BroadwayRadio Podcast Summary

Title: Interview: Karen Ziemba on ‘Master Class,’ the Power of Teaching
Podcast: BroadwayRadio
Host: Matt Timminini
Guest: Karen Ziemba, Tony Award-Winning Actress
Release Date: February 17, 2025

1. Introduction

In this captivating episode of BroadwayRadio, host Matt Timminini engages in an enlightening conversation with the esteemed Tony Award winner, Karen Ziemba. Currently portraying the legendary opera diva Maria Callas in Master Class at the Riverside Theater in Vero Beach, Florida, Karen shares her profound insights into the world of teaching, the delicate balance between singing and acting, and her extensive career in musical theater.

2. Karen’s Current Role in Master Class

Karen Ziemba discusses her role as Maria Callas in Master Class, reflecting on the personal significance and challenges it presents.

"To be able to play all those different roles and to convey so much with her singing voice, she had to have such a deep well. So much vulnerability and so much strength and so much sadness and so much joy."
— Karen Ziemba [05:07]

Karen emphasizes the complexity of Maria Callas as a character, highlighting the necessity of portraying both vulnerability and strength to authentically represent the real-life figure.

3. The Importance of Teaching and Mentorship

The conversation delves into the pivotal role of teachers in the arts and Karen’s personal experiences with mentorship.

"Being an artist, you have to be criticized and you have to be corrected if you want to do it right, if you want to do it well."
— Karen Ziemba [02:51]

Karen underscores the invaluable lessons learned from rigorous training and constructive criticism, noting how Maria Callas embodies this dynamic in her interactions with students.

4. Balancing Singing and Acting in Musical Theater

Karen explores the intricate balance between vocal technique and emotional connection in musical theater, drawing comparisons to her experiences in ballet and opera.

"I would much rather see, for example, a Desiree Armfeld in A Little Night Music be more of an actress than a singer... you want somebody that really understands what he's trying to say."
— Karen Ziemba [05:58]

She argues that while vocal prowess is essential, the ability to convey the story and human emotions is equally, if not more, important in delivering a compelling performance.

5. Evolution of Musical Theater

The discussion shifts to the transformation of musical theater over the decades, highlighting the shift from operatic influences to more human-centered storytelling.

"And now we're at a different point in musical theater... There's so much in our culture now... It's almost like an athletic event."
— Karen Ziemba [09:31]

Karen notes the increasing emphasis on spectacular vocal feats and high notes, a trend influenced by contemporary media and audience expectations, contrasting it with the more narrative-driven compositions of Stephen Sondheim.

6. Rehearsal Challenges and Collaboration

Karen shares her experiences working with young performers, emphasizing the importance of constant learning and adaptation.

"Each one of them has very little time on stage... you have to stop them... try and try again."
— Karen Ziemba [12:54]

She highlights the iterative process of coaching performers, where patience and perseverance are crucial in refining each aspect of the performance.

7. Career Longevity and Adaptability

Reflecting on her four-decade-long career, Karen discusses the keys to sustaining success in the demanding world of theater.

"I'm a survivor in this business... I keep learning myself. I keep asking questions."
— Karen Ziemba [15:45]

Karen emphasizes the importance of continuous self-improvement, flexibility, and maintaining physical and vocal health to adapt to the evolving demands of her profession.

8. Working on Established Shows vs. New Productions

Karen contrasts her experiences between performing in long-standing productions and creating roles in new shows.

"It's a gift... Step up and lift."
— Karen Ziemba [20:17]

She appreciates the opportunity to contribute to established works like Master Class, while also valuing the creative freedom and challenges presented by new productions, which require collaborative efforts to shape and develop the character.

9. Insights on the Master Class Production

Karen elaborates on what audiences can expect from the current production of Master Class and the profound lessons it imparts.

"It's about someone who was at the top of their game... you have to really be... willing to take the criticism."
— Karen Ziemba [23:47]

She conveys that the show not only showcases Maria Callas's exceptional talent but also delves into the rigorous mentorship and the intense emotional resilience required to excel in the arts.

10. Memorable Advice from Maria Callas

Concluding the interview, Karen shares a poignant piece of advice from Maria Callas that encapsulates the essence of artistic dedication.

"There are no shortcuts in art... courage, because that comes from your insides, from your emotions."
— Karen Ziemba [26:36]

This advice highlights the necessity of discipline, technique, and inner strength in pursuing and sustaining a successful artistic career.

Conclusion

In this enriching episode, Karen Ziemba offers a deep dive into the life of a seasoned performer who seamlessly blends teaching with her craft. Her portrayal of Maria Callas in Master Class serves as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship, the balance between technical skill and emotional depth, and the unwavering dedication required to thrive in the dynamic world of musical theater. Listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of performance, collaboration, and personal growth, all while celebrating Karen's remarkable contributions to the arts.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "To be able to play all those different roles and to convey so much with her singing voice..." — Karen Ziemba [05:07]
• "Being an artist, you have to be criticized and you have to be corrected..." — Karen Ziemba [02:51]
• "I would much rather see... be more of an actress than a singer..." — Karen Ziemba [05:58]
• "It's almost like an athletic event." — Karen Ziemba [09:31]
• "Each one of them has very little time on stage... try and try again." — Karen Ziemba [12:54]
• "I'm a survivor in this business... I keep learning myself." — Karen Ziemba [15:45]
• "It's about someone who was at the top of their game... willing to take the criticism." — Karen Ziemba [23:47]
• "There are no shortcuts in art... courage..." — Karen Ziemba [26:36]

For more information on the Master Class production and to purchase tickets for Karen Ziemba’s performance at the Riverside Theater through February 23rd, visit the show’s official website or the podcast's show notes.