Podcast Summary: Sentimental Men - Episode 66: The Yellow Brick Road to Broadway (with Trisha Paytas)

Release Date: January 17, 2025
Hosted by Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi
Guest: Trisha Paytas

1. Introduction to Broadway's Resurgence

Quincy Brown and Kevin Bianchi open the episode with palpable excitement about the current Broadway season, highlighting a resurgence of original material and star-studded revivals. They express enthusiasm for notable figures returning to the stage, including Idina Menzel and Kristen.

• Gloria Estefan: "And Happy Idina Menzel back on Broadway Year." (00:46)
• Quincy Brown: "Happy Stephen Schwartz back on Broadway." (03:40)

The hosts discuss the positive shift in the industry, noting that despite last season's challenges, this year's lineup feels rejuvenated and promising.

2. Highlighting New Broadway Productions

The conversation delves into specific new musicals generating buzz on Broadway:

• Redwood: An original musical featuring two songs performed by Idina Menzel and Zack Pizer, praised for its dynamic performances.

• Dead End and Downtown Baby: Both revivals are lauded for their compelling storytelling and stellar casts.

• Original Score by David Foster: Kevin emphasizes the significance of David Foster composing for Broadway, anticipating its lasting impact on theater history.

Gloria Estefan: "Dead Outlaw, which I saw. Downtown Baby. Happy ending, which you must see. It's so freaking good." (05:25)

The hosts appreciate the diversity of shows, noting the blend of new voices and veteran creatives contributing to Broadway's vibrancy.

3. Guest Introduction: Trisha Paytas

The episode features a special guest, Trisha Paytas, marking her inaugural appearance on the Sentimental Men podcast. Quincy and Gloria recount how they met Trisha at the Wicked movie premiere, highlighting her passion for musical theater despite her unconventional path.

Gloria Estefan: "Trisha's here." (07:01)
Trisha Paytas: "I feel so silly. Like, why am I here?" (14:00)

Their encounter at the premiere evolved into a friendship, leading to Trisha's participation in the podcast and her upcoming Broadway endeavors.

4. Trisha Paytas' Broadway Journey

Trisha Paytas shares her deep-rooted love for musical theater, tracing her first experiences with Broadway shows like Producers and A Little Shop of Horrors. Despite facing early setbacks in community theater, her passion remained unwavering, eventually leading her to embrace her Broadway aspirations through digital platforms like YouTube.

• Trisha Paytas: "So I saw a lot of tours, and I only... like, a handful of times... But that was my first introduction. And I remember just being, like, blown away because, you know, I love musicals." (19:07)

Her dedication culminates in her one-night-only Broadway extravaganza at the St. James Theater, a project born out of a playful April Fool's joke that unexpectedly gained traction due to fan enthusiasm.

Trisha Paytas: "It's for charity. It's for the Entertainment Community Fund. So it's all like, I get to live my dream, but also, like, we get to, like, raise a bunch of money because it's sold out within, like, five minutes." (50:25)

5. Insights on the Wicked Movie Premiere

The hosts and Trisha reminisce about their experiences attending the Wicked movie premiere. They contrast the bustling Los Angeles event with the more subdued New York premiere, emphasizing the communal joy and heightened emotions elicited by the film adaptation of the beloved musical.

Trisha Paytas: "I cried in the screening. I definitely cried." (27:04)
Gloria Estefan: "It feels like this movie is gonna spur like a Marvel Cinematic Universe of Wicked movies." (37:48)

They discuss the film's faithful retention of the original songs and the enhanced emotional depth it brings to the story, making it a cherished experience for both die-hard fans and newcomers.

6. The Artistry of Musical Theater

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the intricate choreography and musical composition in Broadway productions. Trisha and the hosts analyze specific scenes and songs from Wicked, appreciating the depth and complexity that elevate the storytelling.

Kevin Bianchi: "Original score by David Foster, which... that's also just feels like such a moment to have a David Foster musical on Broadway." (05:41)
Trisha Paytas: "I wish I could belt. If I could do one thing, it'd be to belt." (25:55)

They commend the performers' abilities to convey profound emotions through song and movement, underscoring the unsung heroes in ensembles and dancers who breathe life into the productions.

7. Trisha Paytas' Upcoming Broadway Show

Trisha reveals her ambitious venture into Broadway with "Trisha Paytas: Broadway Dream," a show developed in under a year that blends original performances, homages to classic musicals, and interactive elements like interviews and skits. The project not only fulfills her personal dreams but also supports the Entertainment Community Fund.

Trisha Paytas: "It's there for charity. It's for the Entertainment Community Fund. So it's all like, I get to live my dream, but also, like, we get to, like, raise a bunch of money because it's sold out within, like, five minutes." (50:25)

She details the show's creative process, emphasizing collaboration with seasoned Broadway professionals and integrating diverse elements to educate and entertain the audience about Broadway's nuances.

Trisha Paytas: "It feels like Satan is Halloween. And everyone else is kids. We're adults that play." (54:52)

8. The Future of Broadway and Influencer Collaboration

The hosts and Trisha explore the evolving landscape of Broadway, particularly the intersection with digital influencers. They discuss the potential for influencers like Trisha to bring new audiences to theater through innovative formats like live streaming and interactive performances.

Trisha Paytas: "It's really an honor and I don't think it's going to be a disaster because I love it so much and I have so much passion that no matter what I think it'll be good because I'm just excited to be there." (57:00)

They highlight the importance of maintaining artistic integrity while embracing fresh perspectives, ensuring Broadway remains inclusive and accessible to a broader demographic.

9. Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

As the episode concludes, Trisha expresses her gratitude for the opportunity to merge her online presence with her Broadway ambitions. She looks forward to future projects and collaborations, hoping to inspire others to pursue their dreams within the theatrical community.

Trisha Paytas: "I've always had have. He does like water photography... So I think it'd be fun to just, you know, be out there for something. I'm trying, you know..." (60:20)

Gloria Estefan: "Amazing. Trisha, this has been so fun. I'm so excited for this next chapter for you." (62:14)

The hosts extend their support, emphasizing the significance of Trisha's journey as a beacon of passion and determination within Broadway's dynamic environment.

Key Takeaways

• Broadway's Revival: The current season showcases a blend of original works and high-profile revivals, signaling a vibrant resurgence in musical theater.

• Trisha Paytas' Transition: From digital influencer to Broadway performer, Trisha embodies the merging of online fame with traditional theater, bringing her unique flair to the stage.

• Influence of Wicked: The Wicked movie serves as a pivotal experience, reinforcing the enduring legacy of the musical and its impact on both fans and newcomers.

• Artistic Depth: The episode underscores the intricate artistry of musical theater, from choreography to musical composition, highlighting the collaborative effort that defines Broadway.

• Future Collaborations: The conversation hints at future intersections between influencers and Broadway, exploring how digital platforms can enhance theater's reach and inclusivity.

Notable Quotes

• Quincy Brown: "Happy Stephen Schwartz back on Broadway." (03:40)

• Trisha Paytas: "It's surreal. It's so crazy. I never would have thought. I thought, like, oh, maybe I'll, like, go into a show or something like that." (54:48)

• Gloria Estefan: "We need to find a way to sneak in because it sold out so quickly." (55:49)

• Trisha Paytas: "I love performing more than anything." (58:17)

This episode of Sentimental Men offers a heartfelt exploration of Broadway's current landscape through the lens of seasoned hosts and an enthusiastic newcomer. Trisha Paytas' candid insights and genuine passion provide listeners with a fresh perspective on the enduring allure of musical theater.