from scratch to help bring an inclusive and visually stunning production to life on Broadway. His work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling that empowers marginalized voices and pushes the boundaries of traditional theater. Robert’s journey has also led him to the national tours of Hamilton (Chicago), Les Misérables (North America), Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 (Shanghai). Best known for her role in the acclaimed Yiddish Fiddler on the Roof, Maya Jacobson brought powerful emotional nuance to a production that not only celebrated Jewish heritage but also honored her own family's Holocaust history. Regionally, she has been seen in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Asolo Repertory Theatre), A Crucible 001 (Bard), Fiddler on the Roof (Paper Mill Playhouse), Fun Home (Studio Theatre), Fiddler on the Roof (The Lyric Opera of Chicago), A Walk on the Moon (George Street Playhouse). Follow Beltline to Broadway on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky or TikTok @beltlinetobroadway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartfelt episode of Beltline to Broadway, host Lauren Van Hemert sits down with four-time Emmy Award-winning actress Kim Zimmer to discuss her latest role in The Trip to Bountiful at Theater Raleigh. Kim also opens up about her personal journey with breast cancer, the resilience required to work in daytime television, and what it's like to portray complex women on stage and screen. Kim Zimmer is best known for her iconic role as Reva Shayne on the long-running soap opera Guiding Light, for which she received critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. With a career spanning decades, Kim has brought dynamic characters to life on both television and the stage, including roles in Wicked and Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks. A passionate advocate for live theater and mature storytelling, she continues to inspire audiences with her authenticity, emotional depth, and enduring talent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dana Costello joins the pod squad to discuss how performing in Suffs built her confidence on and off the stage, the importance of regional theater, and her long-running involvement with the upcoming musical Joy. Dana is performing in the Theatre Raleigh production of The Trip to Bountiful alongside four-time Emmy Award-winner Kim Zimmer. Dana Costello is a talented actress and vocalist known for her work in theater, television, and digital media. She has appeared on Broadway in Jekyll & Hyde, Finding Neverland, and Suffs and has starred in numerous regional theater productions, including Miss Saigon, Little Women, and RENT. Costello has also made television appearances, notably in Law & Order, and participated in digital projects like A Killer Party: A Murder Mystery Musical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Megan McGinnis joins the pod squad to reflect on her dual career as an actor and director, her experience touring, and the challenges of performing opposite a demon with issues on the national tour of Beetlejuice. Whether you're a longtime Beetlejuice fan or new to the musical, this conversation offers a heartfelt and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes. Megan McGinnis is a talented actress and singer currently touring with the national production of Beetlejuice. Best known for her acclaimed performance as Eponine in Les Misérables and her Drama Desk-nominated role in Daddy Long Legs, McGinnis has an extensive Broadway and touring resume, including roles in Little Women, Beauty and the Beast, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. With her powerful vocals and heartfelt performances, she continues to captivate audiences nationwide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miki Abraham joins the pod squadd to share their journey with Shucked, from its early days as The Hee Haw Musical to Broadway and beyond. They discuss the evolution of the production, the creative team's commitment to adapting the show to its performers, and the empowering experience of playing Lulu. We also explore deeper themes of identity, representation, and the importance of showing up authentically in the theater industry. Plus, Mickey reflects on the impact of their performance on audiences across the country and the importance of creating space for queer and non-binary voices in the arts. Miki Abraham They/them. Broadway: Shucked(OBC), Off-Broadway: A Sign Of The Times at New World Stages. National Tour: Once On This Island, and Beautiful. Beyond the stage they are the owner of Castle In The Sky Self-Esteem and Career Coaching, sharing joy and empowerment through transparency and tough love. They live by a life and business motto of "The most important story you will ever tell is the one you tell yourself about yourself”@mikiabraham_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Norbert Leo Butz and Lauren Kennedy reunite to reflect on their journey as the original Cathy and Jamie in The Last Five Years. They share behind-the-scenes stories about the show's development, including how Jason Robert Brown shaped the music around their performances. The conversation explores the challenges of performing such an emotionally intense two-person musical, the struggles of engaging audiences with its unconventional structure, and how the show deeply influenced their personal and professional lives. Norbert Leo Butz is a two-time Tony Award-winning actor known for his powerhouse performances in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Catch Me If You Can, and My Fair Lady. A versatile performer across stage and screen, he has appeared in TV series such as Bloodline, Fosse/Verdon, and Debris. Lauren Kennedy, a celebrated Broadway actress, is known for her roles in Sunset Boulevard, Side Show, and Spamalot. Beyond performing, she has made a name for herself as a producer and director, shaping the next generation of theater artists. