Navigating the world of theater can be a complex, yet rewarding journey. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice dipping your toes into the theatrical world, the breadth of knowledge needed is vast. Luckily, there's a wealth of resources right at your fingertips—podcasts! And not just any podcasts, but a list of the most valuable podcasts for theater specialists; specifically tailored for directors, dramaturgists, and technicians. Please note, this guide is not designed for actors, but fear not, there are plentiful resources for our onstage counterparts too!
1. Podcasts for Directors: Enhancing Vision and Leadership
For directors, the job is all about vision and leadership. It's about guiding a team to bring a story to life in a compelling way. So, where can you find new inspiration and ideas? Here's a list of the most valuable podcasts for theater directors that can help you hone your craft:
StageCraft with Robert Diamond: This podcast features interviews with top-notch directors, offering insights into their creative processes. Diamond's conversations with these industry veterans provide a peek behind the curtain of successful productions.
British Theatre Guide podcast: Discussions on British theatre and interviews with theatre makers and experts from around the UK and sometimes beyond, including directors, writers, actors, designers, producers and critics.
The Director's Cut - A DGA podcast: While this isn't strictly theater, it's an invaluable resource. Film directors share techniques and strategies that can be applied to theater direction too. An adaptation of a classic play into a blockbuster movie? You'll find it here!
Off Book: The Black Theatre Podcast: This podcast explores the rich history and future of Black theater, providing inspiration for directors of all backgrounds.
The Compass Podcast: This podcast focuses on the creative life and struggles of various theater professionals. It's a must-listen for directors seeking to understand the nuances of a creative life.
Remember, the best way to learn is often by listening—absorb the knowledge, insights, and experiences of these seasoned professionals. Whether you're driving to rehearsal or taking a break between scenes, these podcasts can be your secret weapon in becoming a more effective and inspired director. This list of the most valuable podcasts for theater directors is just the starting point—there's a whole world of theater knowledge waiting for you in the podcast realm!
2. Podcasts for Dramaturgs: Deepening Textual Analysis and Research
As a dramaturg, your work revolves around the text—analyzing it, understanding it, and bringing it to life. You dig deep into the playwright's world, the characters' motivations, the historical context, and so much more. It's intellectual work, but also deeply creative. So, where can you find resources to fuel your intellectual curiosity and creativity? Look no further; here is a list of the most valuable podcasts for theater dramaturgs:
Theatre Theatre: Three Los Angeles based theatre makers dissect, debate and disseminate works of the great Playwrights as well as anything and everything of, or related to, the art of Theatre.
The History of Literature: Not strictly a theater podcast, but it provides an in-depth look at the world of literature. It's a treasure trove for dramaturgists seeking to enhance their textual analysis skills.
The Play's The Thing: This podcast dives deep into the works of various playwrights, dissecting their plays one act at a time. Perfect for dramaturgists looking for new insights.
Stageworthy: Phil Rickaby is on a quest to learn as much about the Canadian theatre world as he can: Who are the people who work in theatre? What is unique about theatre communities across Canada?
Beckett's Babies: This podcast is all about playwriting and dramaturgy. It features interviews with playwrights, discussions on plays, and tips on script analysis—an ideal resource for dramaturgists.
The Ensemblist: While this podcast is geared towards ensemble actors, it offers unique insights into the world of theater that can benefit dramaturgists. The Ensemblist covers a wide range of topics from the audition process to the dynamics of an ensemble cast.
So, there you have it—a list of the most valuable podcasts for theater dramaturgs designed to deepen your textual analysis and research skills. As you listen, remember that each play, each script, each line of dialogue holds a world of possibilities. And with these podcasts, you'll be better equipped to uncover them.
3. Podcasts for Technicians: Advancing Technical Skills and Knowledge
Hey there, theater technicians! You're the magicians behind the scenes, making the world of the play come alive with lighting, sound, set design, and so much more. But where can you turn for a creative spark or a new technique? We've got you covered with this list of the most valuable podcasts for theater technicians:
The Cue: This podcast is a must-listen for sound technicians. It features interviews with industry professionals and deep dives into the art and science of sound design.
LD at Large Podcast: A podcast dedicated to light designers in the entertainment industry. It offers insights into the creative process of lighting design and provides tips on the latest technologies and trends.
The Backstage Creative: This podcast shines a spotlight on the people creating the magic behind the scenes—set designers, costume designers, lighting designers, sound designers, and more. It's a great listen for all theater technicians seeking to expand their knowledge and skills.
So, whether you're a seasoned technician or just starting out, these podcasts offer a wealth of information. They're not just about advancing technical skills and knowledge; they're also about celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship that go into each and every production. So, grab your headphones, and let's get listening!
