Podcast Summary: "Blue Man Group’s Founders on Closing in NYC" – All Of It with Alison Stewart

Released January 30, 2025 by WNYC

Introduction

In this special episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves into the rich legacy of the Blue Man Group as they prepare to close their iconic New York City performances. Joining her are two of the group's original founders, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton, who reflect on the origins, evolution, and lasting impact of their groundbreaking performance art.

The Return of the Founders

Alison Stewart opens the episode by highlighting the significance of Blue Man Group's final performances at Astor Place, marking over three decades since their inception in New York City.

"More than 30 years after inventing the Blue Men characters and launching the show here in New York City, they've returned to the stage at Astor Place for one more performance before Blue Man closes its doors this weekend." [00:36]

Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton share their excitement and apprehensions about returning to the stage.

Matt Goldman [02:21]: "Hi."

Phil Stanton [02:21]: "Thank you for having us."

Alison Stewart [02:22]: "What is it like to be back on stage in Blue Man?"

Phil Stanton [02:56]: "Well, I mean, I have to say it was pretty, pretty fun."

Matt Goldman [03:00]: "Yeah, it really was. I was worried, you know,... interacting with people. It's very real." [03:05]

Challenges of Returning to the Stage

The founders discuss the challenges they faced while rehearsing for their final shows, emphasizing the meticulous preparation behind their performances.

Phil Stanton [03:39]: "The ratio of number of hours of rehearsal to number of minutes of stage time was embarrassingly lopsided.... the precision and the drumming and the acting, it took longer than anticipated." [03:39]

Matt shares a personal touchstone that helped him return to his Blue Man persona effectively.

Matt Goldman [04:07]: "I have this one little thing... the ability not to blink. It came back really quickly." [04:09]

Origins of Blue Man Group

Alison introduces a historical perspective by playing a 1988 MTV News interview with Chris Wink, one of the original Blue Man Group members. This segment provides insight into the accidental creation of the Blue Men and their diverse musical influences.

Chris Wink [06:38]: "We became interested in all different kinds of music... we thought we'd share it with the world." [06:38]

Matt and Phil elaborate on the early days and the spontaneous creation of their unique characters.

Phil Stanton [07:27]: "It was weeks before we got... something bigger than us." [07:27]

Listener Interactions and Memories

The episode features heartfelt and humorous stories from listeners, showcasing the profound and varied impact Blue Man Group has had on its audience.

1. Adam's Appreciation and Questions [09:30]:

   • "As a drummer, I really appreciate the creativity of what you guys do... Were you performance artists first?" [09:30]
   • Matt Goldman [10:14]: "Performance artist. I wanted to find where is that edge... I met Chris on this catering job." [10:16]
   • Phil Stanton [11:01]: "... outsiders. Performance art... vaudeville mechanisms." [11:01]

2. Shayna's Childhood Memory [15:13]:

   • "At two years old, I yelled at you guys during the show and got kicked out." [15:13]
   • Phil Stanton [16:37]: "We were upset you got kicked out, retribution on your behalf." [16:37]

3. Greg's Unique Story [17:01]:

   • Kurt Loder [17:36]: "I was a Blue Man for six years... performing in Boston, New York, Chicago." [17:36]
   • Matt Goldman [17:42]: "You were a pretty good player on our softball team, too." [17:42]

4. Rocky's Fond Memories [27:00]:

   • "I have vivid memories of seeing you in the East Village in the late '80s... you made me laugh so hard." [27:00]
   • Phil Stanton [27:56]: "We cover the first four or five rows with plastic... connecting with the audience." [27:56]

5. Jane's Connection to the Founders [23:36]:

   • "I worked at Glorious Food with Chris and the others before you guys did your own thing." [23:36]
   • Phil Stanton [26:08]: "Jean Claude made us Jello for shows because he wanted us to be successful." [26:08]

6. Lisa and Shane's Experiences:

   • Listener stories highlight personal connections and the show's influence across generations.

Behind the Scenes: Creative Processes and Community

Matt and Phil discuss the creative decisions behind the Blue Man Group's signature elements, such as their iconic blue paint and interactive performances.

Matt Goldman [18:05]: "It was an intuitive choice initially... blue could be either comic or kind of sublime." [18:13]

Phil delves into the philosophical underpinnings of their performances, emphasizing universal humanity and connection.

Phil Stanton [18:55]: "Stripping us down to what's essentially the most human... it's all about connection." [18:55]

They also touch upon the technical aspects, such as audience safety measures and the seamless blend of humor, music, and visual art.

Phil Stanton [27:56]: "There's a sense like anything can happen... it's about relationship." [27:56]

Legacy and Evolution Post-Sale to Cirque du Soleil

Alison poses a critical question about the sale of Blue Man Group to Cirque du Soleil and its subsequent global expansion.

Alison Stewart [29:12]: "Why blue couldn't have been the purple man group or the green man group." [29:12]

Matt and Phil reflect on the enduring community and the group's foundational values, contrasting them with the corporate trajectory under Cirque du Soleil.

Phil Stanton [29:36]: "Community connected around the original mission... inspire ourselves and our audiences." [29:36]

Matt Goldman [31:31]: "The character is very universal... exploring our humanity." [31:31]

They express pride in the lasting artistic community fostered by Blue Man Group and hope for its continued evolution.

Final Reflections and Farewell

As the episode nears its close, listeners share their final thoughts and farewells, underscoring the profound personal and cultural impact of Blue Man Group.

Jane [32:55]: "...Chris and Phil and Matt, you did your own thing. Everybody was so amazed at what you accomplished." [32:55]

Rocky [32:55]: "My grandson loved the Blue Man Group so much... he's now a master drummer." [32:55]

Matt and Phil express gratitude for the unwavering support and memorable experiences shared with their audience.

Phil Stanton [33:29]: "Has Cirque maintained that same vibe... the core themes of love, connection, inspiration." [33:29]

Matt Goldman [32:49]: "I still think Blue Man has a long way to go... it lives beyond us." [32:49]

Conclusion

Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by thanking Matt and Phil for their time and contributions, celebrating the storied history of Blue Man Group in New York City.

"Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton, two of the founders of the Blue Man Group, share their heartfelt reflections as the show concludes its legendary NYC run this Sunday." [33:57]

Notable Quotes

• "Blue Man Group became this genetic permutation... we thought we'd share it with the world." – Chris Wink [06:38]
• "We wanted to make a show that we ourselves wanted to see." – Phil Stanton [12:55]
• "It's all about connection... exploring our humanity." – Phil Stanton [18:55]

Final Thoughts

This episode of All Of It serves as a nostalgic and insightful tribute to the Blue Man Group, capturing the essence of their artistic journey and the indelible mark they've left on culture and audiences alike. Through personal anecdotes, listener stories, and deep reflections, Matt Goldman and Phil Stanton offer a comprehensive look at what made Blue Man Group a unique and enduring phenomenon in the world of performance art.