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author Carol de Giere (Defying Gravity) joins the podcast to explore the fascinating history and unsung stories behind Pippin. Hear how Stephen Schwartz developed the show as a student at Carnegie Mellon, about his creative clashes with legendary director Bob Fosse, and how the 2013 revival reimagined the production (and ending) for a new generation. Carol also shares insights into Schwartz’s songwriting process, his musical influences—from Carole King to Paul Simon—and why Pippin remains timeless over 50 years after its premiere. Carol de Giere is the author of Defying Gravity: The Creative Career of Stephen Schwartz, from Godspell to Wicked, an in-depth biography chronicling the life and work of the legendary composer. Through extensive interviews with Schwartz and his collaborators, she provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind iconic musicals like Godspell, Pippin, and Wicked. Carol is also the creator of The Schwartz Scene, an online newsletter dedicated to fans of Stephen Schwartz’s work. Love what you hear on the podcast? Join the pod squad by joining our online community! Dive deeper into the episodes, share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow listeners. Visit https://beltlinetobroadway.org/register-2/ to join our theater fam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason Robert Brown joins the podcast to discuss the complexities of adapting books and movies into musicals, the differences between stage and screen storytelling, and the evolving landscape of Broadway. He also reflects on his musical influences, his collaboration with Theatre Raleigh's Lauren Kennedy, and the creative process behind his eclectic body of work. Jason Robert Brown is an acclaimed composer and lyricist known for his unique blend of musical styles, ranging from folk and gospel to rock and pop. He has won multiple Tony Awards for his work on Parade and The Bridges of Madison County and is widely recognized for his groundbreaking shows, including The Last Five Years, Songs for a New World, and 13. Beyond musical theater, Brown is also a performer and recording artist, regularly debuting new works in concert settings. His contributions to the theater world have made him one of the most influential voices in contemporary musical storytelling. Love what you hear on the podcast? Join the pod squad by joining our online community! Dive deeper into the episodes, share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow listeners. Visit https://beltlinetobroadway.org/register-2/ to join our theater fam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Multihyphenate Erin Sullivan joins the podcast to discuss the historical weight of Marilyn Monroe, the challenges of portraying such a beloved and complex figure, and the personal and artistic risks taken to keep her one-woman show, With Love, Marilyn, fresh for international audiences. Erin Sullivan is a seasoned actress, singer, and writer with a career spanning over 30 years in theater. Originally trained in musical theater, she has performed nationwide but found a deep personal connection in bringing Marilyn Monroe’s story to life. After originating the role of Marilyn in Mark Medoff’s Marilee and Baby Lamb, she was inspired to create With Love Marilyn, which debuted in London last month. Love what you hear on the podcast? Join the pod squad by joining our online community! Dive deeper into the episodes, share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow listeners. Visit https://beltlinetobroadway.org/register-2/ to join our theater fam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nik Waker joins the pod squad to discuss the importance of representation in theater, the impact of ADHD on his creative process, and the power of storytelling as a grounding force. From his early days finding solace in the stage to starring in Broadway hits like Hamilton and Spamalot, Walker shares candid insights into his experiences. He also discusses his latest role in Theatre Raleigh's Bull Durham: The Musical. Nik Walker is an accomplished actor, writer, and educator known for his dynamic performances on Broadway and beyond. He made a name for himself as Aaron Burr in Hamilton and has since appeared in Spamalot, Motown: The Musical, and more. Beyond the stage, Walker is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the arts, as well as an adjunct professor at NYU, where he mentors the next generation of performers. A self-proclaimed film fanatic and lifelong storyteller, he continues to push boundaries in the entertainment industry, bringing authenticity and depth to every role he takes on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julie Benko joins the pod squad to discuss her career trajectory from understudy to Broadway star and her take on Jane Eyre. From being overlooked at her showcase to starring on Broadway, she highlights the unpredictable nature of success in theater. Julie Benko is an award-winning actress, singer, and writer known for her breakout role as Fanny Brice in Funny Girl and her work in Harmony, Les Misérables, and Fiddler on the Roof. A lifelong performer, Julie holds a master’s degree in acting and has spent years honing her craft as an understudy, eventually stepping into the spotlight in a career-defining moment. Beyond the stage, she is a passionate advocate for Jewish causes, an emerging writer and composer, and a champion of the hardworking understudies and swings who keep Broadway running. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bekah Brunstetter, the book writer behind Broadway’s highly anticipated musical The Notebook, joins the pod squad to dive into the creative process of adapting Nicholas Sparks’ beloved novel for the stage. Hear what she says about the intersection of theater and video games, the challenges of writing for Broadway versus regional theater, and how artists navigate creative freedom while handling industry criticism. Bekah Brunstetter is an award-winning playwright and television writer known for her ability to craft deeply emotional and thought-provoking stories. In addition to writing The Notebook musical, she has worked as a writer and producer on hit TV shows like This Is Us and American Gods. A graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and The New School, Becca’s plays—including The Cake and Miss Lilly Gets Boned—have been produced nationwide. With a keen eye for blending humor and heart, her work often explores themes of love, memory, and human connection. Love what you hear on the podcast? Join the pod squad by joining our online community! Dive deeper into the episodes, share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with fellow listeners. Visit https://beltlinetobroadway.org/register-2/ to join our theater fam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices