Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre – Interview with Andrew Barth Feldman

Episode Title: Andrew Barth Feldman (We Had A World, Dear Evan Hansen, Snow White) - INTERVIEW
Release Date: April 15, 2025

In this engaging and insightful episode, Mickey-Jo from MickeyJoTheatre sits down with rising Broadway star Andrew Barth Feldman. The discussion delves into Feldman's illustrious career, his current role in the critically acclaimed play We Had a World, memorable experiences from prestigious awards, his ventures into social media, and his perspectives on balancing stage and screen work.

I. Career Beginnings and Breakthrough with Dear Evan Hansen

Andrew Barth Feldman traces his theatrical journey back to winning the 2018 Jimmy Awards, which catapulted him into the spotlight. Following this success, he made his Broadway debut in the highly acclaimed musical Dear Evan Hansen. Feldman reflects on how this role not only solidified his presence on Broadway but also resonated deeply with his personal experiences.

Andrew Barth Feldman [22:12]: “Dear Evan Hansen was something that truly connected with me. I saw it for the first time when I was 14, and it said something about myself that I couldn't yet articulate.”

II. We Had a World: Exploring an Autobiographical Masterpiece

Currently starring in We Had a World off-Broadway at the Manhattan Theatre Club, Feldman discusses the play's exploration of familial relationships and grief. He highlights the collaborative environment fostered by playwright Joshua Harmon and the emotional depth required to portray his character.

Andrew Barth Feldman [02:16]: “This role is just extraordinary on the page. It's meant to be so alive every day—the interaction with the audience, the connection with the other two actors.”

Feldman shares his personal connection to the play, citing his own experiences with loss, which parallel the themes of the production.

III. The Jimmy Awards: A Pivotal Moment in Feldman's Career

Reflecting on his time at the Jimmy Awards, Feldman describes the whirlwind of emotions and experiences that came with winning. From interacting with industry giants to the surreal moment of holding the award, he recounts the profound impact it had on his career trajectory.

Andrew Barth Feldman [06:36]: “It was very dizzying in the moment. The moment I had that thing in my hands was the moment my life changed.”

He fondly remembers the simplicity of enjoying a plate of mac and cheese at the after-party, a stark contrast to the overwhelming attention he received.

IV. Memorable Social Media Moments: The "For Evan" Cover

Feldman discusses one of his favorite social media moments—a collaborative cover of "For Evan" with fellow Dear Evan Hansen actors, including Sam Tutty. Despite the logistical challenges of filming, the project resulted in a heartfelt and visually captivating video that resonates with fans.

Andrew Barth Feldman [10:29]: “I love that video. I check in with it every like year and a half. I'll watch it again and again.”

He humorously describes the challenges of lip-syncing while performing live shows, adding a layer of authenticity and charm to the project.

V. Ratatousical: Creativity in Isolation

During the pandemic, Feldman participated in Ratatousical, a project that he describes as the closest thing to a Broadway musical created under lockdown conditions. Filming the entire production in a single room over 14 hours, Feldman emphasizes the earnestness and creativity that emerged from this unique collaboration.

Andrew Barth Feldman [15:00]: “It's just this gorgeous moment in time that if you were there, you were there.”

The heartfelt nature of the project has led to lasting memories and tangible tokens from fans, underscoring the impact of creative endeavors even in challenging times.

VI. Balancing Theater and Screen Work

Feldman navigates the complexities of balancing stage performances with major screen roles. He acknowledges the distinct differences between acting for theater and film, emphasizing the immediacy and live connection with the audience that theater offers.

Andrew Barth Feldman [18:35]: “The gap between film and theater is massive. In theater, we are coming to see an audience just as much as an audience is coming to see us.”

Feldman cherishes the unique energy of live performances, which he feels cannot be replicated in film, highlighting the irreplaceable value of theater in his career.

VII. Future Projects and Collaborative Aspirations

Looking ahead, Feldman expresses his enthusiasm for future collaborations, notably with Cooper Hoffman, whom he praises as possibly his favorite actor to work with. He humorously entertains the idea of collaborating with Jennifer Lawrence on stage, showcasing his openness to diverse and dynamic partnerships.

Andrew Barth Feldman [16:59]: “He is brilliant. We just filmed another movie together, so he's already doing it. I would love to do something with him.”

Feldman's ambition extends to potential film projects, where he envisions working alongside icons like Meryl Streep, further demonstrating his dedication to expanding his artistic repertoire.

VIII. Working with Joanna Gleeson and the We Had a World Cast

A significant highlight of Feldman's current role is his collaboration with Joanna Gleeson, a revered figure in musical theater. He lauds her leadership and the joyous environment she fosters within the cast, which enhances the overall performance quality.

Andrew Barth Feldman [22:46]: “She is magnificent and she's really the leader of our company. She does it effortlessly and brilliantly and with so much love.”

Feldman emphasizes the balance of joy and darkness portrayed in the play, attributing much of the production’s success to the harmonious dynamics among the cast members.

IX. The Living Machine of Theater

Feldman articulates his profound appreciation for the living, breathing nature of theater. Unlike the mechanical consistency of film and television, he revels in the variability and spontaneity that each live performance offers.

Andrew Barth Feldman [23:49]: “Theater is meant to be alive every day. It demands to be alive in the different ways that we ask and answer the major questions of the play.”

This perspective underscores his commitment to infusing each performance with fresh energy and authenticity, ensuring that every show remains unique and vibrant.

X. Conclusion

In closing, Feldman expresses his gratitude towards MickeyJoTheatre for providing a platform that revitalizes theater journalism, making it youthful and accessible. The interview concludes with mutual respect and well-wishes, highlighting the supportive community within the theater industry.

Andrew Barth Feldman [26:08]: “This was wonderful. Seriously, what you're doing is amazing. Thank you for keeping it alive here and abroad.”

Notable Quotes:

• Mickey Jo [00:00]: “Your voice combined with... like a Disney character who has been brought to life for a magical day... is a big part of what makes you so exciting and interesting as a performer.”

• Andrew Barth Feldman [14:41]: “I have nothing to say except thank you so much.”

• Andrew Barth Feldman [25:52]: “I've never gotten to do that and I think very few people really have, especially in this century. So I just feel incredibly lucky.”

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a comprehensive look into Andrew Barth Feldman's artistic journey, his dedication to the craft of theater, and his thoughtful reflections on the evolving landscape of performing arts. Through candid conversation and heartfelt anecdotes, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for Feldman's contributions to both stage and screen, as well as his visions for future endeavors.