The Stage Door
Content for Fans, By Fans
Maybe We’ve Outgrown “Miss Saigon”
With the new UK tour of Miss Saigon, I’ve been thinking about what it means to keep reviving a show that’s always been both groundbreaking and problematic.
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: Shakespeare is Overrated
Can we still love Shakespeare without pretending he’s the gold standard?
Let’s Finally Have THAT Conversation About “Dear Evan Hansen”
Everyone has an opinion about Dear Evan Hansen. Some love it. Some can’t stand it. I think it’s time we finally had that conversation
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: Bring Back Overtures
It’s time to bring overtures back to musical theatre. Not just for nostalgia’s sake, but for the magic of anticipation itself.
Did “Newsies” Really Need Katherine Plumber?
I revisited the Newsies pro-shot recently and found myself questioning a creative choice that’s always bugged me. As much as I love Kara Lindsay’s performance, did Newsies really need Katherine Plumber?
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: If You Audition Non-Union, You’re the Villain
It’s not always a choice between Equity and non-union. Sometimes it’s a choice between working and walking away.
Why “Who I’d Be” from Shrek the Musical Is One of the Best Act One Closers…Ever
“This is what a perfect Act One closer does: it changes the lens. Everything before “Who I’d Be” is about a mission—rescue the princess, claim the swamp. Everything after is about identity and love.”
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: Trans-Inclusive Casting Requires Musical Flexibility
Theatre is flexible when it wants to be. The question is: will we use that flexibility to make space for trans and nonbinary performers?
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: Stories Miss the Adult Version of Toxic Femininity
We talk endlessly about toxic masculinity, but toxic femininity usually gets stuck in high school storylines. What about when those same behaviors show up in the office, in friendships, in adult relationships?
Exploring Theatre Hot Takes: You Don’t Always Have to Be Besties With Your Castmates
Not every cast becomes a family — and that’s okay. Whether it’s Broadway or high school, cast mates are coworkers first. You don’t have to be best friends, but you do have to show respect and professionalism.