Summary of "Class Notes: Morgan Bassichis from “Can I Be Frank”" Episode on BroadwayRadio
Podcast Information:
- Title: BroadwayRadio
- Host: Lauren Claus Schneider
- Episode: Class Notes: Morgan Bassichis from “Can I Be Frank”
- Release Date: July 31, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of BroadwayRadio, host Lauren Claus Schneider sits down with Morgan Bassichis, the writer and star of the play “Can I Be Frank?” currently running at the Soho Playhouse. The conversation explores the inspiration behind the play, Morgan's deep connection to queer history, and the creative process involved in bringing Frank Maya's legacy to life on stage.
Honoring Frank Maya's Legacy
Lauren begins the conversation by addressing the central figure of the play:
Lauren: "Frank died of AIDS complications in 1995. Tell us about his place in history." [01:05]
Morgan responds by highlighting Frank Maya's pioneering role as one of the first openly gay comedians to have a network television special. She states:
Morgan: "He was one of the first out gay comedians to ever have a comedy special on network television. And yet mostly anybody in my generation who didn't know him or wasn't in the scene, didn't know his name. He has a really important place in history." [01:17-01:29]
Morgan emphasizes Frank's significant yet often overlooked contribution to the vibrant East Village performance scene during a pivotal time for the LGBTQ+ community.
Collaboration with Director Sam Pinkleton
The discussion shifts to the creative partnership behind the play:
Lauren: "You have Sam Pinkleton as the director, and now he's so well known for directing 'O Mary'. What made him the right director for you and for this piece?" [02:30]
Morgan elaborates on how Sam Pinkleton became the ideal collaborator:
Morgan: "Sam has just been such an incredible collaborator to figure out how to do this in a way that first and foremost makes a really good night of theater. So, like, even if you don't know about Frank or you don't feel connected to that time in history in the East Village, you would still have a really good time." [02:41-03:39]
She credits Sam with helping to shape the play in a way that balances historical reverence with contemporary appeal.
Themes of Fame, Fatherhood, and Crisis
The conversation delves deeper into the thematic core of the play:
Lauren: "You describe a bottomless queer search for fame and for father figures and for laughter in times of crisis. How did writing 'Can I Be Frank' and performing in it address this for you?" [03:39]
Morgan reflects on the intergenerational struggles and the universal quest for validation and connection:
Morgan: "We can sometimes fall into a trap of thinking that the things that we're struggling with are unique to us rather than kind of intergenerational legacies... trying to do our lap of healing and then pass it on to the next generation." [03:57-04:15]
She connects Frank Maya’s humor during the AIDS crisis to the contemporary crises, such as violence and societal upheaval, underscoring the importance of laughter as a means of coping and staying present.
Balancing Roles as Writer and Performer
Lauren explores the dynamics of Morgan's dual roles in the production:
Lauren: "With Sam as your director and you as the writer and star, do you find that the writer talks to the actor and the actor talks to the writer, or is there a different level of fluidity? How do you manage these two major roles?" [06:12]
Morgan discusses the intricate interplay between writing and performing, especially when embodying both herself and Frank:
Morgan: "There's a sort of Morgan character and I almost play a kind of delusional version of myself on stage. Sam was so helpful in making sure that the balance... the tension between the Morgan character and the Frank character is really visible... Is that Morgan's or is that Frank's?" [06:36-07:43]
This duality adds depth to the narrative, allowing audiences to navigate the blurred lines between past and present.
Personal Reflections and Creative Process
The conversation shifts to Morgan’s creative identity and process:
Lauren: "You're also a comedian, musician, writer, visual artist, performer. When a creative impulse hits you, do you know which aspect of you is going to address it? And how do you have that conversation in your head with all the different creative elements of you?" [08:37]
Morgan shares her approach to creativity, emphasizing fidelity to form while allowing content to explore new territories:
Morgan: "I try to stay really faithful to the initial form of it so that then I can diverge and go weird places through the content. Each project is different. I have to listen and be like, is this live? Is this not live? Does this want to be solo? Does this want to be collaborative?" [08:12-09:49]
Her versatile approach mirrors Frank Maya's multifaceted artistry, creating a dynamic and responsive creative process.
High School Influences and Early Passion
Lauren inquires about Morgan’s formative years:
Lauren: "Growing up in high school... what was high school like? Where did you find passion and interest in hobbies and acceptance and people?" [09:49]
Morgan reminisces about her active involvement in theater and student government in Newton, Massachusetts:
Morgan: "Always theater, I was never not in a play. I really credit the theater program for how I learned to do what I do... making people laugh and making these little temporary families that get so close." [10:07-11:08]
These early experiences laid the foundation for her collaborative spirit and passion for storytelling.
Conclusion
Lauren wraps up the interview by thanking Morgan for her time and insights:
Lauren: "Thank you for your time. And thank you for all of your insight into the development of your piece and a little bit about you." [11:08-11:21]
Morgan expresses her gratitude, highlighting the fulfilling nature of sharing Frank Maya's story:
Morgan: "I really appreciate you having me and all the questions." [11:18]
This episode of BroadwayRadio offers a profound exploration of “Can I Be Frank?”, shedding light on the historical significance of Frank Maya, the creative collaboration behind the play, and Morgan Bassichis’s multifaceted artistry. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of how theater can bridge past and present, honor forgotten legends, and address contemporary issues through humor and heartfelt storytelling.