BroadwayRadio Episode Summary
Title: Class Notes: Matt Rodin (Beau The Musical)
Host: Lauren Clash Schneider
Release Date: July 15, 2025
Duration Covered: 13 minutes and 14 seconds
Introduction
In this episode of BroadwayRadio, host Lauren Clash Schneider welcomes Matt Rodin, who stars in the musical Beau The Musical at Out of the Box Theatricals Theater 154. The conversation centers around Matt's journey with the show, its development, and his multifaceted career in the Broadway scene.
Origins and Development of Beau The Musical
Matt Rodin shares the serendipitous circumstances that led to his involvement in Beau The Musical. He recounts meeting Doug Lyons at a W Hotel event in Times Square where he was performing with Broadway cast members. After Matt played an original song, Doug approached him with the idea for the show.
“A couple months later, I was in a rehearsal room... we read what would become Beau The Musical... There was a spark of something there.” (00:58)
Matt emphasizes the unique concert storytelling form of the musical, likening it to productions like Hedwig and Passing Strange. Over seven years, Matt and the creative team refined the script, music, and his character, making it feel like a "second skin."
The development journey included multiple readings, a developmental production at the Adirondack Theater Festival, and the creation of a concept album with Sony Masterworks featuring prominent Broadway performers. Although an Off-Broadway run planned for 2020 was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, a filmed rendition in 2021 significantly influenced the current production.
“Everything... led to this. And I feel very grateful that... everything lined up the way that it did.” (05:47)
Emotional Journey and Performance Dynamics
Matt discusses the emotional depth of his character, Ace Baker, a young queer man navigating significant life changes. Performing the role eight times a week demands emotional resilience.
“I do get to sort of have a seat outside of the piece. And so... I am experiencing things as they're happening... but I also get to be an observer.” (06:04)
He highlights the balance between immersing himself in Ace's journey and maintaining an observer’s perspective. The show's structure, starting with a joyful number, provides both the audience and himself a subconscious assurance that things will resolve positively, offering comfort throughout the narrative.
Additionally, the collaborative environment with talented actors and the healing power of music serve as emotional anchors during performances.
Handling Mishaps and Maintaining Performance Quality
Addressing the complexities of a show where actors also serve as musicians, Matt acknowledges that mishaps are inevitable. However, the team embraces these moments with positivity and flexibility.
“It's about lifting each other up... finding the joy in the moment to roll with the punches.” (08:18)
He emphasizes the importance of camaraderie, laughter, and the opportunity to perform the show multiple times, allowing for continuous improvement and the ability to move past minor errors effortlessly.
Collaboration with Director and Choreographer Josh Rhodes
Matt speaks highly of Josh Rhodes, the director and choreographer of Beau The Musical, noting their shared Midwestern roots which contribute to their deep understanding of the story and characters.
“He's started as the choreographer... has come into the director position in such a profound and beautiful way.” (10:16)
Their long-term collaboration over six to seven years has been pivotal in shaping the production's vision and execution.
Matt Rodin’s Other Ventures: Red Carpet Challenge and Make Something Remarkable Creative Studio
Beyond acting, Matt is the founder and creative director of Make Something Remarkable (MSR) Creative Studio and the host of the Red Carpet Challenge.
Red Carpet Challenge:
Originally created eight or nine years ago, this segment involves Matt engaging Broadway stars with fun and unconventional games during opening night red carpets. Initially hosted independently, it was later picked up by Playbill, accruing 125 episodes before the pandemic paused production.
“It was a way that I was able to integrate myself into the industry... now people... have gotten to see me on the other side of the stage.” (12:14)
Make Something Remarkable (MSR) Creative Studio:
MSR serves as Matt’s freelance creative hub, allowing him to collaborate with industry professionals on various projects such as social media and creative content. This venture leverages his diverse skills in photography, videography, and music.
“MSR Creative is sort of my way I get to do that and utilize all that.” (13:14)
These endeavors reflect Matt’s passion for creativity and his ability to diversify his talents within the Broadway landscape.
Conclusion
Lauren Clash Schneider wraps up the discussion by highlighting Matt Rodin's starring role in Beau The Musical, reiterating the show's presentation at Out of the Box Theatricals Theater 154. Matt's dedication to his craft, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit, exemplifies the dynamic nature of modern Broadway performers.
“Thank you.” (13:14)
Key Takeaways
- Serendipitous Beginnings: Matt’s entry into Beau The Musical was a result of a chance meeting and mutual recognition of artistic potential.
- Long-Term Development: The musical's evolution over seven years underscores the importance of perseverance and collaborative refinement in theater production.
- Emotional Balance: Matt effectively balances deep emotional engagement with his character and an observer’s detachment to maintain performance quality.
- Positive Workplace Culture: Embracing mishaps with humor and support fosters a resilient and adaptable cast environment.
- Diverse Creative Ventures: Matt’s involvement in projects like the Red Carpet Challenge and MSR Creative demonstrates the multifaceted careers of contemporary Broadway artists.
This summary encapsulates the first 13 minutes and 14 seconds of the BroadwayRadio episode featuring Matt Rodin. For a comprehensive understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.